Passion Of Cambodia And Laos Tour, 14 days

On arrival at Phnom Penh Airport, you are greeted by our guide and taken to your hotel by private transfer. You may have free time to relax and catch your first glimpse of Phnom Penh, the capital  of Cambodia. This bustling metropolis favorably located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Tonle Bassac Rivers has long remained little more than a large village. However, it became the permanent capital of Cambodia since 1866 and had developed into a sizeable, largely French designed city, once known as the Pearl of Asia. The crossroads of cultures, peoples and worlds have made Phnom Penh on the edge of everything. We can find the Cambodian elements together with the Chinese and French influences in the gleaming temples, sidewalk coffee,  vibrant markets, and colonial structures and tree lined boulevards amidst the monumental Angkorian architecture. The cityscape undergoes rapid changes from the ashes to take its place among the hip capitals of the region, with an alluring cafe culture, bustling bars, world-class food scene and international chains of hotel.

Today, we explore some major sights of Phnom Penh. The stunning Royal Palace complex is now home to the royal family, therefore  it is very close to the public. We walk across the beautiful royal gardens to see the Throne Hall where the king coronation  and the royal receptions are often  held.  The magnificent Silver Pagoda set at the northern palace ground would not to be missed. This country most sacred pagoda  is named  after some 5000 silver tiles covering the floor,  each weighing 1kg. Nearby this complex is the National Museum of Cambodia, a graceful terracotta structure inspired by temple architecture. This exquisite masterpiece with an inviting courtyard garden concentrates various incredible sandstone sculptures and intricate bronze objects from the pre-Angkor, Angkor and post-Angkor periods. The following stop is  Wat Phnom which dominates the skyline of Phnom Penh and  has an interesting legend about this city name. We come face to face with the horrific crimes of the Khmer Rouge as we visit the Tuol Sleng Museum, a former high school turned into a centre for interrogation, torture, and death by the Khmer Rouge. Heading out of the town, we follow the same route of Tuol Sleng  prisoners  to the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek that is  an extermination camp for political prisoners. The painful bloody rule of the Khmer Rouge still can be seen at the memorial stupa.  We round off our day with a walk around  the Central Market, a showcase of the local product richness. This flagship trade center of Phnom Penh was built in shape of a dome with four arms branching out into vast hallways crammed with countless stalls of goods.

The chaos traffic will be left behind as we depart for Battambang Town and venture into northwestern Cambodia. Along the way, we make a stop at Kampong Luoung where the silversmiths are seen fashioning silver objects from delicate chicken and fish boxes to large fruit shaped bowls. They have been practicing this skill for generations, making for the main local industry. The following stop is  Oudong which was one the capital of  Cambodia. However, this ancient capital  left its legacies in forms of some historical Buddhist stupas. We embark on a walk uphill to see  the twin-hill Phnom Oudong and catch panoramic views of the surrounding areas. The overland journey continues along the Tonle Sap River, giving us a fantastic view of the idyllic countryside  changing from vast marshes and wetlands into extensive rice paddies. They are dotted with limestone outcrops, rolling orchards and mystical temples. On arrival in Batttambang, we check in our hotel and take a walk  along the main street, where are arty boutique hotels, quirky cafés and innovative restaurants. The urban modernity and the colonial structures intertwine to give this second largest city of Cambodia a unique charm. The fascination is not just in the architectural heritage but in the stunning surrounding countryside which is ideal for an enjoyable escape from the boom and hustle of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Heading out of the town, we take a short drive to visit Phnom Banan, one of the famous attractions around Battambang Town. This hill trop sanctuary is still keeping its old date architecture although it has fallen victim to massive looting. The long staircase uphill requires some physical preparation; however, the beautiful view of the winding Sangker River set amidst sugar palm trees, rice fields and small villages make the hardship all worthwhile. You also have an option to try a bamboo train ride at nearby rails. The villagers have built the simple train with poles that rolled along a bamboo and wooden platform, but have now been replaced by engine to maximize the travel speed. We continue our journey to Siem Reap Town and make some stops at Sisophon market, carving village and Angkor silk farm. The scenic drive delivers un in Siem Reap Town, a gateway to the ruins of Angkor Temple Complex, regarded as the largest religious structure in the world. This archeological site stretches over an forested area of some 400 square kilometers and contains the magnificent remains from the different capitals of the Khmer Empire between 802 AD and 1350 AD. They range from stunning architectural marvels to ordinary edifices full of rubble. This temple complex will be seen in forthcoming days.

The majestic monuments draw a line for our exploration of Angkor Complex.  We start this day tour with Angkor Thom, an epic collection of striking structures encompassed in quadrangle area. The best preserved South Gate comes into view with a causeway fringed with 54 demons and 54 gods pulling a giant snake. This scene is focusing on a famous Hindu story in bygone time. We walk through two ranges of status on a cosmic scale to the gate tower with colossal human faces carved in stone. The walkway leads us to  the Royal Enclosure where remains some  mysterious ruins, including the Royal Palace, Phimeanakas Temple, and  Royal Terraces. These structures built from perishable materials have long vanished. The memorable climax of our visit is Bayon Temple  built in the centre of Angkor Thom. This enigmatic complex contains  54 towers, each topped off with the four faces of  Compassion Buddha. Upon leaving Angkor Thom Area , we take a short drive to  the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat. The iconic monument  of the entire complex was built in the 12th century and reflects a perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry, bringing the pride and strength to all Khmers. The distinctive five towers of this temple are now emblazoned on the Cambodian flag. We stroll around this massive monument, unraveling the mysteries of the bas-reliefs from Hindu mythology to the glories of the Khmer empire. The footsteps lead through the upper levels of the inner sanctuary to the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, a blend of spirituality and symmetry. We round out day tour with a walk up the Pre Rup Temple to enjoy the spectacular sunset over these sandstone monuments.

Heading out of the town, we drive beyond the towering Angkor Complex  to Banteay Srey Temple. This intricately carved temple despite the lack in size is still a jewel in the crown of Angkor-era sculpture. The architecture style features a mixture of the archaic concept and the innovative materials since Banteay Srey Temple  was largely built from sandstone in pinkish hue, with brick and laterite used for the enclosure walls and some structural elements. We stroll around this beautiful landmark and admire the marvelous sculpture at every step. Upon leaving Banteay Srey , we keep driving to see Banteay Samre, which is adorned with striking relief depicting the scenes of Vishunu and  Krishna. Today we also have time to visit Prasat Kravan with a line of five brick towers, and Srah Srang which was once used for the royal baths and the ritual bathing. The following stop is Banteay Kdei Temple, a monastic complex of  enclosure walls, concentric galleries and towers. We venture into the jungle where Ta Prohm Temple is standing.  This famous structure is relatively untouched for centuries by its secluded location. There are enormous fig trees and creepers which embrace themselves in temple stone foundation, giving it a distinctive feature. The sightseeing also includes Neak Pean, which is originally designed for the medical purposes with four connected pools representing water, earth, fire and  wind. We continue onto  Preah Khan , a good counterpoint to Ta Prohm Temple.  The large ruin of Preah Khan was all but partly destroyed by the climate impact. However, it is till interesting to walk around, exploring the legends, towered enclosures and  shoulder hugging corridors.

The temple exploration is not only activity in Siem Reap Town. We spend this morning on a boat trip out, to discover Tonle Sap Lake, one of the largest natural fresh water bodies in  Southeast Asia. The traditional boat navigates along a small river towards this large lake, giving us a chance to see friendly children on small boat, many vendors making a shift floating market, and fishermen pulling in day catch. Along the way we anchor to visit a floating village where are everything from schools, shop houses to police station. The village life goes on as it would anywhere else in Cambodia. This enjoyable stop gives a good insight into the lifestyle of local people who call this grand lake their home and mostly rely on the lake for their livelihood. They may move from a place to place following the water level and current of Tonle Sap Lake.  Today we leave Cambodia for Pakse in Laos, a gateway to explore Bolaven Plateau and Si Phan Don Islands. On arrival at Pakse Airport, you are greeted by our guide and driven to your hotel. The provincial capital of Champasak, Pakse is a little town bordered by the Mekong and Se Don Rivers. This riverside town was founded as an administrative outpost by 1905 and rapidly became the major transport and commercial hub for southern Laos. However it does not offer much to see, you can find  few remnants of French colonial, Vietnamese and Chinese architecture standing in town center. You have free time to stroll along the waterfront , visit  the bustling central market or simply taste coffee at the riverside bar.

Today, we  set off on our journey  south to explore Khong Island Area.  On arrival, we embark on a traditional boat to venture into the widest reach of the Mekong River, from where are many islets jutting out in dry season. They give this area a lovely name four thousands of islands, locally called ” Si Phan Done ”.  The local boat passes by Don Det and Don Som before racing across the water towards the peaceful island of Don Khone.  These lush islands are mostly covered by coconut palms, flame trees, stands of bamboo, kapok trees, and hardwoods. We anchor at Don Khone and stroll through Ban Khone Village.  This pelasant walk offers a great insight into Lao rural life without  the hustle and bustle found in more built-up areas, and an interesting visit to the old locomotive and the abandoned railways built by the French colonialists. The peaceful island of Don Khone in contradiction to Don Det, still retains a more authentical Lao charm. We start riding our bike along this village lane to the Liphi Waterfall, which also named " Corridor of the Devil".  You have an option to discover the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins that have been known to make its way upstream from Cambodia to frolic in the water of Si Phan Don Area in Laos. This boat trip usually starts from Ban Hang Khone and costs you some extra fee.  Upon leaving Don Khone, we travel by boat back to Khong Island and have free time for own exploration.

The exiting adventure in southern Laos would not be complete without a visit to the Khon Phapheng Waterfalls. This largest fall in southeastern Asia reaches 21 meter high at certain points and stretches 9.7 km of the river length, blocking all attempt of fluvial traffic from Laos to Cambodia. Upon leaving Khong Island we drive south to  the Khon Phapheng Waterfalls and catch a spectacular view that some million litres of water  crash over the rock formations. We continue travelling by road back to Pakse and board a flight to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.

On arrival at Vientiane Hanoi , you are greeted by our guide and taken to your hotel by private transfer. You may have free time to relax and catch your first glimpse of Vientiane. This fascinating city stretching long the mighty Mekong River conjures up  exotic images, with the curious mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences. The initial history of Vientiane dates back the sixteenth century, but it left its legacy in form of few pagodas which are still standing in place after many struggles for the independence. Although still a small city, Vientiane houses a wealth of vibrant hotels, colonial mansions, shop houses, open air restaurants, notable shrines, and tree lined boulevards. This smallest capital city in Southeast Asian countries has undergone  vast changes with growing ambition. You can walk  from the old quarter area to the Mekong riverbank, admiring the cityscape and getting the street orientation. The long riverside is lined up with local food stands and open air bars, good place to enjoy some  drinks and  explore the authentic local ways of life

Today, we begin our exploration of  Vientiane with the oldest temple of Wat Sisaket,  which is still in its original form. This masterpiece features remarkable frescoes and cloister wall where are laying almost 7,000 Buddha statues in all sizes. They have been made from wood, stone, and bronze and brought here  hundred years ago. Nearby is the former royal temple of Haw Pha Kaew, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. This sacred jade statue is currently displayed at  Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Upon leaving this sight  we drive towards  Patouxai, a version of own Arc de Triomphe standing on the Lane Xang Avenue. The following stop is That Luang Stupa, a current national symbol of Laos. This most venerable Buddhist monument with the golden stupa  was  built in Laos style but influenced by Buddhist beliefs. The sightseeing tour continues to the vibrant Morning Market , which is crammed with shopping malls selling everything from medicinal herbs, electronics equipment, silver jewellery, hand make  silks to everyday sundries. We wander around this bustling trading hub and  try our hand at bargaining. Heading out of the town, we make our way past the giant Friendship Bridge, which  links Thailand and Laos, on our way to  the impressive Buddha Park. This landmark represents a blend of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures created by a mystical monk on a parkland near the Mekong River. The sculptures mesmerize visitors not only for their incredible size but also for their intriguing and unique details. We walk around these huge images scattered amongst gardens and catch some wonderful photos.

The following destination is Luang Prabang via a short flight from Luang Prabang. On arrival at Luang Prabang  Airport, you are greeted by our guide and transferred to your hotel. The ancient town of Luang Prabang is strikingly built on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. The  human life in place  has been recognized in place for over thousand years; however, Luang Prabang began a prosperous time, once being the royal capital of the Lane Xang Kingdom. The old-time appearance of Luang Prabang  has been changed since the protectorate  of the French, whose influence led to the construction of many colonial villas. This remarkably preserved town with saffron-clad monks, exquisite cuisine, gleaming temples, vibrant cultural traditions, distinctive artwork, relaxed atmosphere, traditional wooden houses and colonial style structures, makes it an unforgettably beautiful destination. We start  exploring Luang Prabang Town with the oldest temple of  Wat Visoun. This sacred monument was all  but mainly destroyed by invaders from southern China. However, it is still interesting to have a look at the replica built over the original temple ground. We embark on a walk uphill, following the zigzag path of 318 steps on Phousi Hill , which is topped by a glittering golden stupa.  This rising shrine dominates Luang Prbanag skyline and  lends  a panoramic view from the town old quarter  to the Mekong and Nam Kha Rivers, and undulating mountains in the far distance.

The morning mist clears over Luang Prabang, revealing a charming environment of French colonial buildings, intricate Buddhist temples, and cobble brick streets. We continue seeing the  temple of Wat Xieng Thong which is decorated in various ways with gilded stuccoes and doorways, featuring an elaborate tree of life mosaic and  intricately carved walls. We follow it with the former Royal Palace, a showcase of Lao traditional and French architecture style. This mansion has been changed into the National Museum where display many artifacts and treasures dating from the early king period right through the last sovereign. We walk a short distance to  Wat Mai, a large and nicely decorated temple in Luang Prabang. Heading out of the town we travel by road towards Pakou Caves, with stopover at Ban Xieng Lek and Ban Xang Khong. These craft villages are  specialized in weaving traditional silk and making Saa Paper from mulberry tree. The scenic drive reaches Ban Pakou, from where we take a short boat trip across the Mekong River to explore the mysterious Pakou Caves. They are  crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, all brought here by devout villagers. We embark on a private local boat and start our cruise downstream  to Luang Prabang Town. This relaxed  boat excursion gives us some fantastic views with a blend of mighty river,  mountain backdrop, and riverine life.

As an early bird, you can see the sunrise ceremony of “Arm Giving”  when many saffron-clad monks walk along the streets to collect offerings from the faithful residents and visitors. This old age tradition remains very unique in Laos, which is  the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. We head out of the town to visit Ban Phanom dominated by the Tai Lu hill tribe people. They used to make the royal silk textile for the Lao former royal family down centuries. We continue driving through the rugged mountains to Kuang Si, the largest waterfall in Luang Prabang. Along the way , we make stopover at Ban Na Oun to see the Hmong hilltribe people who are mostly farmers living form the slash and burnt traditions. The water sound welcomes visitors to the Kuang Si Waterfall, which  tumbles from the thick jungle over multi tiered limestone formations into cascaded pools. They are perfect for anyone seeking an enjoyable escape on hot days. We admire this spectacular  waterfall and  relax in beautiful setting of turquoise pools and  evergreen forest. The adventurers can follow steep tracks to conquer the waterfall source, catching panoramic views of the natural surroundings. We also have an optional visit to the Butterfly Park near the waterfall. This centrepiece is a large net-enclosed garden where reside  uncountable butterflies of many colours. We can see butterflies busy laying eggs, leaves studded with butterfly eggs or crawling with caterpillars. This butterfly park also has a nice garden with orchids, small waterfalls and pond, which is a good place to enjoy a rest and some drinks.

There are no activities planned on this final day. You may have free time to continue your exploration of Luang Prabang Town, do your last shopping or simply look back upon your trip images. The holiday comes to an end with a transfer to Luang Prabang Airport for  your departure.