TRAVERSE LAOS: RIVERS & ROYAL CAPITALS

Next, we cruise to the Pak Ou Caves, known locally as ‘Tam Ting’. These two caves are carved out of a huge limestone cliff and are filled with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues, some only a few centimeters tall and some as tall as a person. They are an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and you will see many people visit them in Pii Mai, Lao New Year.

After this, your boat continues around the caves to the foot of magnificent limestone cliffs where we’ll enjoy a traditional Lao lunch on board.

Arrive back in Luang Prabang and take a guided tour of this enchanting place. Visit the National Museum (closed on Tuesdays), housed in the former Royal Palace; where you can learn about the history of Laos and gain insight into many of the sights and buildings which you’ll visit.

Next see Wat Mai, famed for its golden bas-relief, and the dazzling golden façade of Wat Sensoukarahm.

Option: Participate in a traditional ‘Baci’ ceremony. These ceremonies are deeply rooted in the Laos culture and are used to celebrate a special occasion- whether a wedding, an annual festival, or as a welcome.

Start near the centre of town at Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest surviving temple. The courtyard contains over 300 different Buddha images, either sculpted or cast in the characteristic Lao style.

Next is Wat Phra Keo, which displays both Khmer and Lao works of art and now serves as a religious museum. Wat Simuang is the most venerated temple in Vientiane, as it is believed to be the guardian of the spirit of the city. Walk around its main, Angkorian-era pillar three times and make a wish. It is believed that if you do this your wish will be granted. Next is the holiest site in Laos, the National Monument: Tat Luang. Constructed in the 16^th century by King Setthethirat, its sharp angles and beautiful decoration make it an arresting sight as the sun shines on its gold-leaf and towering main spire.

Your tour ends at Patuxay, situated at the end of Lane Xang, a large, tree-lined avenue. This Arc De Triomphe inspired building also incorporates traditional Lao motifs such as ‘Kinnari’, the mythical bird-woman said to represent feminine beauty, grace and accomplishment. Climb to the top and get fantastic panoramic views of the city.

After your tour, discover world-renowned Lao coffee with an experienced roaster who will teach you all about the growing, roasting and blending of Lao coffee. The tour ends with a ‘cupping’ session where you get the chance to sample a variety of flavors and different brews.