Live Laos: From Monks to Mekong

Champasak is a quaint and unique riverside province in southern Laos. This heritage town was a seat of royalty until recent times, and played witness to many historic battles. The town has been influenced by a variety of cultural and ethnic influences, and several stellar examples of French colonial architecture line the town’s charming streets. Champasak remains an eclectic mix of the old world and the modern, as cars and motorbikes bikes jostle with bullock-drawn carts on its crowded roads. Champasak’s chief attraction is the crumbling Khmer ruins of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Savor an early morning breakfast and set off on a drive south to Ban Hatsaikhone. Step into a comfortable, private boat for a leisurely cruise down the winding Mekong River. Sail amid the cluster of thousands of picturesque islands that dot the region. Step ashore at the peaceful island of Don Khon for a light lunch and then hop on a bicycle to explore the region. Zip along the route of an old abandoned railway and pass by beautiful French colonial buildings. Marvel at the scenic beauty of Liphi Waterfall as it cascades down a short distance to form a natural pool.Explore the exciting rapids from up-close by crossing the five interconnected suspension bridges. Back on the boat, sit back and relax as the boat begins the return journey. Along the way, stop by the gorgeous Khone Pha Pheng Falls considered to be one of the largest in Southeast Asia. (Full Day; Morning Activity; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Vientiane, located in the Mekong Valley, is the small, quiet and picturesque capital city of Laos. This friendly capital, studded with crumbling French mansions, bougainvillea-blooming streets and steaming noodle stalls will soon make you feel at home. Vientiane is also a place for passionate pedestrians – it can be easily and pleasantly explored on foot. This is a city full of surprises!

Discover the highlights of Vientiane, accompanied by a local insider guide. Start with a visit to the 19th century Wat Si Saket, which features Siamese-style architecture and thousands of Buddha miniatures. Next, drop by the former royal temple of Wat Haw Phra Kaew. It houses religious artifacts including ancient Buddhist manuscripts and Khmer stone steles. Continue up the grand Lane Xang Avenue to admire the Patuxai war monument, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Its observation terrace affords fantastic panoramas of Vientiane. Make your way to the 16th century Pha That Luang, a large golden stupa and the national icon of Laos. Set in expansive grounds dotted with several smaller temples, this three-tiered structure houses ancient Khmer and Laos artifacts. Finally, step inside the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) Exhibition Centre. This non-profit organization highlights the issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) that rained on Laos during the Vietnam War. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy)

Nestled in a valley on the banks of the Nam Song River amid a misty jungle, Vang Vieng is a convenient stop-off point for those journeying overland between Luang Prabang and Vientiane. A tourism-oriented town in Vientiane Province, Vang Vieng is 160 km north of the capital Vientiane. The surrounding area is inhabited by the ethnic Hmong and Yao hill tribe people, and is particularly picturesque – craggy karst limestone scenery, a smattering of caves, and crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. The dramatic limestone karsts make Vang Vieng ideal for outdoor pursuits – tubing, kayaking, rock climbing, caving, and trekking and cycling to nearby caves and villages. Enjoy the town’s range of bars and restaurants, as well as visit the organic farm for a taste of the locally-produced Mulberry Tea.

Luang Prabang is considered the jewel of Indochina, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This culturally chic regal city is surrounded by mountains and was formerly the capital of a kingdom by the same name and was then ruled by French colonialists in the 18th century. With the delicate scent of frangipani sweetening the air, today boasts a mixture of ancient red-roofed Buddhist temples and French colonial buildings that house guesthouses, street markets and antique shops. The saffron- clad monks that inhabit Luang Prabang, particularly during morning alms-giving ceremonies, create a colorful sight to an otherwise calm and alluring urban environment.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before you set off on a fascinating exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin your day at the Royal Palace Museum with its collection of antiques and period furniture. Travel along quiet alleyways to the century old Heuan Chan Heritage House, which is a rare surviving example of pre-colonial Lao style of architecture. Stroll around the museum and sip a glass of refreshing iced tea in the gardens. Walk over to the beautiful Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the country. Wander around the temple grounds as you take in views of the exquisitely crafted low sweeping roof of the temple. Saunter across the road to Wat Khili, an 18th century temple that now houses Buddhist archives, including a historic photo exhibit. In the early afternoon, make your way to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center for an in-depth understanding of the ethnic heritage of the nation before heading out of town for a closer look at the weaving and textile traditions of Ban Xang Khong and Ban Xieng Lek villages. Return to town and stop by the unique Wat Visoun also known as the watermelon stupa due to its uniquely shaped dome. For your last stop of the day, pick from one of three options. Choose to climb up Mount Phousi located at the heart of the old town and enjoy panoramic views of the city as well as the mighty Mekong River topped off with a glorious sunset vista. Or, if walking is not your cup of tea, transfer to What Prabath Tai monastery and settle in to savor the spectacular sunset views over the river. Alternatively, head to the serene premises of the Wat Aham monastery where you can soak in the spiritual ambiance enhanced by the chants of monks engaged in their evening prayers. (Full Day; Time: 0930 hrs; Duration: 6 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Center is closed on Mondays.)