Just like how the mist rises languidly in the quiet gold of dawn and the sun shines faithfully above the mighty Mekong, Laos is still dancing to its own rhythm, steadfastly. From the contemplative observation of saffron–robed monks receiving alms from Buddhist devotees to the gratifying conquests of mysterious caves and jagged waterfall cliffs, there’s a million ways to fall into the charms of unassuming Laos. For a match made in heaven, customise a Laos tour package with Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours as we play matchmaker and send you on the way to discover your very own Laotian love affair.
Swim under a waterfall Taking a dip right below Tad Sae Waterfall feels as spectacular as you imagine. Every wet season from August through to November, the gushing water cascades and thunders down the wide and multi-tiered limestone formation into large pools of turquoise hue. Pick a spot, plunge right in and retreat into pleasure or enjoy a picnic near the pools and let the symphony of the falls serenades you amidst the lush surrounding jungle.
Cave in to serenity
One of the most respected holy sites in Laos, the Pak Ou Caves is as serene as it is otherworldly. Set in a dramatic limestone cliff with the Mekong providing a breath-taking backdrop, thousands of Buddha statues stand, sit and recline benevolently aside each other inside the two dark caves. The lower cave filters in a certain degree of light but the true delight is in the absolutely pitch–black upper cave, where you can find your way in darkness to hidden statues in varying postures of peace and nirvana.
Encounter the elephants An encounter with the elephants is often the undoubted climax of a holiday in, yes, the Land of the Million Elephants. Start by hitching a ride on the back of an elephant through the diverse landscape crossing jungle paths and rivers. Once you are ready to pay your dues for the commute, head down to the and indulge your travel partner in a bath to appreciate its kind gesture. For we know it is more than a honour, and certainly a rewarding experience, to be able to stand (in this case, sit) on the shoulders of giants.
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Stay one step ahead of the crowd and discover Laos’ hidden charms with a customised tour from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours today. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg for more details.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Lunch/Dinner
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Vientiane. After lunch, proceed for a city tour of Vientiane. Visit Wat Sisaket and admire its cloister, which houses more than 8,000 Buddha statues. Next, head to Haw Phra Kaew, the former home-temple of the emerald Buddha statue and which consists of a large collection of other antiques and artefacts. Thereafter, continue to Pha That Luang, a prominent Buddhist monument which is believed to enshrine a piece of the Buddha’s chest bone. Then, explore Patouxay, built recently in commemoration of those who died during the past wars. Tonight, enjoy a rejuvenating rest at your hotel.
Patouxay
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
After breakfast, make a stop at Nam Ngum Lake. En route, stop by a local village to experience the rural lives of locals and visit a cottage salt factory in Ban Bor Thor. After lunch, embark on a leisure boat ride to admire the small islands around Nam Ngum Lake. Thereafter, make your way to Vang Vieng, where you can enjoy the picturesque sunset view over the mountains.
Nam Ngum Lake
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
This morning, snap some photographs at Tham Chang Cave, one of the biggest caves in Vang Vieng with alluring stalactites and natural springs. Next, embark on a scenic drive to Luang Prabang, the 1st ancient capital of the Lane Xang kingdom. Along the journey, you will get to see the picturesque scenery with charming mountain ranges and local villages. Spend the night in Luang Prabang.
Tham Chang Cave
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Today, visit Wat Xieng Thong, a 16th-century temple that epitomises all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture. Embark on a boat ride along Mekong River to visit a Pak Ou cave, located opposite the mouth of Mekong and Ou rivers. En route, make a stop at Ban Muang Keo, a village known for its traditional rice whiskey. Next, proceed back to Luang Prabang and ascend Mt Phousi, where you can reach the summit in about 328 steps. Marvel at the finest panoramic view of Luang Prabang here.
Wat Xieng Thong
Breakfast
After breakfast, spend some time at leisure before you transfer to the airport for your flight home.