Laos Tours: A Charming Northern Journey through Extraordinary Laos – 9 Days

Highlights of the Trip

In this 9-day itinerary from our Laos tours, discover Laos – one of Southeast Asia’s most culturally inviting destinations. This remarkable tour offers intimate cultural experiences, striking natural beauty, and an abundance of unforgettable destinations across charming Laos.

Begin your journey in the fascinating destination of Luang Prabang where you can experience a unique traditional Baci ceremony, discover some of the most striking and famous temples across Laos, and wander around the unique weaving and textile villages of Ban Xangkhong and Ban Xienglek. This exciting tour also includes tranquil hikes through some of the most picturesque scenery across Laos. Discover the serene Kuang Si Waterfall where you can relax, swim, and even climb to the top! In Luang Prabang, you can admire and take part in the morning ritual of Tak Bat for an unforgettable cultural experience. During this tour, you can also discover the provincial Capital – Oudomxay. Here you can discover quaint Hmong villages, tranquil countryside, and dramatic mountainous scenery. Enjoy a visit to the striking riverside town of Muang Khua for unique rural villages.

You might like to consider our 9-day flight only package which aligns seamlessly with this tour, Luang Prabang, Laos 9-Day Flight-only Package (asiara-holidays.com)

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Luang Prabang

• Heuan Chan Heritage House: A stunning example of traditional Lao architecture and culture.
• Wat Visoun: A Buddhist temple built in 1513 during the reign of King Wisunarat.
• Kuang Si Waterfall: The local Hmong people consider the waterfall to be a sacred site and believe that the water has healing powers.

Oudomxay

• A culturally rich and diverse area, boasting stunning landscapes, historic sites, and a vibrant local culture.

Non Khiaw

• The town is situated on the banks of the Nam Ou River, which winds its way through the lush green landscape

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Traditional Baci Ceremony (optional extra): A significant ritual that has been a central part of the country’s culture for centuries. It is a sacred and highly respected ceremony that is believed to bring good luck, happiness, and prosperity to the participants.

Tak Bat: A sacred and significant tradition in Laos. This ritual is a daily practice in Theravada Buddhism, where Buddhist monks walk through the streets early in the morning to collect food offerings from the community. This ceremony is deeply rooted in the Buddhist belief of making merit and showing gratitude towards the monks.

H’mong Villages – Ban Longlao and Ban XongJa: Ban Longlao is a H’mong village where the culture, customs and language are all different to mainstream Laos. Ban XongJa is home to a close-knit community of around 200 families, who rely on agriculture and other small businesses for their livelihood.

Khamu Village: This small village is home to around 500 Khamu people, an ethnic group that has preserved their traditional way of life for centuries. The village is surrounded by dense forests and the Nam Ou River, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful and authentic cultural experience.

Ikho Village: One of the most striking features of Ikho Village is the colorful clothing worn by the Akha women. Each outfit is uniquely crafted with intricate embroidery and beads, and each design has a special meaning within the community.

Bear Rescue Centre: One of the main focuses of the centre is to provide a safe and natural environment for the bears to live in. The bears are given large enclosures that mimic their natural habitat, with trees to climb, pools to swim in and platforms to rest on.

Petanque (optional): This is a form of boules, a game played with metal balls, that originated in France. Petanque, which means ‘feet anchored’ in French, is a simple yet strategic game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. In Laos, it is often played in parks and public spaces, bringing together friends and families for a fun and competitive game.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Laos

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including larb, a savoury meat salad made with minced or chopped pork, chicken, or beef, mixed with herbs, spices, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice and fish sauce. Sticky rice, or khao niaw, is a staple in Lao cuisine, and is eaten with almost every meal.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Private Boat Tour along the Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw.

Boat Cruise to Khmu Village.

Longtail Boat to Nong Khiaw. 

Private boat Ride to Pak Ou Caves.

Accommodation of this Tour

Luang Prabang: Maison Dalabua (Grand Deluxe Room).

Oudomxay: Nam Kat Yorla Pa (Villa Deluxe).

Non Khiaw: Mandala Ou (Riverside Bungalow).

Explore our website to discover more Laos private tours or for specific Laos travel recommendations get in touch with us direct.

Itinerary

Day 1: Luang Prabang arrival

When you arrive at the airport, you will be greeted by both your guide and driver. They will then take you on a brief trip to your hotel. You will have the rest of the day at your leisure to relax and unwind.

Additionally, you have the option to participate in a traditional Baci Ceremony later in the evening. This is at an additional cost. This ceremony is typically performed for special occasions such as weddings, births, or welcoming guests. It is a way to express good wishes and positive energy to others. Led by an esteemed elder from the nearby village, the Baci involves offering gifts to spirits and tying strings to each other’s wrists as a symbol of unity and positivity.

Day 2: An exciting city tour around Luang Prabang

As we make our way down the peaceful back streets, we arrive at the magnificent Heuan Chan Heritage House. Here, we have the opportunity to delve into the rich history of the house, admiring its unique architectural features and perusing its collection of artifacts. Immerse yourself in the stories of the Royal Palace and its ties to this enchanting dwelling.

Upon returning to the town, our next destination is Wat Visoun, also known as “The Watermelon Stupa” for its unique shape. As the day comes to a close, guests have three choices for their final stop. The first option is to transfer to Mt Phousi, a sacred hill with a breath taking view of the sunset and the surrounding areas of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. For a more accessible sunset experience, guests can also choose to visit Wat Prabath Tai. Alternatively, guests can witness the evening Monk Chants at one of the temples, such as Wat Aham, Wat Thatnoy, or Wat Pak Kharn, where the monks and novices come together for their daily rituals. It is recommended to discuss the best option for the day with your guide.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Tak Bat – Villaggio Hmong and trekking Kuang Si waterfall

Consult your guide about the possibility of starting your day early (at 5:30 AM) in order to observe and participate in the customary morning ceremony known as ‘Tak Bat’, where locals give alms to the monks. This special tradition is still practiced in Luang Prabang. Additionally, we can also visit the nearby fresh market to get a glimpse of how the locals shop before heading back to your hotel for breakfast.

At 8AM, we begin our journey from Luang Prabang after a hearty breakfast. Our route takes us through breath-taking scenery and rural landscapes as we make our way to Ban Longlao, a H’mong village with its own unique culture, customs, and language. Our drive takes about 1 ½ hours before we arrive at the village. From there, we embark on a 3-hour trek through the lush primary forest and dense jungle before reaching the magnificent Kuang Si Waterfall.

Feel free to take a break and have lunch (not included) at the falls. Take this opportunity to relax, swim, and even climb to the top of the waterfall. Right beside the waterfall, there is a Bear Rescue Centre that works tirelessly to protect and rehabilitate the rare Asiatic Black Bear. In the late afternoon, we will make our way back to Luang Prabang to conclude our journey.

One of our unique and exciting options is to join in on a game of Petanque. This is at an additional cost. This is a great opportunity to mingle with the locals, immerse yourself in the Luang Prabang night scene, and even challenge your guide to a round of this popular Laotian sport. Afterward, we’ll head to a ‘SinDat’ or Lao BBQ restaurant, where you’ll experience an authentic local atmosphere with minimal tourists. The best part? Mouth-watering food and refreshing local beer are all included in this experience!

Note: moderate trekking; wear suitable footwear, especially important if traveling between June and October when it can be very muddy.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4: From Luang Prabang to Oudomxay

Early in the morning, our journey will commence from Luang Prabang as we head north towards the provincial capital of Oudomxay. As we make our way through the scenic countryside, you will have the chance to take in the breath-taking sights of the Nam Ou River and the lush rice paddy fields. After about 3 hours of driving, we will reach Pakmong, where the road begins to wind and the landscape transforms into majestic mountains. This stretch of the trip presents a perfect opportunity to stop and explore some Hmong villages, including the charming Ban XongJa. Finally, we will reach Oudomxay in the late afternoon, completing our journey.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5: Discover Muang La and meet the Lao ethnic groups

Today, embark on a 4WD adventure to explore the villages of the Ikho, Hmong, and Khamu people, three of the many diverse ethnic groups in Laos. The path we followed ascended to a breath-taking height of 1,300 meters, offering stunning views of the majestic mountains. Our first stop is a Khamu village, where we can meet and interact with the welcoming locals.

Continuing our journey, we will venture deeper into the mountains to a secluded Hmong village. This group has ancestral roots in the high plains of Tibet, and here we can learn about their traditional way of life and their strong connection to their livestock. Next, drive to the Ikho Village, home to another group originating from Tibet and Yunnan Province in China. Here, we can stroll through the village, observing their customs and traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Then, take a break for a picnic lunch in the midst of the stunning surroundings. Our journey will then lead us to another Ikho Village before making our way back to the lodge, arriving just in time for the enthralling sunset.

✓ Breakfast

Day 6: From Oudomxay to the riverside town of Muang Khua

This morning, we will embark on an adventure to the riverside town of Muang Khua, located 2 hours north of our current location. Here, we will board a local private boat for an unforgettable 2 1/2 hour cruise down the breath-taking Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw.

Along the way, we will take a short break to explore the new Nam Ou Hydropower Dam before continuing our journey on a second boat. This part of the trip will offer spectacular views of the surrounding scenery, as well as a glimpse into the remote villages of Ban Sob Jaem, a Khmu and Tai minority village accessible only by boat.

Our final destination for the day will be Nong Khiaw, where we will arrive by late afternoon. After checking into our hotel, you will have the option of taking a brief bicycle ride to visit the stunning limestone caves nearby. Bicycles are available at the resort, and your guide will be happy to provide assistance.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: An unforgettable 100 waterfalls trek

We start our day by having breakfast and then embark on a 45-minute boat ride to the Khmu village, Ban Don Khoune. Once we arrive, we take some time to explore the village before embarking on a one-of-a-kind trek. This trek involves a 3-hour uphill climb, where we will pass by several beautiful cascades.

At noon, we will reach the summit, where we are rewarded with stunning views of Laos. It is also here where we have our lovely Lao-style picnic lunch, which is traditionally served on banana leaves. After lunch, we make our way back to Ban Don Khoune and hop on a longboat to return to Nong Khiaw.

✓ Breakfast

Day 9: Luang Prabang – Departure

Depending on your departure flight, you may have free time at leisure, before being met by your guide for a short transfer to the airport for your flight onward.

✓ Breakfast

Price

£2,148

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Optional: Join a traditional Baci Ceremony in the evening.

Day 2: Explore Heuan Chan Heritage House, visit Wat Visoun, and choose between sunset views at Mt Phousi, Wat Prabath Tai, or attending Monk Chants at local temples.

Day 3: Participate in the morning Tak Bat Ceremony, trek to Kuang Si Waterfall via Ban Longlao, and enjoy a local Petanque game in the evening.

Day 4: Travel to Oudomxay, passing through scenic countryside and exploring Hmong villages along the way.

Day 5: Embark on a 4WD adventure to visit Khamu, Hmong, and Ikho villages, experiencing local customs and traditions.

Day 6: Journey to Muang Khua, then cruise down Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw, with stops at Ban Sob Jaem and Nam Ou Hydropower Dam.

Day 7: Take a boat to Ban Don Khoune, trek uphill for stunning waterfall views, enjoy a Lao-style picnic, and return to Nong Khiaw.

Day 8: Explore nearby limestone caves or relax at the resort before departing for Luang Prabang.

Day 9: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy free time before transferring to the airport for departure.

FAQs

1. Is the Baci Ceremony included in the tour package?
   • The Baci Ceremony is optional and available at an additional cost. It’s a traditional Lao ritual performed to bring good luck and blessings.
2. What is the level of difficulty for the Kuang Si Waterfall trek?
   • The trek to Kuang Si Waterfall involves moderate hiking through lush forests and jungle terrain. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, but sturdy footwear is recommended.
3. Are meals included during the tour?
   • Breakfast is included daily. Lunch and dinner are not included, except for the Lao-style picnic lunch during the trek to the 100 Waterfalls.

1. Do I need special equipment for the 100 Waterfalls trek?
   • Comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle are recommended. Trekking poles and rain gear may also be useful depending on the weather.
2. What type of transportation is used for traveling between destinations?
   • Transportation includes private vehicles for road trips and local private boats for river cruises.
3. Can I participate in the Tak Bat Ceremony?
   • Yes, participation in the Tak Bat Ceremony is optional and can be arranged with your guide. It’s a unique cultural experience to offer alms to monks in the morning.
4. Is there free time available to explore on my own?
   • Yes, there are opportunities for free time throughout the tour, allowing you to explore local markets, relax at the hotel, or engage in optional activities.