Heritage Of Indochina 3 Weeks

After breakfast, your day kicks off with a visit to the square in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, honoring the nation's founder. Your guide will narrate the country's independence history before you capture memories in photos.

Next, head to the Defense Pagoda (Tran Quoc) by West Lake, ending your morning with an insightful trip to the Hanoi Ethnography Museum, showcasing Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures.

Lunch awaits at a local eatery.

In the afternoon, a fascinating stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter awaits you. Start with the Long Bien Bridge - Paul Doumer Bridge (Trần Nhật Duật Street side) and continue to Cao Thắng Street, famous for its traditional spices. Then, explore the Đồng Xuân Market, the largest market in Hanoi, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Hàng Mã Street, known for its decorative items, Chinese toys, and colorful lanterns.

Continue your exploration through Lương Văn Can, Lãn Ông, and Hang Buồm streets, taking the time to visit the Bạch Mã Temple (76 Hang Buồm Street), the oldest temple in Hanoi. Take a well-deserved break at Café Market (Hanoi Coffee Culture, 45 Nguyen Huu Huan Street or another café boutique) to enjoy a complimentary coffee.

Capture the vibrant atmosphere by Hoan Kiem Lake before attending a mesmerizing Hanoi water puppet show in the evening.

Dinner is on your own, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Hanoi.

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After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Ninh Binh province, which is located 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. On the way, we'll take a 20-minute break to stretch our legs. Upon arriving in Tam Coc, we will have a relaxing lunch at a nice restaurant nearby and then proceed to check-in at the hotel in Tam Coc.

Around 3 pm, we'll start our cycling adventure from the hotel to Thung Nham. At Thung Nham pier, we'll board the sampan boats and peacefully drift down the river, passing through charming villages and surrounded by picturesque mountains. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning sight of thousands of birds returning to their nests, including various species such as storks, cauldrons, cranes, teal, fire warblers, starlings, and even the rare land phoenix bird.

After the boat ride, we'll cycle back to the hotel.

Overnight in Tam Coc (Ninh Binh).

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After breakfast, we will pick you up and set off for the breathtaking Halong Bay, renowned for its magnificent scenic beauty. Covering an area of 577 square miles, this vast bay boasts over 3,000 limestone "peaks" or karsts that emerge from the deep blue waters as far as the eye can see. Prepare to be captivated by this overwhelming seascape as we spend a day and a half exploring it aboard a traditional Vietnamese boat.

During our overnight stay on the boat, you'll be treated to dinner and breakfast, making the experience comfortable and intimate. The boat features hand-crafted wooden interiors, including a dining room, and cozy air-conditioned cabins with private baths. With ample time on the water, we'll have the opportunity to discover Ha Long Bay's most beautiful spots, go for a swim, and even visit some of the largest rock formations and caves. This promises to be one of your most cherished travel experiences in Asia.

Stay overnight on Boat.

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Start your day by participating in Tai Chi Lession on the top deck of the boat, or simply enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise over the magnificent bay. Savor your morning coffee or juice before we head to a nearby cave, where you can explore by row boat. Afterward, we'll return to the boat for breakfast while sailing around the Bay.

The cruise will conclude around noon. You will then rejoin a sharing shuttle transfer back to Hanoi city center and proceed with our private transfer to Hanoi airport for your late afternoon flight to Hue.

Upon arriving in Hue, our local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Overnight in Hue.

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Today's sightseeing in Hue begins with a visit to the Ancient Imperial Citadel, a grand complex of palaces and temples constructed by the Nguyen dynasty in the early 19th century. This historical site has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Next, we'll explore the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, dedicated to Vietnam's imperial past and showcasing the arts of that era.

Afterward, we'll drive to Hue's countryside to reach Emperor Tu Duc's tomb, an exquisite example of royal architecture from the Nguyen dynasty. You'll have the opportunity to experience the essence of Vietnam's royal life and culture, with a visit to a garden house in Hue—a unique characteristic of the city.

Continuing our journey, we'll visit the traditional handicraft village of Thuy Xuan Hat, known for its Incense making. Here, you'll witness the craftsmanship behind the renowned Hue Hat (non Hue), a symbol of the beauty of Hue's ladies.

In the late afternoon, we'll visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy a leisurely boat trip on the scenic Perfume River, providing a serene and picturesque end to our day's explorations.

Overnight at hotel in Hue.

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After breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on a delightful drive along the scenic Hai Van pass, offering breathtaking views of the coast, to reach the ancient town of Hoi An. On our way, we'll make a short stop at the spectacular Lang Co beach for a picturesque view.

Upon arriving in Danang, we'll visit the Cham Sculpture Museum, a fascinating repository of cultural artifacts from the Central and Central Highlands of Vietnam, preserving the spirit of the ancient Champa kingdom. Next, we'll see the iconic Dragon Bridge, which stands as a symbol of Danang City, and then explore the Marble Village (Làng Đá Non Nước).

Continuing our journey, we'll proceed to Hoi An. In the late afternoon, we'll have an excursion to Hoi An and explore the charm of its ancient town. Highlights of this visit include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the enchanting Chinese Assembly Halls, the Phuoc Kien Pagoda, and the vibrant local market.

Overnight in Hoi An.

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In the morning, we'll embark on a discovery trip to My Son Sanctuary, located 40km from Hoi An. Nestled in a lush valley, My Son was once the capital and religious center of the Cham people, and now it remains with red brick towers and sanctuaries. This archaeological site is considered on par with some of Southeast Asia's greatest historical wonders, such as Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand, and Borobudur in Indonesia.

The towers and sanctuaries at My Son were constructed between the 7th and 13th centuries, showcasing remarkable architectural and artistic achievements of the lost Cham Kingdom. Visiting My Son provides a brief understanding of the history and culture that led to its recognition as a World Cultural Heritage site. We'll return to Hoi An around noon.

In the afternoon, we'll continue with a boat trip on the Thu Bon River, taking us to a village on Cam Kim Island known for its skilled woodworkers and boat-building families. This visit will offer insights into the traditional craftsmanship of the locals. Later, we'll head to Thanh Ha pottery village, where you can witness the age-old art of pottery making. As the afternoon comes to a close, we will transfer you back to your hotel in Hoi An.

Overnight in Hoi An.

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In the morning, we'll transfer to Danang airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

Upon arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, we will begin the city sightseeing tour. Our first stop will be at the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning neo-Romanesque structure located in the heart of Saigon's government quarter. The cathedral is characterized by its two high square towers and iron spires. Next, we'll visit the Central Post Office, an architectural masterpiece with a French-style design. We'll also see City Hall, known as "Hotel de Ville," which showcases typical French architecture reminiscent of villages in France.

Moving on, we will visit the War Remnants Museum, where you can view a collection of weapons and photographs from the two Indochina wars, offering insight into Vietnam's history. Our last stop will be at Ben Thanh Market, the largest wholesale market in Saigon, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and explore a variety of goods available for sale.

Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

After breakfast, we will leave the city and embark on a scenic journey along the National Highway, surrounded by lush green rice fields, heading towards My Tho in the Mekong Delta.

Upon arriving in My Tho, we'll visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a beautiful and significant religious site. Following that, we'll take a leisurely boat ride along the river, where you can enjoy views of stilt houses, fruit plantations, and fishing villages lining the riverbank. Our next stop will be Tortoise Islet, where we'll have a delightful lunch in an orchard garden.

Afterward, we'll take another boat ride to An Khanh, a lesser-known but charming attraction in Ben Tre. Here, you can relax and enjoy a peaceful cruise on a hand-rowed sampan under the shade of water coconut trees along natural canals. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to savor seasonal fruits and honey tea.

Next, we'll visit a family business that exemplifies the idyllic rural lifestyle. You can taste delicious coconut candy and witness the pastoral life as you stroll through the fruit plantation and village.

Finally, we'll meet our driver and return to Ho Chi Minh City for an overnight stay. This trip offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the Mekong Delta, leaving you with cherished memories of your experiences.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

In the morning, you have some free time to relax or explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own. Later, we'll arrange your transfer directly to the Ho Chi Minh City airport for your short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Upon arriving in Siem Reap, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your stay in Siem Reap and take the opportunity to discover the incredible historical and cultural wonders of the Angkor Archaeological Park and other attractions in the region.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

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In the morning, we'll begin with a visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm, a temple that had nearly vanished into the jungle, leaving an oddly haunting and exotic scene. The magnificent roots of trees intertwined with the massive stone blocks of the temple create a captivating and unforgettable sight that will leave a lasting impression on you.

Next, we'll proceed to the iconic Angkor Wat, a marvel of intricately carved Khmer ruins and one of the world's most impressive historical sites. The temple boasts exquisite Apsara carvings, reflecting the fine artistry of the Angkorian era.

In the afternoon, we'll explore the mysterious Royal City of Angkor Thom, which includes the awe-inspiring Bayon temple with its 54 towers. Initially, the temple may appear like a shapeless mass of stone, but on closer examination, you'll discover numerous faces, giving it an enigmatic and primitive allure. You will be engulfed by the silent and heavy gazes through half-closed eyes, a sight that takes you back to a distant and remote time. We will also visit the surrounding areas of the complex, including Baphuon, Elephant Terraces, Leper King Terrace, and the Royal Place area.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

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In the morning, we'll take a drive to the rural outskirts, about 35km from the Angkor area, to visit the smallest yet magnificent Banteay Srei temple. This temple was built in the 10th century and dedicated to Shiva. It is considered the birthplace of Khmer classical style architecture, and its bas-relief work is an outstanding example of Khmer classical art that has endured over time. The pink sandstone structure is adorned with a series of stunning and intricate sculptures, lintels, pediments, and friezes. The craftsmanship is so delicate that Khmers believe it must have been carved by women, as the details are deemed too fine for the hands of a man.

Continuing our journey, we'll explore the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya, which thrived in the late 9th and early 10th centuries. These temples are among the earliest ones in the Angkor area and are collectively referred to as the Rolous group. Among them, we will visit the main temple known as Bakhong temple, showcasing the early Khmer architectural style and offering a glimpse into the historical significance of this civilization.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

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In the morning, you will board the tourist bus to Phnom Penh. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours, offering views of rural landscapes and towns as you traverse the country. The bus will make several stops along the way for relaxation and a lunch break.

Upon reaching Phnom Penh, you will check into your hotel and have some time to relax and unwind after the journey. Enjoy your stay in the vibrant capital city of Cambodia and explore the historical and cultural attractions it has to offer.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

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Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, was once regarded as the loveliest city in Indochina, and despite its turbulent history, it still exudes considerable charm. During the city tour today, we will visit some major sights in Phnom Penh.

One of the places we'll visit is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a stark reminder of Cambodia's tragic past. This museum was a former prison used by the Khmer Rouge regime to detain and torture thousands of Cambodians during the genocide.

Later, we'll transfer to Phnom Penh airport for your flight to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Upon arriving in Vientiane, our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy your stay in Vientiane and discover the unique charm and cultural heritage of Laos' capital city.

Overnight in Vientiane.

Vientiane Nightlife

Today's exploration of Vientiane starts with a visit to some of the capital's major sights. We will begin with Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, which houses thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Next, we'll visit the former royal temple of Wat Ho Phra Keo, which once housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image.

As we proceed to the renowned and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we'll make a stop to take pictures of the impressive Patuxay Monument, often referred to as Vientiane's version of the Arc de Triumph.

In the afternoon, we'll take a road trip to the outskirts of Vientiane, following the Mekong River's bank. Our destination is the Buddha Park of Xieng Khuan, located approximately 28km east of Vientiane. The park features a unique combination of statues depicting Hindu divinities and Buddha. During the drive, we'll pass through charming villages on the riverbank, offering picturesque views of vegetable gardens, tobacco plantations, and more. The journey provides excellent opportunities for photo stops and offers a glimpse into the rural life of the local people. Additionally, we'll have a chance to admire the Mekong Friendship Bridge, which serves as a border between Laos and Thailand.

Overnight in Vientiane.

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After enjoying breakfast, we will transfer you to the train station for your fast train journey to Luang Prabang.

Upon arriving in Luang Prabang, our driver will be there to meet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel. Take the time to relax and settle in, and get ready to explore the charming and culturally rich city of Luang Prabang during your stay.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, we will transfer you to the pier, where you will board a traditional long boat for a delightful cruise on the Mekong River.

During the cruise, we will visit some villages located along the riverbank. Our first stop will be at Ban Xang Hai, where you can learn how the local rice whisky is made. We will then continue to Pak Ou and explore Tham Ting and Tham Theung caves, which house Lao-style Buddhist sculptures that have been collected over the centuries by the local people.

On our way back, we will visit the village of Ban Xang Khong, known for its homemade Saa Paper, a traditional craft of the area.

In the afternoon, we will visit Wat Mai, a beautiful temple, and take a leisurely stroll along the streets to reach Wat Xieng Thong, an elegant and well-preserved example of 16th-century Luang Prabang temple architecture. Located on the bank of the Mekong River, it offers stunning views.

To cap off the day, we will take a walk up Phu Si hill, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view overlooking Luang Prabang and the Mekong River. It's the perfect way to end your day in this enchanting city.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

For those interested in optional activities, you can wake up early in the morning at around 5:30 am to observe the serene and beautiful ceremony of monks leaving their pagodas and walking barefoot along the streets in long lines to collect alms. This ritual highlights the spirituality of the Lao people and provides a unique cultural experience. After the ceremony, you can return to the hotel for breakfast.

Following breakfast, we will visit the National Museum, also known as the Royal Palace or "Haw Kham." Built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family, the museum houses various statues of Buddha and monarchs, along with captivating murals depicting traditional Lao scenes that have been well-preserved.

We will then embark on a scenic drive through rice fields, hills, and villages to reach the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, which is approximately a one-hour drive from Luang Prabang. En route, we will stop at a small ethnic minority village, providing an opportunity to learn more about their unique culture and daily life.

Upon arriving at Kuang Si Waterfalls, you can relax or take a walk up to the top of the waterfall for a breathtaking view. During the summer, you can also enjoy the refreshing waters and even take a swim if you wish. In the afternoon, we'll return to Luang Prabang.

In the evening, you have free time to explore the Night Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can find a delightful collection of handmade textiles produced by local communities from the region surrounding Luang Prabang. It's the perfect way to end the day, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and supporting the talented artisans.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast at the hotel, you have some free time to go shopping, explore the city further, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of Luang Prabang.

Later, we will arrange your transfer to the Luang Prabang airport for your departure flight. As you depart, take with you cherished memories of your time in this enchanting city and the beautiful experiences you've had during your journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to this region in the future for more wonderful adventures.

End of the Vietnam Laos Cambodia itinerary 3 weeks.