Luang Prabang, Laos’ most enchanting town and a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Surrounded by mountainous forests and situated at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers, Luang Prabang has a tranquil, old-world charm. Well-preserved French architecture and careful street planning has blended beautifully with more than 30 gilded Buddhist temples to create a town rich in atmosphere and history.
Depart your hotel for the short transfer to the boat jetty. Over the following two hours, enjoy a leisurely boat journey along the Mekong to the mysterious 'Cave of 1,000 Buddhas' at Pak Ou. Along the way, soak up the Mekong riverside scenery: villages, local fisherman, and mountains carpeted with thick green forest. Stop en route at the spot where Local Fisherman fishing every day, you will learn the fishing method that passed on for many centuries. Whilst you’re observing the fishing, the grill-fish picnic lunch is well-prepared by your guide and boat crew. Feast your delicious picnic lunch with the Fisherman and your companions on the riverside beach. After lunch say goodbye to the Fisherman and continue your boat cruise towards Pak Ou Caves. At the caves, in a tradition that has lasted for centuries, local people add annually to a repository of Buddha statues near the base of the small cave. On the return to Luang Prabang, visit a riverside village and sample the local rice wine (Lao-Lao). After gliding back into town, transfer back to your hotel. Lunch included
Depart your hotel for a 40 minute drive in a westerly direction to the village of Ban Pak Si, stop on the way at the Local family's farm - a nice setting at the edge of the riversides. The host will take you around the farm and choose fresh ingredients from their garden for today's cooking class. You will help making your own Papaya Salad, Pork Laap, sticky rice and more. Feast your delicious lunch at the farm. After Lunch, your guide will lead you through the path that Local farmers walk every day to their farm, the 2 hour trekking will take you towards Kuang si Falls. Swim in the turquoise waters, or simply explore the beautiful surrounds. Enjoy free time before visiting a nearby sanctuary which cares for and rehabilitates bears rescued from animal traders, or from deforested habitat. Return to Luang Prabang, stopping as you like for photos of countryside and villages. Arrive back at your hotel in the late afternoon. Lunch included.
Rise early this morning to see robed Buddhist monks collecting morning alms, following a centuries-old ritual, visit Mount Phousi for sunrise and enjoy the panoramic view of Luang Prabang, Stroll down the local morning Market before return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, free time or explore Luang Prabang at your own pace before transfer to the airport for your ongoing flight.
