Spirit of Southeast Asia: Laos & Thailand Cultural Odyssey 12 days

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.

After check-in, take some time to relax and settle in, or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the charming streets of Luang Prabang — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, golden temples, and tranquil atmosphere.

Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the nearby night market, visit a local café, or simply unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, originally built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family. The museum offers fascinating insights into Laos' royal history and heritage.

Next, embark on a scenic cruise upstream along the Mekong River, soaking in stunning views of the tranquil countryside. Your journey takes you to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of gold-lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes, left by devoted pilgrims over centuries.

On the return trip, stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, known for producing traditional Lao rice wine — where you can observe the process and sample the local flavors.

Back in Luang Prabang, continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Wat Sene, one of the city's oldest temples, followed by the nearby Wat Xieng Thong. This architectural masterpiece features a gracefully sloping two-tiered roof and exquisite mosaic artwork, including the iconic ‘Tree of Life’ glass montage on the rear temple wall.

Then visit Heuan Chan Heritage House, a beautifully restored 19th-century aristocratic mansion. Here, you’ll gain deeper insight into traditional Lao culture, from family life and ceremonial practices to textiles and crafts. Enjoy a complimentary cup of authentic Lao coffee or tea as you relax in the peaceful garden setting.

In the late afternoon, head to Wat Prabath to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Mekong River, a perfect way to end the day.

Finally, explore the vibrant Luang Prabang Night Market, where you’ll find a wide array of handmade textiles, arts, and crafts created by local and hill tribe artisans.

Rise early to witness and participate in one of Laos’ most sacred traditions: the morning alms giving ceremony, dating back to the 14th century. As the sun rises, over 200 saffron-robed monks walk silently through the streets to receive offerings from the local faithful. This serene and spiritual ritual offers a profound connection to Lao Buddhist culture.

Afterwards, stroll through the bustling temporary morning market near the former Royal Palace. This lively market provides a window into daily life in Luang Prabang, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles and local delicacies.

Return to your hotel for breakfast, then prepare to climb the 329 steps up Phousi Hill. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, and the surrounding mountains — a perfect photo opportunity.

Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center (TAEC). In a one-hour presentation titled "Ethnic Diversity and Cultural Change in Laos", you’ll explore Laos’ rich ethnic heritage through authentic artifacts, stories, and a Q&A session that deepens your understanding of the country’s diverse communities and traditions.

Next, drive out to the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfall, the largest and most breathtaking in the region. The waterfall cascades over three tiers before plunging 50 meters into a series of crystal-clear turquoise pools — ideal for a refreshing swim or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

While at Kuang Si, you can also visit the Bear Rescue Center, a sanctuary for rescued Asiatic black bears saved from illegal wildlife trade. Learn about their rehabilitation and the center’s conservation efforts.

On the return journey to Luang Prabang, stop at the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Center, set peacefully along the banks of the Mekong River. Here, master weavers and textile artists showcase traditional Lao craftsmanship, with opportunities to observe the intricate process of silk weaving. Enhance your visit with a complimentary audio guide that offers deeper insight into Lao culture and textile heritage.

Transfer back to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Morning

9:00 – Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Luang Prabang to a charming riverside village nestled in the countryside.

Stop by a local market along the way to select fresh ingredients for your meals — a great opportunity to discover local produce and interact with villagers.

Arrive in the village area and cross the river by local ferry or traditional pirogue. Upon arrival, meet your host family and settle into their warm and welcoming home.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Lao lunch prepared by your host, and get to know your hosts over a shared meal.

Afternoon

Take some time to relax and unwind after the journey — soak in the peaceful atmosphere of village life.

Spend the afternoon exploring the village and participating in local activities. Visit the village school, meet talented artisans and weavers, and observe traditional textile making in action. You can even commission a custom-made dress or scarf as a unique souvenir.

Refresh with a river bath or a shower in the host’s home, Lao-style. Join your host, Kham, in the kitchen to help prepare dinner, or kick back and enjoy a Beer Lao or local spirit while chatting with the family.

Gather around the table for a hearty home-cooked Lao dinner, sharing food, stories, and laughter.

21:00 Onwards – Wind down the evening with a friendly round of cards, a favorite local pastime. Be ready for some light-hearted competition — your hosts are seasoned players!

Overnight in the village – Experience authentic Lao hospitality in a family home, surrounded by culture and community.

Morning

05:00 - 06:00 - Rise early to prepare sticky rice with your host family for the morning alms offering — a peaceful and meditative start to the day that connects you to the rhythm of local life.

Participate in the sacred alms giving ceremony at a nearby temple, offering food to passing monks in a tradition that reflects the deep spiritual heritage of Laos. Return to the house and enjoy a hearty homemade breakfast with the host family.

Head to the Ou River for a hands-on experience in traditional Lao fishing with Kham and her uncle. Learn age-old techniques passed down through generations while enjoying the serenity of the river.

Set out on a guided hike to the rice fields, gaining insight into the life of rural farmers. Along the way, stop by family-run organic gardens, where you’ll learn about local crops and sustainable farming practices.

Afternoon

13:00 – 14:00 – Enjoy a delicious Lao lunch with your host family, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Spend some free time exploring the village at your own pace. Take photos, interact with locals, or shop for handcrafted souvenirs made by villagers.

Say farewell to your hosts and cross the river by local boat to begin your return trip to Luang Prabang.

17:00 – Arrive back at your hotel in Luang Prabang, marking the end of your enriching and immersive Homestay Experience.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at your leisure in Luang Prabang - perhaps take a final stroll through the charming streets, visit a local café, or browse for souvenirs at the morning market.

At the appropriate time, transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport for your flight to Bangkok.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel.

Evening

At 18:45 - 19:00, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to the La Grande Perle Restaurant at River City Shopping Complex. While waiting to board your cruise, take some time to explore the boutique shops and galleries at River City, a cultural hub nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

At 19:20, step aboard the Grand Pearl Cruise, the most luxurious liner on the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll be greeted by the warm smiles of the crew and a refreshing welcome cocktail, all part of a traditional Thai ceremonial welcome. 

As the cruise sets sail from River City Pier at 19:30, prepare for a feast for the senses. The gentle breeze, the glimmering reflections on the water, and the shimmering temples create an unforgettable nighttime panorama.

You’ll cruise past two of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks bathed in golden light: Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) and the majestic Grand Palace with Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Be sure to capture the stunning night views that define the romance and grandeur of Bangkok after dark.

At 20:00, an exquisite Thai dinner buffet is served, as you enjoy the rhythmic beauty of traditional Thai dance performances onboard. With graceful costumes and music echoing ancient stories, the cultural showcase adds a touch of elegance and wonder to your evening.

At 21:30, the cruise returns to River City Pier, where you’ll be met and transferred back to your hotel, ending your first day with a taste of Bangkok’s timeless charm and vibrant spirit.

Morning

After breakfast, begin your cultural exploration at the Grand Royal Palace, the historic heart of Bangkok and former royal residence, which continues to host ceremonial events for the Thai royal family. Within the palace grounds lies the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), home to the most revered Buddha image in Thailand — a stunning figure carved from a single block of jade.

Continue to Wat Pho, famous for its giant Reclining Buddha measuring 46 meters in length. This temple is also recognized as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Next, visit Wat Traimit, renowned for its magnificent Golden Buddha, a solid gold statue weighing over 5 tons and symbolizing prosperity and purity.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a comfortable setting.

Afternoon

After lunch, arrive at Wat Nak Klang Pier, where your journey into Bangkok’s timeless canal life begins.

Board a traditional longtail boat and cruise along the peaceful Khlong Bang Luang, where you’ll step back in time to a slower-paced era of Thai life. Pass by charming wooden houses and observe daily life along the banks. (maximum exploring time - 30 minutes) 

Stop at the Baan Silapin (Artist’s House), a hidden gem nestled in a centuries-old community. Here, you’ll discover a small art gallery, local craft shops, and traditional Thai puppet performances (subject to schedule), giving you a glimpse into Bangkok’s living artistic heritage.

The boat continues onto the majestic Chao Phraya River, where you’ll encounter one of the city’s most iconic landmarks — Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). This riverside temple, with its towering central prang adorned in colorful porcelain, stands proudly against the skyline and offers unforgettable views, especially during the golden hour.

To end your route on a soothing note, sink into comfort with a 30-minute traditional Thai foot massage, letting expert hands ease your muscles and awaken your energy. It’s a perfect balance to a morning of exploration - one that leaves both your mind and body refreshed.

NOTE: Clients should wear long pants, shoes that cover the heel, and shirts that cover the upper arm (no vests).

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing on a guided journey to explore the ancient capital of Ayutthaya, once the flourishing second capital of the Siamese Kingdom.

• Bang Pa-In Summer Palace - Begin your day at this magnificent riverside complex, once the royal summer retreat of Thai kings. Stroll through manicured gardens, serene lakes, and exquisite architecture blending Thai, Chinese, and European styles.
• Wat Yai Chai Mongkol - Continue to one of Ayutthaya’s most iconic Buddhist temples, famed for its giant chedi and rows of meditating Buddha statues. This temple still functions as a monastery and holds deep historical significance.
• Wat Phra Sri Sanphet - Explore the former royal temple within the old Grand Palace grounds. Its three imposing chedis are a symbol of Ayutthaya's architectural legacy.
• Wat Mahathat - Visit this ancient site best known for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots, one of Thailand’s most iconic images. The temple once enshrined relics of the Buddha.

After your historical exploration, your guide and driver will transfer you to Wat Chong-Lom Pier for your river cruise (guide does not join the cruise but will meet you again in Bangkok).

Afternoon

13:15 - Welcome aboard the Grand Pearl Cruise Liner at Wat Chong-lom Pier (Nonthaburi). A sumptuous buffet lunch featuring a selection of oriental and western cuisines will be served as you relax and take in the scenic beauty along the River of Kings. The cruise will glide past Nonthaburi, Koh Kred, and the Monn community, offering a glimpse of local river life before reaching Bangkok city.

Enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring iconic riverside landmarks, including the Royal Barges Museum, Thammasat University, Siriraj Hospital, the majestic Grand Palace, and the striking Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), known for its towering 79-meter spire. You’ll also pass Wat Kalayanamit, one of Bangkok’s most revered temples.

Arrive and disembark at the River City Shopping Complex Pier. Your private guide and transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Morning

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll be transferred to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, your local guide will warmly welcome you and take you to your hotel, where you can leave your luggage and freshen up.

Afternoon

Your afternoon adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a revered Theravada Buddhist temple perched atop Doi Suthep Mountain. The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

To reach the summit, you may ascend the symbolic Naga Serpent Staircase, or opt for a convenient cable car ride—both offering memorable approaches to this sacred site.

Evening

The evening is free for you to explore Chiang Mai at your own pace. You may wish to take part in one of the optional guided tours available, offering unique cultural or culinary experiences.

Morning

08:00 – 08:30 – Hotel pick-up from your accommodation in Chiang Mai. Depart for the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, located approximately 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai. Enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, forests, and local farmland.

Arrive at the Sanctuary. Meet your guide and take a 10–15 minute walk through the jungle to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive an introduction to elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

Meet the elephants. Feed, interact with, and observe them in their natural habitat while learning about their stories and personalities. Capture memorable photos with the elephants.

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring traditional Thai dishes and fresh fruit.

Afternoon

Learn how to prepare herbal medicine balls, feed the elephants, and walk with them to the river. Assist with bathing and brushing the elephants.

Join the elephants for a rejuvenating mud spa session. Swim in the river alongside them and take more unforgettable photos. Then change back into your clothes and bid farewell to the elephants.

Depart the Sanctuary for Chiang Mai. Around 17:00-17:30 - Arrive back at your hotel or accommodation.

Today’s adventure begins with a scenic transfer to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the highest peak in Thailand. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, offering beautiful views of the Northern Thai countryside along the way.

Upon arrival, we’ll begin a 2–3 hour trek along a narrow mountain trail deep into the lush jungle. This journey leads us to a hidden waterfall, nestled in the heart of the forest — a serene spot perfect for nature lovers and photography.

As we continue, the trail winds past local farmland, where you’ll see coffee plantations, flower farms, and stunning rice terraces before reaching the Pagagayaw Karen Hill Tribe Village. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the village, learn about the Karen way of life, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of locally grown coffee.

Next, we’ll visit the impressive Vachiratharn Waterfall, a thunderous 70-meter cascade surrounded by lush greenery — a perfect place to relax and breathe in the cool, misty air.

Our final stop takes us to the twin royal pagodas: Napamaytanidol Chidi and Phra Mahathat Napaphon Bhumisiri, built to honor the 60th birthdays of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. These beautifully designed monuments sit atop the mountain and are surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens with panoramic views.

Enjoy a delicious Thai lunch at a local restaurant before we return to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon.

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Chiang Mai on your own, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax.

At the designated time, your driver will pick you up for a comfortable transfer to the airport for your onward journey.