20 Days Indochina Tour

Welcome to your holiday.
Upon arrival at the International Airport, either Domestic or International arrival, after clearing all customs procedures, please proceed to exit gate and look for your guide who will be waiting at the lobby, holding the signboard with your name on it.
Transfer to hotel for check in and rest. Free to explore.
Overnight in Bangkok.

Visit the former capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, situated approximately 75 kilometres north of Bangkok and which is one of those destinations you have to see. The mix of cultures in Ayutthaya began in the mid-16th century when ships from Ayutthaya plied the Asian seas, trading with neighbouring countries. When the Dutch showed up in the 17th century, Ayutthaya became a port city and trade routes were extended to China, Japan, Indonesia, Portugal, Holland and France and even up to the Scandinavian countries later. Although the ancient villages of foreign traders lining on the Chao Phraya riverbanks were abandoned when the city was sacked by Burmese troops in 1767, some remnants have survived and now showcase the city’s past glory.
The tour will first visit at the Summer Palace of the l ate King Rama V, commonly known as “Bang Pa-In”. You will then continue to the magnificent ruins of early splendour that Ayutthaya is famous for all over the world. We will pass or visit all the most impressive ruins of this World Heritage Site. Explorer through Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, is an important landmark in Ayutthaya where you will visit ancient ruin of Grand Palace and its temples including monk chat and make merit. Wat Mahathat an unseen tourist attraction where you could see buddha head enshrine in the three. These temples also enshrine buddha lyric from the past 600 years. Stops and experiences how the local people making famous product "candy cotton" this is in Thai we called "ROTI". We will let you learn how they make it and will also let you try it. We would like to take you somewhere tourist not usually go. Last visit one of the most visited historical site of Ayutthaya, Wat Chaiwattanaram rests on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, to the west of the City Island. The Temple was ordered to build in 1630, featuring the architectural style influenced by Angkor temple in Cambodia-its unique feature is a large, central prang (Khmer-style pagoda) surrounded by smaller prangs, symbolizing Mount Sumeru, the gods' mountain according to Hindu belief.

Meet the driver and transfer to Sukhothai. The trip will take about 6 hours.
Sukhothai Historical Park covers the ruins of Sukhothai, literally 'dawn of happiness', capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th and 14th centuries, in north central Thailand. This afternoon, visit the following impressive historical site:
Wat Mahathat
Wat Sa Si
King Ramkhamhaeng Monument
Wat Si Chum
After the tour, back to the hotel.

Have breakfast and check out the hotel.
Today, you will return to Bangkok. The trip will take about 6 hours.
Upon arrival, check in the hotel and free on your own leisure the rest of the day.
Overnight in Bangkok

This interesting half-day tour will take you to the rural yet world-famous Maeklong Train Market folding up and the stalls being packed away in front of your eyes. Explore the market like a local and see the stalls stacked with fruits, vegetables and seafood. Continue to explore Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, situated around 100 kilometres west of Bangkok. It is generally known as Klong Ton Khem Floating Market or Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Damnoen Saduak has officially three floating markets. A narrow canal flanked with food stalls and souvenir shops forms the principal market. Photographers at Ton Kem will get their best shots from the bridge which crosses over the canal and from the shed on the right. Paddle boat 30mins inside the floating market is included in the tour price. Nowadays, the market is bustling with activity from very early in the morning until about 11.00 am. For those who want to buy some memorabilia here, do not forget to bargain!
Afternoon: Highlight temples of Bangkok
Here is one of our most popular tours, bringing you along 3 of the most stunning temples Bangkok has to offer! This tour features “Wat Traimit” with its 5.5-ton heavy Golden Buddha Image. Then drive to visit Wat Chetuporn (commonly known as Wat Pho), that boasts the over 45-meters long Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called ‘Thailand’s first university’. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple educated people on various subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and is considered to be home of Thai traditional massages. We will end the tour with a visit to Wat Benchamaborpit: (also known as the Marble Temple) a representation of an outstanding successful marriage between Italian Carrara marble and classical Thai architecture. This half-day tour will especially delight those interested to know a bit more about Buddhism and its history, combined with the always-busy city life.
Evening: Bangkok streetfood tour by TUKTUK
Starting you Bangkok night tour. You will travel by Tuk-Tuk, this world-famous three-wheel motorized open-air vehicle and explore Bangkok’s markets, temples and food, under the night lights. While most tourists will visit Bangkok’s landmarks during the day time, Thailand Journeys offers the incredible opportunity to enter these places at an original and unique time of the day.
The first stop will be Bangrak, a trendy district just a short distance from the Chao Phraya River. Spend some time exploring the Bangrak Bazaar and the surrounding streets as your guide introduces you to some more tasty treats. (Alternative to Petchburi Soi 5 and China Town, Depend on the day in the week)
It’s really amazing time to take a great shot around Rattanagosin Island including the scenery outside of Wat Pho and Grand Palace in the night. Continue to China town (locally named Yaowarat road) – transforms into one of the largest street food spots in the world. Popular offerings include dim sum, oyster omelette’s, flat noodles in a pepper broth, and lots of fresh seafood. There are also many exotic fruits on offer, as well as homemade ice cream. We’ll explore some more unique flavours and street food treats throughout Chinatown before ending the journey with sipping a drink looking out over the nightlife scenery at the local bar.
Overnight in Bangkok.

Have breakfast and check out the hotel.
Free at your own leisure until pick up to the airport for the flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting at the exit gate and pick you up to the hotel for check-in.
Relax and explore the city in your own way.
Overnight in Luang Prabang.

You have the option to wake up before dawn to witness and participate in offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks – an awe-inspiring sight. Please tell your guide a day in advance if you wish to make an offering so he/she can prepare some food for you to hand over to the monks. This early morning ritual dates back generations in Laos. Watch the town come to life in the morning then return to the hotel for breakfast or join the locals for a bowl of delicious noodle soup after the alms giving ritual. (If you do not wish to make an offering, please keep an appropriate distance and observe the ritual in silence. Dress appropriately – shoulders, chest and legs should be covered).
After breakfast at hotel, we board a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a panoramic view of the tranquil countryside as well as an interesting visit to the mysterious of Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we will make a stop at Ban Xang Hai village where rice wine is distilled. We will visit the caves of Tham Ting and Tham Phoum which house hundreds of Buddha statues.
Afternoon, transfer by private vehicle to Khouang Si waterfall. On the way, you can visit to the Lao ethnic minority group at Ban Na Ouane Village, H’Mong Village. Once at the waterfalls, take a leisurely hike through the national park towards the Khouang Si waterfalls and pass by the Asian bear rescue center. You will enjoy feeling the mist of the cool, turquoise waters of the different waterfalls. Swimming in the refreshing waters is possible.

Begin with a morning drive to a Nam Khan Riverside village named Ban Xieng Lom, a fantastic location in the middle of the countryside at the base of a huge mountain. We’ll cross the Nam Khan on a small boat to begin the hike through jungle up to a mid-mountain Lao Theung village (Khmu).
Taking care not to disrupt the serenity of this isolated area, we can observe locals as they engage in daily tasks. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and wander around in the small village. Your guide will be happy to translate your questions. Waving our good-byes, we enter a different world of a grander scale dominated by some jungle, soaring limestone rock faces, and flourishing ferns.
Edge forward along a steep, narrow, rocky track, we ascend to our final destination, sharing the trail with passing villagers on their days pilgrimage to market. After a short but steep walk we finally arrive at the Lao Sung village (Hmong), an isolated and quaint village high in the mountains overrun by roaming livestock. The local kids are likely to give you a warm welcome with laughter and smiles.
We enjoy lunch in a local, humble home to take part in a unique encounter. Listen to the stories about the various cultures, play with the children or ask your questions about their way of life up here. After this tranquil pause we start our descent back through other small villages along the way. You will follow a little stream, see villagers on their way back from markets or from the fields until you reach the Nam Khan river. After a short boat ride we’ll be back to our starting point.

This morning, we enjoy a short-guided tour seeing Wat Visoun and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture.
During our time here, we visit Wat Mai – the holy temple and The National Museum at the former Royal Palace, which displays a lovely collection of the artifacts reflecting the richness of Lao culture dating from the days of the early kings right through to the last sovereign. Our last stop is Huean Chan Heritage Luang Prabang for a chance to learn about Laos culture and many more.
After the tour, transfer to the airport for the flight to Hanoi.
Upon arrival, meet our driver at the exit gate, then transfer to the hotel for check in.
Overnight in Hanoi.

Our guide will meet you at your hotel and transfer to Ninh Binh.
Upon arrival, visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel with Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple dating back to the 17th Century. This is the first capital of Vietnam. Come to visit Hoa Lu, you will learn about why the capital was moved to Hanoi nowadays. You are impressed on an outstanding architecture when entering temples of King Dinh and King Le, the first and second emperors of ancient Vietnam, built in the 17 century. Try to feel ancient atmospheres in Hoa Lu ancient capital.
Enjoy the lunch at our restaurant with the great local cuisines.
Afternoon, leave for the Trang An Grottoes, an out-standing natural beauty of majestic limestone massif at 20 square kilometer rise dramatically out from rice paddy fields. Deep into the linked chains of towering mountain are pristine places of mystical valleys, numerous fresh water ponds, and jungle.
Embark on a traditional sampan gently rowed down the exquisite river through numerous caves: Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Dai Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, ... and Cao Sơn Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, Vu Lam Temple…
Arrive Mua Cave and start an amazing trek up to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain for watching the spectacular rice valley with specious view of the nature.
Transfer back to your hotel around 19.30.
Overnight in Hanoi.

The driver will pick you up at lobby of hotel and start journey east to Halong Bay, through picturesque rice-farming villages of the Red River Delta, where we see every day Vietnamese village life. On arrival, we board a beautiful cruise and spend a full day and night cruising the bay’s 3000 magnificent limestone islets. In the evening when the boat is anchored in the middle of the stunning lagoon, we enjoy a wonderful seafood meal and later there is opportunity for an evening swim from the side of the boat. Spend the night on our luxury boat.

Awake early and participate in Tai Chi on the top deck or simply relax and enjoy the sunrise over the bay’s towering islands. Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea, before setting out to explore nearby islands by rowboat. Return to the junk for breakfast then take advantage of the sundeck and admire the amazing rock formations of Halong. Have brunch on board the boat before returning to Halong pier to get back Hanoi.
Transfer to Hanoi Railway Station and board the overnight train to Dong Hoi. Accommodation on the train will be on a basis in a four-berth soft sleeper compartment.

Arrive Dong Hoi in early morning, have breakfast by yourself.
Our car and tour guide will pick you up at railway station and depart to Phong Nha town.
After 45 minutes, we will arrive at Phong Nha town to visit Paradise cave – the longest dry cave in Asia (located in Phong Nha – Ke bang National Park’s core zone, 25km about Phong Nha cave, 75 km about Dong Hoi and 1h20 minutes driving) at the rest of the day.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Phong Nha village before exploring National Park in the afternoon.
Leave Paradise cave, we transfer to explore the most impressive Phong Nha cave (50 km about the city, 45 minutes driving).
We will take a boat to cruise on Son River. While on the boat you will see the greenfield, people, houses and limestone along the river. After 25 minutes on the boat, visitors will arrive at Phong Nha cave, take a couple of hours to see the cave. This cave is a water cave and famous for its rock formation which has been given names such as the “Lion”, the “Fairy Caves”, the “Royal Court”, and the “Buddha”.
At 17.00 – 17.30PM: Go back to Dong Hoi. Ends of tour.
Overnight in Dong Hoi.

Wake up and check out the hotel.
Our driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby. Then transfer to Hue (without guide).
Visit Khai Dinh Tomb. It was established by Emperor Khai Dinh, the 12th Emperor of the Nguyễn Dynast, during the period from 1920 to 1931. This 11-year-to-complete tomb is located hillside and has a combination of Eastern and Western style in terms of ar chitecture.
After that, have lunch at the restaurant.
Afternoon, continue visiting Hue Imperial Citadel - the former imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty. It contains the palaces that housed the imperial family, as well as shrines, gardens, and villas for mandarins.
Visit Thien Mu Pagoda - the most beautiful and oldest pagoda in Hue. The name of the pagoda derives from a special legend. Long time ago, an old woman appeared on the hill where the pagoda stands today, telling local people that a Lord would come and build a Buddhist pagoda for the country’s prosperity. Lord Nguyen Hoang therefore ordered the construction of the pagoda the “Heaven Fairy Lady” or Thiên Mụ in Vietnamese (also called Linh Mụ).
End of tour, back to your hotel in Hue. Upon arrival, check in the hotel and have dinner on your own.
Overnight in Hue.

Have breakfast and check out the hotel.
Take the scenic route to Hoi An from Hue via Hai Van pass (without guide). On the way to Hoi An, you will see some sights such as Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co beach, Hai Van Pass. You will have time to stop to relax and take photos there.
Lang Co Beach – the 3rd bay of Vietnam to be named in the list of 30 most beautiful bays in the world.
Hai Van Pass – the most beautiful pass in Vietnam on journey from the South to the North.
Upon arrival, drop you off at the hotel in Hoi An.
Then you are free to explore the city the rest of day.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Start your adventure with Cam Thanh Coconut. As a fisherman at Cam Thanh Coconut Village, you will learn traditional fishing techniques and how to row unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boats while exploring the tranquil coconut palm waterways of the past. On this tour, we provide authentic social and cultural insight into the local way of life in Vietnam. Furthermore, you will take part in some hands-on activities that are fun, safe, interesting and suitable for everybody.
Then, visit the next destination, Hoi An Old Town:
• Go to the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, a colorful mélange of bright gates, dragon statues, and elaborate rooftops. Get an introduction to ancestor worship while visiting the family altar and watching local devotees make offerings.
• You will see remarkably well-preserved old houses, such as Phung Hung Ancient House or Tan Ky Ancient House, that have withstood 200 years of weather and war. Learn about the prosperous merchants who used to live in these homes, trading with buyers from all around the world.
• Make a stop at the Japanese Bridge. The bridge spans a small waterway and was constructed more than 400 years ago to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese who lived on the other side of the water. Admire the carvings and paintings inside the bridge, learning about their symbolism and cultural significance.
• Additionally, visit some of Hoi An’s well-known handicraft shops and artwork galleries. Discover smaller laneways and local neighborhoods, gaining a better appreciation of Hoi An’s endless charm.
Dinner at the local restaurant.
Free your time with the night market and enjoy the shimmering space of Hoi An.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Have breakfast and check out the hotel.
Free at your own leisure until pick up to the airport for the flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting at the exit gate and pick you up to the hotel for check-in.
Relax and explore the city in your own way.
Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Banteay Srei temple this morning. This red sandstone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. They provide an excellent into the Angkor civilization and their beliefs. It was built in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god – Shiva.
Lunch on your own.
Continue on a pleasant drive through the countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style by King Jayavarman II in the early 12th century. It preceded and may have served as a prototype for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shady surrounds of the temple before transferring back to Siem Reap for 1.5 hours. (It is advisable to wear sturdy, walking shoes with a decent grip).
Evening, Dinner show at Morokot restaurant (buffet). You will enjoy the evening Khmer Show.
Overnight in Siem Reap.

Early morning at about 5.00 am, you will be transferred to visit sunrise at Angkor Wat – After sunrise, we continue to visit Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. 08.00 am, return to the hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, visit Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire with its centerpiece; the Bayon temple. As you approach, you will notice the enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking in every direction. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army, and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passageway that leads to the Baphuon complex.
Lunch on your own, then continue to visit Neak Pean, East Mebon temples, and end the day with Ta Prohm temple. This beautiful temple is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling.
Overnight in Siem Reap.

All things come to an end and, unfortunately, this is the end of your journey! Meet up with our driver who will take you to the airport for your departure flight.
The regular check-out time is at 1200; late check-out is NOT included.