Laos off the beaten track

It's in Luang Prabang begins journey to Laos. On arrival you are greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel.Lunch and early discovery of the ancient capital of Laos. Luang Prabang is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995 for its wealth of historical remains, whether colonial or archaeological. A guided visit Vat Visoun reveals the secrets of the oldest temple in Luang Prabang. Built in the early sixteenth century, it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1887, and architects engaged in the renovation gave it a style inspired by the Khmer temple Vat Phou. A few steps away is Wat Aham whose frescoes recount the life of Buddha.

For the bravest and most morning: every morning, the monks marched through the streets of Luang Prabang in search of offerings. The opportunity to admire the ballet of saffron robes in the quiet streets of the city, keeping a certain distance, and with respect so as not to disturb the magic of this moment.

The program for this first full day of your trip to Laos, visit the temple Wat Xieng Thong, the Monastery of the Golden City, the ornaments, mosaics, stupas are the finest. The temple houses a majestic Buddha lying in a purely Lao style.Secondly, stop at the first monastery in Luang Prabang, Wat Saen. Then visit Vat May built in the typical architecture of Luang Prabang. His "sim" and its wooden roof five-sided are characteristic. Finally, it was the Royal Palace (closed on Tuesdays), converted into a museum, the history of the region and of the royal family will be told. The National Museum displays the famous Pha Bang, a Buddha statue in gold. Free lunch and before leaving for a trip to Khuang If falls. Falls are frequented by Laotian families come to relax there. At the heart of the natural park, the scenery is breathtaking. In the forest, the turquoise waters flow into basins that form natural pools where enthusiasts can swim and enjoy this unforgettable site. Return to Luang Prabang scheduled for late afternoon. In the evening walk in the Hmong night market. Vibrant colors and varied crafts await you in this second evening of your tour in Laos.

Departure aboard a traditional junk for a wonderful day cruise on the Mekong to Pakbeng. At the edge of the mythical river, dug at the foot of steep cliffs, the sacred caves of Pak Ou expose many statues of Buddha. They were left there over the centuries by the Laotian during religious holidays. Two caves are distinguished: Tham Ting whose access is by the pier, and Tham Phun, more difficult access which visibility is limited due to lack of light. This cave is a place of worship, among the oldest in this region of Laos. Even today, for the new year, large families move to the caves for sacrament of Buddha. The ascent continues across the Mekong karst landscapes and villages bordering the nourishing river. These villages live to the rhythm of the generous and lush nature that surrounds them. Lunch on board the junk. Your cruise on the Mekong ends in Pakbeng in the late afternoon.