Colorful of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand & Myanmar 18 days / 17 nights

TYPOLOGIES

Multi-Country Tour

DIFFICULTY

MIN. AGE

Tour Overview:

Our Colorful of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar 18-day combination covering highlights in three countries: Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar and north Thailand. The tour has a perfect mixture of culture, landscape, people, history, and food. Capture mesmerizing beauty of mother nature, indulge in the sacred and dignified ambiance while entering the holy sites. Bump into the locals, blend with the diversity of multi-ethnic tribes and see the real pace of life. Starting in Phnom Penh and finishing in Yangon where you can easily find your arrival and homeward flights.

Itinerary

Flight: International flight on your own arrangement or on requests.

Fly into Phnom Penh, the city that retains its traditional Khmer and colonial charm. French villas along tree-lined boulevards remind the visitor that the city was once considered the ‘pearl’ of Southeast Asia. Recent political changes have triggered an economic boom, with new hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs springing up across the city.

Meet our representative and transfer to our hotel. The balance of the day free for your own times.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Visit to the Royal Palace compound build in 1866 by the Predecessors of King Norodom, is the most conspicuous feature and also one of impressive colorful Khmer-style Palaces. Nearside the Royal Palace is Silver Pagoda (The Emerald Buddha temple), display plenty of Buddha Statues that were decorated and made by diamond, emerald, gold and silver, continuing visit to National Museum, the distinctive red building with a beautiful Khmer architecture was build since 1917 and contains more than 5000 art objects made of sandstone, bronze, silver, copper, wood and others. Travelers will proceed to visit Independence Monument, which was constructed in 1954 after Cambodian took their country back from French colony. We will learn about the dark side of Cambodia – Its more recent turbulent and harrowing history. Initially you visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S21), ironically a former school, located in a quiet Phnom Penh suburb, this was the infamous Khmer Rouge prison / torture center. Visit Wat Phnom is a Buddhist temple located in center of Phnom Penh City. It was built in 1373, and stands 27 meters above the ground. It is the tallest religious structure in the city. We will stop at Central Market is located in the heart of the Phnom Penh. The Khmer name of the market is Phsar Thmei, which translates to “new market”. The Central Market was built in 1937 during the French colonial period, in Art Deco style, and is painted bright ochre. We enjoy our cyclo ride along the riverside. This laidback tour gives us a different perspective of the streets and sights of the city. We will enjoy a cruise for view sunset on the Mekong and Tonle Sap River (1 hour). Situated at the “Four Arms” where the Mekong meets the Tonle Sap River before splitting into tow branches, Phnom Penh offers the ideal location to discover the mighty Mekong.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Today we travel by road from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. On route you will have a chance to stop on the way to take photo and witness the everyday lives of Cambodians as you pass through interesting provincial towns, bucolic villages, and delightful scenery. This is no ‘freeway dash’ as you will often slow down to let cows and water buffalo wander across the road, pass horse drawn carriages, and school kids walking and cycling to/from school. We may choose to stop at Skoun, also known as ‘Spider vile’ due to the deep fried tarantula that is the local delicacy, are you adventurous enough to try one? Arrive in Kampong Thom, we visit Sambor Prei Kuk, which is dotted with hundred Pre-Angkor styled temples. The site, part of the Chenla Kingdom, includes an area of nearly 1000 acres enclosed by double walls, and hundreds temples and towers; its construction predates Angkor Wat by several centuries. After seeing this landmark we make our way towards Siem Reap and pass through various Khmer traditional villages. On route you may wish to stop off in Kampong Kdei, to look at Spean Pratos – an ancient Angkorian bridge. Upon arrival in Siem Reap you will check-in to your hotel after which you are free at leisure for the rest of the evening.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we drive to Angkor Thom that was the masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII. Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the new king decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. We begin to visit Bayon Temple. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. From there, we walk to Baphuon temple, once of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman 1 in the 11th century. We continue to visit Terrace of the Leper King. Along the Terrace of Elephants, originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances and traditional sports. We continue to Ta Prohm `Tomb Raider` fame. Ta Prohm has been abandoned to the elements, a reminder that while empires rise and fall, the riotous power of nature marches on, oblivious to the dramas of human history. We journey out to the Mother of all temples, Angkor Wat. Believed to be the world's largest religious building, this temple is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Khmers.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

We continue to have a boat trip to enjoy the beautiful lake view and mangrove forest on the lake, then spend rest of the morning at the largest village on the lake to discover the fascinating daily lives of the local people who leave on the water. We will go to local pagoda, where you should change to clothes we can get wet in as here we will experience the ceremony “Srouch Teok”, which roughly translates into “Water blessing”. A monk will chant in ancient Pali as he splashes water over us, washing away our sins and bad luck so we can start fresh and by being a good person can increase our good luck.

Transfer to Siem Reap airport for departure to Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is perhaps the best-preserved traditional city in Southeast Asia. The tranquility and charm of this town with its splendid natural scenery and cultural sights make it one of the most delightful places to visit in Laos. Upon arrival at Luang Prabang, we met our guide and transfer to hotel for check in.

Overnight at Luang Prabang.

An optional early start gives you the fantastic opportunity to participate in the daily morning rituals of saffron-clad monks collecting offerings of Alms (ubiquitous sticky rice) from the faithful residents. This tradition is very unique in Laos, being the only Buddhist nation still preserving the procession. We spend the rest of this day touring the Lao capital, we visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham, Wat Mai. We continue seeing Luang Prabang with the temple of Wat Xieng Thong, a magnificent piece of architecture, which nestles at the meeting of the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. We excursion out of town to experience local lifestyle of nearby villagers and visit the most beautiful waterfall in Luang Prabang. On the way, we visit Phosi Market, where you will see such diverse offerings as dried buffalo skin, local tea and saltpeter among the chickens, vegetables and hill-tribe weavings. Laos is also known for its traditional handicrafts, and today we will visit the villages of Ban Ouay and Ban Thapene and the weaving village of Ban Phanom which are populated by Lao ethnic minority groups. We spend time at the beautiful Khouangsi Waterfall where you can splash around in the turquoise pools or walk along the forest paths. We return back to Luang Prabang. We stroll around the Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of textiles made by the local and the hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Overnight in Luang Prabang.

We embark on leisure boat for a cruise up the Mekong to Pakbeng. We will pass areas of un-spoilt forest with little villages along the riverbanks and perhaps the odd elephant or two with his mahout. The cruise stops to visit the Tam Thing cave. Translated as Rock Cave, it is famous for housing over 2,500 Buddha statues of all sizes and for being a place of pilgrimage for locals. Lunch is served on board, buffet style with a main course from Laos’ main culinary delights as well as a choice of fish and meat dishes. A few hours into the day after enjoying the sights of granite cliffs and sparkling sandy shores, the river boat makes a stop to visit the hill tribe village of Baw, where you can watch the traditional process of making Lao whiskey.

Overnight in Pakbeng.

Mornings are special times at the Lodge with stunning sights of the peaceful neighboring mountains, often shrouded in mist, while a full breakfast is served on the expansive teak terrace. The cruise departs for another day of nature discovery along the legendary river with one stop planned along the way to Houei Say. Lunch is served on board in a buffet style with a main course from Laos’ main culinary delights and a choice of fish and meat dishes. After lunch, the boat stops at a traditional village. This is a chance to observe rural life along the Mekong and witness the daily life of ethnic minorities and their talented craftsmanship. Within the Mekong region, the capital of the Laos province of Bokeo, Huay Xai is an important border crossing point with neighboring Chiang Khong, Thailand and was thus chosen as the ideal arrival port for the cruise. Upon arrival at port, we meet our driver (no guide) and transfer to Chiang Rai.

Overnight in Chiang Rai.

We drive to the Mae Sai Border for crossing border to Myanmar. Welcome by our Myanmar guide and and directly proceed to Kyaing Tong. Enjoy a first glimpse of Kyaing Tong with a visit to Wan Pauk Village which is home to 250 Palaung minorities in their colorful traditional dresses with ornamental silver waist-bands. The Palaung tribe at this village are known as “Silver” Palaungs. Your tour guide will introduce you the tradition of teeth blackened by chewing betel nuts a beauty characteristic and learn their livelihood that depends on growing paddy and other crops, raising cattle, pigs and chicken, weaving clothes and making different ornaments with silver. Then back to the town to end the day with a visit Maha Myat Muni pagoda or “Wat Pha Jao Lung in Shan” language.

Overnight in Kyaing Tong.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to take flight to Heho (1 hour). On arrival, welcomed by our local guide and transfer to your hotel in Inle.

Overnight in hotel at Nyaung Shwe or On the lake.

After breakfast at hotel, start Inle lake and Indein sightseeing by boat. This sightseeing offers an excellent opportunity to observe Myanmar rural life up-close. The rest of afternoon will be filled with visit to the – Phaung-Daw-Oo Pagoda, the most important symbol of religion of Shan State – Nga-Phe-Chaung Monastery, attractive wooden monastery – Floating Villages (Innpaw Khone, Pouk Par, Ywa Ma, Khar Taw) A visit to these sights provides deep insight into how the people on the lake make their livings. So you can enjoy Unique One Leg rowers, their traditional fishing style, Lotus and silk weaving, boat making and cheroot making. After lunch, take one hour boat drive to Indein and take a short trek to Indein Pagoda. On the way, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere as you wander through artfully scattered 8th century Pagodas in ruins covered by trees and bushes. Then observe Intha tribes Village lives and enjoy the local market along the shore.

Overnight in hotel at Nyaung Shwe or On the lake.

After early breakfast at hotel, transfer to the airport to take flight to Mandalay. On arrival, our guide will welcome you and start the sightseeing. The highlight is U Bein bridge – one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mandalay dating back at the time when Amarapura was Royal capital. Stretching through 1.2 km over the serene Taungthaman Lake for over 200 years, the world’s longest teak-wood bridge has created a wonderful photo stop for photographers and drawn visitors from all over the world. Then visit Bagaya Monastery, an ancient monastery built entirely by teak noted for a superb collection of Buddha statues. Later on, visit Sagaing Hill, one of the most important religious centers in Myanmar. Enjoy the tranquil sunset from the top of the hill before returning to Mandalay.

Overnight in Mandalay, the last royal seat of Myanmar kings.

Transfer to Jetty and excursion by boat on the Ayeyarwaddy River to Mingun, it takes about 1hr upper river from Mandalay. Upon arrival, visit Mingun Bell: the world largest un-cracked bell, weighing 90 tons and visit Hsinbyume as well as unfinished Pagoda built as one of the world's largest cherish by king Bodaw Paya by traditional styled bullock – cart. After sightseeing, sail back to Mandalay. Visit the Shwenandaw Palace also known as Former Royal Palace, which was once king Mindon’s home. Continue to the Mahamuni Pagoda. Stop to see stone carving and later to see gold leaf being beaten into wafer thin pieces. Visit the Shwenandaw Monastery, excellent example of a traditional wooden building and Kuthodaw Pagoda, the world’s largest book made of marble. Enjoy spectacular views at sunset from Mandalay Hill there are interesting glass-studded temples. Enjoy sunset at Mandalay Hill.

Overnight in Mandalay.

After early breakfast at the hotel, pick up by driver and transfer to port to take boat to Bagan, passing through countryside dotted with tiny villages and golden stupas. Cruise the Ayeyarwady River between Mandalay and Bagan, trading uncomfortable overland travel for a beautiful day on the water. Arrive at the port, we meet our driver and transfer to hotel for check in.

Overnight at hotel in Bagan, Burma’s ancient city and living treasure house of Buddhist architectural beauties.

After breakfast, start whole day sightseeing of Bagan’s most important temples and pagodas ranging from the temples with the earliest wall paintings to the prototype pagoda the influenced the designs of later Buddhist monuments. Tour highlights include colorful Nyaung Oo Market, and Shwezigon Pagoda – built by King Anawrahta in the early 11th century as a religious shrine, then go to Ananda Temple – King Kyansittha’s masterpiece and the crowning achievement of the early style temple of architecture, next is Thatbyinnyu Temple – the highest building on the Bagan plain, after that visit to Htilominlo Temple – the largest temple of Bagn – noted for its fine plaster carvings and glazed sandstone decorations. In the afternoon observe the process of traditional lacquer ware, one of Myanmar’s best known handicrafts and a specialty of Bagan. Then visit Manuha Temple, Myingabar Gubyaugyi Temple – an early period Pyu-style temple of Hindu influence with some of the oldest mutual paintings in Bagan and Dhamanyangyi Temple noted for its remarkable brickwork. Lastly watch sunset over the Ayeyarwaddy River from Buphaya or Shwesandaw Pagoda.

Overnight in Bagan.

After breakfast at hotel.
Free for your own time to explore ancient city.

Transfer to airport for flight to Yangon. Upon arrival at airport, meet your guide & transfer to hotel for check in.

Overnight at hotel in Yangon.

After breakfast at hotel, start sightseeing by walking around the city center to enjoy the city being busy with the sellers on the street, the pedestrians and Colonial Style buildings. The whole day is the brief tour to famous Landmarks, Chaukhatkyi Pagoda, the colossal reclining Buddha and Botathaung Pagoda overlooked the pleasant water front of the river Karaweik Hall & Royal Lake for Photo stop Explore Bogyoke Market (SCOTT MARKET) which is the best place for shopping in our country. Enjoy sunset at Shwedagon Pagoda, the soul of Yangon.

Overnight at hotel in Yangon.

Flight: International flight on your own arrangement or on requests.

Leisure for you own time. Transfer to Yangon International Airport for departure to next destination. It’s time to say goodbye, we thank you for traveling with us and warmly welcome you to come again.

Services

What’s include :

TOUR COST INCLUDES:

TOUR COST NOT INCLUDES:

Accommodation with daily breakfast in double / twin shared room

Meal: as mention in program (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner)

Airport transfers & Transport by air con. vehicles as per program

Sightseeing and entrance fees as specified

Local English speaking guide as per program

All boat trip as mentioned in program

Complementary local Sim Card

Flight ticket: Siem Reap – Luang Prabang

Flight ticket: Tachilek – Heho

Flight ticket: Heho – Mandalay

Flight ticket: Bagan – Yangon

Boat ticket: Mandalay – Bagan

24hours supporting hotline

Cold water and towel during tours

Cambodia Visa stamp fee: 30$ (Passport valid more then 6 months, enough space for visa stamp (1 free space), 1 passport photo (4X6), cash 30$)

Laos Visa stamp fee: 35$ (Passport valid more then 6 months, enough space for visa stamp (1 free space), 1 passport photo (4X6), cash 35$)

International air ticket in Mandalay and out from Yangon

Thai Visa stamp fee (if any)

Myanmar Visa stamp fee

All International air ticket

Other meal, drink, personal expenses, tip, Travel insurance, all bank fees

Other thing not mentioned in included

    ” Possiamo dire che è stata la luna di miele perfetta. Abbiamo avuto la possibilità di entrare a stretto contatto con la gente locale, di vivere diverse esperienze molto interessanti e di visitare dei posti fantastici. Tutto era organizzato in maniera perfetta grazie anche al validissimo supporto del nostro corrispondente Roberto, che non ci ha mai lasciati soli. Da dietro le quinte ci ha assistito per tutta la durata del nostro magnifico viaggio di nozze, dandoci un valido supporto per qualsiasi cosa. Le guide e i drivers erano sempre puntuali, cordiali, molto disponibili e molto preparati. Difficile dire in una sola frase cosa ci sia piaciuto. In una sola parola: TUTTO. L’organizzazione pre e durante il nostro viaggio è stata ineccepibile. Non possiamo che ringraziare Roberto ed Eurasie per questa meravigliosa esperienza.”

    Erika e Andrea

    Tour Vietnam & Cambogia