A Spiritual Journey from Luang Prabang to Angkor Wat

Day 1: Luang Prabang Arrival (–,–,D)

Arrival in Luang Prabang airport, you will transfer to the hotel at your own. In the early evening, the guide will meet you and transfer to a local restaurant for a Welcome Dinner. Meals: Dinner Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Note: Check-in at the hotel from 14:00

Day 2: Luang Prabang (B,L,–)

The city of Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia, with its perfect location at the meeting point of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers and at the foot of an age-old mountain range. Your discovery of Luang Prabang will take you into its most emblematic and culturally-rich sites. In order to fully appreciate your visit of this picturesque city, a guide will share all his knowledge of the city’s history, architecture, and culture with you. The Royal Palace, which nowadays houses the National Museum, has a huge collection of precious items which formerly belong to the royal family, and a large array of statuettes discovered in the temples of the region. Here, you can lay eyes on the Phrabang Buddha, considered as the most sacred artefact of Laos, and which has given its name to the city. Then step aboard a local motorboat to travel to the Pak Ou caves, the most famous Buddhist site around Luang Prabang. This beautiful excursion on the Mekong River, lined with steep karst cliffs and small villages, is the opportunity for you to observe the life lived on its banks. When you reach the caves after the boat ride and after you've climbed the stairs to the entrance, you will be amazed to find thousands of Buddha statues inside. In a beautiful location, not far from Pak Ou Caves, your lunch will be prepared by villagers and set up on a Sala – a traditional Lao bamboo platform with a roof – overlooking the river, giving you a chance to try some local food and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Duration of the boat trip: 10 minutes After lunch, continue by boat for 2 hours back to Luang Prabang. Arrival in Luang Prabang, visit the Vat Mai, built at the end of the XVIII century, is a very respected shrine topped by a amazing roof. Option for the late afternoon: Traditional Baci ceremony in a local house (with traditional music) You will be invited to attend a Baci (Sou Khouan) ceremony (https://www.easia-travel.com/agent-hub/product_activity/37263/ (factsheet), one of the most popular traditions in Laos and which accompanies any important life event: weddings, funerals, births, illnesses, trips, etc. The ceremony usually takes place amongst a handful of people, with one or two ‘recipients’, the ‘officiate’ and a few ‘assistants. But for larger occasions, such as weddings, they can gather dozens of people. During the ceremony you attend, the officiating person will recall your souls (according to Lao belief, each human being has 32 souls) to attract beneficial influences towards you, and will then tie a cotton string around your wrist symbolizing the wishes he will have formulated in your favor. Note: Clients need to dress properly, knees and shoulders covered to show respect to the local family, scarves are provided. Duration: Around 40 minutes, starting time between 18:00 to 20:00 (depending on availability). Meals: Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang Note: Royal Palace opening hours: every morning 8:00 – 11:30 (stop selling tickets at 11:00), every afternoon 13:30 – 16:00 (stop selling tickets at 15:30, except on Thursdays stop at 15:00).

Day 3: Luang Prabang – Hike To Kuang Sy Waterfalls (B,L,–)

https://www.easia-travel.com/agent-hub/product_activity/38490/ (with video) You will be picked up by your guide and then begin a short trip, travelling through the valley and passing local villages along the way. After reaching the Hmong ethnic community of Ban Long Lao Kao, you will have the opportunity to visit and take in the sights of the village. Then, start your walk to the famous Kuang Sy waterfalls, walking through vegetable gardens, rice fields and forests under the shade of hardwood trees, such as rosewood and ebony. After arriving at the Kuang Sy waterfalls, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Take a rest, or the chance to go swimming, before heading back to Luang Prabang. Rest of the day at leisure or visit the night market at your own pace. Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang Distance and duration of the hike: 8 kilometers - about 3h 30min; can be around 4-5 hours in rainy season Level:1

Day 4: Luang Prabang – Nong Khiaw (B,L,–)

This morning, travel from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw, then visit Nong Kiew view point. Situated on the banks of the peaceful Nam Ou River, Nong Khiaw is a charming town surrounded by some of the most fantastic limestone mountains in the north of Laos. Today, you will discover the beautiful natural environment with a hike to the top of the mountain along the small path. Enjoy the adventurous feeling of climbing at your own rhythm up a hill covered with a lush forest. Along the trail, you’ll find places to sit and rest on bamboo benches and get your breath back before continuing your upward exploration. On the way, there are ropes set up at some points that you can use to assist your effort. Perhaps a little breathless, but triumphant, you’ll be rewarded at the top of the mountain with a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Nong Khiaw and the Ou River winding through the surrounding mountains! After a stop at the bamboo Sala at the top to contemplate the beauty of the viewpoint, you will go back to the town. Check in your hotel and spend the balance of the day free at leisure. Meals included:Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Duration of the hike Nong Kiew View Point : 4 kilometers - 2 to 3 hours (around 1h 30min to the viewpoint - 45 minutes to descend) Level : 1 (maybe a bit more if it is hot or the guests aren’t in good shape – it is 430m of ascent) Distance from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw: 137km, 3.5 - 4 hour driving

Day 5: Nong Khiaw – Muang Ngoi – Nong Khiaw (B,L,–)

Today, take a boat trip from Nong Khiaw to Muang Ngoi. Your easy walk starts right from center of Muang Ngoi. After the first 30 minutes you will have the chance to stop at Tam Khang Cave, the former sheltering cave for local villagers during the Indochina war (1960-1972). After visiting (and if you wish a short bath in the rock pool to cool off) you’ll walk further through lush vegetation and cross some rice paddies to reach Ban Na village. Here there is the possibility to explore community life by walking around the small village or enjoying the views of rice fields and the surrounding hills from a small restaurant terrace. After a pleasant relaxation break, it will be time to head back to Muang Ngoi. At a good time, take a boat transfer from Muang Ngoi back to Nong Khiaw. Meals Included :Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Nong Khiaw Duration of the boat from Nong Khiaw to Muang Ngoi: 1.5 hour

Day 6: Nong Khiaw – Luang Prabang (B,–,–)

In the morning, you will travel from Nong Khiaw back to your hotel in Luang Prabang. Balance the day at leisure. Option for the evening: A Taste of Laos Eating is an important part of Lao culture and a time when families and friends come together after a hard day of work. This evening your taste buds will be awakened as you taste a selection of popular Lao dishes on a gastronomic walking tour near the city center. You will enjoy a delicious bowl of one of the Lao staples - Khao Soi or Pho. This is one of the most popular meals, not only in Laos but in all of Southeast Asia. You will also try the steamed buns with egg and pork called Salapao. If you’re craving something a bit more refreshing you could try Namvan, a sweet dessert type drink especially popular when the weather is hot. From here you will walk a short distance, along the road, through the temple, and into the smaller streets where you will try Namejun (Spring Rolls) and Tam Makteng (Cucumber Salad), popular dishes often shared among friends as they enjoy an evening drink. Your final walk will be to the night market area where you will end your culinary adventure with some tasty Kaojee and Khao Nom Kok! The starting time can be adapted but it should ideally start between 5pm and 6pm. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Luang Prabang Distance from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw: 137km, 3.5 - 4 hour driving Note: Hotel check-in time: 14:00 and check-out time: 12:00

Day 7: Luang Prabang – Siem Reap (B,–,–)

This morning, discover Luang Prabang at your own pace. Then check-out and travel to Luang Prabang airport for the flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, being welcomed by our local guide and driver then travel to your hotel for check in. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap. Note: Hotel standard check-in time: 14:00 and check-out time: 12:00 Estimated Flight LPQ – REP: departure at 14:40 (the flight is except Tue & Sun).

Day 8: Siem Reap (B,L,–)

Start your day by visiting Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, and one of the top UNESCO World Heritage sites world-wide. After the visit, your walking tour will start, taking you around the moat of this enormous temple, and entering on a tiny trail, passing by a small local village. Continue crossing through the Angkor Thom South Gate, climb up on its ancient wall, and walk along the shadowy path covered by ancient trees. You will reach a small temple, and then you will finally arrive right at the center of the Khmer capital, where the majestic Bayon Temple stands before you. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and then continue your visit of Angkor Thom, exploring the Royal Palace, the Elephant terrace, and the other incredible temples located in the area. Finally, end your visit at the Bayon Temple, and travel back to your hotel. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Level: 1 Distance & duration of hiking: 14 kilometers – 3 hours (full day including the visits) Total elevation gain: + 150 meters / - 120 meters Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest Transportation: full day vehicle support - 8 kilometers – 15 minutes (From Hotel to starting point) / 10 kilometers – 20 minutes (From ending point to hotel)

Day 9: Siem Reap – Half Day Hiking (B,–,–)

Today, you'll depart in the early morning from your hotel to begin a special sightseeing journey to discover some of the hidden treasures of Jayavarman VII, one of the most remarkable kings of the Khmer Empire. You will reach your starting point by vehicle and start to walk on a tiny jungle trail to reach the first temple: Phreah Khan. The Preah Khan temple, translated as ''Sacred Sword," is an imposing monastery built by the king, who dedicated it to his father. After the visit, enjoy a view point on the Jayatataka Baray and continue your journey crossing through the Angkor forest. During this tour, you will also stop at the Nursery Tree to learn more about the Cambodia's flora and fauna, and then you will continue to visit other magical temples built during Jayavarman VII's reign, such as Ta Nie, Takeo, and Ta Prom, the temple dedicated to the king's mother, famous for its role in the movie "Tomb Raider," and for its impressive design that melts into the forest. You will end the tour by visiting Banteay Kdei, exiting from the East gate and reaching the Srah Srang baray or reservoir (Royal baths during the ancient Khmer Empire) After arriving at the banks of Srah Srang baray, you will have a short 10-minute walk through the local village to reach the house, which is located on the border of the reservoir. The house offers an authentic and comfortable atmosphere, with furniture and decorations made from local materials, a surrounding tropical garden and nice views of the reservoir. Then, return to hotel in Siem Reap Balance the day at leisure. Option for the evening: enjoy A Taste of Cambodian Cuisine (every day except Monday) - no guide needed, the tuk tuk driver takes you the the restaurants. Information letter in English is prepared. Tour starts: 18:30. It's not always easy to choose the best place to dine in a foreign city, so we have a "three in one" solution. Enjoy a multi-stage dinner with starter, main course, and dessert in three different restaurants, carefully chosen for their flavors and atmosphere. One evening, the curious traveler will discover a selection of our favorite dishes and addresses in Siem Reap. Including: 1. Pou - starter and one drink per person 2. The Sugar Palm - main course and one drink per person 3. Malis - dessert and one drink per person Meals included: Breakfast, Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Level: 1 Distance & duration of hiking: 12 kilometers – 3 hours (full day including temples visits) Total elevation gain: + 30 meters / - 27 meters Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest Transportation: full day vehicle support – 10 kilometers – 20 minutes (From hotel to starting point)/ 10 kilometers - 20 minutes (ending point to hotel).

Day 10: Siem Reap – Phnom Kulen – Siem Reap (B,L,–)

In the morning, around 7:00, travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Kulen, the largest forested area in the Siem Reap province. Arriving at the National Park, you will be welcomed by the local ranger who will accompany you, along with your professional guide, over the course of the hike. After a short briefing, begin your hike along a diverse mix of trails, through the deep jungle and the rocky Kulen Plateau, which takes you by some hidden temples dated to the 10th century, religious sites, and a charming river. Today’s morning highlight is surely the famous Sra Damrei site, which houses a holy elephant statue shrine carved in sandstone, representing the mountain's guardian together with the other nearby statues. After the visit, continue along the trail where you will visit some other important sites, until you reach the local tractor, named guyun in Cambodian language, and travel to a scenic lunch spot along the small river. There you can enjoy a local picnic lunch and if you like you can relax and take a swim. After lunch, start your second part of the hike and embark on a single trail, plunging into the deep forest and indulge in the natural surroundings as you try to spot some of the Cambodian wildlife. Along the way you will reach the main area of Kulen Mountain, to firstly visit the golden reclining Buddha situated at Preah Ang Thom, then stop at the Phnom Kulen Waterfall. There, if you’d like, refresh yourself with a swim. Around late afternoon, you will travel back to Siem Reap in your private vehicle. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch Accommodation: Overnight at hotel Physical Level: 2 Distance & duration of hiking: • Option 1: 15 kilometers – 4 hours (Excluding site visits) • Option 2: 10 kilometers – 3 hours (excluding site visits) Net Elevation Gain: 250 meters ascent / 215 meters descent Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest and the rocky Kulen Plateau Transportation: full day vehicle support – 60 kilometers – 2 hours (From hotel to starting) – 50 kilometers – 1 hour 30 minutes - Emergency vehicle available Note: On the option 2, the last part of the trail to reach waterfall will be done by vehicle

Day 11: Siem Reap – Visit A Floating Village On The Tonlé Sap Lake (B,–,–)

Your journey starts in the morning, departure from Siem Reap to Kompong Khleang. From Kompong Kleang, you will board a local boat led by a captain from the village. The craft will criss-cross Tonlé Sap at a leisurely pace, giving you the opportunity to observe some of the small floating villages. The small local boat is equipped with an engine, which allows you to move easily from the village and along the various canals leading to the Great Lake. Once you reach the end of the canal, you will realize the immensity of this lake, where the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see. During the dry season, a walk to meet the locals is offered before you set out for the cruise. Meals included: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap Distance: Siem Reap / Kompong Khleang - 52 kilometers (1 hour 30 minute drive), each way Note: From the 15th of February, due to low water levels, the boat trip cannot be operated with big boats from 10 pax up, only small boats are available (1-9 pax). So for groups from 10 pax up we will do the boat trip at Chong Kneas instead.

Day 12: Siem Reap Departure (B,–,–)

At a good time, travel to the airport on your own for the departure flight. Meals included: Breakfast Room is at your disposal until 12:00 only