Bangkok to Hanoi Overland- 16 Days

This morning, we'll explore the Grand Palace and the revered Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaeo). Next, we’ll visit Wat Pho, Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple, to see the impressive 46-meter-long reclining Buddha. Experience a glimpse of Bangkok’s historic river life on a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to Hualamphong railway station for our overnight train journey to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural heart, boasts over 100 temples, excellent shopping, and fantastic dining options. We’ll begin our exploration with a visit to the Doi Suthep monastery, renowned for its tranquility and beauty. This serene monastery is a key attraction in northern Thailand and holds great spiritual significance. In the evening, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the night market on Chang Khlan Road.

Today, we’ll drive to Tha Ton, located in the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar (Burma) converge. From here, we’ll embark on a long-tail boat journey along the Mae Kok River to Chiang Rai, enjoying views of rice paddies and classic rural landscapes. We’ll check into our hotel in the late evening and have the opportunity to explore the night market.

We head east to the Thai border and cross the Mekong River into the tranquil landscapes of Laos. Board our speedboats for a 2.5-hour ride along the Mekong, with a stop at a local minority village along the way. Enjoy the breathtaking river views before reaching Pakbeng in the late afternoon.

After a relaxed breakfast, we embark on a full-day journey to Luang Prabang aboard a slow boat. Along the way, we’ll pass by lush, jungle-covered cliffs and make a stop at the ‘Cave of a Thousand Buddhas.’ Enjoy the serene river views and comfort on board as we make our way to the charming Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang stands out as the most stunning and captivating town in Laos. Today, take a guided stroll through its charming cobbled streets to explore the Pho Si Market and several of the town’s most exquisite temples. We’ll also visit a village known for its textile weaving and paper-making. Before sunset, ascend the short but rewarding climb to the top of Mount Phu Si, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the town and the river.

Start your day early to witness one of Asia’s remarkable sights: hundreds of Buddhist monks in their robes collecting morning alms. Later, we’ll head to the stunning Kuang Si Falls, with a stop at a Hmong village along the way to gain insight into one of Laos’s prominent ethnic groups. This evening, enjoy a lively cooking class where you can hone your culinary skills and savor the dishes you’ve prepared.

Leave the charming Luang Prabang behind with a flight to Vientiane, followed by a drive to Vang Vieng. Set amidst dramatic limestone peaks and situated by the Nam Song River, this quaint town offers a nostalgic glimpse of traditional Asia. We’ll explore a nearby cave and unwind at our riverside accommodations.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Vang Vieng, taking in its relaxed vibe and tubing along the Nam Song River. In the afternoon, we’ll head back to Vientiane to prepare for the adventures planned for the following day.

Today, we’ll explore the key attractions of the capital, starting with Wat Sisaket, Vientiane’s oldest and most stunning temple. We’ll visit Haw Pha Kaew, a former royal temple that now serves as a museum, and Pha That Luang, Laos’s most significant national monument, symbolizing both the monarchy and Buddhism. We’ll also see the Patuxai Monument, which resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. In the evening, enjoy a beautiful sunset along the Mekong River.

Today, we embark on a full day's drive east from Vientiane, traversing rugged limestone peaks and serene rural villages. We’ll arrive at our lodge in the frontier town of Lak Sao by late afternoon.

Start the day early with a visit to the lively morning market, where you can spot unusual forest animals and exotic fruits. We’ll cross into Vietnam and descend through the lush Annamite mountains to Kim Lien village, the birthplace of Ho Chi Minh. This village holds great significance for the Vietnamese but remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. We’ll reach Vinh by late afternoon.

This morning, we embark on an early drive along Highway 1 toward Hanoi. The route takes us through a lesser-known area filled with lush fields and dramatic limestone formations. We’ll make a stop at the picturesque Tam Coc, renowned for its appearance in the film ‘Indochine,’ before continuing to Hanoi, the elegant capital of Vietnam.

Hanoi stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most charming and elegant cities. We start with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, followed by a look at the modest house on stilts where Ho Chi Minh once led North Vietnam. We’ll also explore the Presidential Palace, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature, which was Hanoi’s first university. A visit to the notorious ‘Hanoi Hilton,’ formerly the central prison, is also on the agenda. Our day concludes with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and through the intriguing Old Quarter.

Today, you’ll be taken to the airport for your continuing flight.