A Full Day in Laid-Back Vientiane

Receive a pickup from your Vientiane hotel in the morning, before continuing to Vat Sisaket, the oldest monastery in the city. Wander amid the more than 6,800 Buddha images and statues that decorate the monastery’s interior as you learn about its well-preserved interior and main hall. Next, travel to Ho Phra Keo, a one-time royal temple that today houses a Buddhist museum of art and sculpture. The complex is known for its extensive collection of Buddha sculptures, as well as for being the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha that now resides in Bangkok. Proceed on to the next stop at That Luang, one of the most revered shrines in all of Laos. Get a sense for this 147-foot-tall (45-meter), gold-covered stupa and its unique banana-flower shape. During your stop you’ll also learn about the shrine’s history, including its role as a home for a relic from the Lord Buddha. Continue to Anousavali, also known as the Victory Gate or Patouxai, a dramatic arch that bears a striking resemblance to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. This monument, first constructed in 1958, includes a number of eye-catching designs like the ‘Kinnaree’ (bird woman) that pay tribute to Lao culture. If you’re feeling ambitious, scale the steps to the top of the arch for views of the city below (entrance fee not included). Take a break midday for lunch at a traditional restaurant before continuing to Vientiane’s well-known Buddha Park, first built by a local monk in the 1950s. Wander among the park’s collection of mythological statues, each connected to the themes of Buddhism. If you happen to visit on a weekend, you’ll also observe the numerous locals that flock to this unique green space to relax and socialize. Make your way back toward your hotel, stopping at the Talat Sao market if time permits. This local bazaar offers a startling array of goods ranging from food to jewelry to clothing and handicrafts. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel around 5pm.

• A full day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.

• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

• All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

• All applicable taxes and service charges

• Lunch at a local restaurant (food only)

• Entry/Admission - Wat Si Saket

• Entry/Admission - Wat Ho Phra Keo

• Entry/Admission - Great Sacred Stupa (Pha That Luang)

• Entry/Admission - Buddha Park

• Entrance fee inside the Patuxai Victory Gate

• Personal expenses such as drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

• Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels and resorts that are located outside of the city center

• Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

• Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

• Entry/Admission - Patuxai