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Days
15
Price from
3605EUR
Map of Northern Thailand & Laos Experience including Lao Pdr and Thailand

Get up close and under the surface of Thailand and Laos

Thailand and Laos are two of South East Asia’s most exciting destinations, and this adventure delivers a heady combination mix of rural adventure and urban pulse. Begin in bustling Bangkok and venture north, where the landscape, history and local food brings one surprise after the next. Bring the pace down a notch as you cross into Laos and discover the ethnic cultures, glittering temples and incredible scenery that make this destination such a Peregrine favourite.

Start
Bangkok, Thailand
Finish
Vientiane, Laos
Destinations
Laos, Thailand
Style
Peregrine
Code
PATLC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 18
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Looking for trips in 2022?

Why you'll love this trip

  • Support an important animal welfare initiative and get close to incredible creatures at the Elephant Nature Park

  • Visit the home of the infamous ‘Bridge over the River Kwai’, learn about its dark history and the construction of the railway during the war

  • Your 1 night feature stay at the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge will allow you to immerse yourself in tribal culture without compromising on creature comforts.

  • Enjoy a boat trip on the Mekong River, observing stunning scenery and riverside French villas along the way. Stop by the Pak Ou Caves, known for the hundreds of shrines and miniature Buddhist statues that line their walls.

  • Unwind in the laid-back jungle town of Luang Prabang. Watch as orange-clad monks gather offerings of rice, fruit and sweets from locals before sunrise in a daily alms giving ceremony.

  • Visit Ock Pop Tok, an inspiring fair trade social enterprise that provides a sustainable source of income to local weavers and artisans. Browse their beautifully-made traditional textiles and handicrafts while learning about the organisation.

  • A full day of sightseeing in Vientiane includes visits to the capital’s most dazzling attractions, including the golden Pha That Luang (or the Great Stupa), the most sacred monument in the country.

  • Included flights on this trip makes travelling easy and allows for maximum time in each destination.

Is this trip right for you?

  • The heat can be challenging in South East Asia. Be sure to dress accordingly and stay hydrated, especially in April and May.

  • Thailand is a big country and there are some drives on this trip of up to 6 hours. Many of these journeys, however, offer beautiful scenery and interesting snapshots of rural life.

  • This trip includes a cycling tour around Sukhothai Heritage Park, so a level of confidence on a bicycle will be required. The roads are quiet with minimal traffic and within the confines of the park it will be easy going so it is certainly a leisurely ride.

  • You will visit a number of temples which requires a level of modesty. All travellers will need to bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf or long sleeve shirt is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

  • Laos is a beautifully laid-back destination, but it's also less developed than most in South East Asia, so a little bit of patience goes a long way. Roads may be bumpy and journeys may take longer than expected.

thailand-unearthed.jpg
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Northern Hill Tribes
Laos monk temple
laos Putuxay monument
Laos Luang Phra Bang
Laos Luang Prabang buddhist temple
Laos Pak Ou Caves

Itinerary
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Welcome to Thailand. One of our transfer representatives will collect you from the airport and take you to your hotel. After settling into your room, your journey begins with an important meeting at 6 pm. Please check for the Peregrine noticeboard in the reception area of the hotel. Please advise your flight details at the time of booking so we can arrange your airport transfer. With free time, acquaint yourself with this frenetic city of tuk tuks, street food and traditional khlong boats winding down the Chao Phraya River. Tonight you'll enjoy a welcome dinner at a great local restaurant.
Accommodation
  • Rembrandt Hotel or similiar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through us. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

Enjoy a day of sightseeing and activities in lively Bangkok. Visit Wat Po, a larger-than-life temple complex in the city. This is the home of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is among the six officially recognised highest calibre temples in Thailand, and it's certainly one of the most impressive. Also visit the majestic Grand Palace, which has been the official residence of the kings since the 1700s, and enjoy a boat tour of the city's khlongs (canals) to see another, more tranquil, side of Bangkok. The afternoon is free to do as you wish, perhaps visiting Jim Thompson house or enjoying a Thai massage. You’ll have a BTS day pass so you can use the Sky Train to help you get around.
Accommodation
  • Rembrandt Hotel or similiar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace
  • Bangkok - BTS one day pass
  • Bangkok - Wat Pho
  • Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
Optional Activities
  • Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House - THB150
  • Bangkok - Thai Massage - THB250
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note when visiting the Grand Palace clothes covering your shoulders and knees are a requirement for entry.

Travel by private transport to Kanchanaburi (approximately 3.5 hours). While the town may appear modern, it holds a dark past. Many Allied prisoners of war and conscripted Asian labourers were engaged here to help build a rail route to Myanmar (Burma), including the passage infamously known as Hellfire Pass. Visit the memorial museum of the pass to learn more about this chapter in history, and take a historical train journey along a portion of this 'death railway'.
Accommodation
  • Away Kanchanaburi Dheva Mantra Resort & Spa or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kanchanaburi - Historical train ride
  • Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Make the short drive to the Erawan National Park and waterfall. Its radiant emerald green ponds, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, make for a lovely photo opportunity. On the way back to Kanchanaburi, stop in at the World War II cemetery and museum and spend some time there. This cemetery is the main resting place for the prisoners of war who laboured under Japanese rule in building the Thai-Burma Railway.
Accommodation
  • Away Kanchanaburi Dheva Mantra Resort & Spa or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
  • Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Depart Kanchanaburi in the morning and drive to Hup Pa Tat (approximately 3 hours). Spend an hour or so exploring this beautiful green area surrounded by limestone mountains. Legend has it that centuries ago this valley was a gigantic cave, until the ceiling caved in; massive chunks of limestone lying on the valley floor support the theory. Next you continue to Uthai Thani (approximately 1 hour). Enjoy lunch, while cruising on a traditional rice barge, watching village life along the riverfront stream by, as your travel through beautiful countryside. Afterwards, visit nearby Wat Tha Sung (Crystal Hall) before travelling on to Nakhon Sawan (approximately 1 hour) where you will spend the night. Perhaps head out to the local market in the evening where you can taste many different street foods from the region.
Accommodation
  • Grand Hill Resort or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Uthai Thani - Hup Pa Tat
  • Uthai Thani - Wat Tha Sung
  • Uthai Thani - Traditional rice barge lunch cruise
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Travel by private transport from Nakhon Sawan to Sukhothai (approximately 3 hours). In the afternoon you have the option to visit the Organic Culture Project and spend a couple of hours joining in on traditional Thai farm activities. Check out the organic vegetable garden and attend a demonstration out in the rice fields.
Accommodation
  • Sukhothai Heritage Resort or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Sukhothai - Organic Farm lunch - THB900
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Sukhothai, established in the 13th century, was one of the first ancient capitals of Siam. Famed for its World Heritage listed historical park, which captures the Golden Age of Thai civilisation, the capital's name literally means 'Dawn of Happiness'. Today we visit the historical park, which spans the ruins of the town. You will rent a bicycle and take part in a cycle tour. As you ride around, you'll learn more about the history of this former metropolis and its fascinating structures. Enjoy a home-cooked picnic lunch in the beautiful grounds of Sukhothai Park. The rest of the afternoon is free, you might want to simply read a book by the pool back at your resort.
Accommodation
  • Sukhothai Heritage Resort or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Travel from Sukhothai to Hmong Hilltribe Lodge, which will take approximately six hours in a private minivan. The Hmong are an ethnic minority in Thailand who originated in the south of China. Today they comprise the second largest hilltribe group in Thailand. After a barbecue dinner in the lodge's open-air dining area, the day concludes with a Hmong cultural performance. You'll gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the tribe, with a wedding ceremony enactment, shamanic ritual and makong (cotton ball) throwing.
Accommodation
  • Hmong Hilltribe Lodge (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Hmong Hilltribe Lodge - Traditional meal & cultural performance
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Travel from Hmong Hilltribe Lodge to the Elephant Nature Park, approximately 1.5 hours by minivan. This is a unique project providing a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants and other animals such as buffalo, dogs, cats and birds. Be greeted by an expert local guide and then learn the stories of the rescued elephants and the issues confronting elephants in South-East Asia. Witness how these elephants have become a happy herd and are finally free from abuse for the first time in their lives. You'll have a chance to feed the elephants from the viewing platform as well as a tasty vegetarian buffet lunch. Walk with the park staff to the river and watch elephants bathe and play as they are watched over by their personal mahouts. The park visit is all about spending quality time observing elephants and does not stick to a strict schedule so make the most of enjoying these beautiful creatures in a safe and protected environment. Return to Chiang Mai early afternoon (approx. 3-330). Freshen up at the hotel then head out for a street food tour in the evening. Hidden down the back alleys of the city’s old town district you will sample dishes like khao man gai and khao kha moo from many local shops unknown to the tourist eye. Chat with street food vendors who have been serving the same dishes for more than 20 years and understand the influences that Isan and Shan cultures have had on the Northern Thailand’s culinary scene. Your local guide will also suggest many other places you can eat during your time in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation
  • Bodhi Serene Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chiang Mai - Street food tour
  • Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park Half Day Trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

This morning you’ll have a very unique opportunity to chat with some monks from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, a university specifically for Buddhist monks. Learn the basics of Buddhism and find out more about their schooling, lifestyle and world view. Enjoy a free afternoon afterwards to explore Chiang Mai further, perhaps getting out into the lush countryside or checking out more Buddhist temples. In the evening, your group will be treated to dinner at a nice restaurant to celebrate your Northern Thailand adventure.
Accommodation
  • Bodhi Serene Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chiang Mai - Buddist offering and Monk chat
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Transfer to the airport and fly from Chiang Mai to beautiful Luang Prabang, the jewel in Laos’ crown. Take your included transfer to the hotel. After settling into your room, you will have free time until your next welcome meeting at 6pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. Following this important meeting, you will be welcomed to the country with a tradition Baci ceremony. The ceremony, which aims to bring the 32 souls (khouan) that look after you back to your body and attract beneficial influence, is traditionally performed at all important events in a person's life. Afterwards, enjoy a free evening to explore this charming, French-influenced riverside town.
Accommodation
  • Sada Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Baci welcome ceremony
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that as this is a combination trip, the composition of your group, as well as your tour leader may change today. The flight from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang will be unescorted.
Please note departures staying in Luang Prabang in January and February 2020 will stay at the Luangprabang View Hotel

Wake early to participate in the alms giving ceremony, one of the most sacred Buddhist traditions in Laos, where locals offer food to monks in order to seek spiritual blessing. Alms giving takes place daily as the sun rises, beginning on the main street of Luang Prabang before spreading out to side streets. Follow the locals as they kneel down, ready to give offerings of rice, fruit and sweet snacks to the monks. Later that morning, spend time learning about Laos’ diverse ethnic groups at the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre. Afterwards, enjoy an essential activity in Luang Prabang – a boat ride on the Mekong River. It's a great chance to see the riverside from a different angle, with all its stately French villas, trees, and slow-paced two-wheeled traffic. Further along the stream, outside of town, you visit the Pak Ou Caves, located at the confluence of the rivers Mekong and Ou. Enjoy lunch on the boat along the way.
Accommodation
  • Sada Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - Mekong River cruise & Pak Ou Caves
  • Luang Prabang - Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Please note departures staying in Luang Prabang in January and February 2020 will stay at the Luangprabang View Hotel

In the morning, visit Ock Pop Tok, an inspiring fair trade social enterprise that provides a sustainable source of income for female artisans in Luang Prabang. Their dedicated team shows women how to make a better living from their skills. The organisation then employs women to design, make and sell beautiful textiles and handicrafts at three shops across the city. Later take a short ride out of town to visit Kuang Si Waterfall. Its glorious blue-green cascades make for one of Laos' most photogenic attractions, and the pool at its base is great for swimming in. There is time to visit the nearby Bear Rescue Centre as well. In the evening, sit down to dinner at Khaiphaen, a Friends-International enterprise dedicated to improving the welfare of disadvantaged youth through skills-training.
Accommodation
  • Sada Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
  • Luang Prabang - Ock Pop Tok visit
  • Luang Prabang - Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
Please note departures staying in Luang Prabang in January and February 2020 will stay at the Luangprabang View Hotel

Fly to Vientiane, the capital of Laos, in the early morning. Though not as visually impressive as Luang Prabang, this city is renowned for its food and has some must see sights. Its main streets are awash with a variety of high-calibre restaurants that serve a remarkably diverse span of cuisines from across the globe. Embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the city, stopping in at Wat Si Saket, Hor Prakeo, Patuxai (Victory Gate) and That Luang along the way. You’ll also visit the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE), a remarkable not-for-profit organisation that makes rehabilitative devices and medical equipment accessible to people with physical disabilities in Laos.
Accommodation
  • Sabaidee @ Lao Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
  • Vientiane - Haw Pra Kaew
  • Vientiane - That Luang
  • Vientiane - Pratu Xai
  • Vientiane - COPE visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. There are no planned activities for today and you are free to depart at any time.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Transport

Plane, Train, Tuk-tuk, Private vehicle, Boat

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nights), Resort (4 nights), Feature stay Hmong Hilltribe Lodge (1 night), Feature stay Sada Hotel (3 nts)

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Bangkok - Grand Palace
  • Bangkok - BTS one day pass
  • Bangkok - Wat Pho
  • Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
  • Kanchanaburi - Historical train ride
  • Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
  • Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
  • Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park
  • Uthai Thani - Hup Pa Tat
  • Uthai Thani - Wat Tha Sung
  • Uthai Thani - Traditional rice barge lunch cruise
  • Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
  • Hmong Hilltribe Lodge - Traditional meal & cultural performance
  • Chiang Mai - Street food tour
  • Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park Half Day Trip
  • Chiang Mai - Buddist offering and Monk chat
  • Luang Prabang - Baci welcome ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - Alms giving ceremony
  • Luang Prabang - Mekong River cruise & Pak Ou Caves
  • Luang Prabang - Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre
  • Luang Prabang - Kuang Si Waterfalls
  • Luang Prabang - Ock Pop Tok visit
  • Luang Prabang - Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
  • Vientiane - Wat Si Saket
  • Vientiane - Haw Pra Kaew
  • Vientiane - That Luang
  • Vientiane - Pratu Xai
  • Vientiane - COPE visit

Dates & availability - 2021 season

Looking for the 2022 season?

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There are currently no scheduled departures on our Northern Thailand & Laos Experience trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. Due to limited luggage space in our vehicles, please ensure that you are packing light and compact. Large, bulky suitcases are unsuitable for this trip. Please refer to the Packing section of the Essential Trip Information for details. 
4. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance is 20kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

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