In the morning, we visit the Traditional Art and Ethnology Center to learn about Laos’ many ethnic cultures. Our next place to visit is Wat Xieng Thong. Built by King Setthathirath (1559), Wat Xieng Thong is the royal city’s most important temple. Its multiple roofs sweep low to the ground and there’s a stunning ‘tree of life’ mosaic set on its western exterior wall.

We then embark on the a leisure cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside, before reaching the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make the local rice wine. Have lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, we visit the fascinating National Museum (Royal Palace). The National Museum in Luang Prabang, Laos, was built in 1904 during the French colonial era for King Sisavang Vong and his family. The site for the palace was chosen so that official visitors to Luang Prabang could disembark from their river voyages directly below the palace and be received there.

We continue our visit at Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham (often simply Wat Mai or Wat May) is a Buddhist temple or wat in Luang Prabang, Laos. It is the largest and most richly decorated of the temples in Luang Prabang. Built in the 18th century, it is near the Royal Palace Museum. An emerald Buddha statue sits inside the red-gold interior.

We’ll visit either the UXO Visitor’s Centre (UXO Museum is closed on Saturday & Sunday, we can visit peruse local crafts at Ock Pop Tok alternatively).

Next, we’ll explore the 16th century Wat Visoun, known for its enormous stupa and its collection of old gilded Buddhas.

We end the day’s tour on top of Mount Phousi in the city centre. Enjoy a sunset view of the gilded stupa as well as a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscape.

Overnight in Luang Prabang. (B,L)