Southeast Asia Grand Tour

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

  Arrive in historic Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital! Your local guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel, where you will undoubtedly want to rest after your long flight. Alternatively, feel free to venture out on your own.

  • Hanoi

• Day 2: Hanoi

  Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Hanoi on this full-day tour. In the morning, visit key historic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, and the Ho Chi Minh House on Stilts, reflecting his simple lifestyle. Admire the unique design of the One Pillar Pagoda and explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a tribute to Confucian scholarship.

  In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam's ethnic diversity at the Museum of Ethnology, showcasing vibrant cultures from across the country. Then, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bustling Old Quarter. Conclude your day at the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake and the historic Ngoc Son Temple, followed by an enchanting Water Puppet Show, a traditional art form that brings Vietnamese folklore to life.

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  • Hanoi

• Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay

  Today, you will begin a 2-day Halong Bay cruise. Halong Bay, one of the world's best ecosystems, is famous for its clear blue water and breathtaking karst landscapes. Over 1,600 limestone islands dot the maritime wonderland. Your tour guide will meet you at the hotel and take you to the dock for boarding. You can have some leisurely time on board or participate in activities.

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  • Halong Bay

• Day 4: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue

  Continue your cruise adventure today. You can wake up early to see the spectacular sunrise and take part in the Tai Chi Class on board. Relax and enjoy your brunch until noon, when you will disembark. After that, you'll be picked up at the pier and taken to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Hue. After checking into your hotel in Hue, you will have free time.

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  • Hue

• Day 5: Hue

  Though not as large as some of the cities on your tour, Hue is rightly regarded as one of Vietnam's most significant landmarks. You will visit the Tomb of King Minh Mang, a vital emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, which is set within a tranquil forest. Next, you will take a dragon boat down the peaceful Perfume River (named after the perfume-like aroma emitted by the blossoms that fall here) to the impressive Thien Mu Pagoda, which dates back to 1601 is the unofficial symbol of Hue.

  With a visit to the magnificent Imperial Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City complex in the afternoon, you will gain an understanding of Hue's historical significance as the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Visit Dong Ba Market at the end of the day for a taste of local life.

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  • Hue

• Day 6: Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An

  Following breakfast, you will travel to the historic town of Hoi An. The Hai Van Pass is located between Hue and Da Nang and is an excellent spot for you to appreciate Vietnam's long coastline and breathtaking scenery. Make a pit stop in Da Nang. You could go to the Cham Museum, which has an extensive collection of Champa civilization sculptures and relics. Also, before departing for Hoi An, spend some time at Non Nuoc Beach. Enjoy the remainder of your time when checking into your hotel in Hoi An.

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  • Hoi An

• Day 7: Hoi An

  Today, you'll first visit three important Hoi An landmarks: the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Chinese Temple, and the former Vietnamese Merchants' House. The different cultures of the three countries have influenced the styles of these buildings. You can learn more about their history by asking your tour guide. Take a boat ride down the Hoai River to Thanh Ha Pottery Village later in the day to learn about this important local industry. Hoi An is beautiful at night, and you can unwind by strolling through the alleys.

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  • Hoi An

• Day 8: Hoi An - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City

  After breakfast, transfer to Da Nang International Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your local guide will greet you and lead you on a captivating tour of the city. Visit the War Remnants Museum, which offers a poignant look at the impacts of war, and the Former Presidential Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's political history.

  Next, explore the city heart with stops at iconic landmarks, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, an elegant French colonial-era church, and the Old Saigon Post Office, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Enjoy a stroll along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), lined with historic sites such as the Continental Hotel, Opera House, and City Hall.

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  • Ho Chi Minh City

• Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City

  Today's itinerary will be relatively light. After breakfast, you'll go underground to see the extensive Cu Chi Tunnels, which were built by Viet Cong forces during the Indochina Wars. Following that, you will visit a large Cao Dai Temple, a sacred site for Caodaism, a monotheistic religion founded in Vietnam in 1926. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure.

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  • Ho Chi Minh City

• Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - My Tho - Can Tho

  After breakfast, hit the road to My Tho, a charming gateway to the Mekong Delta. Begin with a visit to the bustling Thanh Tri local market, followed by a private motorized boat cruise along the upper Mekong. Witness the abundant agricultural life and visit a fish-rearing village before gliding into the serene Vam Xep Canal, framed by lush water palms.

  Disembark to explore Quoi An fruit orchard and a coconut craft workshop, then enjoy a tuk-tuk ride through picturesque village roads. At Ben Truc-Phong Phu Garden, savor fresh tropical fruits and enjoy traditional folk music, with opportunities to interact with friendly locals. Conclude your morning with a peaceful rowing boat trip through shaded water palm canals.

  Return to My Tho for lunch. On your way back, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, an architectural gem blending Asian and European styles. Continue to Can Tho, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta that blends a bustling urban atmosphere with traditional river life. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

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  • Can Tho

• Day 11: Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap

  The Cai Rang Floating Market, in the heart of the Mekong River, is the largest in the basin. After breakfast, you will travel there by boat. Return to Ho Chi Minh City at noon to catch a flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. After you've checked into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours.

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  • Siem Reap

• Day 12: Siem Reap

  Today, immerse yourself in the timeless splendor of Angkor Thom, the grand final capital of the Khmer Empire. Begin at the South Gate, a striking entrance adorned with towering statues of gods and demons. Explore the iconic Bayon Temple, famed for its enigmatic smiling faces, and visit the Elephant Terrace, a ceremonial platform adorned with intricate carvings. These landmarks, dating back to the late 12th and early 13th centuries, showcase the brilliance of Khmer architecture.

  After lunch, marvel at the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of ancient engineering and artistry. Conclude your day with a sunset view from Bakheng Hill or the serene Pre Rup Temple.

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  • Siem Reap

• Day 13: Siem Reap

  Walk up early to take in the stunning view of Angkor Wat at sunrise. You will see local monks and nuns at the nearby pagoda along the way. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Next, visit the 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. On the way to the Temple, you will stop by some local villages to visit. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the ancient Ta Keo Temple and the Ta Prohm Temple.

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  • Siem Reap

• Day 14: Siem Reap - Luang Prabang

  In the morning, you will embark to visit Khmer Village, then board on boat in Tonle Sap Lake. Later in the day, you'll bid farewell to Cambodia and board your connecting flight to Luang Prabang, the capital of Laos. Your local guide will meet and accompany you to the hotel in Luang Prabang to check in.

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  • Luang Prabang

• Day 15: Luang Prabang

  Experience the cultural highlights of Luang Prabang with visits to the Royal Palace Museum, the tranquil Wat Sene, and the stunning Wat Xieng Thong, renowned as the city's most exquisite temple. Glide along the scenic Mekong River, enjoying serene countryside views, and explore the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, filled with thousands of gilded Buddha statues in various shapes and sizes.

  Stop at Ban Xanghai Village, famous for its locally distilled rice wine, then continue to Ban Phanom, celebrated for its intricate handwoven textiles, and Ban Xang Khong, known for its traditional crafts. Complement the experience with a visit to the historic Wat Visoun, the sacred Wat Aham, and the elegant Wat Mai, soaking in the timeless charm of Luang Prabang.

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  • Luang Prabang

• Day 16: Luang Prabang

  If you like, start your day early at 5:40 AM to witness the serene alms-giving ritual, a cherished tradition in Luang Prabang. Afterward, enjoy a short visit to the vibrant morning market before returning to the hotel for breakfast. The rest of the morning is yours to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

  In the afternoon, visit Ban Ouay Village to learn about the culture of Lao minority groups. Continue to the breathtaking Khouang Si Waterfalls, where you can admire the cascading turquoise pools and wander along scenic forest trails. Wrap up the day with a visit to Wat Phabath to enjoy the golden hues of the sunset before returning to your hotel.

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  • Luang Prabang

• Day 17: Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai

  In the morning, head to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai, Thailand. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel. Feel free to relax or go exploring on your own for the rest of the day.

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  • Chiang Mai

• Day 18: Chiang Mai

  Baan Chang Elephant Park is a sustainable, ethical elephant refuge located in the north of Chiang Mai. Today you will participate in a tour of an elephant daycare. Leave your hotel at 8:30 to 9:00 to take a shuttle bus to the park, and it will take about 50 minutes to drive. Walk with the elephants, touch them, help to bathe them, and play with them. In the afternoon, help prepare lunch for them and feed them. Then, visit the baby elephants in their nursery area. Return to Chang Mai for overnight.

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  • Chiang Mai

• Day 19: Chiang Mai - Bangkok

  Discover the spiritual heart of Chiang Mai with visits to two remarkable temples. Begin at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, an iconic mountainside sanctuary offering a panoramic view of the city. This revered temple is famed for its stunning golden stupa, which glows majestically under the sunlight. Next, explore the ancient charm of Wat Umong, nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Known for its serene atmosphere, this historic temple features unique meditation tunnels ("umong" in Thai) and 700-year-old murals, providing a glimpse into its rich past.

  Later, you will depart Chiang Mai for Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital. Your local guide will assist you in checking into your hotel.

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  • Bangkok

• Day 20: Bangkok

  Escape the crowds and heat for a serene morning visit to the iconic Grand Palace, home to the revered Wat Phra Kaew and the sacred Emerald Buddha. Explore the lively flower and vegetable market, where vibrant colors and bustling activity showcase the essence of local life.

  Then, unwind with a serene long-tail boat ride along Bangkok's khlongs (canals), where you'll witness traditional stilt houses and the tranquil pace of riverside life. As you glide through the waterways, take in the stunning view of Wat Arun from the water before concluding your day at Wat Pho, famous for its magnificent Reclining Buddha.

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  • Bangkok

• Day 21: Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Bangkok

  In the morning, we drive north to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, visit the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, showcasing exquisite gold jewelry, Buddha images, and artifacts from Wat Ratchaburana. Step into the past at Wat Mahathat, famous for its serene Buddha head embraced by Bodhi tree roots, and admire the grand ruins that echo Ayutthaya's rich heritage.

  Continue to the Ayutthaya Historical Park to visit the ancient palace grounds and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, once the royal temple of Ayutthaya's kings. Nearby, the majestic Viharn Phra Mongkolbopit invites you to admire its impressive bronze Buddha and the beautifully restored hall reflecting a bygone era's grandeur. If time permits, discover more nearby temples before returning to Bangkok in the late afternoon.

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  • Bangkok

• Day 22: Bangkok, Departure

  Feel free to explore Bangkok on your final day or simply relax in the morning before departure. Your guide will accompany you to Bangkok Airport for your flight. We hope you had a wonderful time and wish you safe travels!

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