A combined tour to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos is a truly magical experience, offering a unique glimpse into Southeast Asia's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. These three countries share a complex history and are connected by the mighty Mekong River, making them the perfect destinations for a multi-country Indochina tour.
From the vibrant cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh, to the charming towns of Hoi An and Luang Prabang, to the ancient temples of Angkor and the magnificent natural landscapes of Halong Bay and the Kuang Si Waterfalls, the Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia tour offers a diverse range of experiences that are sure to leave you spellbound.
Whether interested in history, culture, cuisine, or adventure, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia have something for everyone. So, pack your bags for an unforgettable journey through these three incredible countries.
Organize your tour with a local tour operator - Vivutravel.
Organizing a combined Indochina tour with the help of a local tour operator like Vivutravel has many advantages. Firstly, local tour operators have extensive knowledge of the region and can offer valuable insights into each country's culture, history, and local customs. This means they can help you create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences.
Additionally, local tour operators have established relationships with local hotels, restaurants, and attractions, which means they can often offer better rates and access to exclusive experiences. They can also handle all the logistics, such as transportation, visas, and local guides, making your trip stress-free and enjoyable.
Tour plans by Vivutravel
With a focus on Vietnam, you can mark ten days to visit various tourist attractions in Vietnam, two days in Laos, and two days in Cambodia. On the 15th day, you can return to your home or continue traveling to the next tour destination.
Discovering Vietnam: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful waters of Halong Bay, the charming Old Town of Hoi An, and the historic Imperial City of Hue, Vietnam has something to offer every traveler. In this article, we will tour some of the top attractions in Vietnam, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
Hanoi and Historic Old Quarter
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, and it is the perfect place to start your journey. The city has a rich history, architecture, and vibrant street life. One of the must-see attractions in Hanoi is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Here is the final resting place of Vietnam's founding father, Ho Chi Minh. Visitors can pay their respects to the revered leader and view his embalmed body. Another important site to visit is the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which houses exhibits about his life and the history of Vietnam.
The historic Old Quarter of Hanoi is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways filled with shops, street food vendors, and traditional Vietnamese architecture. One of the highlights of this area is the traditional water puppet show. It is a unique form of Vietnamese folk entertainment that dates back to the 11th century. The show tells the story of rural life in Vietnam, performed on a water stage with puppets controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a screen.
Halong Bay
Located northeast of Vietnam, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts millions yearly visitors. The bay is home to thousands of towering limestone islands and islets, many of which are hollow and contain beautiful caves. A boat tour is one of the best ways to explore Halong Bay. During the tour, visitors can explore the floating fishing villages and enjoy stunning views of the bay's limestone formations.
The Caves of the Bay are another highlight of Halong Bay. Visitors can explore the caves and admire the impressive rock formations shaped by water and time.
Hoi An - charming Old Town
Moving further south from Hue, we arrive in the beautiful town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town has a rich history and has been influenced by various Chinese, Japanese, and European cultures. The town is famous for its Old Town, a beautiful mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture. Walking around the town is like taking a trip back in time.
The Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese-covered bridge is one of the incredible landmarks in Hoi An. The bridge dates back to the 16th century and is a beautiful example of Japanese architecture and features a temple on one end. Another must-visit attraction in Hoi An is the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, a beautiful Chinese temple with intricate carvings and decorations.
For those interested in history and culture, the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture is a great place to visit. The museum showcases the town's rich cultural heritage and exhibits various aspects of Hoi An's history.
Food lovers will also enjoy Hoi An, as it is known for its delicious street food and cooking classes. You can take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Hue Historic Imperial City
Continuing south, we reach the ancient city of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam. The city is famous for its historic Imperial City, a walled fortress and palace complex home to the Nguyen Emperors.
The Imperial City is a beautiful example of Vietnamese architecture and features various palaces, temples, and gardens. The complex is spread over a large area and can take a full day to explore.
The Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors are also worth a visit. Each tomb is a beautiful example of imperial architecture and design. The Tomb of Tu Duc is particularly impressive, with its tranquil setting and beautiful gardens.
To end the day, take a sunset boat ride on the Perfume River. The river is named for the fragrant flowers that fall from the trees that line its banks.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is our final stop on the Indochina tour in Vietnam. The city has a rich history and is known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets. One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Independence Palace. The palace was the site of the end of the Vietnam War and is a beautiful example of 1960s architecture and design.
For those interested in the history of the Vietnam War, the War Remnants Museum is a must-visit. The museum showcases the war's impact on Vietnam and exhibits various aspects of the conflict.
The Notre Dame Cathedral is another beautiful example of colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is an imposing example of French Gothic design.
Finally, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-visit attraction for those interested in the history of the Vietnam War. The Viet Cong used the tunnels during the war and offered a fascinating insight into the tactics and strategies employed by the guerrilla fighters.
The trip to Vietnam as part of the Indochina tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore this beautiful country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Cambodia tour
After experiencing the rich history and culture of Vietnam, the next logical destination of the Indochina tour is Cambodia, where you can explore the famous temples of Angkor and learn about the country's fascinating history.
Angkor temples
The city of Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor temples, where most visitors start their journey. The temples of Angkor are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are widely considered one of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world. The sheer scale and complexity of the temples are awe-inspiring.
The most famous temple in Angkor is undoubtedly Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. The temple is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Cambodia. Be sure to wake up early to catch the sunrise over the temple; it is a breathtaking sight you will not want to miss.
Bayon
Another temple worth visiting is Bayon, known for its giant stone faces that tower over visitors. The temple is in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom and is surrounded by a moat and massive walls, making it feel like a fortress.
If you want a more adventurous experience, visit Ta Prohm, where trees have grown around the temple walls, giving it a mystical, overgrown appearance.
Tonle Sap Lake
After exploring the temples, head to Tonle Sap Lake, where you can take a sunset cruise and visit the floating villages that dot the lake. The villages are home to thousands of families who make a living from fishing and tourism. It is a unique experience that will give you a glimpse into the daily lives of Cambodian locals. Overall, a trip to Cambodia is an unforgettable experience you should miss. With its rich history, unique culture, and breathtaking temples, Cambodia is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
Laos
As a final destination after exploring the rich history and culture of Vietnam and Cambodia, Laos offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Luang Prabang
One of the most popular destinations in Laos is Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its charming architecture, stunning temples, and natural beauty. One of the town's highlights is the Royal Palace Museum, which was once the home of the Laos royal family. The museum is now open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's history and culture.
Wat Xieng Thong temple
Another must-visit attraction in Luang Prabang is the Wat Xieng Thong temple, one of Laos's most beautiful and revered temples. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and stunning gold leaf decorations.
Kuang Si Waterfalls
The Kuang Si Waterfalls are a must-see for those looking to explore Laos's natural beauty. The waterfalls are located just outside of Luang Prabang and offer a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity of Southeast Asia. Lush forests surround the waterfalls and offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and swimming.
Sunrise Alms-giving Ceremony
While at Luang Prabang, you watch the Sunrise Alms-giving Ceremony, a unique ritual. As part of the culture, people offer alms to Buddhist monks. It is a beautiful and serene experience that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and their spiritual practices.
Overall, a tour of Laos is a great way to round out your Southeast Asia adventure. With its rich history, stunning temples, and natural beauty, Laos is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
Conclusion
A combined Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos tour offers an incredible journey through Southeast Asia's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. This Indochina tour offers something for everyone, from the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to the majestic temples of Angkor Wat and the serene town of Luang Prabang.
Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, tasting delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up the beauty of Southeast Asia's landscapes, a combined tour of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos will surely be an unforgettable experience. With friendly locals, fascinating history, and incredible sights at every turn, this region will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.