Mesmerizing Landscapes and Rich Cultures of Indochina

Mesmerizing Landscapes and Rich Cultures of Indochina

HO CHI MINH – TAY NINH – CU CHI – MEKONG DELTA – DA NANG – HOI AN – MY SON – BANA HILLS – HUE – HANOI – HALONG BAY – LUANG PRABANG – SIEM REAP – PHNOM PENH 

Duration: 16 days 15 nights (01 Jan – 31 Dec 2023)

✦✦✦ ITINERARY ✦✦✦

✦ Day 1: HO CHI MINH ARRIVAL (D)

- Get ready to immerse yourself in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh as we arrive at 14:25 and meet our friendly local guide. Known as "the Pearl of the Far East," Ho Chi Minh City boasts a rich history and is Vietnams largest city, serving as a cultural, educational, commercial, and tourist hub for over 300 years.

- As the evening approaches, indulge in a delectable dinner at a local fine-dining restaurant and rest easy in a cozy, comfortable bed.

- Overnight in Hochiminh City 

✦ Day 2: HO CHI MINH – TAY NINH – CU CHI – HO CHI MINH (B/D)

- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then get ready for an exciting adventure as we travel to Tay Ninh province, the birthplace of the fascinating Caodaist religion. This unique faith blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, and Islam, creating a truly captivating cultural experience.

- Well witness the midday prayer at the Main Temple, paying our respects and gaining insight into the Caodaist belief system. Then, well journey to the Cu Chi tunnels, a remarkable underground city spanning over 250 km. Used by the Viet Cong to resist American troops during the Vietnam War, this military complex is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

- After exploring this incredible site, well return to Ho Chi Minh City, where a cozy hotel and a delicious dinner at a local restaurant await.

- Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City 

✦ Day 3: HO CHI MINH – CAI BE – HO CHI MINH (B/D)

- Get ready for a flavorful start to the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we will embark on an adventure to the charming town of Cai Be, located in the heart of the magnificent Mekong Delta. As we journey down the river, well be surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of rice crops and tropical fruits such as durian, rambutan, passion fruit, mango, and much more.

- Experience the hustle and bustle of the Cai Be floating market, where locals trade goods and produce from their boats. Marvel at an ancient colonial house and witness skilled craftsmen in action at a local workshop.
After a morning of exploration and discovery, well return to Ho Chi Minh City for a delectable dinner at a local restaurant. Then, well rest our heads at our comfortable accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City, reminiscing about the sights and sounds of the Mekong Delta.

- Overnight in Hochiminh City 

✦ Day 4: HO CHI MINH – DA NANG – HOI AN (B/D)

- Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before immersing yourself in the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Once known as Saigon, this vibrant city is the economic capital of Vietnam and offers a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Our tour will take us to the stunning Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, with its magnificent sanctuary, the Thien Hau Temple, and a lacquer factory that has preserved the rich traditions of Vietnam.

- As we continue our journey, we will explore the charming old colonial residential districts, where youll see the City Hall, Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and other stunning buildings that date back to the 19th century. Well also visit the iconic Reunification Palace, a symbol of the old Saigon government, which serves as a reminder of the countrys turbulent past.

- No trip to Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can indulge in some shopping for unique souvenirs, jewelry, silk, leather, wooden statuettes, and more – all at unbeatable prices.

- In the evening, we will take a short flight to Da Nang and transfer to the charming city of Hoi An, where we will enjoy a mouthwatering dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in comfortable accommodations.

Overnight in Hoian

✦ Day 5: HOI AN – MY SON – HOI AN  (B/D) 

- Get ready for a delightful morning as we indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at our hotel before embarking on an adventure to explore the breathtaking Hoi An. Our walking tour will take us through the charming town, built in a unique harmony of architectural styles, with narrow streets, low houses that boast a distinct Chinese appearance, stunning clan temples, and pagodas that have stood for centuries, all bursting with bright colors.

- As we explore, well marvel at the old medieval houses, but also gaze in awe at superb architectural works from the 15th century, such as the iconic Japanese Bridge with its tiled roof, and the Phuc Kien Temple, which serves as the meeting place for the Cantonese Chinese congregation.

- In the afternoon, well embark on a fascinating pilgrimage to the "Holy Land" of My Son, an enchanting site that is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This location, which French historians called the "Valley of the Kings" is home to the ruins of the extinct Kingdom of Champa, whose golden era spanned from the 7th to the 16th century.

- After this incredible experience, well head back to Hoi An to indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night in the heart of this enchanting town.

- Overnight in Hoian

✦ Day 6: HOI AN – DA NANG – BANA HILLS – HUE  (B/D) 

 - Wake up to a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an exciting journey to Da Nang. The first stop of the day is at the village of sculptors situated at the foot of the Marble Mountain. Witness the expert craftsmen at work and marvel at their incredible creations.

- Next, we will make our way to the stunning resort of Bana Hills, perched atop the Nui Chua Mountain at an altitude of 1489 m. As we ascend to the top, we will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Da Nang and the surrounding landscape from the comfort of modern cable cars.

- Step into a world of European charm as we explore the French Village within Bana Hills, established in 1919 by the French colonial power ruling Indochina at the time. Be mesmerized by the beautiful classic French architecture and dont forget to snap some photos at the iconic Golden Bridge, suspended by two gigantic hands.

- The Linh Ung Pagoda is another must-see attraction with its towering 27m statue of Sakyamuni Buddha overlooking the stunning landscape. As the day continues, we will journey to the royal city of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam under the rule of 13 emperors from 1802 to 1945.

- If the weather permits, we will cross the Cloud Pass, a scenic route that provides a stunning view of Hue and Da Nang. End the day with a delectable dinner at a local restaurant and comfortable accommodation in Hue, ready to continue our adventure in Vietnam.

- Overnight in Hue

✦ Day 7: HUE CITY TOUR  - HANOI  (B/D)

- Get ready for an exciting day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery! Well start with a delicious breakfast to fuel up for our adventure ahead. Our first stop will be the Imperial Citadel of Hue, an awe-inspiring complex with towering walls and stunning architecture. Well enter through the Noon Gate and marvel at the Palace of Harmony before paying homage to the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh and the Mausoleum of King Tu Duc, both revered for their beauty and historical significance.

- After an exhilarating morning, well enjoy a romantic dragon boat cruise along the Fragrant River, taking in the picturesque scenery and refreshing breeze. Our next destination is the magnificent Thien Mu Pagoda, a sacred temple renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. You wont want to miss this opportunity to visit one of the oldest and most beautiful structures of worship in Hue!

- Then, well fly to Hanoi, the legendary city founded in 1010, known for its rich history and modern sophistication. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before settling into your comfortable accommodations in Hanoi.

- Overnight in Hanoi

✦ Day 8: HANOI CITY TOUR   (B/D)

- After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, well set off on a panoramic tour of Hanoi with our expert local guide. The citys impressive architecture, developed during the 19th-20th centuries, has been preserved remarkably well, offering a glimpse into Vietnams rich history and culture.

- Our first stop is the Mausoleum and former residence of Ho Chi Minh, a revered Vietnamese leader who declared the countrys independence from colonial rule on September 2, 1945, from the iconic Ba Dinh Square. Well witness this historic site from the outside and learn about its significance in shaping the modern-day Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

- Next, well visit the stunning One-Pillar Pagoda, built by King Ly Thai To in 1049 as a reward for his wife who gave him a son. The pagoda rests on a single stone pillar, resembling a lotus flower, the symbol of purity in Buddhism.

- Well also explore the Temple of Literature, a fascinating complex dedicated to Confucius and home to Vietnams first university, founded in 1070. Then, well hop on a unique cycle-rickshaw ride and meander through the citys bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of Hanoi.

- As the sun sets, well experience a delightful Vietnamese art form: a water puppet show. Finally, well indulge in a mouth-watering dinner at a local restaurant before retiring to our cozy accommodation in Hanoi.

- Overnight in Hanoi

✦ Day 9: HANOI – HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT ON CRUISE (B/L/D)

- Get ready for a breathtaking adventure as we depart after breakfast to one of the most iconic destinations in Vietnam: the stunning Halong Bay. This breathtaking natural wonder, part of the Gulf of Tonkin, is a true masterpiece of nature, boasting thousands of islands and islets rising majestically from the emerald waters, forming a unique and captivating seascape that has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

- Upon arrival, we will board a traditional sailing junk, an interesting vessel that will take us on a mesmerizing cruise through the bay. As we glide through the calm waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and verdant forests, well feel transported to a magical realm of natural beauty.

- Our journey will include stops at natural grottos and other hidden gems, where well have the opportunity to explore and marvel at the wonders of this enchanting place. And what better way to experience the bounty of the sea than by savoring a delicious fish-based meal on board, prepared by our talented crew?

- As the sun sets over the bay, well have the chance to take a refreshing swim in the clear waters, before settling in for a peaceful nights sleep on our comfortable and charming cruise.

- Overnight on cruise

✦ Day 10: HALONG BAY – HANOI – LUANG PRABANG  (B/L/D)

- After indulging in a delicious breakfast, well set off on a scenic sail to discover the hidden gems of the bay, including the awe-inspiring caves of Luon, Bai Tu Long, and Bai Tho.

- As we traverse the stunning Halong Bay, well be surrounded by hundreds of towering limestone islands, each with its own unique shape and story. From the picturesque Banana Island to the enigmatic Turtle Island, theres an endless array of natural wonders to behold. Who knows, we might even come across some yet-unnamed islands waiting to be explored!

- After an unforgettable morning on the water, well return to the port and head to Hanoi airport for our flight to Luang Prabang, a charming town nestled in the mountains of northern Laos.

- Once we land in Luang Prabang, well head to a delightful local restaurant to savor some authentic Laotian cuisine. Then, well settle into our comfortable accommodation and prepare for another exciting day of adventure.

- Overnight in Luang Prabang

✦ Day 11: LUANG PRABANG TOUR (B/D)

- Get ready for a day filled with discovery as we explore the enchanting city of Luang Prabang, the former capital of Laos. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, well delve into the citys rich culture and history, which has earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1995. With 50 temples to explore, Luang Prabang is a treasure trove of architectural beauty and historical significance.

- Well begin our journey with a visit to the Royal Palace, now transformed into the National Museum, where well learn about the citys past and present. Well then visit the famous temples of Wat Visun, Wat Mai, Wat Aham, and Wat Xieng, each offering a unique insight into Laotian culture and spirituality.

- For those seeking an adventure, well make our way to the Wat Senaram Temple, a breathtaking sight located atop Phousi Hill. After climbing 329 steps, well be rewarded with stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

- As the evening approaches, well head to a local restaurant for a mouth-watering dinner before visiting the vibrant night bazaar. Here, well have the opportunity to browse a variety of local handicrafts, wood carvings, and unique garments specific to the mountainous region of Laos.

- Finally, well retire to our comfortable accommodation in Luang Prabang, reflecting on a day filled with fascinating history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.

- Overnight in Luang Prabang

✦ Day 12: LUANG PRABANG – SIEM REAP  (B/D)

- Start your day with a delicious breakfast and an unforgettable cultural experience in the charming town of Luang Prabang. At sunrise, well witness a unique show offered by hundreds of monks in saffron-colored robes, lining up on Sisavang Street to receive offerings from the locals, mainly food. This fascinating display is a product of the religious traditions of Laos and will leave you mesmerized.

- Later in the day, well transfer to the airport for a flight to Siem Reap, the cradle of the Khmer civilization and a famous archaeological city included among the wonders of the world. Covering an area of 600 km2, Siem Reap houses over 100 monuments and over a dozen temple complexes dating from the most flourishing period of the Khmer empire, which spanned from the 9th to the 13th centuries.

- Our first stop in Siem Reap is the "Womens Citadel" a smaller Shivaist temple that is sure to impress with its wall ornaments of rare finesse and sculptures in polished stone. Next, well visit the archaeological site of Bantey Samre, dating back to the 10th century, and another masterpiece of the classical period. Youll marvel at the stunning architectural achievements of the Khmer empire and gain insight into their rich history and culture.

- After a full day of exploring, well indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before retreating to our comfortable accommodation in Siem Reap.

- Overnight in Siemreap

✦ Day 13: ANGKOR WAT TOUR   (B/D)

- After savoring a delicious breakfast, well set off for Angkor Thom Temple, where well begin our tour at the majestic South Gate. From there, well marvel at the stunning Bayon Temple, built in the 12th century and adorned with enigmatic stone faces that are sure to leave you in awe. Well also explore the impressive Royal Palace, Phime-Nakas, and the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King, all steeped in fascinating history and culture.

- Next, well venture into the jungle and discover the enchanting Ta Phrom Temple, famously left overrun by nature to showcase the awesome power of the jungle. The temples exotic and dramatic imagery has made it a popular filming location, including in the action-packed movie "Lara Croft" starring Angelina Jolie.

- In the afternoon, well visit the spectacular Angkor Wat Temple, a true masterpiece of 12th-century architecture dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu. The temples intricate bas-reliefs and stunning design are sure to take your breath away.

- To bid farewell to these magnificent sites, well head to a local restaurant for dinner accompanied by traditional Khmer folk music and dance performances, including the famous Apsara dancers. After a day filled with incredible sights, sounds, and flavors, well retreat to our comfortable accommodation in Siem Reap.

- Overnight in Siemreap

✦ Day 14: SIEM REAP – TONLE SAP LAKE – PHNOM PENH  (B/D)

- Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast before embarking on an incredible adventure on Tonle Sap Lake, one of the worlds ecological wonders. Hop on a one-hour cruise and immerse yourself in the daily life of fishermen, as you witness their fascinating techniques and learn about their unique way of living.

- If time permits, well also visit the "School of Artisans" of Angkor, where talented wood and stone carvers showcase their skills. Then, well explore the vibrant local market and take in the colorful sights and sounds of this bustling community.

- Next, well head to the airport for a quick flight to Phnom Penh, the charming capital of Cambodia. This vibrant city offers a fascinating blend of Khmer architecture and French colonization, once known as the Pearl of Southeast Asia. Get ready to be amazed by its stunning beauty and rich history.

- In the evening, well indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant before settling into our comfortable accommodation in Phnom Penh.

- Overnight in Phnompenh

✦ Day 15: PHNOM PENH – HO CHI MINH (B/D)

- Get ready for an exciting day as we explore the captivating city of Phnom Penh, starting with a delicious breakfast to fuel our adventure. Our expert guide will take us on a tour of the city, and well kick things off by visiting the magnificent National Museum, a stunning Khmer-style building that houses over 5000 exhibits from all historical periods of the country. Well learn about Cambodias rich culture and history as we admire the impressive collection of artifacts and treasures.

- Next, well head to the iconic Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866, and if were lucky, well have the chance to explore the interior and marvel at the breathtaking central pagoda that houses the Emerald Buddha. Made in 1769 from baccarat glass, the Emerald Buddha is a true gem of Cambodian art and craftsmanship.

- Well then make our way to the Wat Phnom Temple, a serene and peaceful place dedicated to the goddess of the sea, Thien Han Tanh Man. Here, well admire the stunning pagoda and take in the tranquil surroundings.

- Before we leave, well visit the Independence Monument, a symbol of Cambodias hard-won independence from French colonial rule in 1953. Its a must-see landmark and a testament to the countrys proud history.

- After a full day of sightseeing, well enjoy a mouth-watering dinner at a local restaurant before departing for Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Well arrive at our hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, where well rest up and get ready for another exciting day ahead.

- Overnight in Hochiminh City

✦ Day 16: HO CHI MINH CITY – DEPARTURE   (B)

- Wake up to a delicious breakfast before embarking on another exciting day in Ho Chi Minh City! Our adventure continues as we explore the citys Chinese quarter, "Cho Lon" a bustling hub filled with vibrant markets and intriguing architecture.

- Next, well visit the stunning Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest temple in Saigon, and marvel at its intricate design and rich history.

- No trip to Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without a visit to the War Remnants Museum, where well dive deeper into the countrys complex past and learn about the devastating wars that shaped Vietnam. From the Vietnam War to the Indochina War fought against French colonialists, the museums exhibition offers a poignant and thought-provoking glimpse into the countrys history.

- After an enlightening day, well transfer to the airport for your departure flight. As we say goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City, well reflect on the memories weve created and the unforgettable experiences weve had in this vibrant city.

- Meals: Breakfast

✦✦✦ END ✦✦✦

✦ Child policy:

- From 1 to 4 years old: Free of Charge and share services with parents

- From 5 – under 7 years old: 65% and share services with parents

- From 8 – under 10 years old: 75% and share services with parents

- From 11 years old: Charged as adult.

✦ Inclusions: 

1. Hotel accommodation with twin or double sharing rooms as hotel below or similar (Daily breakfast at hotel) 
2. Meals as mentioned (L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
3. Private transfer and transportation on tour
4. Single entrance fees as in the itinerary 
5. Boat trip in Cai Be 
6. Return cable car to Bana Hills
7. Cyclo tour around Old Quarters in Hanoi 
8. Traditional Water Puppet Show 
9. 2 days 1 nights on sharing cruise in Halong Bay (Private cabin) 
10. Boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake 
11. Sightseeing with local experience English speaking guide
12. Mineral water with 2 bottles of 500ml/ tour day/ pax

✦ Exclusions:

- Visa Approval Letter to Vietnam

- International flights & domestic flights

-  Early check in or late check out

- Travel insurance (Please make sure that you buy insurance for your clients before they travel oversea)

- Optional tours

- Visa arrangement & Visa stamp at international gate

- Drink & Beverage in meals

- TIPPING for local guide and van driver. Suggestion: 

•  Group from 2 - 4pax:  USD 7/ pax/ day
•  Group from 5 -7pax:   USD 5/ pax/ day
•  Group from 8pax up:  USD 3/ pax/ day

- Suggested TIPPING for bellboy, boat crew, sampan driver: depend your budget.

- Other services not mentioned above

✦ GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS ✦

- Rate is quoted in US dollars per adult base on half twin or double room and applied for private package tour.

- The above quotation is based on a group of 16 - 30 pax and should the numbers decrease, we reserve the right to revise the package rate.

- Please be aware that any changes in the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances might result in increase in pricing.

- The itinerary and schedule are subject to change due to weather, road condition, flight, type of class and operating conditions.

- Meals are fusion on Local Cuisine with daily normal buffet breakfast at hotel. Guests should advise any special food preferences, allergies or dietary requirements at least one (1) week prior to the arrival date.

- Advance registration is required with full name, date of birth, nationality, gender, passport number and visa expiry date for all passengers. A valid passport is required upon check-in. Otherwise, entrance may be denied by customs authority.

- Check in time: after 14h00 - Check out time: before 12h00 at noon

- The itinerary and schedule are subject to change due to local traffic situations, weather conditions or any un-foreseen circumstances or local authority decision. Local tour operator reserves full rights to replace all items with same values for guests

- TRAVEL SAFETY & COMFORTABLE JOURNEY will be priority for tourists.

- NO refund can be made if any of the items included in the package are not utilized either fully or partially.

- Any damage caused to the hotel rooms or coach during the stay shall be payable by the passengers

- 01 pax is granted free of charge (FOC) in single room for every group with more than 16 passengers

- Advance registration is required with full name, date of birth, nationality, gender, passport number and visa expiry date for all passengers. A valid passport is required upon check-in. Otherwise, entrance may be denied by customs authority. Helios Travel reserves the right to release confirmed services if we don’t receive rooming list prior to arrival date.