Cambodia, Laos and Bangkok (13 days)

Phnom Penh – Siem Reap – Luang Prabang – Vientiane – Bangkok

This itinerary combines the ancient temples of Cambodia, the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Laos, and the vibrant city of Bangkok. Highlights include the magnificent Angkor Wat, the charming historic town of Luang Prabang, and the royal palaces and Buddhist temples of Bangkok. Along the way, visits to rural villages, local markets and a working rice farm offer opportunities to experience everyday life and traditions in Southeast Asia.

Important Features

• Small group size (average 15, maximum 20)
• Experienced local guides
• No forced shopping stops
• Authentic local cuisine
• Unlimited supply of bottled water
• Free Wi-Fi in all hotels
• Village and school visits in Siem Reap
• Rice farm visit in Luang Prabang

Tour Itinerary

Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner

Day 1/Fri: Depart Home City
The journey begins with your transpacific flight departing from a city of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.

Day 2/Sat: Arrival in Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh! Meet your guide on arrival and transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 3/Sun: Phnom Penh (B/L/D)
Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s largest city and its political, economic and cultural centre.

Phnom Penh first became a royal capital in the 15th century, following the decline of Angkor and the relocation of the Khmer court under King Ponhea Yat. Over the following centuries, Cambodia’s rulers moved their capitals among several locations, including Longvek and Oudong. Phnom Penh became the permanent capital under King Norodom in 1865–1866, during the early years of the French protectorate.

Under French colonial rule, Phnom Penh developed from a riverside settlement into a modern administrative centre, with broad avenues, government buildings, schools, hospitals and commercial districts. By the 1920s, the city had acquired a reputation for its attractive architecture and was sometimes called the “Pearl of Asia.”

Cambodia’s fortunes deteriorated dramatically during the Vietnam War and the civil conflict that followed. North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces operated from bases inside Cambodia, while fighting between the Cambodian government and communist insurgents drove large numbers of refugees into Phnom Penh.

On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge captured the capital and began forcibly evacuating its population. Residents were sent to the countryside for agricultural labour as Pol Pot’s regime attempted to transform Cambodia into a radically collectivized society. Intellectuals, professionals, ethnic and religious minorities, and suspected political opponents were among those persecuted. Forced labour, starvation, disease and executions claimed the lives of an estimated 1.5 to 2 million Cambodians during the Khmer Rouge period.

Vietnamese forces entered Phnom Penh in January 1979, ending Khmer Rouge rule over most of Cambodia. However, the country continued to suffer from conflict and political instability for years afterward. Phnom Penh’s gradual recovery was supported by reconstruction, international assistance and, later, foreign investment.

Our sightseeing today includes the Royal Palace Complex and the National Museum.

Day 4/Mon: Phnom Penh (B/L)
Today we visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields, two important sites associated with the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. The visits can be emotionally difficult, but they provide valuable insight into one of the darkest periods in Cambodia’s history.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum occupies the former Tuol Sleng High School, which the Khmer Rouge converted into Security Prison 21 (S-21). Thousands of prisoners were detained, interrogated and tortured here, and many were subsequently taken to Choeung Ek for execution. The museum preserves prison cells, photographs, documents and instruments of torture. Guests who prefer not to enter the museum may instead take a walk through the surrounding neighbourhood.

Choeung Ek, approximately 15 km from central Phnom Penh, was one of the Khmer Rouge’s principal execution and mass-burial sites. Today, it serves as a memorial to the victims of the regime.

Day 5/Tue: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (B/L/D)
We take a morning flight to Siem Reap. After a light lunch, we visit the Angkor National Museum and Angkor Wat.

Opened in 2007, the Angkor National Museum houses an extensive collection of Khmer sculptures, religious objects and archaeological artefacts, primarily from the Angkor period (9th–15th centuries). Its eight galleries introduce visitors to the history, art, religion and cultural achievements of the Khmer Empire. Our visit provides useful background for exploring the temples of Angkor over the following days.

Angkor Wat, meaning “City of Temples,” was built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II (1113–1150). Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it gradually became a Buddhist place of worship and has remained an important religious centre for centuries. Covering approximately 162 hectares, it is widely regarded as the world’s largest religious monument.

Angkor Wat represents the height of classical Khmer architecture. Its design combines the traditional Khmer temple-mountain with a series of enclosed galleries and courtyards. The five central towers symbolize the peaks of Mount Meru, the sacred mountain at the centre of the Hindu universe. Surrounding the temple are an extensive moat and an outer enclosure measuring approximately 3.6 km around its perimeter.

Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat faces west, a feature whose religious significance remains debated. Its extensive bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu mythology, royal processions and historical events. The temple has become Cambodia’s most recognizable national symbol and appears on the country’s flag.

Day 6/Wed: Siem Reap (B/L)
Visit Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm in the morning and have the afternoon at leisure after lunch.

Angkor Thom (literally “Great City”) was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Covering approximately 9 square kilometres, it contains monuments from earlier periods as well as those built by Jayavarman VII and his successors. One inscription refers to the king as the groom and the city as his bride. Angkor Thom was the last great capital of the Khmer Empire.

At the centre of the city stands Bayon, Jayavarman VII’s state temple, famous for its towers bearing enormous carved faces with enigmatic smiles. The temple’s extensive bas-reliefs depict military campaigns, religious ceremonies and scenes of everyday life during the Khmer Empire. The identity of the faces remains a subject of scholarly debate.

Ta Prohm, originally known as Rajavihara, was founded in 1186 by Jayavarman VII as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery dedicated to his mother. Unlike most Angkorian temples, much of Ta Prohm has been preserved with the massive tree roots that have grown over its walls and buildings. This unusual combination of architecture and vegetation has made it one of Angkor’s most recognizable monuments.

Day 7/Thu: Siem Reap (B/L)
After breakfast, we drive approximately 25 km to Banteay Srei (Citadel of Women), a 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. Although relatively small compared with the great temples of Angkor, Banteay Srei is celebrated for its exceptionally intricate carvings in pinkish sandstone, among the finest examples of classical Khmer art.

On our way back to the hotel, we stop at a local village for a glimpse of everyday life in rural Cambodia.

Day 8/Fri: Siem Reap – Luang Prabang (B/D)
Free morning to relax or explore on your own.

We fly to Luang Prabang in the afternoon. Due to limited flight availability, we may need to depart in the morning and fly to Luang Prabang via Bangkok or another city. Today’s meal and sightseeing arrangements will depend on the flight schedule.

Modern-day Laos has its roots in the ancient Lao kingdom of Lan Xang, established in the 14th century under King Fa Ngum. For 300 years Lan Xang had influence reaching into present-day Cambodia and Thailand, as well as over all of what is now Laos. After centuries of gradual decline, Laos came under the domination of Siam (Thailand) from the late 18th century until the late 19th century when it became part of French Indochina. The Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 defined the current Lao border with Thailand. In 1975, the communist Pathet Lao took control of the government, ending a six-century-old monarchy and instituting a strict socialist regime closely aligned to Vietnam. A gradual, limited return to private enterprise and the liberalization of foreign investment laws began in 1988. Laos became a member of ASEAN in 1997 and the WTO in 2013. The population of the country is estimated to be around 8 million.

Day 9/Sat: Luang Prabang (B/L)
Strategically located at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers, Luang Prabang is the capital of Luang Prabang Province and the fourth largest city in Laos with a population of about 55,000. Laos became a French protectorate in 1893. Following a period of turmoil during which the country was divided into three independent kingdoms, Luang Prabang once again became the royal and religious capital during the reign of King Sisavang Vong (r. 1904- 1945). The city played this role until Vientiane became the administrative capital in 1946. In 1995, the old town of Luang Prabang was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries”. The unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions. Luang Prabang is known for both its historical sites and natural beauty.

We rise at dawn to go out and witness an extraordinary ritual – the procession of monks emerging from temples to seek alms from local residents. This traditional food collection ceremony by monks early in the morning, known as tak bat among locals, has become a major attraction for tourists.

After breakfast, we set out for the National Museum, former royal residence built at the turn of the 20th century. We then visit the Wat Mai, the largest and most decorated Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang. A drive through the scenic countryside leads us to the Tad Kuang Si waterfalls, tumbling over limestone formations to create turquoise-colored pools; the natural footpaths here are perfect for hiking.

On the way back to Luang Prabang, we stop at a Hmong village. The Hmong are an ethnic group found across the mountainous regions of China and mainland Southeast Asia. The visit offers a glimpse of their traditional culture and daily life.

Day 10/Sun: Luang Prabang – Vientiane (B/L)
We begin today with a visit to a morning market where locals go for their daily food supplies. The market offers a colourful introduction to local produce and everyday life.

After breakfast we drive to a communal rice farm set in idyllic countryside for a better understanding of farming life in this landlocked country. You are invited to try your hand at various farm activities. There is also time to check out nearby workshops of bamboo weavers, blacksmiths, and sugar cane processors.

Following lunch, we ride the express train to Vientiane (2 hours).

Vientiane, the capital and largest city of Laos, lies on the Mekong River opposite Thailand. Its history dates back many centuries, and it became the capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom in 1563 under King Setthathirath. Today, it is the country’s political, administrative and economic centre.

Day 11/Mon: Vientiane – Bangkok (B)
Our half-day tour of Vientiane includes Wat Sisaket, a Siamese-style temple with walls containing thousands of miniature Buddha images, Wat Phra Kaeo (used as a museum displaying Lao and Khmer works of art), COPE Visitor Centre (to learn about efforts to assist victims of unexploded ordnance), and Patuxai (victory monument commemorating those who fought for independence).

We board a late afternoon flight for Bangkok. The flight time can be anywhere between 1 hour and 1 hour 25 minutes depending on aircraft in use.

Located in the Chao Phraya River delta, Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. The greater Bangkok metropolitan area is home to more than 10 million people.

Bangkok traces its origins to a small trading settlement during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The area subsequently became the site of two successive capitals: Thonburi in 1768 and Rattanakosin in 1782. Bangkok played a central role in Siam’s modernization during the late 19th century, when the country faced increasing pressure from Western colonial powers.

Throughout the 20th century, Bangkok was at the centre of Thailand’s political struggles as the country transitioned from absolute monarchy to constitutional rule and experienced numerous coups and uprisings. The city expanded rapidly from the 1960s through the 1980s.

Day 12/Tue: Bangkok (B/L/D)
Our morning sightseeing begins at the royal Grand Palace. Established in 1782, the palace was dramatically expanded throughout successive reigns. The king and his royal government were based on the palace grounds until 1925.

We then proceed to the Bangkok National Museum, Thailand’s principal museum of art, archaeology and history, with extensive collections of Thai cultural and historical artefacts.

After lunch, we visit Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple on the Chao Phraya River. The temple derives its name from the Hindu god Aruna, associated with the rising sun. Wat Arun is among Thailand’s best-known landmarks.

Later in the day, we board a long-tail boat for a cruise along the Chao Phraya River and the canals of Thonburi on the west bank. Along the way, we’ll have opportunities to observe and photograph traditional homes and temples lining the waterways.

Day 13/Wed: Bangkok – Home City (B)
Your tour ends today. Transfer to the airport for your return flight. If you choose to extend your stay in Bangkok, your airport transfer will be at your own expense. Taxis are readily available, and the Airport Rail Link offers an inexpensive alternative for travellers departing from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Hotel List

Dates & Prices

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and exclude international airfare except for regional flights per itinerary.

Know Before You Go

What passport and visas do I need?

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and have at least four blank pages.

Canadian and U.S. passport holders require tourist visas for Cambodia and Laos. Both countries offer e-visas through their official government websites:

• Cambodia: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/

• Laos: https://laoevisa.gov.la/

Canadian and U.S. tourists can visit Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days. Requirements for other nationalities may differ. Apply for your visas well before departure, and print your Lao e-visa approval letter.

Are electronic arrival forms required?

Yes. These forms are separate from visa applications and are free of charge.

• Cambodia: Submit the e-Arrival Card within seven days before arrival at https://arrival.gov.kh/.

• Laos: Complete the Lao Digital Immigration Form within three days before arrival and again within three days before departure at https://www.immigration.gov.la/.

• Thailand: Submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card within three days before arrival at https://tdac.immigration.go.th/.

Laurus Travel will provide guidance before departure.

What vaccinations are recommended?

Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended, and typhoid vaccination is worth considering. Depending on your medical history and travel plans, other vaccinations may be advisable. Yellow fever vaccination certificates may be required for travellers arriving from certain countries. Consult your healthcare provider or a travel clinic before departure.

When is the best time to visit?

November through February generally offers the most pleasant weather, with relatively mild temperatures and limited rainfall. March and April can be extremely hot, particularly in Cambodia. The rainy season typically runs from May through October.

Is this tour suitable for senior travellers?

Yes, provided you are reasonably fit and comfortable walking several kilometres a day, sometimes on uneven surfaces. Exploring the Angkor temples involves steps and exposed areas with limited shade. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and adequate hydration are essential.

What currencies should I bring?

Cambodia uses the riel, although U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Laos uses the kip, while Thailand uses the baht. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger establishments, but local cash is useful for small purchases. ATMs are available in major cities. There is generally no need to obtain local currencies before departure.

What health precautions should I take?

Drink bottled or properly treated water, avoid questionable raw foods, and wash or sanitize your hands regularly. Protect yourself against mosquitoes, particularly in rural areas. Bring personal medications in their original packaging and carry adequate travel medical insurance.