Tour Details
N O R T H E R N  L A O S
Road Bicycling with Support
12 Days/Nights
Intermediate Cycling
90% Good Condition Paved Roads
Arrival: Hanoi, Vietnam
Extension: Temples of Angkor

Tour Dates:
November 27 to Dec 11, 2011
Or Custom Private Tour

Nov 26

Nov 27

Rise at dawn to witness traditional exercise rituals on Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the busy morning market in the nearby Old Quarter before returning to hotel for breakfast. Afterwards, visit to the Soviet-era Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where "Bac Ho" lies in state, followed by the Temple of Literature, Hanoi's premier university for hundreds of years.

Afterwards, lunch in the lake area at 5th-generation Cha Ca Va Long , dining on cha ca, a famous northern dish of fried fish, while enjoying a "survival Vietnamese" lesson with your guide. After, begin touring of the bustling Old Quarter by cyclo (pedicab) and foot, pausing to visit with local family in their "tube" home who will play various traditional instruments, including the enchanting single-stringed Dan Bau.

After, enjoying bia hoi, or happy hour, on the streets joining and meeting Hanoians leaving from work. Dinner recommendations and transport provided to one of Hanoi's many fine restaurants. Afterwards, taking in karaoke, wildly popular in Vietnam. (B,L)

Bia Hoi, or happy hour, is a post-work custom unique to Hanoi, with draft beer and snacks served up in street cafes. Other culinary treats? The best pho in the country is from Hanoi, don't miss a piping hot bowl.

Nov 28

After biking, we'll visit contemporary artist Dao Anh Khanh's sprawling compound along the river for a private BBQ lunch with the artist and exploring his property where many of his larger works are displayed.

Afterwards, return to Hanoi for lunch with the afternoon visit to Other highlights of the city including historical city sights such Hoa Lò Prison (also known as the "Hanoi Hilton" where John McCain was imprisoned for five years during the war), pausing to visit Hanoi's newest trend — hip cafes opened up by younger entrepreneurs with varying themes. After, dinner reservations and transport by preference. (B,L)

Our biking route today is a flat, meandering one on footpaths with no vehicles covering from 10 to 22 miles with van support.

Nov 29

In the morning, an early departure (6:30 AM) for Mai Chau, a picturesque river valley region populated with a diversity of hilltribes near the border of Laos. After a 1.5 hour drive, arrive at our starting point and begin biking the picturesque, rolling hills towards Mai Chau until lunch. Although most hilltribes now wear Western dress, we'll begin to spy ethnic White Thai, distantly related to tribes in Thailand, Laos and China.

After lunch, continued cycling over steadily longer hills until the final pass near Mai Chau, descending into the beautiful valley fed by the Ma River. After arrival, if the weather is warm, we can cool off in the pool before walking through the sprawling rice fields to a nearby hilltribe village where we'll enjoy a traditional dance performance and dinner. Overnight in Mai Chau, our last night of comfort before the moving on into the hinterland of Laos. (B,L,D)

Cycling mileage today is about 45 miles. (Above right, two of our Hanoi staff Hien and Mai enjoy the hills around Mai Chau).
Mai Chau Lodge, Mai Chau, Tel: (84-18) 386-8959
Weather in Mai Chau: November and December is dry with temperatures in the 60s to low 70s during the day.

Nov 30

This morning, we make a run for the border by bus along mountainous National Highway 15 through Pu Luong and Pu Ha Nature preserves and several developing border towns to beat the 11:00AM border closing time (about 70 miles). After arrival at the border, enjoy a picnic lunch a slow bureaucratic process to cancel our Vietnam visas and obtain our news ones for Laos. After crossing into Laos, and meeting up with our new crew, begin riding on national route 217 , cycling uphill and then over rolling hills towards Vieng Xai on paved roads along the river, passing hilltribe and local villages in the area, including Thai Dam, Thai Dang, Meuy, and Kmu. Pausing for snacks en route, including a delicious lao jerky.

In the late afternoon, arrive in sleepy Vieng Xai. After arrival, a quick freshening up before driving outside of the town to explore a nearby network of caves inhabited by the Pathet Lao during the Vietnam War. The caves, both natural and artificial, were extensively developed and used by Pathet Lao in Vieng Xai during the war, including Khayson Cave, the office and residence of the Pathet Lao chief during the war period, and Souphanouvong Cave, also called Red Prince Cave, the residence of royal Prince Souphanouvong at one time. Then, onto Nouhak Cave, named for Nouhak Phoumsavang, who served as Lao PDR president from 1992. Dinner at the only restaurant in town serving up delicious local dishes. Tonight we're roughing it, staying at the most basic hotel of the tour with bare rooms, simply showers and mosquito nets.

Note: At the border, one passport-sized photo and US$25-35 cash required for Laos visa. ** Passport must have six months validity left to enter Laos **

53 km (31 miles) Laos border to Vieng Xai
Vixai Hotel, Mobile phone: 5712392, 5718474

Dec 1

Vieng Xai to Vieng Thong
Our longest cycling day, today after a sunrise breakfast, departing early for an epic day's century ride to Vieng Thong over the mammoth "Laotian Alps," cycling the quiet and winding route past a smattering of villages over two 5,000 foot passes. From Vieng Xai, on National Highway 6 we will ride about 65 miles to Nam Noen (with about 4,500 feet of climbing, nearing an altitude of 5,400 feet). Time permitting en route, pausing to explore Hing Tang (Suan Hin), a man-made formation of vertical stones that may be related to those on the Plain of Jars. At Nam Noen, we'll turn northwest (right) on route 1 towards Vien Thong, a hilly 36 miles way that we'll shuttle in by van rather than bike.

After arrival in Vien Thong, freshen up before walking to nearby hot springs to douse worn legs before exploring the small town set on the Nam Khan River and largely inhabited by a collection of hill tribes particularly Hmong and "lowland" Lao. Dinner at the small town's only restaurant and overnight at simple guesthouse. (B,L,D)

161 km (100 miles) 10,627 feet elevation gain. Weather will be cooler here than in Vietnam, especially at altitude in the last morning.
Souksakhone GH, Tel: (064) 810017, Mobile: 5313376, 6555249

Dec 2

Vien Thong to Nong Khiaw
Another long travel day over the "Laotian Alps," rising early from the noise at sunrise from the hilltribe market directly in front of our hotel. After browsing the market, we'll begin biking after breakfast. Today we ride National route No 1c between Vieng Thong and Nong Khiaw passing through the beautiful jungle and forest scenery of two National Park with lush green mountains over three passes. After departing Vien Thong, cycling on flats until reaching our first challenge, a 2,400 foot climb, before descending to a winding river valley road for about 12 miles until we reach our next climb of about 2,100 feet, plummeting down to Vieng Kham at mile 86 (at 1,200 feet elevation) where we'll enjoy lunch along the scenic river. Afterwards, shuttling by van over a third climb of 900 feet (or cycling if you prefer), the rest of the day is over the undulating hills on a paved, good-condition side road heading northwest to Nong Khiaw, a picturesque northern outpost being discovered by backpackers.

In Nong Khiaw, we'll enjoy drinks along the pleasant Nam Ou River directly in front of our bungalows. Now this is Laos! Afterwards, venturing into town to eat at one of the restaurants along the river. After dinner, a massage in town can be arranged. (B,L,D)

  184 km (115 miles)
Phaxang Resort, Ban Sop Houn, Tel: (856-71) 810-014, Mobile: 5894119, 2962999

Dec 3

Nong Khiaw excursion around Muang Ngoi
After a leisurely breakfast, one-hour cruise by longtail boat to Muang Ngoi, base for hiking to remote villages in the area. Muang Ngoi was controlled by the communist before 1975 and the province was under control of Pathet Lao. During Vietnam War, people in this area hid in the caves in the day times and worked at night because of continuous bombing ( land mines remain in the area).

Today, trekking to Tham Kang through stunning scenery, where, according to local legend, a sacred Naga resides. Also visiting in the villages of Ban Na and Thai Daeng before returning back to Nong Khiaw by boat in the afternoon for dinner and accommodation, and perhaps another leg massage before tomorrow's ride. (B,L)

Dec 4

Dec 5

Afterwards, we'll walk the small town, visiting the temples Luang Prabang in known for and meeting in one with monks to discuss their lifestyles. Also visiting other notable sites, including the colonial-era royal palace and museum. For lunch, we'll explore the central food market sampling street foods. In the afternoon, driving over to explore the local Phusi marketplace and other sites in town until late afternoon. At dusk, we'll trek to the summit of Mount Phousi for panoramic sunset. Afterwards, wandering the sprawling night market before dining on delicious lao food. (B)

Luang Prabang's night market is one of the best in Indochina for finding unique, handmade goods and at a bargain rate. The market makes a good stop after watching sunset from Mount Phousi. How much to bargain? Typically, counter with offer that is about 1/3 or 1/2 from the price quoted. To see where the locals shop, take a tuk-tuk out to Phuosi Market, about 1 kilometer from the central area.

Dec 6

Luang Prabang
After breakfast, cycling outside of the city to the Kuang Si Waterfalls (28 kms/18 miles).

After leisurely hike up to and swimming in the falls, continued biking in the scenic rural areas nearby passing through several villages and pausing to visit a local family and school as well as cottage industries until mid-afternoon.

Return to Luang Prabang by van to freshen up before sunset cruise on the Mekong, enjoying drinks on board before dinner in town. (B)

Dec 7

Luang Prabang
Free at leisure in Luang Prabang. (B)

Dec 8

Luang Prabang to Siem Reap (Angkor)
After breakfast and farewells with crew, transfer to airport for two-hour flight to Siem Reap, base for exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor. After arrival in Siem Reap and clearing immigration, transfer to hotel for lunch and orientation with guide.

In the afternoon, begin exploration with visit the immense walled city Angkor Thom that was the masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII. Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the new king dictated the building of an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire and the scale of their work is staggering, immediately overwhelming visitors upon arrival at the city’s gates. The causeway is lined by an intricate bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the devas (gods) and asuras (devils) play tug of war with a naga (seven-headed serpent) to “milk” the elixir of immortality. Afterward, visit to the Bayon Temple, a "temple mountain" situated in the center of the city of Angkor Thom. A three-tiered pyramid with a central shrine surrounded by dozens of towers all crowned by gigantic faces that represent the god Avalokite-shvara. Unlike his predecessors, worshipper of Hindu deities, king Jayavarman VII adopted Mahayana Buddhism as the fount of royal divinity and this sets The Bayon apart from many other Angkorean monuments with Hindu influences.

After, visit at the Terrace of the Leper King. This intricately carved platform was the royal crematorium and the statue that was originally thought to be the leper king is now believed to be Yama, the god of death. Continue along the Terrace of Elephants, originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances and traditional sports. At the southern end lies the Baphuon, once of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman 1 in the 11th century. It has undergone a massive renovation by the French and is now once again open for viewing.

The climax of Angkor Thom is the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. Its fifty four towers are each topped off with the four faces of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion), which bear more than a passing resemblance to the king himself. The colossal heads stare down from every side, exuding power and control with a hint of compassion, just the mix required to keep a hold on such a vast empire. Before clambering upwards, unravel the mysteries of the bas-reliefs, with their intricate scenes of ancient battles against the Chams and their snapshot of daily life during the Angkor period.

The day concludes with a dramatic panorama view at sunset from the nearby summit of Phnom Bakheng, overlooking Angkor Wat.  Return to Siem Reap for dinner and accommodation. (B,D)

Note: Cambodia visa issued on arrival with one photo and US$20.

Vietnam Air TBD Luang Prabang to Siem Reap, TBD, TBD
La Residence d'Angkor, River Road, (855-63) 963 390 (855-63) 963 391
Divining Angkor, National Geographic Magazine June, 2009
Weather in Siem Reap for December and January is dry and warm in the 80s to low 90s.

Angkor is astounding and complex in scope. Early French explorers could not imagine the Khmer kings were responsible for such monumental work. The inspiration for Angkor architecture was born from a unique mix of Hinduism and Buddhism which drove Khmer monument construction for nearly three hundred years from the 9th to 12th centuries creating Angkorean structures that have no parallel.

Dec 9

After soaking up the unique atmosphere of Ta Prohm, continue to the giant pyramid of Takeo, one of the tallest temples in the Angkor area. Built at the end of the 10th century, it was never completed. This morning also visit the remains of an old Angkorian bridge which once spanned the Siem Reap River.

Time permitting, optional visit the smaller temples of Chau Sey Devada and Thommanon. In the afternoon, pause at the local village of Preah Dak before moving onto the 12th century temple Banteay Samre. Built by King Suryavarman II, the ruler behind Angkor Wat, this temple has been extensively restored. The temple is unique in that over-quarrying of sandstone led to the use of laterite for the roofed corridors. The pediments above the inner doors here include some of the most accomplished carving from the Angkor period.

Afterwards, continue further north to Banteay Srei, Angkor’s ultimate art gallery. This petite pink temple is the jewel in the crown of Angkor-era sculpture. The elaborate carvings here are the finest found in Cambodia and the name translates as ‘Fortress of the Women’, thanks to the intricate detail here, which Khmer’s consider too fine to have been crafted by hands of men. The day ends with a panoramic sunset over the rice fields from the royal crematorium of Pre Rup, providing a classic view of the Cambodian countryside. In the late afternoon, return to Siem Reap for dinner at one of Siem Reap's fine restaurants. Note: en route to Banteay Srei, visiting the unique Landmine Museum. (B)

Dec 10

Dec 11

Siem Reap
After breakfast, bicycling side paths into the temples complex to explore the most majestic temple of them all, Angkor Wat. Balance of morning canvasing the immense strecthes of reliefs and galleries until lunch (picnic lunch at the temples).

Afterwards, looping on our bikes on dirt paths through secondary temples, puasing to explore the more interesting monuments. In the afternoon, return to Siem Reap to freshen up before dinner. (B,L)

Dec 12

Trip Notes:

ABOUT
Our newest trips. Like so many others we were the first to pioneer, this tour is very much off-the-grid and aside from our Myanmar tours our most "adventurous" passing over a new border crossing on a newly improved road through sparsely populated northern Vietnam and Laos, through national parks, mountain ranges, small villages all the way to one to splendid Luang Prabang. There is luxury available at both ends of our of this cycling tour, but in between we are roughing it, on and off the bike. For more comfortable touring, please look over our Vietnam cycling trips that we've refined since our first tours in 1992.

PRICING
Tariff for this tour is US$2,580 with an luxury hotel upgrade option to stay at the Sofitel Metropole in Hanoi and La Residence Phu Vao in Luang Prabang. Please inquire for this luxury upgrade rate.

INSURANCE
What's the difference between VeloAsia and other tour companies? All travelers are covered under our emergency medical and air evacuation policy through International SOS. Not even B&R or Backroads offer such coverage.

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B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Please verify actual flight dates and times on ticket. Regional tickets issued in-country.

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