Luang Prabang: Hiking Off the Beaten Track with Picnic Lunch – How to Plan Your Tour

If you’re looking to experience a true adventure in the beautiful Luang Prabang region, then you should definitely consider taking the Hiking Off the Beaten Track with Picnic Lunch tour. This tour is a perfect opportunity to explore some of the most stunning scenery in Laos, meet the locals, and learn about the history and culture of this fascinating area.

Experience

The Hiking Off the Beaten Track with Picnic Lunch tour is a unique and exciting experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this tour. Here are some of the highlights:

– Hike in the off beaten track and meet the locals
– Enjoy the panoramic views of the valley and beautiful scenery
– Learn about crops and herbs planted by Local villagers

Full Description

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel at 8:30 AM, followed by a 50-minute drive in a westerly direction to the village of Nong Tok – the starting point for today’s hike. This rustic village is little-visited by tourists is nestled inside a picturesque valley and consists of ethnic Hmong and Kamu enclaves.

The Hmong people are known as ‘Lao Seung’ highlanders who traditionally inhabit the higher peaks of the mountainous Lao countryside, but the village in the Nong Tok valley has re-settled to this lower altitude.

Once you’ve arrived in the village, you’ll meet your local English-speaking guide and your local village guide (Trail Leader), who will lead you on the hike.

The hike, which takes around 3 hours, will take you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled countryside in Laos. You’ll pass through lush forests, cross streams, and climb hills to reach some breathtaking viewpoints.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the locals who live in the area and learn about their way of life. You’ll also see some of the crops and herbs that are grown in the area, including rice paddies and tea plantations.

At the end of the hike, you’ll be treated to a delicious picnic lunch in a beautiful spot overlooking the valley. After lunch, you’ll make your way back to the village of Nong Tok where your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes the following :

– First-Aid Kit
– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– Local English-speaking guide
– Local village guide (Trail Leader)
– Picnic lunch
– Drinking water
– Insurance
– Tipping for guides and driver

The tour is not suitable for:

– Children under 12 years
– Pregnant women
– People with back problems
– People with heart problems
– Wheelchair users

Conclusion

The Hiking Off the Beaten Track with Picnic Lunch tour is a great way to explore the beautiful Luang Prabang region of Laos. It’s perfect for people who want to get off the beaten track and experience some of the local culture and scenery. If you’d like to book the tour, please click here to visit the booking page.

Insider’s Guide to Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is a city nestled in the northern region of Laos. It is known for its religious and cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and warm and friendly locals. While the city may be small, it is an ideal destination for adventurers, history buffs, and spiritual seekers alike. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some of the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Must-See Attractions in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to many beautiful temples, museums, and historic sites. Some of the must-see attractions include:

– Wat Xieng Thong: This temple is one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia and is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and elaborate mosaics.

– Royal Palace Museum: This former royal palace is now a museum that houses a collection of Lao treasures and artifacts.

– Kuang Si Falls: A popular spot for both tourists and locals, these waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise pools. Visitors can swim, hike, and picnic here.

– Mount Phousi: This hill offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Dining Spots in Luang Prabang

Laos is known for its delicious and flavorful cuisine, and Luang Prabang is no exception. From street food to upscale restaurants, there is something for every taste and budget. Here are some of the best dining spots in Luang Prabang:

– Tamarind: This restaurant serves traditional Lao cuisine and offers cooking classes and food tours.

– Saffron Coffee: This coffee shop serves great coffee and has a beautiful outdoor seating area.

– Dyen Sabai: This restaurant is located on the banks of the Nam Khan river and offers delicious Lao and Thai cuisine.

– Night Market: The night market offers a variety of street food, including grilled meats, noodles, and sweet treats.

Cultural Experiences in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a city rich in culture and tradition. There are many ways to immerse yourself in the local culture, including the following:

– Tak Bat: This is a traditional Lao Buddhist alms-giving ceremony that takes place every morning at sunrise. Visitors can observe the ceremony, but it is important to be respectful and follow the rules.

– Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre: This museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting Lao culture and heritage.

– Elephant Village: This sanctuary offers visitors the chance to interact with elephants in a responsible and ethical way.

Local History of Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang has a rich and fascinating history that is worth exploring. From its days as the capital of the Lan Xang kingdom to its colonial past, there is much to learn about this city. Here are some historic sites to visit:

– Wat Visoun: This temple is one of the oldest in Luang Prabang and dates back to the 16th century.

– UXO Laos Visitor Centre: This museum highlights the tragic legacy of unexploded ordnances (UXOs) in Laos and the efforts to clear them.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures in Luang Prabang

While Luang Prabang has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are also some hidden gems worth exploring. Here are some off-the-beaten-path adventures to consider:

– Hiking Trails: Luang Prabang is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails with stunning views of the landscape.

– Kuang Si Butterfly Park: This butterfly park is home to a variety of species of butterflies and is a great spot for nature lovers.

– Private Boat Tours: Visitors can hire private boats to explore the Mekong River and its many tributaries, witness local fishing practices, and visit remote villages.

In conclusion, Luang Prabang is a city with plenty to offer for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and history. With its beautiful temples, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural scenery, it is easy to understand why it is a popular destination in Southeast Asia. By following this insider’s guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to Luang Prabang and experience all the city has to offer.