0988555034Travel time by car: ~ 1 h30 – 2 h
This southeast asia grand tour is a comprehensive and well-balanced journey through Indochina and Thailand, designed for travelers seeking an in-depth discovery of the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Blending an authentic Indochina Journey with a captivating Thailand Journey, this itinerary offers a seamless exploration of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.
From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay, from the imperial cities of central Vietnam to the Mekong Delta, then onward to Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Chiang Mai and Bangkok, the route has been carefully crafted to ensure a smooth pace without rushing. Each destination has been selected to provide meaningful cultural encounters, scenic diversity and optimal comfort throughout the journey.
Ideal for a first discovery of Southeast Asia or for travelers wishing to deepen their understanding of the region, this southeast asia grand tour delivers a rich, fluid and expertly organized experience focused on culture and nature.
At the heart of Southeast Asia, this exceptional journey reveals the full richness of Indochina, where ancient civilizations meet unspoiled landscapes.
In Vietnam, the soul of the country unfolds through historic Hanoi, the majestic Ha Long Bay, the karst scenery of Ninh Binh and the timeless charm of Hoi An.
In Cambodia, the splendor of the Angkor temples showcases the spiritual and artistic legacy of the Khmer civilization.
In Laos, off the beaten path, dawn rituals of monks, serene temples and the Kuang Si waterfalls offer moments of peace and authenticity.
In Thailand, vibrant Bangkok captivates with its energy and floating markets, while Chiang Mai enchants with its mountains, ethnic diversity and refined way of life.
Day 1: Welcome to Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital
Day 2: Hanoi – City tour
Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh, the “inland Ha Long Bay”
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay
Day 5: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Hoi An
Day 6: Hoi An – City tour and surrounding villages
Day 7: Free day in Hoi An – Evening flight to Ho Chi Minh City
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre – Ho Chi Minh City
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City – City tour – Flight to Siem Reap
Day 10: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom temples
Day 11: Siem Reap – Small and Grand Angkor Circuit temples
Day 12: Siem Reap – Flight to Luang Prabang
Day 13: Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Caves
Day 14: Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Waterfalls
Day 15: Luang Prabang – Flight to Chiang Mai
Day 16: Chiang Mai – Doi Inthanon National Park – Chiang Mai
Day 17: Chiang Mai – Elephant Camp
Day 18: Chiang Mai – City tour – Overnight train to Bangkok
Day 19: Bangkok – City tour
Day 20: Bangkok – Maeklong Railway Market – Damnoen Saduak Floating
Market
Day 21: Bangkok – Departure
Upon arrival in Hanoi, the millennial capital of Vietnam, you begin your southeast asia grand tour at the heart of Indochina. Warmly welcomed by your local guide and driver, you are transferred to the city center for hotel check-in (rooms available from 2:00 pm). Formerly known as Thang Long, the “Rising Dragon City,” Hanoi embodies the timeless elegance that defines an authentic Indochina Journey.
After a long flight, enjoy a rejuvenating body or foot massage at Huong Sen Spa, offering deep relaxation before your first evening of discovery. The rest of the day is free to explore Hanoi’s urban rhythm, followed by a welcome dinner introducing you to local flavors.
Overnight: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals: Lunch included
After breakfast, explore Hanoi’s most iconic cultural and historical landmarks, an essential gateway of your southeast asia grand tour. A cyclo ride through the 36 streets of the Old Quarter reveals everyday life, followed by visits to a traditional Hanoi house, Dong Xuan Market and a spiritual site such as a communal house or temple.
Continue to Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake, one of Vietnam’s oldest religious monuments. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature and stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake before enjoying a traditional water puppet show, a perfect illustration of Vietnamese culture and nature intertwined.
Overnight: Hotel in Hanoi
Meals: Lunch included
Distance: ~9 – 100 km
Travel time by car: ~ 1 h30 – 2 h
Leaving the bustling capital behind, your southeast asia grand tour leads you to Ninh Binh, often called the “Inland Ha Long Bay.” Towering limestone karsts, winding rivers and emerald rice fields create one of the most poetic settings of Southeast Asia.
Climb Mount Mua for panoramic views, cycle through peaceful villages, and glide along the Ngo Dong River by sampan beneath ancient caves. The visit to Hoa Lu, the former imperial capital, completes this stage of your Indochina Journey, where history and culture and nature coexist in perfect harmony.
Overnight: Hotel in Ninh Binh
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
Distance: ~180 – 200 km
Travel time by car: ~3.5 – 4 hours
Continue toward the legendary Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight of any southeast asia grand tour. Cruise through the quieter Bai Tu Long Bay, where dramatic limestone islands rise from emerald waters in an unspoiled environment.
Kayak around Cap La Island, swim if weather permits, and enjoy a sunset cooking demonstration on board. Surrounded by breathtaking seascapes, this experience captures the essence of Vietnam’s coastal culture and nature.
Overnight: Private cabin on board
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Transfer: ~170 km | ~4 hours by road | ~1h20 flight
Wake up to sunrise over Ha Long Bay, a serene moment within your southeast asia grand tour. Begin the morning with Tai Chi on deck before visiting a floating fishing village, offering insight into daily life on the water.
After returning to Hanoi, fly to central Vietnam. Upon arrival, Hoi An reveals its timeless charm as a former trading port, marking a smooth transition within your Indochina Journey and highlighting the remarkable diversity of the region.
Overnight: Hotel in Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
Hoi An is one of the most enchanting stops of your southeast asia grand tour, blending heritage, romance and rural authenticity. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ancient houses, assembly halls and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
In the afternoon, venture into the countryside to the Bay Mau coconut forest, where basket boat rides and encounters with local fishermen offer genuine immersion. This day beautifully reflects the balance of culture and nature that characterizes Southeast Asia.
Overnight: Hotel in Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
This day of your southeast asia grand tour is entirely at leisure. Cycle through tranquil rice fields, relax on An Bang Beach, or wander through lantern-lit streets at your own pace.
In the evening, fly to Ho Chi Minh City, concluding the Vietnamese chapter of your Indochina Journey and preparing for the upcoming transition toward your Thailand Journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: At your own arrangement
Transfer: ~90 km | ~2 hours
Travel into the legendary Mekong Delta, an unmissable highlight of your southeast asia grand tour. This eighth day of your Indochina Journey leads you to Ben Tre, where lush greenery intertwines gracefully with the winding arms of the river.
Board a local boat toward Mo Cay and explore the verdant island by xe loi, following shaded paths lined with coconut palms. Discover local craftsmanship at traditional coconut candy workshops before gliding silently by rowing boat through narrow canals fringed with water palms.
An intimate encounter with local residents over honey tea and homemade jams completes this authentic immersion, painting a vivid portrait of southern river traditions where culture and nature blend seamlessly.
Activities: Xe loi ride, artisan workshops, local home visit
Overnight: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
Transfer: ~30 km | ~1 hour | Flight ~1 hour
Feel the vibrant pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic urban centers, as part of your southeast asia grand tour. This day celebrates the city’s striking contrasts, from colonial elegance inherited from Indochina to the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market.
Continue to Cholon, the historic Chinatown, and visit Thien Hau Temple before discovering the Museum of Traditional Medicine, a meaningful cultural pause within your Indochina Journey. As you board your flight to Siem Reap, Vietnam fades below and the ancient soul of Cambodia begins to emerge.
Activities: Cultural city tour, flight to Siem Reap
Overnight: Hotel in Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast included
Explore the mystical heart of Cambodia during this unforgettable day of your southeast asia grand tour. Your journey reaches an emotional peak at Angkor Wat, the supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture dedicated to Vishnu, where carved stone seems to breathe in harmony with the surrounding jungle.
Continue to Angkor Thom, the vast fortified city, and marvel at Bayon Temple with its 216 enigmatic stone faces. From the monumental South Gate to the Terrace of the Elephants, every bas-relief narrates the grandeur of a vanished empire, revealing the profound dialogue between culture and nature.
The evening is free to enjoy the lively ambiance of Siem Reap, from night markets to local flavors.
Activities: Spiritual and cultural visits
Overnight: Hotel in Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast included
This eleventh day of your southeast asia grand tour unveils Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women,” a jewel of pink sandstone carved with extraordinary delicacy.
Your immersion into Khmer heritage continues at Ta Prohm, where colossal tree roots entwine ancient stone walls, creating one of Angkor’s most powerful and emotional scenes. Here, the raw force of nature reclaims sacred architecture, leaving an unforgettable impression.
Conclude the day at Pre Rup temple, watching the sun set over the forest canopy, a timeless tableau where legend and history merge.
Activities: Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, sunset at Pre Rup
Overnight: Hotel in Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: Flight ~1h15 | Road ~30 minutes
After a final stroll through Siem Reap’s colorful markets, cross another border within Southeast Asia as your southeast asia grand tour enters a more serene rhythm. Fly to Luang Prabang, the sacred jewel of Laos, where your Indochina Journey takes on a peaceful and spiritual tone.
Upon arrival, visit the Royal Palace and Wat Mai, symbols of Laotian elegance. Climb Mount Phousi at sunset to admire lush landscapes embraced by the Mekong River. End the day with a traditional Baci ceremony at a local home, a deeply spiritual ritual rooted in culture and nature.
Activities: Market visit, flight to Luang Prabang, Baci ceremony
Overnight: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: ~25 km | ~45 minutes
Set out on a peaceful Mekong River cruise, the lifeblood of Southeast Asia, during this contemplative day of your southeast asia grand tour. Navigate toward the sacred Pak Ou Caves, a 16th-century sanctuary carved into limestone cliffs overlooking the river, sheltering thousands of Buddha statues.
Continue your cultural immersion at Ban Muang Keo, discovering traditional rice whisky distillation, then visit Ban Xangkhong, a Thai Lue village renowned for silk weaving and handmade Saa paper. This Laotian escape captures the poetic, artisanal soul of the region.
Activities: Mekong cruise, artisan villages
Overnight: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: ~30 km | ~1 hour
Begin the day with the sacred alms-giving ritual at dawn, a deeply moving expression of Southeast Asian spirituality within your southeast asia grand tour. After breakfast, journey to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, where turquoise pools cascade through dense jungle, inviting a refreshing swim.
Continue to Ban Thapene village for a glimpse of rural life, then visit the Ock Pop Tock Living Crafts Centre, where Laotian textile traditions unfold gracefully along the Mekong. Return to Luang Prabang in the afternoon for relaxation before the next stage of your journey, gradually opening the way toward your upcoming Thailand Journey.
Activities: Alms giving, Kuang Si waterfalls, Ban Thapene, Ock Pop Tock
Overnight: Hotel in Luang Prabang
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: ~1-hour flight
Begin the day with a final stroll through the serene streets of Luang Prabang, a true jewel of Southeast Asia, before a graceful transition into the next chapter of your southeast asia grand tour. This marks a symbolic passage from Indochina toward the sacred highlands of northern Thailand.
Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North,” immerse yourself immediately in local life with a discovery of the historic Old City. Admire the imposing Wat Chedi Luang and walk through the iconic Tha Phae Gate, witnesses to centuries of Lanna heritage. Your Thailand Journey opens on a festive note with a traditional Khantoke dinner, where spicy flavors and folk dances celebrate the soul of the kingdom.
Activities: Free time in Luang Prabang, flight to Chiang Mai, Wat Chedi Luang visit, Khantoke dinner show
Overnight: Hotel in Chiang Ma
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included
Transfer: ~100 km | ~2 hours
Ascend to the heights of Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand, for a day dedicated to the raw beauty of Southeast Asia within your southeast asia grand tour. A three-hour jungle trek leads you through lush forest, hidden waterfalls and terraced rice fields, where cool mountain air contrasts with the lowland landscapes.
Visit a Pagagayaw Karen hill tribe village to experience authentic highland life and enjoy locally grown coffee. The journey continues with the majestic royal pagodas, Nopamaytanidol Chedi and Phra Mahatat Nopaphon Bhumi Siri, built to honor the Thai monarchy. This day captures the essence of culture and nature in the northern mountains.
Activities: Jungle trekking, Karen village encounter, waterfalls, royal pagodas
Overnight: Hotel in Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: ~60 km | ~1.5 hours
This seventeenth day of your southeast asia grand tour brings an unforgettable encounter with Thailand’s most revered animal. Travel south of Chiang Mai to an ethical elephant sanctuary, where respect and conservation guide every interaction.
Dressed in traditional Karen attire, learn about elephant behavior and history before feeding them and walking together through forested paths to the river. Share a joyful moment during a natural mud bath, creating a deep and meaningful connection with these gentle giants. After a delicious Thai lunch, this immersive experience leaves lasting memories of Southeast Asia’s rich ecosystem.
Activities: Ethical interaction, feeding, forest walk, elephant bathing
Overnight: Hotel in Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: Overnight train (~12 hours)
Discover Chiang Mai’s spiritual heart as part of your southeast asia grand tour, beginning with Wat Phra Singh, a masterpiece of Lanna architecture, followed by the monumental Wat Chedi Luang. Continue to the lively Warorot Market, a colorful blend of flavors and local crafts.
Ascend to Wat Doi Suthep, perched above the city, offering sweeping views over lush landscapes that echo the serenity once experienced during your Indochina Journey. In the evening, board the overnight train to Bangkok, traveling comfortably through the plains toward Thailand’s vibrant capital.
Activities: Historic temples, Warorot Market, Doi Suthep viewpoint, overnight train
Overnight: On board the train (sleeper cabin)
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
Step into the royal and spiritual grandeur of Bangkok during this enriching day of your southeast asia grand tour. Begin with the magnificent Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, a symbol of Thai identity and devotion.
Continue to Wat Pho to admire the impressive 45-meter-long Reclining Buddha, then visit Wat Traimit, housing the solid gold Buddha. For a more intimate perspective, cruise along the Chao Phraya River by long-tail boat, exploring hidden klongs and riverside life before reaching the elegant Wat Arun. This day perfectly reflects the richness of your Thailand Journey.
Activities: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Traimit, long-tail boat cruise, Wat Arun
Overnight: Hotel in Bangko
Meals: Breakfast included
Transfer: ~100 km | ~1.5 hours
Rise early for an authentic immersion into local life during your southeast asia grand tour. Begin at the extraordinary Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors swiftly clear their stalls as the train passes through, a spectacle unique to Thailand.
Continue with a peaceful canoe ride through the klongs of Samut Songkhram, reflecting the rural charm of the region. The journey culminates at the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where boats laden with fruits and flowers create a vibrant scene of culture and nature in motion. Return to Bangkok in the afternoon.
Activities: Maeklong Railway Market, canal canoeing, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Overnight: Hotel in Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast included
Your 21-day adventure through Southeast Asia comes to a close with the final moments of your southeast asia grand tour. After breakfast, enjoy free time in Bangkok for last discoveries or souvenir shopping.
This concluding chapter of your Thailand Journey, following a rich Indochina Journey, leaves you with unforgettable memories shaped by culture and nature, ancient traditions and meaningful encounters. According to your flight schedule, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey home.
Activities: At leisure
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation throughout the entire tour, in selected hotels or homestays
All ground transportation as outlined in the itinerary, using private vehicles
Services of a English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
All activities listed in the itinerary, including entrance fees to tourist sites
Domestic flights in economy class, with airport taxes included
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Bottled water during guided visits (2 × 500 ml per traveler per day)
All currently applicable government taxes (VAT, etc.)
International flights from/to your home country
Visa or e-visa fees
Bank charges related to payments
Personal travel insurance
Personal beverages during meals (beer, soft drinks, fruit juices, etc.)
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
SIM card and mobile data packages
Tips, personal expenses, and any other services not clearly stated under “Price Includes”
Do not let logistical questions distract you from enjoying your journey. Below are some essential tips to help you make the most of your 21-day adventure through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, from Ha Long Bay to the temples of Angkor, via the peaceful charm of Luang Prabang and the vibrant energy of Bangkok.
When to prepare your luggage
The regions covered during this 21-day journey enjoy a tropical climate, with variations depending on altitude and season.
Best Time to Travel: November to April
Generally dry and pleasant weather in Hanoi, Tam Coc, Ha Long Bay, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, Chiang Mai and Bangkok
Ideal conditions for bay cruises, hiking in Northern Thailand’s national parks and exploring imperial cities
Lush landscapes and vibrant vegetation, especially around Kuang Si Waterfalls in Laos and Tonlé Sap Lake in Cambodia
Excellent value for money for a 21-day Vietnam discovery tour
Good Alternative Period: May to October
Occasional tropical showers, mainly in the late afternoon, bringing refreshing cooler air
Lush greenery and scenic landscapes, particularly around Kuang Si Waterfalls and Tonlé Sap Lake
Lower tourist numbers, offering a more peaceful and authentic experience at major sites
Very good value for money for a 21-day Vietnam discovery tour
All payments made in US dollars (USD) are converted based on the exchange rate published on xe.com on the date of payment.
The price includes the complete itinerary as described, accommodation, meals specified in the program, ground transfers, domestic and regional flights, as well as the services of a professional local English-speaking guide.
Payment terms
Payment for your trip can be made using several methods, depending on your preference:
Cash payment: Payable directly at the QASIA TRAVEL office in Hanoi, with no additional fees.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, American Express and JCB. Any applicable bank charges are the responsibility of the client.
Bank transfer: Payments can be made in euros (€) or US dollars (USD).
Digital payment apps: Wise, Revolut, OnePay and similar services are also accepted, offering convenient and secure transactions.
Contact & Booking
This 21-day Southeast Asia journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand has been thoughtfully designed for travelers seeking cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences. From Ha Long Bay to the temples of Angkor, from the mountains of Laos to Thailand’s vibrant cities, the itinerary seamlessly blends nature, history and relaxation.
Cruises, hiking, local encounters and ethical experiences shape this enriching adventure, accompanied by a dedicated English-speaking team committed to delivering a personalized journey, tailored to your pace and travel preferences.
📩 Contact us now to plan your journey:
🌐 Website: QAsia Travel
📧 Email: voyagevietnam.qag@gmail.com
📘 Facebook: Travel in Vietnam
💬 WhatsApp: (+84) 988 555 034
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