Vietnam attraction 15 Days 14 Nights

Highlight: Ho Chi Minh - Can Tho - Vinh Long - Dalat - Nhatrang - Da Nang - Hoi An - Hue - Hanoi - Halong - Hoa Lu

Highlights

•    Essential sites of Vietnam
•    Discovery of the two precious pearls of Ha Long Bay and Ha Long Bay inland.
•    Cu Chi incredible networks
•    Da Lat "eternal spring" city
•    Hue Imperial City
•    The Cao Dai temple.

A complete tour from the South to the North of Vietnam is offered you to explore a country, between sea and green mountains, between rice paddies and rocky peaks. You will enjoy a different side, closer to nature with the beautiful Bay of Ha Long and Ha Long Bay on land. This complex journey with the excellence will make you unforgettable.

Day 01: Arrival- Ho Chi Minh City (D)
On arrival: our guide  pick you up at the airport and then transfer to your hotel. Hochiminh city, still called Saigon by the local people is the largest city and economic center of Vietnam. The Saigon city extends its way on the banks of the Saigon River and is always busy with trade since its inception.
Dinner and overnight in Hochiminh.

Day 02: Ho Chi Minh City - Tay Ninh - Cu Chi - Ho Chi Minh 100km (B, L)Transfer to Tay Ninh. Tay Ninh is where headquarters of Vietnam’s native religion - Cao Dai is located. The Cao Dai Great Temple of the Holy See is of the sect and also extraordinary as the philosophy of the sect. This region was founded in 1923.
Then visit Cu Chi, Cu Chi is 65 km (1.5 hours) from Hochiminh and in the northwest of Hochiminh. The network of tunnels of Cu Chi became legendary during the war to help the guerrillas for the victory against U.S. troops. At the time, these three levels of tunnels stretching 250 km. Overnight in Hochiminh.

Day 03: Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho 170km (B, L, D) The morning is spent to explore Ho Chi Minh city: the former American embassy and the Reunification Palace. This famous building was the former residence of the President of Vietnam until the end of April 1975. Around this palace there are some French colonial structures such as Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office of Saigon. We also visit the pagoda of the Jade Emperor and the War Museum before ending our tour at Ben Thanh Market .
Drive to Can Tho to discover the busiest city. Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 04: Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City (B, L)After an early breakfast, drive to the Cai Rang market, "floating hall," which is one of the liveliest in the Mekong Delta with hundreds of small boats from selling or buying fruits and vegetables as well as its small vendors of soup or soft drinks. After being steeped in the atmosphere, we will continue to visit an orchard (Ba Cong), then visit the Binh Thuy old house by car.
Drive to Hochiminh city. Arrive in the afternoon.
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh.

Day 05: Ho Chi Minh City - Da Lat 490km - 6h drive (B, L)Departure from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat in the North. The influence of the French is prevalent since Da Lat was founded, the retreat of the colonial to escape the oppressive heat of the coastal plains and the Mekong Delta. This charming city is next to a lake and is surrounded by forests, waterfalls and the countryside. Overnight in Da Lat.

Day 06: Dalat - 210km NhaTrang - 4.30h (B, L)Walk around town in the morning and drive passing the lovely hills and pine forests. Visit the summer residence of the last emperor Bao Dai was forced to abdicate in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II. We continue our trip to the Lam Ty Ni Pagoda and the Hang Nga Guest House, well known as the house because of its strange architecture. Visit the Central Market and the old station. In the afternoon, drive to the picturesque coastal town - Nha Trang. Stop along the way to admire the view of Ngoan Muc Pass. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 07: Nhatrang (B, L)After breakfast, we embark on a boat for a trip around the coastal islands. On the way, we stop at the local village to observe the fishing way of life on the island. Then we have time for swimming or relaxing on the beach. A seafood lunch is served. We return on the coast in the late afternoon and visit the Long Son and Cham Pagoda. Overnight in Nha Trang.
 
Day 08: Nhatrang - Danang - Hoi An 850km - 1 hour flight (B, L)Breakfast at the hotel and then transfer to airport for the flight to Da Nang.
On arrival, we will towards Hoi An which was a seaport. There are many places to visit in this quiet and attractive town like the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, the Pottery Museum, Tam Ky Home, Chua Ong Pagoda and the vibrant market. We visit these sites by bike. Overnight in Hoi An

Day 09: Hoi An - Hue 135km (B, L)The next destination of our trip is Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam.
Stop on the way to visit the Marble Mountains, the beach and Cham museum in Danang. This interesting structure is the site of the largest collection of Cham treasures of Vietnam. The road leads to the Hai Van Pass. At the pass, we stop to admire Lang Co and Da Nang from the North to the South. In Hue we visit the ancient citadel and royal palaces. This royal residence was destroyed during the Tet offensive in 1968, but it still fascinates us. Overnight in Hue.

Day 10: Hue (B, L)The beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda next to the river now becomes the symbol of Hue, the royal tomb and Tu Duc refined Emperor are not to be missed.
Cruise on the Perfume River gives us the pleasure of seeing the countryside and visit the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang in a peaceful setting of gardens and lakes. Then a tour of the Dong Ba market where has a wide variety of local goods and crafts.
Lunch at the restaurant with typical dishes of the region. Overnight in Hue.

Day 11: Hue - Hanoi 658km (B, L)After breakfast, free until transfer to the airport to the destination of Ha Noi. The vietnam’s capital is a charming city and has a colonial architecture.
Many lakes and parks provide a relaxing atmosphere. After checking in at the hotel, we visit the Hoan Kiem beautiful lake with its sacred temple and the vibrant Dong Xuan market, the market recognized as the oldest and largest of Hanoi. A perfect way to finish the day is cycling in the old part before shopping. We arrive in time for the water puppet show. Overnight in Hanoi

Day 12: Hanoi - Halong 170km - 3.30h by car (B, L, D)Today we have a half-day tour in town. First, visit the Ho Chi Minh complex (the Mausoleum closes on Monday and Friday. We can visit outside), including the mausoleum of the founder of the nation-  Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace and his house on stilts. The complex also includes One- Pillar Pagoda whose origins dated from the foundation of Hanoi. We continue our trip to the Temple of Literature, well known as the first University of Vietnam; the History Museum which exhibits an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the Vietnamese history. The Hoan Kiem peaceful lake and the Dong Xuan bustling market are the places to visit before we leave for Halong Bay through the countryside. Overnight in Halong.

Day 13: Halong - Ninh Binh 170km - 4 hours by car (B, L, D)Covering an area of 1553 km ², Halong Bay is the home of at least 1969 karst island which only 989 are named. Ha Long Bay is dotted with crazy shaped islands, rocks. All are composed of limestone and surrounded by the sea of jade. Halong Bay is listed as World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
After breakfast, drive to Ha Long Port. Check in the cruise in Ha Long Bay. This exciting five hour cruise gives us the pleasure to admire a picturesque and fantastic mixes with the sky and the 3000 limestone islands amount of clear water and green. Then we anchor for swimming or kayaking and visiting hidden caves on high cliffs. Lunch on board. After cruising, depart to Ninh Binh. Dinner and overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 14: Ninh Binh - Hoa Lu - Trang An - Hanoi-2.30h drive 100km (B, L)
Hoa Lu, Vietnam's capital from 968 to 1010 AD (from the Dinh Dynasty until the beginning of the dynasty) leaves two small temples, each almost a thousand years.
Arrive in Hoa Lu after two and a half hours by bus. Visit the Temple of the Dinh and Le Kings. It was built in the 17th century- an original and beautiful work of architecture, noted for its wood carvings and stone. A breathtaking view from the top of the Yen Ma Mountain after 200 steps which is only the people loving the nature. The adventure continues with another panorama, between the rocky peaks, mysterious caves, the green landscapes and lazy river that flows in the rice fields ... It is hard to ask for more when you're in the middle of the Ha Long Bay inland! Under the expert of boatmen, the boat slips in this beautiful landscape, you can enjoy the full beauty of this pearl. Here are women who row the boats with the traditional manual: rowing with their feet. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 15: Hanoi - Departure (B)Free time until transfer to Noi Bai airport to your destination. End of our services.

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Hue city tour 1 day

Activity
Start in	Hue
End in	Hue
Group Size	Max 16 pax
Tour type	Group Tour
Code	DV005
Depart	Daily
Price from	From 430000 VND

Welcome to the city of Hue, let us guide you through the bustling streets, natural landscape and unique architecture including the perfume river, tombs, pagodas and many temples, all of which have become major tourist attractions for visitors from all over the world. You will rediscover the ancient world of the emperors of 13 kings of Nguyen dynasty, from Gia Long to Bao Dai. Is the first UNESCO world heritage site in Explorer the village where women make the traditional hats and learn from our expert guides about the lives of these people.

Hue city tour

AM: Pick up at your hotel in Hue from 08:00 – 08:30 and drive to visit the following tourist attractions of the city.
- Hat and incenses stick making village: learning the traditional job of people here and you can buy some for souvenirs…
- Tu Duc tomb: Tu Duc designed the exquisitely harmonious tomb, which was constructed between 1864 and 1867, for use both before and after his death.
- Minh Mang tomb: Said to be the most majestic of all of the Royal Tombs. Renowned for its architecture, which harmoniously blends into the nature surroundings.
- Khai Dinh tomb: unlike Hue’s other tombs, being a synthesis of Vietnamese and European elements. Even the stone faces of the mandarin honour guards are endowed with a mixture of Vietnamese and European features.

12:00: Back to the city to enjoy Vietnamese food (Eating lunch and end services of half day tourist at 13h00)

PM: After lunch, we continue our tour to visit Hue Citadel. Here, we will see the tallest flag pole of Vietnam (37m-hight), Ngo Mon gate where Bao Dai ended Nguyen dynasty, Thai Hoa palace ( Palace of Supreme Hamony), Hall of the Mandarins, Forbidden Purple city… After that we move to visit Thien Mu pagoda which was built on a hillock overlooking the Perfume river, this pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and the symbol of Hue city.

Cruise the beautiful perfume river by dragon boat viewing daily life along the way. Visit some villages and do not miss viewing sunset on the river
16:00. End services.

Class	Size of group						Booking
	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room
Standard	430,000	430,000	430,000	430,000	430,000	430,000	Book now

* All prices in VND - Convert to USD Click here

Included Services:

• A/C bus
• English speaking guide
• Meal in the tour

Excluded Services: Entrance tickets, drinks, personal expenses and tips.

Address: No. 25 TT Van Phu Invest , Ha Dong , Ha Noi , Vietnam Tel: (+84 – 4 ) 39905893 / 39905892 - Fax: (+84 – 4) 33119391 - Hotline 24/7: 0913377555 Website: http://www.indochinaholidaytravel.com - Email: info@indochinaholidaytravel.com

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Cham Tower site at Vietnam ethnic tourism and culture village to inaugurate

The inauguration ceremony of the Cham population temple tower and series of activities to mark Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage Day will open at the Vietnam ethnic tourism and culture village in Dong Mo (Son Tay town, Hanoi) on November 23-24.  The program will see the participation of Cham and Raglai ethnic groups of Ninh Thuan; Cham ethnic groups from An Giang, Binh Thuan, Phu Yen, Binh Dinh, Dong Nai, Tay Ninh provinces, Ho Chi Minh City; Hre ethnic group of Quang Ngai province; Viet Bac Folk song and dance theatre; Bien Xanh song and dance theatre from Binh Thuan province; and some units directly under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. “The event is to respond to the 5th Party Central Committee meeting resolution (term VIII) on “Building and developing an advanced Vietnam’s culture deeply imbued with national identity while introducing and propagating Vietnam’s images in general and Cham ethnics in particular to international friends”, Mr. Nguyen Dinh Loi, Vice head of management board of the Vietnam ethnic tourism and culture village, addressed the press conference on November 15. According to the organizing board, a series of activities will be held at the program including a ceremony to open the Cham Tower site door at the Vietnam ethnic tourism and culture village; an art program to mark Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day; 82 years of the founding of the National Front for the Liberation of Vietnam. Beside, an exhibition to display artifacts, specialties, cultural products of the Cham and other Vietnamese ethnic groups in the integration and development process; reappearing traditional ceremonies of the Cham ethnic group, such as the ritual for girls being recognized as mature women of the Cham Ba Ni ethnic group in Ninh Thuan province and traditional weddings of the Cham ethnic group in An Giang province.

(Source: CPV)

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Ethnic Group Culture and Sports Festival opens in Kon Tum

The Kon Tum Ethnic Group Culture and Sports Festival 2012 on the theme ‘Kon Tum – A Legendary Land’ opened on November 7 to celebrate the upcoming Heritage Day (November 23) and the 100th anniversary of the province’s establishment (1913-2013).

The four-day event has drawn the participation of 300 artisans and athletes from six local ethnic groups including Xe Dang, Ba Na, Gia Rai, Gie Trieng, Brau and Ro Mam, who will compete in traditional sporting events such as walking on stilts, tug-of-war, crossbow shooting and stick pushing.

The festival also features a wooden sculpture carving competition, a culinary festival, and a traditional costume fashion show, as well as gong performances and a street carnival.

The festival, held by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, aims to boost solidarity and exchanges between ethnic groups in the locality, and promote the province’s traditional identities and indigenous cultures to domestic and international friends.

(Source: Nhandan)

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Russian farmtrip group to survey trans-Viet route

A farmtrip group of ten Russian businesses is expected to visit Vietnam in the fourth quarter of 2012. During the eight-day visit, the group will survey the trans-Viet route to Hanoi, Halong, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, My Tho and Ho Chi Minh City.

Russia is currently the most potentially important tourism market of Vietnam and the Vietnam National Tourism Administration welcoming the farmtrip group is part of the national tourism promotion programme in 2012.  In 2011, Russia jumped from the 25th to 11th place among the tourist markets in Vietnam. Vietnam attracts Russian tourists due to affordable prices, safety, good service and beautiful landscapes. However, Russian tourists mainly flock to Vietnam’s central coastal provinces such as Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Mui Ne (Binh Thuan), Hoi An and Danang.  The survey in some destinations in Southern and Northern Vietnam lays the foundation and offers opportunities for setting tour schedules and bringing Russian tourists to Vietnam.

(Source: Van Hoa News)

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Project on cultural day of Vietnamese ethnic groups 2013 approved

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has approved a project on organizing the cultural day of Vietnamese ethnic groups 2013 in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai from April 19th to 21st, with the participation of all 54 ethnic minority groups nationwide.

The opening ceremony will take place at 8 pm on April 19th 2013 and the closing ceremony will also be on 8 pm, on April 21st 2013. 

Diverse activities will be held, such as a seminar on the great solidarity among ethnic minority groups to make the strength of Vietnam in 67 years of implementing Uncle Ho’s letter to the Congress of southern ethnic groups; mass art performance; show of traditional clothes; exhibition on ethnic cultures; and performances of Vietnamese intangible cultural heritages recognized by UNESCO.

The event aims to strengthen the great solidarity among ethnic minority groups and localities nationwide; preserve and promote cultural identities and fine traditions of ethnic minority groups; promote tourism and socio-economic and cultural development; improve people’s awareness of preserving and glorifying the advanced Vietnamese culture imbued with national identities; and introduce people nationwide as well as international friends to images of the Vietnamese land and people and fine cultural traditions.

(Source: CPV)

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HCM City-Abu Dhabi air route to open

Etihad Airways of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will open a direct route from Ho Chi Minh City to Abu Dhabi in October 2013.

Speaking at a ceremony in HCM City on October 9, Etihad Airways Chairman and CEO James Hogan said that his compacy will use Airbus A330 aircraft for the daily flights that will depart from HCM City at 8:15 am and arrive in Abu Dhabi after seven hours. The air route will help bring Vietnam and the UAE closer as well as open up opportunities for economic, trade, cultural and tourism cooperation between the two countries, he said. HCM City is the sixth destination of Etihad Airways in Southeast Asia, together with Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Singapore. The official added that the carrier is considering the opening of another air route from Hanoi to the UAE. Source : VNA

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INDOCHINA FOCUS

Duration: 10 days Sightseeing tour of Ha Noi includes Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. visit Ha Long Bay, listed as a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty. This picturesque “Dragon descending to the sea” Bay ... Day 1: Arrival - Hanoi ( D ) You are met on arrival at Noi Bai Airport & transferred to hotel for check in. In the afternoon, you will be driven to visit the Temple of Literature known as Vietnam’s first university & Museum of Ethnology. And lastly, you will have a chance to take a tour by cyclo around the old quarter streets to discover the local people life. O/N in Ha Noi. Day 2: Hanoi - Halong bay ( B , L , D ) A morning sightseeing tour of Ha Noi includes Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple. After having lunch at restaurant, we will keep going ahead to Ha Long Bay. O/N in Ha Long. Day 3: Halong bay - Hanoi ( B , L ) Take a 5-hour boat trip to visit Ha Long Bay, listed as a World Heritage Area of outstanding natural beauty. This picturesque “Dragon descending to the sea” Bay has 1,969 limestone islets rising from the sea, many of them containing beautiful grottoes. Visit of a grotto then seafood lunch on board. Drive back to Hanoi. Evening: Water puppets show, the unique Vietnam traditional art. O/N in Ha Noi. Day 4: Hanoi – Luang Prabang  ( B ) After breakfast at hotel, transfer to Noi Bai airport for flight to Luang Prabang, the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to our hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty temples still remain in the town and surrounding areas. Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana - Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple which, more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture; Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang. O/N in Luang Prabang. Day 5: Luang Prabang & Pak Ou cave( B , L ) Following breakfast, we depart hotel to the boat landing, and take an excursion (a few hours) by boat, upstream on the Mekong to visit Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height. En route, Lao typical villages are barely visible behind a screen of foliage. Slender canoes bobbing by the shore, bamboo poles and floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Our first stop will be at Ban Muangkeo, a well-known village for Lao traditional rice whisky, namely Laoh-Khao to be distilled. We are welcome to taste it and also take away. Lunch is served at a riverside restaurant.  We arrive back at Luang Prabang in late afternoon, and continue to drive outskirt of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, a well-known village for its wood paper making and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes. O/N in Luang Prabang. Day 6: Luang Prabang - Vientiane ( B ) In the morning, visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace which houses the collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue, gifts received from foreign dignitaries…etc. Transfer to Luang Prabang airport for flight Vientiane. Meet on arrival and you are welcome to Vientiane, the city of the moon - an ancient city, situated on the bend on the left bank of the Mekong as the largest city and the capital of Laos. Transfer to hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of Vientiane, to visit religious museums of Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple to have been survived from the Siamese war of 1828 and its cloister contains more than 8000 Buddha statues; Wat Ho Prakeo, the former home-temple of the Emerald Buddha statue or Pra Keo, but today it contains a collection of Buddha statues, antiques and all artifacts found in around Vientiane; That Luang Stupa, the single most important monument in Laos, which was built to cover the original small stupa containing a piece of the chest bone of Buddha; Patouxay (Arch de Triumph), built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past and it is today as the land-mark of Vientiane. O/N in Vientiane. Day 7: Vientiane – Phnom Penh ( B ) After breakfast, a short flight to Phnom Penh.Upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport, meets and transfers to hotel Visit the Victory Monument and the National Museum, the Royal Palace, built by the French in 1866 on the site of the old town, and Silver Pagoda, which located within the Royal Palace ground.You will then end your tour with a visit to Wat Phnom Temple, Phnom Penh's namesake, from where you can enjoy views over the tree lined avenues of the city during sunset. O/N at hotel Day 8: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap ( B , D ) Breakfast at hotel .Transfer to Phnom Penh airport for departure to Siem Reap. Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport, meets and transfers to hotel. Visit the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century). See the South Gate (with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk), Bayon Temple(unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara), the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King .In the afternoon, visit the most famous of all the temples on the Angkor plain: Angkor Wat. The temple complex cover 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Angkor Wat's five tower symbolize Meru's five peaks, the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world and the surrounding moat symbolizes the ocean beyond Sunset from Phnom Bakheng, one of two hills dominating the plain of Angkor, from where you will have a spectacular view of the Western Baray and Angkor Wat. O/N at hotel Day 9: Siem Reap ( B , L ) Breakfast at hotel ,In the morning, you will continue your temple visits. Included are Prasat Kravan (with its unique brick sculptures), Srah Srang ("The Royal Boths" was once used for ritual bathing), Banteay Kdei (surrounded by four concentric walls), Eastern Mebon (guarded at its corner by stone figures of harnessed elephants, some of which are still in a reasonable state of preservation) and the "Mountain Temple" of Pre Rup. In the afternoon, transfer to the archaeological site and continue to the temple tour. Visit Ta Prohm, one of the most beautiful temples in the area. Ta Prohm has been left relatively untouched since it was discovered and retains much of its mystery  ,Then, visit Takeo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda temples Day 10: Siem Reap - Departure ( B ) Breakfast at hotel. Visit the floating village of the Chong Khneas, located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Take a traditional wooden boat for a ride on the Tonle Sap, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia and the largest in Asia In the afternoon, visit "Les Artisans d'Angkor - Chantiers Ecoles" of Siem Reap and time at leisure at the local market (if time permits) Transfer to Siem Reap airport for departure to the next destination . Source : indochinaholidaytravel.com

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Indochina Bay to temples tours 11 days

INDOCHINA BAY TO TEMPLES TOUR

On This trip you will visit 3 World Heritage sites in 3 different countries and atmosphere , Halong , Hue and Angkor wat,  one of the world Heritage site in Indochina...

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong ( D )
Arrival in Hanoi airport and transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Journey east along Highway 5 across Hai Duong Province and around Halong Bay. Overnight in Halong. 

Day 2 : Halong – Hanoi ( B , L  )
Boat trip Halong Bay. This four-hour boat ride explores Halong Bay, passing the islands of Trong, Mai, Am, Chen and Cong Troi (Heaven Gates). Stop at one of the islands and visit of one of the following caves. Highlights: HANG DAU GO: a huge, three-chambered cave, which is reached via 90 steps. The cave derives its Vietnamese name from the third of the chambers, which is said to have been used by Trang Hung Dao during the 13th century to store bamboo stakes used against the Mongol invaders. BO NAU: the "Pelican" caves. THIEN CUNG: "Heaven Palace."By vehicle from Halong to Hanoi. Journey around Halong Bay to Hai Phong and west along Highway 5, across Hai Hung Province. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi  ( B , L )
Full day sightseeing in Hanoi, a city of lakes, shaded boulevards and public parks, is the capital of Vietnam. It is a very attractive city with French style buildings and less traffic than other cities in Asia. Highlights: ONE PILLAR PAGODA: built by the Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who ruled from 1028 to 1054. Constructed of wood on a single stone pillar, it is designed to resemble a lotus blossom. TEMPLE OF LITERATURE: founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, who dedicated it to Confucius in order to honor scholars and men of literary accomplishment. HOAN KIEM LAKE: right in the heart of Hanoi, this lake contains an islet with the tiny Tortoise Pagoda, topped with a red star. HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM: in the tradition of Lenin and Stalin before him and Mao after him, the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh is a glass sarcophagus set deep in the bowels of a monumental edifice that has become a site of pilgrimage. (Closed Mondays and Fridays). OPERA HOUSE: a magnificent 900-seat opera house built in 1911. (May be viewed from the outside only). ST JOSEPH CATHEDRAL: a neo-Gothic cathedral finished in 1886, it is noteworthy for its square towers, elaborate altar and stained-glass windows. BAO TANG LICH: once the museum of the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, is a building constructed of reinforced concrete completed in 1930. Exhibits include artefacts from Vietnam's turbulent history including some from prehistory, proto-Vietnamese civilisations, the Dong Son culture, the Oc-Eo culture and the Khmer Kingdoms. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 4: Hanoi – Hue ( B , D )
Transfer to the airport. Flight from Hanoi to Hue and transfer to the hotel. Sightseeing Old Imperial City. Highlights: IMPERIAL CITY: located in the Citadel, it was built in the early 19th century and modeled after the Forbidden City in Peking. There are numerous palaces and temples within these walls, as well as towers, a library and a museum. NGO MON GATE: the principal entrance to the Imperial Enclosure, facing the Flag Tower. The central passageway with its yellow doors was reserved for use by the emperor, as was the bridge across the lotus pond. THAI HOA PALACE: built in 1803 and moved to its present site in 1833, Thai Hoa Palace is a spacious hall with an ornate roof of huge timbers supported by 80 carved and lacquered columns. HALLS OF THE MANDARINS: these buildings, in which the mandarins prepared for court ceremonies held in the Can Chanh Reception Hall, were restored in 1977. NINE DYNASTIC URNS: these were cast in 1835-36. Traditional ornamentation was then chiseled into the sides of the urns, each dedicated to a different Nguyen sovereign. FORBIDDEN PURPLE CITY: this was reserved for the personal use of the emperor. The only servants allowed into the compound were eunuchs, who would pose no threat to the royal concubines. (Today the site is in ruins). Visit Imperial Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, once the Royal Palace of Tu Duc, who ruled Hue more than 100 years ago, this tomb consists of pavilions in a tranquil setting of forested hills and lakes. The tomb was constructed between 1864 and 1867. Tu Duc, who was the longest reigning Emperor, lived a luxurious life. Visit Dong Ba Market, a local market near the Imperial City Overnight in Hue.

Day 5: Hue – Danang ( B , L  )
Excursion on Huong Giang River to the Thien Mu Pagoda with boat trip. Highlights: THIEN MU PAGODA: just outside of Hue, on the bank of the Perfume River, this was a hotbed of anti-government protest during the early 1960s. Behind the main sanctuary of the pagoda is the Austin motorcar which transported the monk Thich Quang Duc to the site of his 1963 self-immolation.By vehicle from Hue to Danang. Journey south along Highway 1 past the Hai Van Pass and Lang Co.
HAI VAN PASS: the pass crosses over a spur of the Truong Son Mountain Range that just into the South China Sea. It is an incredible mountainous stretch of highway with spectacular views. LANG CO: a pretty, island-like stretch of palm-shaded sand with a crystal-clear lagoon on one side and many km of beachfront facing the South China Sea. Sightseeing in Danang, Vietnam's fourth largest city marks the northern limits of Vietnam's tropical zone, boasting a pleasant year-round climate. Highlights: CHAM MUSEUM: founded in 1915 by the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, the open-air collection of Cham sculpture is the finest in the world. Many of the sandstone carvings are breathtaking. CHINA BEACH: made famous in the American TV series of the same name, it stretches for many kilometers north and south of the Marble Mountains. During the American War, soldiers were airlifted here for 'rest and relaxation'. MARBLE MOUNTAINS: Five stone hillocks, once islands, made of marble. Each is said to represent one of the five elements of the universe. The largest and most famous, Thuy Son, has a number of natural caves in which Buddhist sanctuaries have been built over the centuries. When the Champas ruled this area, these same caves were used as Hindu shrines. Overnight in Danang.

Day 6: Danang – Saigon ( B , L )
Excursion to Hoi An, a picturesque riverside town south of Danang. Known as Faifo to early western traders, it was one of South East Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Sightseeing is best done on foot or by cyclo, and will include at least five of the following sights. Highlights: QUAN CONG TEMPLE: founded in 1653, this Chinese temple is dedicated to Quan Cong, whose partially gilded statue is in the central altar at the back of the sanctuary. Stone plaques on the walls list contributors to the construction and repair of the temple. PHUOC KIEN PAGODA: Chinese pagoda built around 1690 and then restored and enlarged in 1900. It is typical of the Chinese 'clans' that were established in the Hoi An area. The temple is dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau (Goddess of the Sea and Protector of Sailors and Fishermen). JAPANESE COVERED BRIDGE: the first bridge on this site was constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream. The bridge was provided with a roof so it could be used as a shelter from rain and sun. DIEP DONG NGUYEN HOUSE: built for a Chinese merchant, an ancestor of the present inhabitants, in the late 19th century. The front room on the ground floor was once a dispensary for Thuoc Bac (Chinese medicine). TRAN FAMILY CHAPEL: this house for worshipping ancestors was built about 200 years ago with donations from family members. The Tran family traces its origins to China and moved to Vietnam around 1700. The architecture of the building reflects the influence of Chinese and Japanese styles. SA HUYNH MUSEUM: located near the Japanese Covered Bridge, it contains exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An's history. TRADING CERAMICS MUSEUM: a museum offering a display of old Hoi An ceramics. QUAN THANG HOUSE: one of the oldest and nicest houses in Hoi An. There are some especially fine carvings on the wooden walls of the rooms around the courtyard. PHUNG HUNG HOUSE: the same family has been living here for eight generations. The house is a combination of Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese styles. QUANG DONG PAGODA: a small Chinese style temple with a lintel gate, a rockery courtyard and lucky animals depicted in statuary, this pagoda was open to all Chinese traders or seamen and is dedicated to Thien Hau. CHUA CHUC THANH PAGODA: founded in 1454 by Minh Hai, a Buddhist monk from China, it is the oldest pagoda in Hoi An. Among the antique ritual objects still in use are several bells, a stone gong two centuries old and a carp-shaped wooden gong said to be even older. Transfer to the airport. Flight from Danang to Saigon. Arrival transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 7: Saigon ( B , L  )
Full day sightseeing in Saigon and Cholon (Chinatown). Saigon is the largest of Vietnamese cities, with the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life visible everywhere. There are street markets, sidewalk cafes and sleek new bars. The city churns and bubbles. Yet within this teeming metropolis are 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. To the west of the city is District 5, the huge Chinese neighborhood called Cholon, which means 'Big Market'. Highlights: NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL: built between 1877 and 1883 and set in the heart of Saigon's government quarter. It has a neo-Romanesque form and two high square towers, tipped with iron spires. In front of the cathedral is a statue of the Virgin Mary. CENTRAL POST OFFICE: a French-style building with a glass canopy and iron frame, situated next to the Notre Dame Cathedral. The structure was built between 1886 and 1891 and is by far the largest post office in Vietnam. CITY HALL: completed in 1908, also known as Hotel de Ville, and located at the northern end of Nguyen Hue Boulevard. With its ornate gingerbread façade, it looks like the town hall of a French town. (May be viewed from the outside only). OPERA HOUSE: built around the turn of the century and first renovated in the 1940s, the building housed the lower division of the National Assembly. Today it is a Municipal Theatre and also known as the Saigon Concert Hall. (May be viewed from the outside only). JADE EMPEROR PAGODA: was a key meeting place for Chinese secret societies. It has very colorful and mysterious ambience. REUNIFICATION PALACE: this was the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president and was stormed by tanks on 30 April 1975, signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state. WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM: collections of weapons and photographs from two Indochina wars are exhibited along with the original French 'Guillotine' brought here in the early 20th century. BEN THANH MARKET: the central market of Saigon, its surrounding streets make up one of the city's liveliest areas. Everything commonly eaten, worn or used by the average resident of Saigon is available here. GIAC LAM PAGODA: the oldest pagoda in Saigon, built at the end of the 17th century. Because the last reconstruction here was in 1900, the architecture, layout and ornamentation remain almost unaltered by the modernist renovations that have transformed so many other religious structures in Vietnam. Ten monks live in this pagoda, which also incorporates aspects of Taoism and Confucianism. BINH TAY MARKET: Cholon's main marketplace, much of the business conducted here is wholesale. THIEN HAU PAGODA: built by the Cantonese congregation in the early 19th century. The pagoda is one of the most active in Cholon and is dedicated to Thien Hau. It is said that she can travel over the oceans on a mat and ride the clouds to wherever she pleases. Overnight in Saigon.

Day 8: Saigon ( Ho Chi Minh city ) - Phnom Penh ( B , D )
Transfer to the airport. Flight from Saigon to Phnom Penh. Arrival in Phnom Penh and transfer to the hotel. Sightseeing in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’scapital sitting at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers. Considered the loveliest of the French-built cities of Indochina, it was founded as a small monastery in 1372 by a rich Khmer woman called Penh after she found four Buddha statues in a tree trunk on the banks of the Mekong. She set up the monastery on a nearby hill ' or ''phnom'' in Cambodian. Highlights: WAT PHNOM: a temple and location of the first pagoda on this site built in 1372 by ''Penh'' to house the four Buddha statues found on the banks of the Mekong. It is the only hill (27 meters) in the capital. WAT OUNALOM: a very important wat comprising 44 structures facing the Tonle Sap Lake and built in 1443 to house a hair of the Buddha. ROYAL PALACE AND SILVER PAGODA: the royal palace stands on the site of the former citadel, Bantey Kev (built in 1813). Visitors are not allowed in some portions of the grounds, as the palace is the official residence of King Sihanouk. The silver pagoda is often called the Pagoda of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Preah Kaeo after the statue housed there. The wooden temple was originally built by King Norodom in 1892 and inside, its floor is comprised of more than 5000 silver blocks which together weigh nearly 6 tons. NATIONAL MUSEUM: designed by a French archeologist and painter, George Groslier, in Khmer style in 1920 to exhibit works previously scattered throughout the country. It contains a collection of Khmer art including the beautiful 6th century bronze statue of Vishnu. TUOL SLENG MUSEUM (Museum of Genocide): formerly the Tuol Svay Prey High School, in 1975 it became the Khmer Rouge's main torture and interrogation center. It was known as Security Prison 21 ' or just S-21. CENTRAL MARKET: a covered market distinguished by its central dome (built in 1937). It is filled with shops selling jewelry, fabrics and all kinds of souvenirs. A great place for browsing. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 9: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap ( B , D )
Transfer to the airport. Flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. arrival transfer and sightseeing of Angkor. Visit Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu by King Suryavarman II, who reigned between 1131 and 1150. It was constructed over a period of 30 years and is world famous for its beauty and splendor. Angkor Wat features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer gallery walls and narrates stories from Hindu mythology. In 1992 the UNESCO declared the monument and the whole city of Angkor a World Heritage Site. Visit Angkor Thom, a fortified Royal City (10 square kilometers) built by King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1201. The city has five monumental gates and is encircled by a moat 100 meters wide. In the center of the walled city are the city's most important monuments including Bayon, Baphuon, the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and Phimeanakas with Royal Enclosure. Other highlights: BAYON: Jayavarman VII's temple mountain that stands at the center of Angkor Thom. It is one of the most popular of Angkor's monuments and a place of narrow corridors, steep flights of stairs and an amazing collection of towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces. BAPHUON: the pyramid shape represents the mythical Mount Meru and marks the center of the city that was here before Angkor Thom. PHIMEANAKAS: near the center of what was once the royal palace within Angkor Thom. Phimeanakas means ''Celestial Palace'', though today there is not much left to indicate its former splendour. FORMER ROYAL PALACE: nothing remains today except two pools that were used by royalty for washing. TERRACE OF ELEPHANTS: this terrace was used for viewing public ceremonies and was a base for the King's grand audience hall. The famous lines of elephants are at either end of the retaining walls. TERRACE OF THE LEPER KING: North of the Terrace of Elephants is a platform named 'Terrace of the Leper King'. On the platform is a nude statue ' one of Angkor's mysteries. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 10: Siem Reap ( B , D )
Continue the sightseeing Angkor with a visit to Banteay Srei Temple, built in the late 10th century, it is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. The temple is square with entrances on the east and west. Of main interest are the three central towers which are decorated with male and female divinities and beautiful filigree relief work. Visit Banteay Samre, built in the middle of the 12th century under Suryavarman II, and dedicated to the god Vishnu.Visit Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda. Other highlights: PRASAT KRAVAN: the five brick towers were built for Hindu worship in 921 and are notable for the bas-reliefs cut into the bricks on the interior walls. BANTEAY KDEI: a massive Buddhist temple dating from the second half of the 12th century. It is surrounded by four concentric walls, the outer walls measuring 500 by 700 metres. TA PROHM: one of the most popular attractions of Angkor as much of the jungle has not been cleared and it looks very much as most of the Angkor monuments would have appeared when European explorers first stumbled across them. TA KEO: built by Jayavarman V (ruled 968 to 1001), it was the first Angkorian monument built entirely of sandstone and was dedicated to Shiva. The summit of the central tower is 50 metres high and is surrounded by four lower towers. THOMMANON: temple which mirrors Chau Say Tevoda (just to the north), as it was built around the same time and has a similar plan. It is also dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. CHAU SAY TEVODA: built during the second quarter of the 12th century on the east side of Angkor Wat, it was dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 11: Siem Reap/ Depart ( B )
Transfer to the airport - End of services.

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Cultural Cambodia 6 Days

Trip Summary 

Destination : Siem Reap angkor wat - Phnom penh city

Starts in : Siem Reap 

Ends in : Phnom Penh 

Duration : 6 Days in Length 

Grade : A 

Tour Type : Private 

Trip Code : INDOCB-0468 

Countries visited : Cambodia 

Departure Date : All year round 

Price : 0 US$ - 0 US$

Trip Description 

Day 1: Siem Reap (L–D)

Arrival at Siem Reap International Airport meet Indochina Holidays Travel local English speaking guide, transfer to check in the selected hotel, take a short refresh and start sight seeing to Southern gate of Angkor Thom, Bayon, Baphoun, Phimean Akas, Elephant Terrace, Royal Enclosure and Leper King Terrace, lunch at local restaurant and relax at hotel.

PM: Afternoon 14:30 meet our tour guide at hotel; start to visit small circuit from Kravan, Sras Srang, Bantey Kdei, Taprohm, Takeo, Spean Thmor, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda, dinner at local restaurant, overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B-L-D)

AM: After breakfast at 8:15 meet our tour guide at hotel, exit to northeast approx 32 km from Siem Reap town to see Bantey Srei (Citadel of the Women) and Bantey Samré on the way back, lunch at local restaurant, relax at hotel.

PM: Afternoon 14:30 meet our tour guide at hotel; continues to see 7th wonderful world heritage of Angkor Wat temple and viewing sunset on Bakheng hill, dinner at local restaurant enjoy APSARA dance performance, overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Siem Reap- Phnom Penh (B-L-D)

AM: After breakfast check-out, 8:30 meet our tour guide at hotel, continues to visit grand circuit start by Preah Khan (Sacred Sword) 12th century by Jayavaraman 7th, Neak Poan, Tasom, Eastern Mebon and Pre Rup, lunch at local restaurant.

PM: After lunch continues to visit Rolous Group build by Indravaraman 1 (reigned 877-89) start by Lo Lei, Preah Ko and Bakong, dinner at local restaurant, transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for flight to Phnom Penh, arrival in Phnom Penh International Airport meet our tour guide transfer to check in the selected hotel, overnight at hotel in Phnom Penh.

Day 4: Phnom Penh (B-L-D)

AM: After breakfast 8:30 meet our tour guide at hotel, start to visit Silver Pagoda, Royal Palace, National Museum and Central New Market, lunch at local restaurant, take a short relax at hotel.

PM: Afternoon 14:30 meet our tour guide at hotel continue to visit genocide museum of Toul Sleng, Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom, visit around town and river side, dinner at local restaurant, overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Phnom Penh (B-L-D)

AM: After breakfast 8:20 meet our tour guide at hotel, start to visit Ta Prohm temple at Tonle Bati located southwest of the Phnom Penh capital, picnic lunch at Tonle Bati restaurant.

PM: After picnic take short refresh and continues to visit Killing Field (Choeung Ek) located 15km south of the capital, back to town dinner at local restaurant, free 1 hour food or body massage, overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Phnom Penh (B-L)

AM: After breakfast start to do shopping at Toul Tom Poung Market and free leisure until transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport 2 hours before flight departure.

Tour Prices included: 

- Accommodation with breakfast (B) 

- 6 Lunches (L), 5 dinners (D) per itinerary

- Transfers and tours in private air-conditioned vehicles

- English-speaking guides

- Full sightseeing program including admission fees

- Free 1 Hour food or body massage 

- Domestic Airfare from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

Not Included in Tour Prices: 

- Airfare from your hometown, to your gateway city

- Costs of passports and visa

- Personal expenses such as: beverages, laundry, room services.

- Meals not mentioned.

- Excess baggage fees, communication charges, airports, ports and departure taxes.

- All kind of insurances.

Hot Line!! (Hanoi Office) 

Cellphones :  (+84) 913377555 outside Vietnam : 0984112231 inside Vietnam

E-mail: info@indochinaholidaytravel.com

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