Thailand and Laos are two unmissable locations to go to when you’re exploring Southeast Asia. Whereas Thailand is famend the world over as a bustling haven for backpackers, Laos’ repute as a barely quieter vacation spot signifies that it’s an ideal foil on your time in Thailand. There are infinite alternatives for journey and exploration in each international locations – a lot in order that it may be tough to know the place to start! So, we’ve picked what we expect are Thailand and Laos must-do actions – the last word experiences for any traveller.
Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
In 2014, members of the Karen hill-tribes of Northern Thailand joined forces with Chiang Mai locals to determine an moral sanctuary, designed explicitly for the welfare of native elephant populations. This sustainable ecotourism venture has turn into a agency favorite of Dragon Journey travellers, because it supplies each an incredible expertise to get up-close with these majestic animals and, crucially, a method to take action that ensures the safety and preservation of the elephants.
The Sanctuary locations significance upon guests studying all concerning the animals they’re seeing, so if you go to, you’ll come away with a complete host of information about elephants, their atmosphere, the native individuals, and the necessity to protect elephant populations.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
In Chiang Mai alone, there are tons of of gorgeous temples – and none are extra so than the spectacular Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which soars above Chiang Mai within the mountains. This beautiful temple was based in 1383 by King Keu Naone, and is reached by a steep 300-step staircase that takes you even larger above city-level. It’s an beautiful instance of Lanna structure, and in addition options spectacular naga sculptures – legendary sea serpents – that flank your ascent.
Throughout the complicated, you’ll see stunning temple buildings, pagodas, and statues – and in the event you can bear to show your again on it, you’ll additionally get spectacular views throughout Chiang Mai. It’s broadly recognised as one of many must-see websites within the province – and Thailand at giant.
Sticky (Bua Tong) Waterfall
In all of the superb images you see of Thailand, there’s no higher backdrop than a powerful waterfall. Bua Tong (often known as Sticky Waterfall) is arguably one of many best. Bua Tong will get its colloquial title because of the limestone that varieties it – whereas moist rocks are often slippy because of easy surfaces and algae, the hardened sponge-like limestone deposits that make up Bua Tong signifies that explorers can climb it by ‘sticking’ to the rocks. For those who’re after a little bit of journey when you’re within the jungle, attempt to climb up!
Whilst you’re there, take a dip and funky off within the water, which is fed year-round by mineral springs from the highest. You possibly can take a while to discover the plush jungle round it, and even take pleasure in a picnic. Simply don’t neglect your swimsuit!
Laos
Tak Bat Morning Ceremony
Luang Prabang’s standing as a UNESCO World Heritage website signifies that it’s an incredible place to get a significant glimpse into Lao tradition. There are few ceremonies extra stunning than Luang’s Tak Bat morning giving ceremony – a sacred Buddhist custom. This giving ceremony is a method for each the Buddhist monks and the native individuals to affirm their religion, as tons of of monks take to the streets of their saffron robes at daybreak to obtain meals ready by town locals.
The ceremony is carried out solely in silence, because the monks take a vow and stroll in meditation. It’s not solely an unimaginable sight to behold, but in addition a good way to realize helpful perception into the Lao tradition. Importantly, nonetheless, it’s essential that as a accountable traveller, you stay respectful of the ceremony’s deep that means to the locals and observe correct etiquette.
Kuang Si Falls
A small trickle, these falls ain’t. For those who’re seeking to be correctly, really impressed by waterfalls, there’s a purpose that Kuang Si is beloved by vacationers in every single place. The falls are multi-tiered, and as they cascade by the jungle, it creates stunning turquoise swimming pools so that you can take a dip in. The water’s distinct look is because of the limestone rocks that the waterfall is made up of.
It’s an incredible place to unwind – within the cool waters, surrounded by lush jungle. In lots of the swimming pools you’re allowed to swim, however there are specific areas the place it’s prohibited, the place the swimming pools are deemed sacred by native communities.
Pak Ou Caves
For one more stunning cultural tour, a go to to the Pak Ou Caves is a must-do. Situated on the junction of the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, they’re believed to have been a spot of worship from Buddhists from the 16th century. The caves are stuffed with tons of of pictures of Buddha which have been positioned there over the course of 400 years, lots of which have been left by pilgrims visiting the sacred space.
For a twin expertise, strive taking a ship journey up the Mekong from Luang Prabang to the caves. As soon as there, you’ll get one other superb glimpse into the wealthy non secular heritage of Laos, in addition to unimaginable panoramas of the encompassing forests.
