12-Day India, Vietnam, and Cambodia Tour

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Hanoi. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter, known as the "36 Streets," dating back to the 13th century. Each street was once dedicated to a specific craft or trade, and the area still preserves its unique architecture and local way of life.

This is not your typical tourist experience. Join us as we wander through iconic streets and narrow alleys, getting a deeper look into local daily life. Visit a family with over 50 years of history in the Old Quarter, chat about traditions, and explore Dong Xuan Market, the area's largest wholesale market.

During the tour, enjoy local drinks and dishes. It concludes at O Quan Chuong Gate, the sole surviving "square gate" from the original five that surrounded the Thang Long Citadel. We'll then take you back to your hotel, so you can relish this immersive journey.

In the early evening, we'll take you from your hotel to a public theater to experience a captivating water puppet performance. This unique art form originates from the flooded rice fields of the Red River Delta, where villagers entertained themselves by controlling puppets over the water.

During the show, talented puppeteers stand immersed in water behind a screen, skillfully manipulating colorful wooden puppets with long rods to bring scenes from Vietnamese folklore to life. The performances are accompanied by traditional music played on drums, wooden bells, horns, bamboo flutes, and cymbals. In some scenes, opera singers provide melodious narratives. It's a cultural journey you won't want to miss.

Commence your adventure at Lot 32 - Tuan Chau Marina with a warm welcome and check-in procedures at the waiting lounge. Here, you'll be greeted with a special welcome tea. Your next destination is the Orchid Cruise, which you'll reach by a tender boat. As you step on board, you'll receive a hospitable welcome and be invited to the restaurant for a cruise briefing and essential safety instructions.

Ha Long Bay Discovery: While you indulge in a delightful lunch on the cruise, the journey takes you through the captivating landscapes of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, two of nature's New Seven Wonders. Enjoy the scenic beauty and serenity of these remarkable bays.

Trung Trang Cave Adventure: Take part in a land adventure to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, a natural wonder that has been sculpted over two thousand years. With awe-inspiring stalactites and unique formations, this cave is an exploration of nature's artistry.

As the day progresses, Orchid Cruises will steer towards Tra Bau – Lan Ha Bay, a quieter and less crowded area. Immerse yourself in the emerald waters with a refreshing swim. In the evening, you can enhance your culinary skills with a cooking demonstration and unwind during Happy Hour while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Rise early for a tranquil Tai Chi session on the sundeck, or catch the dawn at 5:30 AM (season-dependent) with guidance from our sailors. Enjoy breakfast at 7:00 AM, followed by kayaking in the Ao Ech area at 7:30 AM.

Homeward Journey: At 8:30 AM, prepare to disembark Orchid Cruises. Delight in a brunch at 10:00 AM as you cruise back. Your voyage ends at 11:30 AM at Tuan Chau Marina. Say your goodbyes and cherish your cruise memories.

Angkor Wat: Discover the grandeur of Angkor Wat, hailed as one of the "8 Wonders of the World." This monumental complex stands as the largest religious monument ever built, dedicated to King Suryavarman II during the height of the Khmer Empire. With its intricate temples, pagodas, statues, palaces, and chambers, Angkor Wat serves as the primary gateway to the wonders of the Angkor culture. It's a must-see during your visit to Siem Reap, just a 40-minute drive from the city center.

Angkor Thom: Visit the imposing Angkor Thom, encircled by a vast moat, resembling more of a fortress than a religious site. This historic gem is accessible through five entrances, each facing a cardinal direction. The Victory Gate, situated eastward from the Angkor Thom Royal Palace, is especially fascinating. While the causeways leading to these entrances are no longer present, the south gate remains unique with water beneath it.

Mystical Ta Prohm: Explore the enchanting Ta Prohm, located at the western edge of the Angkor Wat Complex. Constructed under the visionary King Jayavarman VII, it's part of his ambitious plan for monastery and university construction. Ta Prohm's mystique, accentuated by massive stones and entwined trees, was immortalized in the movie Tomb Raider. We recommend visiting in the afternoon when the colossal trees provide a cool respite from the sun's scorching rays.

Banteay Srei & Beng Mealea Expedition: Explore Angkorian art with a one-day journey. In the morning, visit Banteay Srei, known as the "Citadel of the Women." Exquisite carvings and statues adorn this Angkorian gem. King Rajendravarman II and King Jayavarman V are believed to have constructed this site. A 50-minute drive from Siem Reap, visit in the gentle morning sun for the best experience.

In the afternoon, discover Beng Mealea, the hidden treasure of Angkor. Enjoy a local lunch before this adventure, which ends in the afternoon.

Quad Adventure Sunset: Embark on an exhilarating Quad Adventure in the Cambodian countryside, starting at 5 pm, an hour before sunset. We'll provide safety gear, and please wear suitable clothing and footwear.

Cambodia Landmine Museum: Visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum, 25 kilometers north of Siem Reap. Owned by a former Khmer soldier, it tells the story of the Cambodian genocide period and his efforts to clear landmines with a stick, making the city safe.

Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: Begin your journey at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a majestic red brick structure with twin spires. While the interior is under renovation until late 2023, its exterior and history remain awe-inspiring. Just across lies the Central Post Office, a charming 19th-century architectural gem, still bustling with activity.

Presidential Palace & War Remnants Museum: Next, explore the former Presidential Palace, once the nerve center during the American War. Walk through its historic halls and gardens.

Visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into the American War from the Vietnamese perspective. Please be aware that some exhibits contain graphic content.

Saigon Street Coffee Experience: Immerse yourself in Saigon's street coffee culture. Your guide will offer a mini language lesson and share insights into the daily life of a Saigonese. This is your opportunity to savor the essence of Saigon.

Escape to Ben Tre: A scenic 1.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City transports you to Ben Tre, nestled in the Mekong Delta. Here, concrete jungles yield to sprawling rice paddies and verdant fruit orchards. At the pier, embark on a motorboat journey, passing charming stilt houses, bustling fish farms, and glimpses of rustic life in the countryside. The sights and sounds of the Mekong come to life.

Early Morning Departure: Kick off your day of adventure with a 7:00 am rendezvous in your hotel lobby. Your guide will escort you to Ho Chi Minh City's central pier, where an exciting experience awaits. Avoid the roadwork-related travel delays by opting for our speedboat journey to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. Compared to a car transfer, it saves you approximately two hours each way, ensuring a more relaxed exploration.

Riverside Transformation: The speedboat ride kicks off a 15-minute journey, and you'll be astounded by the dramatic shift in scenery as city buildings give way to the lush embrace of the jungle. While you cruise, savor local fruits accompanied by refreshing soft drinks. Your guide will share insights into the fascinating rural traditions and the distinctive lifestyle along the riverbanks.

The Underground Labyrinth: Embark on a mesmerizing adventure through the intricate web of underground passages, chambers, rooms, and cunning booby traps that once sheltered both the Vietminh and the Viet Cong. As you explore, you'll uncover the tactics that allowed them to materialize out of nowhere, execute lightning ambushes, and then swiftly vanish.

A Culinary Interlude: Following your tunnel exploration, recharge with an included lunch. Then, return to Ho Chi Minh City's central pier via speedboat, where your driver will be ready to whisk you back to your hotel.

Kick off your journey with ease as our driver arrives promptly at your hotel in Delhi. We're here to make your travel between Delhi and Agra as comfortable as possible. Settle into your private transfer for the approximately 210-kilometer, 4-5-hour ride.

Scenic Stopover: Mehtab Bagh: Before arriving in Agra, we've planned a delightful stopover at Mehtab Bagh. Located north of the Taj Mahal complex, on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from Agra Fort, this spot is known for its picturesque beauty. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Mehtab Bagh, often referred to as the 'Moonlight Garden,' offers a serene atmosphere with shaded pavilions, flowing fountains, fragrant flowers, and enchanting pools.

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: Your journey continues with a visit to the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, often described as a "jewel box." Situated in Agra, this Mughal mausoleum is believed to have inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal. Built between 1622 and 1628, it represents a transition in Mughal architecture, featuring red sandstone with intricate marble decorations. This site comprises numerous outbuildings and gardens, adorned with elegant Persian motifs, including wine vases, trees, and flowers. It's a testament to the grandeur of Mughal craftsmanship.

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah

Relax and Revel in History: As you explore the architectural and historical wonders of Agra, rest assured that our driver will be ready to take you to your pre-booked hotel, airport, or railway station in Agra. Take in the sights, capture memories, and enjoy a seamless transfer, ensuring your travel experience is as enjoyable as your destination.

Agra Fort: Embrace the rich history of Agra by starting your day with a visit to the Agra Fort. This imposing structure, originally commissioned by Emperor Akbar, graces the west bank of the Yamuna River. It was further enhanced with splendid palaces and lush gardens by Emperor Jahangir. As you explore this architectural marvel, be sure to step into the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), both commissioned by Shah Jahan to receive distinguished guests.

Taj Mahal: No visit to Agra is complete without experiencing the Taj Mahal. This remarkable monument, often described as the "Monument of Love," is a flawless masterpiece of architectural prowess. It's a testament to the devotion of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who invested 22 years and the labor of 20,000 workers to bring his vision to life. The gleaming white marble used in its construction was quarried from a location 200 miles away and transported with the help of an impressive fleet of 1,000 elephants. Built in the mid-17th century, the Taj Mahal stands as an enduring symbol of Shah Jahan's boundless love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to New Delhi Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.