Explore the timeless beauty and rich traditions of Vietnam, from Hanoi's historic streets to the picturesque landscapes of Halong Bay. Witness the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Cambodia and experience the serene charm of Siem Reap. Venture into the hidden gems of Laos in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Discover the cultural diversity of Malaysia, from bustling Kuala Lumpur to the idyllic Penang. Conclude your epic odyssey in Indonesia, with its enchanting islands and vibrant culture. This comprehensive itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Excellent experience in Bangkok
Ying was our guide in Bangkok. She was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. She knew exactly how to move us through crowds quickly so that we could see all we wanted to say and made good recommendations for other things we were interested in. I would not hesitate to recommend Ying or anyone that helped us at Asia highlights More
Dr. Meshagae Hunte-Brown, Aug 2024
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Excellent travel advisor, itinerary and tour guides
Miss Tanny, our guide in Bangkok, was personable and very patient. She kept us informed of the day's activities and kept us entertained with her sense of humor. Miss Lisa, our Phuket guide, was very polite and soft spoken. The young people in our group relate well with her. More
susan edwards, Jul 2024
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Our guide went out of his way to make the trip enjoyable
We met our guide BANG at the airport for a very brief Bangkok stay as part of our overall SEA trip. He went out of his way to make the trip enjoyable and informational. 10/10! More
customer, Jul 2024
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Tour Highlights
Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Venture into the unbelievable Cu Chi Tunnels and realize there are always more ways than difficulties.
Stay on a luxury ship and explore the remarkable Mekong Delta at a slow pace but with great depth.
Unveil the mystery of Angkor Wat with the knowledge of a dedicated Khmer scholar.
Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by visiting Ubud's iconic Palace and Market.
Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration
The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you.
Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.
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.
St. Joseph Cathedral: Embrace the stunning Gothic architecture of St. Joseph Cathedral, a masterpiece completed in 1886. This cathedral, towering at 64.5 meters, draws inspiration from Paris's iconic Notre Dame. Admire its intricate stained glass windows, lovingly imported from France. It's not just an architectural marvel; St. Joseph Cathedral also plays a central role in the city's spiritual life, hosting daily Mass and significant Catholic gatherings.
Train Street: Prepare for an extraordinary experience at Hanoi's Train Street, nestled within the old quarter. This narrow alleyway is where the magic happens – trains glide through it twice daily, passing within inches of houses and shops. The vibrant atmosphere of the alley is complemented by charming cafes and shops that line the tracks. As you sip coffee or savor a meal, you can watch these massive locomotives rumble by – an unforgettable, up-close encounter with local life.
Dong Xuan Market - A Bargain Hunter's Paradise: Take a short stroll to Dong Xuan Market, located about four blocks west of the Old Quarter. This market is not only a bustling retail hub but also a wholesale and distribution center for many local businesses. Your knowledgeable guide will teach you the art of bargaining, helping you snag great deals. At the northern end of the market, day and night, you'll discover enticing food stalls offering a delectable taste of local cuisine. Don't miss the chance to explore this treasure trove of goods and flavors when you have free time.
Hoa Lo Prison: Discover the intriguing history of Hoa Lo Prison, a place with a rather ironic nickname, the "Hanoi Hilton." Originally built to detain political prisoners during wartime, today it stands as a museum. The exhibits offer a glimpse into the lives of inmates until the mid-1950s. While it may not be the most exciting stop, it's a must-visit for history and military enthusiasts. You can find this museum near the St. Joseph Cathedral in P Hoa Lo & P Hai Ba Trung.
Rickshaw Ride in the Old Quarter of Hanoi: Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle with a delightful rickshaw ride through the enchanting Old Quarter of Hanoi. This historic district, famously known for its "36 tree-shaded streets," is a labyrinth of charming shops, tailors, workshops, eateries, cafes, and street vendors. Take a leisurely journey on a rickshaw to explore the area at a gentle pace, enjoying the rich tapestry of local life.
Water Puppet Show: Experience a timeless Vietnamese art form dating back to the 11th century, during the late Le Dynasty. The capital city, Hanoi, is renowned for its exceptional water puppet shows, providing a vibrant window into the country's diverse culture. In the late afternoon, your private tour guide will accompany you to the show, where you'll be captivated by the colorful performances. After the show, your return transfer to the hotel will be arranged for your convenience.
An Exceptional Morning Journey: Kickstart your morning adventure with a unique visit to the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels, conveniently accessible via a speedboat. This innovative mode of travel trims nearly two hours off the journey compared to the traditional road trip, thanks to ongoing road construction between Cu Chi and Ho Chi Minh. This early arrival ensures a more peaceful and immersive experience at the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Cruising the Scenic Route: Your day begins promptly at 7:00 AM when your guide greets you in the hotel lobby. From there, you'll embark on a quick transfer to Ho Chi Minh City's central pier, where your speedboat awaits. In just 15 minutes, you'll transition from the city's bustling buildings to the serene beauty of the lush jungle. Along the way, you'll be treated to local fruits and beverages, while your guide shares insights into rural traditions and the captivating riverbank lifestyle.
Unveiling Hidden Wonders: Upon your arrival at the Cu Chi Tunnels, you'll delve into the enigmatic world of underground passages, chambers, rooms, and ingenious booby traps. These subterranean wonders were ingeniously used by both the Vietminh and Viet Cong, enabling them to appear suddenly, execute lightning-fast ambushes, and vanish with remarkable agility. Your explorations will be followed by a satisfying lunch, and then, you'll return to Ho Chi Minh City's central pier by speedboat, where a driver will meet you and safely transport you back to your hotel. This exceptional half-day journey offers a unique perspective on Vietnam's history and landscape.
Your voyage begins as you meet your cruise guide in the morning at your hotel and journey to Saigon Port. Upon boarding the Mekong Princess Cruise, receive a safety briefing in the Ramvong Lounge.
Settle into your luxurious cabin before savoring a delightful onboard lunch. Later, anchor in the heart of the Mekong Delta for a serene evening, complete with sunset views and crafted cocktails.
Indulge in a Vietnamese "A La Carte" dinner at the Indochine Restaurant, offering a blend of delectable flavors. It's the perfect start to your culinary journey on the Mekong Princess Cruise.
Begin your day with a unique adventure by hopping on a "xe lam" (three-wheeler) to visit a local coconut candy maker. Explore the village on foot and visit a lush orchard, where you can savor fresh fruits.
Embark on a memorable journey through narrow creeks aboard a local boat before returning to the Mekong Princess.
In the afternoon, the cruise sets sail for Can Tho city. Your day's adventures continue with a visit to the Zihuang Pagoda (Chua Ong) and a delightful welcome in the form of traditional unicorn dances.
Relish a delicious dinner onboard as the ship docks in Can Tho for the night. In the evening, enrich your understanding of Vietnam with an engaging lecture on Vietnam, its people, culture, and colonial history.
This morning, your adventure unfolds as you board a traditional sampan to cruise through the captivating Cai Rang floating market. It's a vibrant spectacle to behold. Before breakfast, you'll have the opportunity to explore a local noodle factory, gaining insight into the traditional methods of noodle production.
After a delightful lunch onboard, the journey continues with a visit to Hoa An village. Explore flower gardens, take a leisurely walk to a local home, and engage in friendly conversation with your host.
Experience more of the local culture as you ride on a motor trishaw to another charming village. Along the way, you'll encounter families crafting conical hats and enjoy a pleasant walk through the serene village, surrounded by lush rice fields and fruit trees. Your day ends as the Mekong Princess sails and anchors near Gieng Island.
Today begins with an adventure on Gieng Island. Board traditional sampans and embark on a memorable journey. Explore the mango gardens and take a canal drive to fully immerse yourself in the island's charm. Experience the local way of life as you ride a "xe loi," a motor trishaw, and pay a visit to the Phanxico Monastery.
In the afternoon, your exploration continues in Hong Ngu village. Delve into the local culture and pay your respects at a nearby Hoa Hao temple.
As the day winds down, the Mekong Princess arrives at the border area to complete exit procedures, marking your transition into Cambodia. We then continue our voyage up the Mekong River toward the vibrant city of Phnom Penh. Enjoy an engaging cooking class demonstration by our Executive Chef onboard.
Today, the Mekong Princess Cruise anchors at the vibrant Phnom Penh port. You'll be warmly greeted by local cyclo drivers who will accompany you on an exciting city tour.
Your day starts with a visit to the splendid Royal Palace, where you'll explore the grand Throne Hall, Moonlight Pavilion, and the Silver Pagoda, all brimming with rich history and cultural significance. The adventure continues with a visit to the National Museum, offering a deeper insight into Cambodia's fascinating heritage.
Your overnight stay in Phnom Penh ensures you have more time to explore this captivating city. Onboard, engage in enjoyable activities, including a Fruit Carving and Tropical Fruits Demonstration, and a fascinating lecture on Cambodia's Geography and Life along the Mekong River.
Today's journey takes you to significant historical sites in Phnom Penh. Your first stop is the poignant Choeung Ek, commonly known as the Killing Fields, where you'll visit a small museum and the solemn Memorial Stupa.
Next, you'll explore the haunting Tuol Sleng, also recognized as S-21, offering a stark glimpse into Cambodia's troubled past. It's a powerful and eye-opening experience.
The afternoon grants you leisure time to unwind and reflect on your day's experiences. In the evening, savor the cultural richness of Cambodia with an Apsara Show on board, showcasing traditional dance and artistry.
The Mekong Princess Cruise docks at the Phnom Penh port, providing a convenient return to the ship.
This afternoon, immerse yourself in the culture of Angkor Ban. Begin your journey with a traditional blessing ceremony conducted by local monks.
Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local family and witness daily life in this charming village. Make a special stop at a local school, where you can interact with the children and even join them in their classroom activities.
As the day unfolds, the Mekong Princess Cruise sails to Kampong Cham, where you'll dock for a restful night.
Farewell to the Mekong Princess: Conclude your unforgettable Mekong Princess Cruise journey with a hearty breakfast onboard. Then, it's time to disembark at Kampong Cham port. You'll be smoothly transferred to your Siem Reap hotel, where you can continue your exploration of this enchanting region.
Angkor Thom: Your journey through the wonders of Angkor begins at Angkor Thom, an awe-inspiring site encircled by an extensive moat, which feels more like a grand fortress than a religious attraction. You'll enter through one of the five monumental gates, each representing a cardinal direction. These gates once led to causeways, with the south gate being the best-preserved, surrounded by 54 captivating stone figures.
Bayon Temple: Next, you'll uncover the mysteries of Bayon Temple, constructed in the late 12th to early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII. This temple, often overshadowed by Angkor Wat, is famous for its iconic stone faces. As you approach, the temple appears like a mountain, but the closer you get, the more the stone faces come into focus.
Terrace of the Elephants: Your exploration leads you to the Terrace of the Elephants, part of the Angkor Thom complex. This royal viewing platform, built by King Jayavarman VII, provided a regal vantage point to greet his triumphant troops returning from battles. The intricate carvings on this platform capture the grandeur of ancient Khmer military achievements.
South Gate of Angkor Thom: At the South Gate of Angkor Thom, you'll witness the best-preserved entrance among the five. It's adorned with 54 exquisite stone figures, welcoming you to this historic city.
Angkor Wat: Your journey culminates at Angkor Wat, celebrated as one of the 8 Wonders of the World. This colossal monument, created solely for religious purposes, is a sprawling complex of temples, pagodas, statues, palaces, and chambers. It was a tribute to King Suryavarman II during the Khmer Empire's zenith. Exploring this immense site may span three days, and Angkor Wat serves as the primary gateway to the fascinating world of Angkor. A 40-minute drive from Siem Reap's center transports you to this iconic wonder.
Morning Exploration at Banteay Srei: Your day begins with a visit to the enchanting Banteay Srei, often called the "Citadel of Women." This hidden gem, discovered in the last century, is crafted from red sandstone, a material that allows for intricate decorative wall carvings, which still captivate visitors with their fine details.
Land Mine Museum: Following this, your journey takes you to the Land Mine Museum. Cambodia has grappled with land mines as a lasting legacy of the civil war, particularly in remote areas. Gain insights into the vital work of finding and defusing these hazardous remnants of war. The museum provides a poignant look at Cambodia's resilience.
Village Visit and Ox Cart Ride: You'll then venture to a nearby village, where you can savor palm candies and rice wine—a delightful taste of local life. Next, embark on an ox cart ride through the countryside. As you traverse this picturesque landscape, you'll pass by rice fields, palm trees, and quaint villages, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings.
Sunset Cocktail on Tonle Sap Lake: Your journey continues southward to the expansive Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. A boat ride to Kampong Phluk allows you to explore the nearby mangrove forests. As the day draws to a close, savor a refreshing sunset cocktail on the serene waters of Tonle Sap Lake. It's a perfect moment to reflect on your day's adventures before returning to your hotel for some leisurely time.
Peariang Biodiversity Half-Day Exploration: Begin your day by departing from your hotel and heading southeast for approximately 13 kilometers to the Peariang Biodiversity Conservation Center. This tranquil sanctuary hosts a diverse array of wetland and water birds, reptiles, and fish. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to engage in birdwatching, embark on nature walks, and gain insight into the center's crucial conservation efforts. The beauty of nature and the fascinating world of these creatures await you. After your visit, you'll be transferred to the airport.
Apopo: Visit the Siem Reap office of Apopo, an extraordinary non-profit organization. They have achieved something truly remarkable: training African giant rats to detect and disarm landmines. Gain a deeper understanding of the serious landmine threat that Cambodia faces and how these unconventional heroes—giant rats—have made an enormous impact, saving hundreds of lives. Be sure to show your appreciation by giving these rat heroes a hug at the end of your visit. This unique experience will leave you both informed and inspired.
Morning Traditions: Start your day with a unique opportunity to witness the daily morning almsgiving ritual by saffron-clad monks. This age-old tradition is a distinct feature of Laos, making it the only Buddhist nation to maintain this procession. Continue to the Morning Market, where you can explore and purchase fresh, locally-sourced produce, offering a glimpse into the authentic food culture of the region.
City Exploration: The city tour commences from your hotel, with your first stop at Wat Visoun. Dating back to 1520, this temple has a rich history. Later, it was transformed into a Museum of Religious Arts in 1942, showcasing a collection of Buddha images and religious artifacts dating as far back as the fourteenth century.
From here, you will visit the distinctive Pha That Makmo, characterized by its Srilankalese architecture. Proceed to Wat Aham, one of Luang Prabang's significant tutelary shrines.
A short transfer along the Namkhan River leads you to Wat Xieng Thong. This 15th-century temple holds immense historical importance for Luang Prabang and Laos. Once a royal temple, it was patronized by the royal family until the revolution in 1975. The temple underwent significant remodeling and redecoration in the 1960s, resulting in the splendid structure that stands today.
Your journey continues with a visit to the National Museum (formerly the King's Palace), where you can view a collection of personal artifacts belonging to the Royal Family. Adjacent to the museum is Wat Mai, also known as the "New Monastery," which was built in 1796. One of its most striking features is the gilded relief panels that adorn the front facade, narrating the story of the Buddha Vessentara. The gilded door frames seamlessly merge with the relief panel, creating the illusion of a monolithic wall of gold.
Kuang Si Waterfall & Ethnic Insights: In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 45-minute drive through picturesque landscapes of rice fields, hills, and small villages. En route, you will have the opportunity to visit a local village, providing insight into the ethnic diversity of Laos. The Hmong community residing here offers a unique cultural perspective, which has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Upon arrival at the Kuang Si Waterfall, you can unwind, swim in the clear pools, and revel in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Don't forget to visit the Bear Rescue Center, where you can observe and learn about the center's remarkable conservation efforts. Just 300 meters from the waterfall entrance, you'll find the Butterfly Park, a beautifully landscaped garden inhabited by hundreds of Laotian butterflies, complete with a natural fish spa.
Begin your adventure at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, a sanctuary for orangutans. Visit the Sepilok Outdoor Nursery to see young orangutans in action and witness their feeding time. Explore the Sun Bear Conservation Centre to meet the world's smallest bear species.
Afterward, head to Sim Sim Jetty, where a boat will take you to the Abai Jungle Lodge. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Abai Jungle Restaurant. Check in at the lodge and settle in. Embark on a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, a perfect time for wildlife spotting. Experience the magic of fireflies lighting up the night sky.
Savor dinner by the river and take a guided night walk on the nature boardwalk, where you'll discover the jungle's nocturnal wonders. Actual timings may vary.
Start your day with a morning cruise to the tranquil Pitas Oxbow Lake. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the jungle while you enjoy a Jungle Breakfast at the Abai Jungle Platform.
For those interested, there's an opportunity to join the CAP Tree Planting Project. Share lunch with local villagers or at the lodge.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat journey upstream to Sukau. Check in at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge (KRL) and then set out on a river cruise to the Menanggul River. As night falls, indulge in a hearty dinner at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Times are approximate and subject to change for a smooth travel experience.
Kick off your day with an early morning river cruise to the mesmerizing oxbow lake. You have an exciting option to explore the magnificent Gomantong Cave (additional fee: RM 150 per person). This cave visit is a fascinating adventure.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a Sukau villager's house or lodge. Later in the day, embark on another river cruise to soak in the natural wonders of the area.
In the evening, get comfortable and watch a captivating video show. Spend the night at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge (KRL) and savor a delicious dinner at MY Nature Resort. Please note that times are approximate and may vary for the best experience.
After a memorable stay, we bid adieu to Sukau. At 7:30 am, we set sail back to Sandakan. Enjoy an early lunch to refuel for your journey ahead. Then, it's time to make your way to the airport for your flight departure (after 2:00 pm). Safe travels!
Your journey begins as a private car conveniently picks you up from Kuala Namu International Airport in Medan. Prepare for a scenic ride lasting approximately 4 hours, with beautiful landscapes along the way.
Upon reaching Bukit Lawang, a warm welcome awaits you at the meeting point. A helpful porter will assist with your luggage. You'll be whisked away to our esteemed hotel partner, the charming Jungle Inn. This cozy haven boasts captivating jungle views from both your room and the restaurant.
As you settle in, the soothing sounds of the nearby river will enhance your stay, creating a serene atmosphere for your adventure in Bukit Lawang. Jungle Inn is widely regarded as one of the top hotels in the area.
Embark on an exhilarating jungle trek in Gunung Leuser National Park, where you'll get up close with wild orangutans. Start your day with breakfast in the hotel's restaurant before your expert guide leads you into the lush jungle. Learn about the rainforest's secrets, observe its unique ecosystem, and capture the rich biodiversity in photos during this 6 to 7-hour trek.
At 11:30 AM, enjoy a fruit break, the perfect time to chat with your guide and ask questions. Afterward, savor lunch amidst the captivating Sumatran rainforest. Explore deeper into the jungle and reach the Bahorok River, where a thrilling river rafting experience awaits.
Return to Jungle Inn for relaxation and a traditional massage by skilled staff, providing you with rejuvenation after your adventure. Conclude your day of jungle exploration with a peaceful night's stay at Jungle Inn.
Elephant Adventure in Tangkahan: Your third day begins with breakfast at Jungle Inn, usually served between 8 and 9 am. Afterward, your guide and driver will be ready to transport you to the hidden forests of Tangkahan, home to the famous Sumatran elephants. You'll enjoy a comfortable 2.5-hour private car ride from Bukit Lawang to Tangkahan.
Upon arrival, take the opportunity to relax in the invigorating hot springs near a breathtaking waterfall. At 1 pm, your guide will lead you to a local forest-side restaurant where you'll have lunch amid the serene surroundings. Following your meal, get ready for a unique encounter with these magnificent creatures as you join them for a refreshing bath in the river.
Bathing with these gentle giants, who may even give you an impromptu shower with their trunks, creates a truly unforgettable experience. Afterward, your driver and guide will accompany you back to Bukit Lawang, where you'll spend another peaceful night at Jungle Inn.
Following a leisurely breakfast at the Jungle Inn restaurant, our dedicated porter will ensure your luggage is safely transported back to the initial meeting point. Here, your private driver awaits to provide a seamless transfer to your next destination or Kuala Namu Airport. We wish you safe and pleasant travels ahead!
Begin your picturesque journey in Central Bali with a visit to the charming town of Mengwi, home to the beautiful Taman Ayun temple complex, steeped in history and still used for ceremonies.
Traveling north to Bedugul Regency, famous for its stunning landscapes and three caldera lakes, your first stop is Candi Kuning market, where you can explore fresh fruits, spices, and vibrant flowers for ceremonial offerings. Continue to the iconic Ulun Danu Temple, which appears to "float" on Lake Beratan.
After a delicious lunch, head south with a visit to the UNESCO-recognized Jatiluwih rice terraces, offering magnificent panoramic views. You'll have the option for a walk along the terraces, but please ensure you wear suitable footwear for the occasionally wet and slippery terrain. Your journey ends with a return to your hotel, having immersed yourself in Central Bali's natural wonders.
Ubud Palace & Market: Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by visiting Ubud's iconic Palace and Market. The market is a treasure trove of Bali's souvenirs, while the palace showcases traditional Balinese architecture and heritage.
Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Explore the enchanting Tirta Gangga Water Palace, located in eastern Bali. This historical gem boasts serene ponds, lush gardens, and intricate water features that captivate tourists seeking a cultural and natural escape.
Kusamba Traditional Salt Mining: Delve into the time-honored tradition of salt production in Bali's coastal village of Kusamba. Learn about the cultural significance of this unique and sustainable method passed down through generations.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Discover the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a haven for around 115 tree species and a research hub for local flora and fauna. This forest park, adorned with ancient temples, is not only a natural wonder but also a site of cultural importance. Explore this sanctuary, easily accessible from Ubud's center, between 8 am and 6 pm daily.
Tampaksiring Holy Spring and Temple: Depart from your hotel and head to the sacred Tampaksiring temple. Before reaching this spiritual haven, pause at Tegalalang to soak in the breathtaking vistas of iconic Balinese rice terraces, a must-capture moment for your trip. Just a stone's throw away is Gunung Kawi, boasting ancient 11th-century tombs carved into rock faces. As you descend toward the temple, you'll traverse lush rice terraces, truly a sight to behold. A little further along, encounter another vibrant temple adorned with intricate rock carvings and a magnificent Garuda bird perched atop one of the pavilions.
The Enigmatic Elephant Caves, Bedulu: Your final stop takes you to the ancient Elephant Caves at Bedulu, an archaeological treasure dating back to the early 11th century. Once a revered monastery for Buddhist monks, this site whispers tales of a bygone era.
Tirta Empul Temple: The journey continues to Tirta Empul Temple, a vital temple complex renowned for its holy mountain spring. This site is steeped in legend, depicting the age-old battle of good versus evil, and stands as a national cultural heritage site.
Journey to the southernmost edge of Bali to encounter the awe-inspiring Uluwatu Temple. As one of the seven sea temples believed to encircle the island, this ancient site holds a sacred place in Balinese spirituality and history.
Perched dramatically, 70 meters above the ocean on a sheer cliff, Uluwatu Temple offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. It's the perfect vantage point to witness the majestic waves crashing against the rugged cliffs—a sight to behold.
A captivating highlight of this excursion is the opportunity to witness the traditional Kecak dance, a mesmerizing performance regularly held at Uluwatu. This ritual dance involves a circle of up to a hundred male performers who sway and chant to hypnotic music. Rooted in an ancient tale from the revered Hindu epic, the Ramayana, the Kecak dance narrates the captivating saga of King Rahwana's capture of Sita, the wife of Rama, and the ensuing battle with Hanuman, the monkey god.
The journey concludes on the crescent-shaped shores of Jimbaran Bay, famous for its top-tier seafood restaurants. After your Uluwatu adventure, savor the delectable seafood rijstaffel (a selection of dishes) at one of the finest Beach Clubs along the bay. The combination of mouthwatering cuisine and the tranquil beachside setting ensures a perfect ending to an unforgettable day.
Embark on a 45-minute speedboat ride to Nusa Penida, where a driver will meet you. Explore the stunning Kelingking Beach, famous for its T. rex-shaped rock formation, before heading to the natural lagoon of Broken Beach, surrounded by cliffs.
Visit Angel's Billabong, a unique "infinity pool" with crystal-clear waters and striking rock patterns. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then discover Crystal Bay Beach's marine life through snorkeling or swimming.
After a day of exploration and relaxation, return to Bali by speedboat.
Lempuyang Temple: Discover the mesmerizing Lempuyang Temple, often referred to as the "Gate of Heaven." Perched on Mount Lempuyang, it offers breathtaking views and is considered one of Bali's iconic temples. The journey to the main temple involves climbing 1,700 steps, adding adventure and spiritual significance to your visit.
Besakih Temple: Explore Bali's largest and holiest Hindu temple, located on the slopes of Mount Agung, the island's sacred volcano. Known as the 'Mother Temple' of Bali, it's been a center for Balinese Hinduism since the 8th century.
Penglipuran Village: Immerse yourself in traditional Balinese village life at Penglipuran, often hailed as a 'cultural oasis.' This well-preserved village sits amidst bamboo forests, rice paddies, and offers stunning panoramic views. The village's unique bamboo, wood, and clay houses with alang-alang grass roofs create an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.
Pura Kehen: Delve into the rich history of Pura Kehen, Bali's second-largest temple, also known as 'the temple of fire.' Constructed on the hill of Sanghyang Widi, it served as a royal temple and a center for the study of ancient Hindu texts and philosophy.
Tanah Lot Temple: Witness the enchanting Tanah Lot Temple, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop along Bali's southwest coast. While it's a popular sunset destination, it remains a sacred Hindu temple, creating a striking silhouette against the setting sun.
Sultan's Palace (Kraton): Begin your Yogyakarta journey at the Sultan's Palace, known as the Kraton. Built in 1755, it's a window into Javanese royalty. Marvel at the ornate reception halls and the Pendopos, where the sultan once enjoyed private gamelan music performances. Explore historical rooms and unique entrances adorned with grand dragon sculptures.
Taman Sari (Water Castle): Within the Kraton's grounds, you'll find Taman Sari, a royal pleasure park designed in the 18th century. The sultan would watch activities from the tower while being entertained by his wives. This captivating place reflects a rich history.
Kota Gede: Head to Kota Gede, celebrated for its silver craftsmanship. Witness skilled artisans at a local workshop and explore the historic neighborhood's backstreets with craft showrooms and fascinating architecture.
Prambanan Temple Complex: In the afternoon, visit Prambanan, a 9th-century Hindu temple compound. This UNESCO World Heritage site pays tribute to the Hindu Trimurti – Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Shiva the Destroyer. Admire the towering and pointed architectural design in the country's largest and finest Hindu temple complex.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Bali Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
- Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-cx-7
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
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