From New Delhi, travel to the Foot Hills of the Himalayas – the spiritual and scenic gems of India. Attend the ritualistic Ganga Aarti Ceremony in Haridwar, visit the calm Tibetan settlement of Dharamshala (home of the Dalai Lama), see the magnificent Golden Temple in Amritsar, experience the historic ‘toy-train’ into Shimla (the British colonial hill station), and then go modern in Chandigarh (the modernist city). The tour is a mix of sacred rituals on the River Ganges, the extravagant spectacle on the Wagah border, and more – an adventurously spiritual exploration in some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world.

Tour Highlights

• Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony in Haridwar, one of India’s holiest Hindu cities
• Explore India’s first planned city, Chandigarh – a vision in concrete!
• Ride the ‘toy train’ up to Shimla, former summer capital of British India
• Visit ‘Little Lhasa’ near Dharamshala, home to many Tibetans including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
• Wonder at the sight of the Golden Temple in the historical Sikh city of Amritsar
• Revel in the pageantry of the ‘beating the retreat’ ceremony at the Wagah border with Pakistan

The post Foothills of the Himalayas: Sacred Sites & Hill Stations appeared first on Absolute Asia Tours.

Discover Vietnam the elegant way – not from the sky, but aboard the Vietnam Luxury Express, a stylish train that glides through the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. This curated itinerary spans over 1,800 kilometers, linking Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

Along the way, you’ll explore iconic destinations like Ninh Binh’s limestone valleys, Quang Binh’s jungle caves, the imperial beauty of Hue, artisan villages near Hoi An, and the untouched charm of Phu Yen. End your journey in Ho Chi Minh City with guided tours of the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels and the tranquil Mekong Delta.

Whether you’re seeking romance, culture, or comfort, the Vietnam Luxury Express offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Vietnam – one elegant stop at a time.

Tour Highlights

• Travel the full length of Vietnam in style aboard a luxury train – from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
• Drift through limestone caves and lush valleys in Trang An, often called “Halong Bay on land”
• Explore Vietnam’s imperial legacy at the Citadel of Hue and Tu Duc Mausoleum
• Wander the lantern-lit streets and artisan villages of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Discover the majestic Phong Nha Cave on a tranquil riverboat journey
• Enjoy curated experiences with local artisans, from woodblock painting to mat weaving
• Savor regional cuisine onboard and in handpicked local restaurants throughout the journey
• Experience the dramatic coastline of central Vietnam from the scenic Hai Van Pass
• Step inside history at the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground legacy of the Vietnam War
• Cruise the peaceful canals of the Mekong Delta, where life moves with the flow of the river

Day 1 (Wednesday): Hanoi – Welcome on Board

This afternoon, around 4:30 PM, your driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Gia Lam Station. At the VIP lounge, you’ll be warmly welcomed and checked in.

At 6:00 PM, head to the train’s restaurant carriage for welcome drinks and a delicious multi-course dinner. As the train departs, you’ll cross the Long Bien Bridge with views of the Red River at sunset.

Relax in your cabin as the train glides through the countryside toward Ninh Binh.

Day 2 (Thursday): Ninh Binh – The First Kingdom of Vietnam

Wake up and enjoy breakfast on board as the train arrives in Ninh Binh.

Take a peaceful sampan boat ride through the limestone landscapes of Trang An, often called “Halong Bay on land.”

Next, visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, and explore its historic temples and mountain surroundings.

Return to the train for lunch, afternoon tea, and a relaxing ride toward Vinh. Enjoy another fine dinner on board in the evening.

Day 3 (Friday): Quang Binh – Jungle and Cave Adventure

Start your day with breakfast on the train as it arrives in Quang Binh.

Explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO site filled with caves and rivers. Take a boat ride on the Son River and explore the impressive Phong Nha Cave.

Return to the train for lunch and some rest.

In the evening, enjoy a home-style dinner in the countryside. You can also join a Vietnamese cooking class before boarding the train to continue to Hue.

Day 4 (Saturday): Hue – Discover Vietnam’s Imperial Legacy

Begin with a rickshaw ride through the quiet streets of Hue, then explore the grand Imperial Citadel, home of Vietnam’s last emperors.

Visit the peaceful Tu Duc Mausoleum, then head to Hue’s Incense Village to learn traditional crafts like incense-making or hat-weaving.

Enjoy a local lunch featuring Hue’s royal-style cuisine.

In the afternoon, return to the train and travel south past the stunning Lang Co Lagoon on your way to your next stop.

Day 5 (Sunday): Quang Nam – Discover Historic Hoi An

Depart early from Hue and enjoy breakfast on board as you pass through the scenic Hai Van Pass.

Arrive in Hoi An and relax with Vietnamese coffee in a countryside setting. Then take a jeep tour to visit local artisans, try woodblock painting and pottery, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch.

In the afternoon, explore Hoi An Ancient Town: visit the market, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, traditional houses, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge.

Return to the train for a relaxing evening and dinner on board, heading toward Phu Yen.

Day 6 (Monday): Phu Yen – Coastal Calm & Craft Traditions

After breakfast, visit Mang Lang Church, a beautiful 19th-century Catholic church, and then head to Phu Tan Mat Weaving Village to see how local mats are made by hand.

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a coastal restaurant.

In the afternoon, return to the train. Depart Phu Yen at 4:00 PM and relax on board as the scenery passes by.

Have an elegant dinner under the stars in the dining car.

Day 7 (Tuesday): Phan Thiet – Culture, Cuisine & Cham Heritage

Start with a visit to Ta Cu Mountain to see the hilltop Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda.

Then visit the Fish Sauce Museum to learn about this essential part of Vietnamese cuisine.

Enjoy a seaside lunch with local specialties.

In the evening, have your farewell dinner at the historic Poshanu Cham Towers, a beautiful setting for your last evening on tour.

Later, board the train and begin the journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 8 (Wednesday): Ho Chi Minh City

The train arrives at Saigon Station around 5:00 AM. Enjoy breakfast on board until 8:30 AM. Check out begins at 9:00 AM.

You’ll then be transferred to either your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 9 (Thursday) Ho Chi Minh city Tour & Cu Chi Tunnels

Day 10 ( Friday ) Mekong delta

Day 11 ( Saturday ) Saigon departure

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Glimpse of Malaysia is a refined 12-day journey designed for travelers seeking a taste of the country’s cultural charm, culinary richness, and coastal beauty – all in one seamless itinerary. Begin in the UNESCO-listed town of Malacca, where colonial streets and riverside markets reveal centuries of history. Continue to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s dynamic capital, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside vibrant night markets and lively hawker stalls.

Then trade the city buzz for barefoot luxury at Pangkor Laut Resort, a private island escape surrounded by emerald waters and lush rainforest. With a mix of guided exploration and ample time to unwind, this tour offers the perfect introduction to Malaysia – elegant, effortless, and unforgettable.

Tour Highlights

• Taste authentic Malay cuisine on a curated street food experience in Kuala Lumpur.
• Explore Malacca’s UNESCO-listed colonial landmarks and charming riverside streets.
• Unwind on the white-sand beaches of Pangkor Laut, a private island paradise.

Day 1 – Arrival in Kuala Lumpur & Transfer to Malacca

Upon arrival in Kuala Lumpur, meet your driver and transfer by private vehicle to Malacca (approx. 1h30 minutes). Check in and enjoy a quiet evening – perhaps a stroll to a local bar or straight to bed after your journey.

Day 2 – Private Tour of Malacca

Explore Malacca’s colonial charm with your private guide. Discover heritage buildings, temples, galleries, and the unique culture that shaped this UNESCO-listed city.

Day 3 – Malacca at Leisure & Jonker Street by Night

Enjoy a free day to relax or visit a spa. In the evening, explore Jonker Street’s lively night market – perfect for trying local Nyonya cuisine and people-watching.

Day 4 – Transfer to Kuala Lumpur

Travel by private car to Kuala Lumpur (approx. 2 hours). After check-in, the afternoon is yours to explore the capital or relax at your hotel.

Day 5 – Kuala Lumpur Street Food Experience

Embark on a guided street food tour to sample Malaysia’s rich culinary variety, from hawker stalls to hidden local gems.

Day 6 – Kuala Lumpur at Leisure

A free day to explore the city’s highlights – visit the Petronas Towers, lush parks, shopping districts, or enjoy a rooftop dinner.

Day 7 – Travel to Pangkor Laut Resort

Leave the city behind for five nights of bliss at the luxurious Pangkor Laut Resort. Transfer to the coast and check into your overwater or garden villa.

Day 8 to Day 11 – Pangkor Laut at Leisure

Spend your days soaking in the sun, relaxing at the spa, or swimming in crystal-clear waters. This private island retreat is ideal for unwinding in total serenity.

Day 12 – Departure

Return to the mainland for your private transfer to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and your onward flight home.

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Discover the vibrant contrasts of two of Asia’s most captivating nations on the Highlights of China & Vietnam journey. In China, explore the majestic Forbidden City, trek along the awe-inspiring Great Wall, and sail the legendary Mekong River. In Vietnam, dive into the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cruise the emerald waters of Halong Bay, and wander through lush countryside scenes. From imperial landmarks to serene waterways, this trip blends urban excitement with natural beauty every step of the way. You’ll also savor authentic regional cuisine, meet local artisans in traditional villages, and enjoy seamless transfers and expert guides throughout.

Highlights of China and Vietnam

• City tours in Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Saigon and Hanoi
• Walk on the iconic Great Wall of China
• Visit the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors
• Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and floating village at Thoi Son
• Discover Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter by cyclo
• Enjoy a tranquil Hạ Long Bay cruise and a Mekong River excursion

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Located the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay is renowned as one of the world’s natural wonders. This bay features over 3,000 islands, each uniquely shaped by the forces of time, wind, and waves.

Taking a helicopter or seaplane ride provides a breathtaking perspective of the area. While cruising offers a lovely view of the bay’s horizon, it may not fully capture the stunning beauty of the numerous karsts and islands scattered throughout. In contrast, a seaplane flight elevates you to 300 meters above water, allowing for a sweeping view of Halong Bay’s iconic landscapes.

To ensure you have the best Halong Bay Day Tour from Hanoi, you will first travel by car before taking off in your private helicopter for a panoramic experience. Afterwards, a boat tour of Halong Bay awaits you, ready to explore its magnificent beauty.

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The Asian Elephant has been an icon in Thailand since the beginning of recorded history. In times of peace, the elephants were Thailand’s bulldozers. In times of war, they were her tanks. The elephant is revered in Thailand’s Buddhist culture. The world is fascinated by these gentle giants, yet they have no more rights than livestock and are now critically endangered due to poaching, habitat loss, and animal cruelty. “Lek” Chailert is changing that with the creation of the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary north of Chiang Mai where rescued elephants can heal and thrive. Nestled in the breathtaking Mae Taeng Valley, about an hour north of Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park is a place where elephants no longer work for humans. Instead, a team of full-time staff and Park volunteers maintain the Park and care for the elephants.

At Elephant Nature Park, elephants are allowed to roam unfettered, eating and playing as much as they like along the way. They can wander down to the river for a bit of a splash or a roll in the mud whenever they need to cool down. They are free to choose their own family group, usually centering around one of the several baby elephants who live at the Park. And they can have as much or as little human interaction as they choose. If you are interested in an unforgettable and moving elephant experience, if you would rather walk beside an elephant than ride on top of one, then Elephant Nature Park is the ideal place to visit.

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At a glance

Discover a different side to Yangon

Watch the sunset from Thirimingala Pagoda

Trek uphill to Rang Ku village

Immerse yourself in Kayaw traditions

Feel inspired at Arakan Nature Lodge

Glide over Ngapali Beach in a hot air balloon

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Take a trip to Siem Reap Province to discover the ancient wonders of Cambodia. Explore this magical region, where old temples are hidden in the jungle, and floating villages connect to the lost Khmer Empire. Visit the amazing sites of Angkor, such as Ta Prohm, Angkor Thom with its famous Bayon temple, and Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

Highlights of the trip

• Discover the amazing Ta Prohm temple, shrouded in jungle foliage and banyan tree roots.
• Step back in time to explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.
• Enjoy local food and performances during a cultural dance show.
• Receive a traditional water blessing from a monk at the ancient pagoda of Wat Atvea.
• View the famous floating village of Chong Khneas on Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
• Explore Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Cambodia.
• Journey to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmers, and discover the stunning Bayon temple, known for its 200 giant stone faces.
• Savor traditional Cambodian cuisine while immersing yourself in the history and culture of the Siem Reap Province.
• Experience the Bayon temple, featuring a multitude of massive stone faces.

The post Multi-Day Adventure: 2 Night Stay at Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site appeared first on Absolute Asia Tours.