Since opening its borders to tourism in the late 1980s, Vietnam has become an incredibly popular destination. Still, the country remains relatively unspoiled as a tourist destination in Southeast Asia and holds many pleasant surprises for first-time visitors.

Vietnam has in excess of 3,000 kilometers of coastline, most of which is lined with sandy beaches providing an excellent location for scuba diving and relaxing beach holidays. The remote hills of northern Vietnam on the Chinese border are home to more than 40 ethnic minority peoples. In many cases the culture and lifestyle of these groups has remained unchanged for centuries and exploring this region provides a rare glimpse of an undiscovered Asia.

Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. It is a very attractive city with French style building and its architecture and daily living highlights are the style of peculiar tradition found in ancient streets and handicraft building

Halong Bay is listed as a world heritage site. It is comprised of more than two
Thousand islands and the emerald waters create a dramatic seascape. There is marvelous architectural work of nature bearing the figures of different animals and many caves can be found in many islands.

Sapa, 380 km from Hanoi, isa small town of Lao Cai province at the altitude of 1500 m from the sea level, so beautiful with such scenic spots as Cau May (Rainbow bridge), Thac Bac (Silver waterfall) etc. with an average tem of 20 – 22 degree C during summer and 4 – 10 degree C in winter. Sapa is the largest tourist resort in the high land of Vietnam. Faspian Mountain nine kilometers north west of Sapa, is the highest peak in Vietnam and in all of Indochina. Faspian is a home to 2024 floral varieties and 327 faunal species offers challenging hikes.

To take a Sapa trek is the best way to sample the traditional culture and lifestyle of different ethnic groups and meet with friendly local people. Home stay is also available with local farmers.

Hue This citadel city’s position was determined by Gia Long King. It was built on the northern bank of the Huong River (Perfume river). Hue was the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. The entire Hue citadel city is a wonderful architecture and extremely precious in view of history and culture of Vietnam.

Hoi An is situated on the bank of Hoai River, 30kms south of Danang City. Most of King Nguyen’s trading transactions took place in Hoi An harbor at that time. In addition, trading vessels from China, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and several western countries have chosen Hoi An as a staging station on their way to conduct business in the Far East. Hoi An is the city of memory and expectation, city of good earth and has been recognized by UNESCO as cultural heritage of humanity.

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and also the financial hub. French colonial architecture featuring tree-lined boulevards are all part of city’s history with modern developments showcasing the new Vietnam with high rise buildings. Examples of the grand old colonial architecture can be seen at the Notre Dame, Cathedral, the Old Saigon Post Office and City Hall.

Cu Chi Tunnels. Cu Chi is a suburban district of Ho Chi Minh City. This has been the land of strongest persistence in South Vietnam throughout the two wars against foreign aggression lasting for nearly 30 years (1945-1975) particularly during the war against American forces (1954-1975). This is also called as land of steel. All has been installed underground, available with an intricate system of tunnels serving marvelously the underground life for battle comprising of conference area, arsenal department, food storage, medical ward, kitchen and even entertainment. “Freedom rings loudest for those denied Freedom”.

Mekong Delta covers an area of 40,000 km comprising 12 provinces in Vietnam’s Southern region. This delta is fertile for agriculture from the waters of Mekong River. The most famous floating markets are Nan Can, Long Xuyen and Phung Hiep. The availability of numerous canals has facilitated waterway communication by boats, ferries and sampans as principal transportation means.
The people hear are very friendly and hospitable. Home stay is also available here. Their style of reception is not formal but deep from their heart. A bicycle ride on the mud roads along the side of canals watching green foliage and listening to the bird’s music will be an unforgettable experience.

Dalat which is located 300km north east of Ho Chi Minh City has a very strong French influence. This is illustrated by the hundreds of French colonial buildings and villas throughout the town. Dalat is a pleasant getaway for people wanting to escape the tropical heat.

Sight seeing in Saigon. A vibrant metropolis, SAIGON teems with energy, activity and motion. Everywhere you look, you see the meeting of traditional and modern life. The emerging modern skyline stands cheek by jowl with colonial buildings and traditional temples. Outside on the streets, young professionals zip by on motorcycles, chatting on cell phones; inside the quiet temple courtyards, worshippers pray amidst clouds of incense. Begin your tour of this exciting city with a tour of the historic center, strolling along DONG KHOI STREET, formerly known as the Rue Catinat, the main shopping thoroughfare and heart of old colonial Saigon. Pass by classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate CITY HALL (HOTEL DE VILLE), the old OPERA HOUSE (both may only be viewed from the outside), and pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL and the CENTRAL POST OFFICE. Afterwards dive into modern history with a tour of the REUNIFICATION PALACE. Formerly the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president, this 60s style building was famously stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975 signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state, and the original tanks remain on display near the entrance gates. Continue to the harrowing WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM, which comprehensively documents the travails of the long Vietnam- American War. Inside are detailed photographic exhibitions; outside is a collection of tanks, planes and weapons. A powerful experience, this museum is guaranteed to provoke strong emotions. Finally, end up at the central BEN THANH MARKET, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts, appealing to every taste.

Transfer to airport for flight from flight from Saigon to Danang.
Visit CHAM MUSEUM: this houses probably the best collection of Cham art to be found anywhere in the world. There are more than 300 artifacts in the museum, many dating to the 4th century. There are beautiful sculptures reflecting the 1000 year Cham period.

Day3 Hoi An – Hue (breakfast)
Sight seeing in Hoi-An. The exquisitely preserved merchant town of HOI AN was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Its colorful shop houses and temples reflect a diverse heritage, dating back to the 16th and 17th century, when it was a major port for Western, Chinese and Japanese traders. Today it is a thriving center of traditional crafts and a shoppers’ paradise, best explored on foot. Wander through the cobbled streets, past low tile-roofed buildings, the bustling central MARKET and the small HARBOUR where colorfully painted boats are moored. The walking tour will include visits to a PRIVATE HOUSE, where members of the same family have lived continuously for centuries in a traditional setting; to one of the FAMILY CHAPELS built by prominent merchant or official families as centers for ancestor worship; and to a typical CHINESE-STYLE PAGODA or ASSEMBLY HALL. Finally, continue to the famous JAPANESE COVERED BRIDGE, first constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream

By road from Hoi – An to Hue
From Hoi An journey north past DANANG, passing LANG CO, a lovely stretch of beach curving outwards between a clear blue lagoon and the South China Sea, before arriving at Danang. Continue along steep mountainous roads with spectacular views of the coastline, crossing the dramatic HAI VAN PASS, the high dividing line between the climate zones of north and south Vietnam, before arriving in Hue.

Sight seeing in Hue. Hue served as the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. It houses ancient temples, imperial buildings and French-style edifices. It was established in the 17th century.

Located in the heart of Hue is the IMPERIAL CITADEL, a vast complex built in the early 19th century and modeled after the Forbidden City of Peking. The original walls stretched for 10 km and were surrounded by a wide moat. Today, most of the buildings have been destroyed due to bombing during the Vietnam-American War, but the monuments that remain provide a fascinating glimpse into the court life of the Nguyen Dynasty. Approach the city past the striking FLAG TOWER, where a giant Vietnamese flag waves proudly overhead, to the imposing NGO MON GATE, the main entrance to the Imperial Enclosure. Enter into an area of spacious courtyards and serene lotus ponds, and visit THAI HOA PALACE, the magnificently decorated reception hall, the HALLS OF THE MANDARINS, and the original NINE DYNASTIC URNS, among other sites.

Visit the Imperial Tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh
Venture into the countryside around Hue to the IMPERIAL TOMB OF TU DUC. Tu Duc, the longest Venture into the countryside around Hue to the IMPERIAL TOMB OF TU DUC. Tu Duc, the longest reigning Vietnamese emperor, designed and built this elegant tomb during his lifetime, using it as a retreat for meditation, reading and theater performances. Take some time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, wandering among the gracefully proportioned pavilions, courtyards and lotus ponds. Afterwards visit the IMPERIAL TOMB OF KHAI DINH, dramatically located on a hillside. The last of the monumental tombs of the Nguyen dynasty, completed in 1931, this tomb incorporates distinct European elements into the traditional Vietnamese architecture.

Day5. Hanoi (Breakfast/Lunch: sea food lunch on boat trip)
Excursion to Halong Bay with boat trip inclusive of lunch)
The day Cruise start at 12.30 pm. Cruise on a traditional wooden boat among the emerald waters and craggy limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, stopping at different islands to explore some of the many caves in this area. Sail past floating villages, fishermen casting their nets and pearl fisheries and observe the rhythms of daily life on the bay. The boat returns to Halong pier at approximately 16.30 pm.
Overnight in Hanoi

Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, HANOI still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shophouses invite exploration by cyclo, while its many beautiful public spaces - lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments - give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature unique among Asian capitals. Begin your day visiting the TEMPLE OF LITERATURE, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and one of the best surviving examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university.

Continue to the miniature ONE PILLAR PAGODA. Also dating from the 11th century, this monument was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954. Today it stands near the vast HO CHI MINH MEMORIAL COMPLEX, a lovely park setting which is home to Ho Chi Minh's final resting place, as well as a museum and other memorials. Begin at the HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM, where visitors can pay respects to the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. The Mausoleum is closed in the afternoons, on Mondays and Fridays, and closes annually in October and November for restoration. Continue through the park to HO CHI MINH'S STILT HOUSE, the simple two-room dwelling where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1948 until his final days. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows.

Afterwards head to HOAN KIEM LAKE, located in heart of Hanoi, which contains an islet with the tiny TORTOISE PAGODA. Enroute, pass other colonial landmarks such as, the magnificent OPERA HOUSE (may be seen from the outside only) and ST JOSEPH'S CATHEDRAL. From the lake, begin exploring the OLD QUARTER by CYCLO This fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses is also known as 'The 36 Streets,' each street being named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics to crafts to medicines to tombstones. A handicraft-lover's paradise and a endlessly interesting place to explore local life. The Cycle ride lasts approximately one hour.

In the afternoon, visit one of Hanoi's famous museums, either the HISTORY MUSEUM or the MUSEUM OF ETHNOLOGY.
Once the Museum of the Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, the HISTORY MUSEUM (BAO TANG LICH) is housed in an elegant building from the 1930s, and includes exhibits spanning the entirety of Vietnam's history including prehistory, proto-Vietnamese civilizations, the Dong Son culture, the Oc-Eo culture and the Khmer Kingdoms.
The MUSEUM OF ETHNOLOGY brings to life the astonishing ethnic diversity in Vietnam, with art and artifacts from the 54 different ethnic groups that inhabit the country. Inside the museum are detailed descriptions of minority groups, with examples of their traditional clothing and way of life. Outside are faithful reconstructions of traditional longhouses, cemeteries and other distinctive ethnic buildings, eateries and other distinctive ethnic buildings.
Transfer flight from Hanoi to Saigon

A vibrant metropolis, SAIGON teems with energy, activity and motion. Everywhere you look, you see the meeting of traditional and modern life. The emerging modern skyline stands cheek by jowl with colonial buildings and traditional temples. Outside on the streets, young professionals zip by on motor cycles, chatting on cell phones; inside the quiet temple courtyards, worshippers pray amidst clouds of incense. Begin your tour of this exciting city with a tour of the historic center, strolling along DONG KHOI STREET, formerly known as the Rue Catinat, the main shopping thoroughfare and heart of old colonial Saigon. Pass by classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate CITY HALL (HOTEL DE VILLE), the old OPERA HOUSE (both may only be viewed from the outside), and pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL and the CENTRAL POST OFFICE.
Afterwards dive into modern history with a tour of the REUNIFICATION PALACE. Formerly the Independence Palace of the South Vietnamese president, this 60s style building was famously stormed by tanks on April 30, 1975 signifying the fall of South Vietnam. It has been preserved in its original state, and the original tanks remain on display near the entrance gates. Continue to the harrowing WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM, which comprehensively documents the travails of the long Vietnam- American War. Inside are detailed photographic exhibitions; outside is a collection of tanks, planes and weapons. A powerful experience, this museum is guaranteed to provoke strong emotions. Finally, end up at the central BEN THANH MARKET, where vendors display a vast array of goods and handicrafts, appealing to every taste

The exquisitely preserved merchant town of HOI AN was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Its colorful shop houses and temples reflect a diverse heritage, dating back to the 16th and 17th century, when it was a major port for Western, Chinese and Japanese traders. Today it is a thriving center of traditional crafts and a shoppers’ paradise, best explored on foot.
Wander through the cobbled streets, past low tile-roofed buildings, the bustling central MARKET and the small HARBOUR where colorfully painted boats are moored. The walking tour will include visits to a PRIVATE HOUSE, where members of the same family have lived continuously for centuries in a traditional setting; to one of the FAMILY CHAPELS built by prominent merchant or official families as centers for ancestor worship; and to a typical CHINESE-STYLE PAGODA or ASSEMBLY HALL. Finally, continue to the famous JAPANESE COVERED BRIDGE, first constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream.

From Hoi An journey north past DANANG, passing LANG CO, a lovely stretch of beach curving outwards between a clear blue lagoon and the South China Sea, before arriving at Danang. Continue along steep mountainous roads with spectacular views of the coastline, crossing the dramatic HAI VAN PASS, the high dividing line between the climate zones of north and South Vietnam, before arriving in Hue.

Hue served as the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. It houses ancient temples, imperial buildings and French-style edifices. It was established in the 17th century.

Visit the Old Imperial City
Located in the heart of Hue is the IMPERIAL CITADEL, a vast complex built in the early 19th century and modeled after the Forbidden City of Peking. The original walls stretched for 10 km and were surrounded by a wide moat. Today, most of the buildings have been destroyed due to bombing during the Vietnam-American War, but the monuments that remain provide a fascinating glimpse into the court life of the Nguyen Dynasty. Approach the city past the striking FLAG TOWER, where a giant Vietnamese flag waves proudly overhead, to the imposing NGO MON GATE, the main entrance to the Imperial Enclosure. Enter into an area of spacious courtyards and serene lotus ponds, and visit THAI HOA PALACE, the magnificently decorated reception hall, the HALLS OF THE MANDARINS, and the original NINE DYNASTIC URNS, among other sites.

Visit the Imperial Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
TU DUC TOMB: Emperor Tu Duc, who ruled Hue more than 100 years ago, built his tomb when he was still alive and used it for meditation, reading and theater performances. There are 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.

Day 6 Hue-Hanoi (Breakfast)
Excursion to Thien Mu Pagoda with a boat trip on the Huong Giang river
Embark on a local boat and cruise down the PERFUME RIVER to the iconic THIEN MU PAGODA, an elegant seven-tiered octagonal tower which has become Hue's most widely recognizable monument. During the early 1960s, this became a center of anti-government protest, and the site of the famous self-immolation of the monk Thich Quang Duc.

Day 7 Hanoi (Breakfast/ Lunch: Sea food lunch on Boat trip)
The day cruise start at 12.30 pm. Cruise on a traditional wooden boat among the emerald waters and craggy limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, stopping at different islands to explore some of the many caves in this area. Sail past floating villages, fishermen casting their nets and pearl fisheries and observe the rhythms of daily life on the bay. The boat returns to Halong pier at approximately 16.30 pm.
Overnight in Hanoi

Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, HANOI still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shop houses invite exploration by walk, while its many beautiful public spaces - lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments - give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature unique among Asian capitals. Begin your day visiting the TEMPLE OF LITERATURE, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and one of the best surviving examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university.
Continue to the miniature ONE PILLAR PAGODA. Also dating from the 11th century, this monument was rebuilt after being destroyed by the French in 1954. Today it stands near the vast HO CHI MINH MEMORIAL COMPLEX, a lovely park setting which is home to Ho Chi Minh's final resting place, as well as a museum and other memorials. Begin at the HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM, where visitors can pay respects to the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. The Mausoleum is closed in the afternoons, on Mondays and Fridays, and closes annually in October and November for restoration (can only view from the outside). Continue through the park to HO CHI MINH'S STILT HOUSE, the simple two-room dwelling where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1948 until his final days. Preserved in the same condition as during his life, it may be viewed through the windows.
Finally, discover the OLD QUARTER of Hanoi by walk. This fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses is also known as 'The 36 Streets,' each street being named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics to crafts to medicines to tombstones. A handicraft-lover's paradise and a endlessly interesting place to explore local life.

Mekong Delta Biking 4 Days
Saigon- My tho –Vinh Long – Can Tho
Day 1 Saigon – My Tho)
Transfer to outskirts of Saigon and begin cycling on beautiful countryside roads before taking the local ferry to My Tho. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat trip to the Mekong river islands near My Tho. Overnight in My tho.

Depart from the hotel by bicyle and continue along the upper Mekong River along shaded back roads. The itinerary passes through small villages, giving excellent opportunities to observe daily life. Continue to Cai Be, famous for its floating market. From Cai Be, continue by boat to Vinh Long along picturesque canals. Approximate distance cycled is 40kms (Actual distance vary according to itinerary and fitness levels of the participants. Overnight in Vinh Long.

Transfer by vehicle to Long Ho and begin cycling on country roads past vast rice paddies on eight side before arriving in Can Tho. In the afternoon, enjoy a brief city tour of Cann Tho by bicycle. Total distance cycled is approximately 35kms.
(Actual distance vary according to itinerary and fitness levels of the participants)

In the early morning, take a boat trip to Cai Rang floating market, the largest and most bustling of the Mekong Delta Markets. Fruit and vegetables vendors assemble from all over the region, hanging samples of their wares on long poles above their boats. After words, explore the smaller canals of the area by boat, disembarking at Rau Ram bridge to begin the day’s Cycle. Continue along the canal banks of the Lower Mekong by bicycle until reaching Va Xe (O Mon). Return to Saigon by vehicle. Approximate distance cycled is 25 Kms. (Actual distance vary according to itinerary and fitness levels of the participants)

Northern Adventure 3 Days
Lao Cai – Local Village – Sa Pa
Day1 Lao Cai – Sa Pa
Transfer to Sa Pa. Visit Tram Ton Pass, Vientam’s highest mountain pass, with spectacular views of swirling clouds over a deep green mountain valley. From there, enjoy a short trek to the Village of Sin Chai. Overnight in Sa Pa.

Day2 Sa Pa
Depart Sa Pa in the mid-morning and begin trekking on small paths. Descend deep into a valley and up again through forested hills until reaching the villages of Cat Cat, Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai. These villages are mainly Black H’ mong, noted for their distinct culture, language and deep blue indigo cloathing. After breaking for lunch, continue to Dzay village of Tavan. Although the Dzay people in this village adapted their traditions some what, many women still wear the traditional shirts of purple, blue or green. Dzay houses are generally wooden with clay floor. Enjoy the hospitality of a local Dzay family for dinner and accommodation. Total trekking distance for the day is 15kms, over hilly terrain. Overnight in Sa Pa.

Day3. Sa Pa
In the morning, hike up the mountain to the Red Dzao village of Giang Ta Chai, passing a cascading waterfall on the way. Continue along the rice fields, crossing the Muong Hoa river and trek to the village of Supan to meet the jeep and transfer back to Sa Pa. Total trekking distance for the day is 10Kms over hilly terrain. Transfer to Lao Cai Train station.