Cambodia Laos Itinerary

Exploring Cambodia and Laos together offers a unique blend of ancient temples, untouched nature, and warm local culture. This itinerary takes you from the majestic Angkor Wat in Cambodia to the serene mountains of Laos, capturing the best of Southeast Asia. You’ll journey through historical landmarks, riverside towns, spiritual experiences, and vibrant markets.

Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a culture enthusiast, this route caters to all. Get ready for a meaningful and unforgettable adventure across borders.

Explore the majestic Angkor Wat, Cambodia, as a highlight of your Cambodia and Laos adventure.

Why Visit Cambodia and Laos Together?

Cambodia and Laos are neighboring countries that offer a seamless blend of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty. Traveling through both allows you to experience the grandeur of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and the peaceful charm of Laos’ Luang Prabang in one trip.

Overview of What This Itinerary Covers

This itinerary covers must-see landmarks like Angkor Thom, Phnom Penh’s Killing Fields, Laos’ Kuang Si Falls, and the temples of Vientiane. It balances cultural immersion, nature exploration, and leisure, with options for 10- to 14-day trips.

Who This Trip Is Ideal For

This journey is perfect for backpackers looking for budget-friendly exploration, culture lovers eager to dive into Southeast Asian heritage, and couples seeking a soulful, offbeat getaway.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia and Laos

Cambodia and Laos have a tropical climate with two main seasons-dry and wet. The dry season (November to March) is ideal for travel, offering cooler temperatures and easier access to remote areas. The wet season (May to October) brings lush landscapes but can make transportation trickier, especially in rural regions.

For festival lovers, plan your trip around Pchum Ben (Cambodia’s Ancestor Day in September/October) or Lao New Year (Pi Mai) in mid-April, a water-filled celebration similar to Thailand’s Songkran. Visiting during these times adds a rich cultural touch to your itinerary.

Plan your trip perfectly by knowing the best time to visit Cambodia and Laos for ideal weather and festivals.

Travel Requirements and Visas

Yes, separate visas are required for Cambodia and Laos.

For Cambodia, most travelers (including Indians, Americans, Australians, and Europeans) can obtain a tourist visa online (e-Visa) or get a visa on arrival at major airports and land borders.

For Laos, travelers from many countries also qualify for a visa on arrival or an eVisa, available for popular entry points like Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Check for COVID or health travel updates, such as vaccination requirements or entry forms, before traveling-though most restrictions have now been lifted.

Learn everything about the Cambodia visa for Indians to ensure smooth entry on your journey.

How to Travel Between Cambodia and Laos

There are multiple ways to travel between Cambodia and Laos, depending on your route and budget.

One popular overland crossing is Veun Kham–Dom Kralor, connecting southern Laos with northeastern Cambodia. Buses and minivans operate between Don Det (4000 Islands) and Kratie or Phnom Penh.

For speed and convenience, consider flights between Siem Reap and Luang Prabang or Phnom Penh and Vientiane-often with a stopover in Bangkok.

For a scenic experience, some travelers choose a Mekong River cruise, which adds charm and relaxation to the journey. Whichever route you choose, book transport in advance, especially during peak season.

Discover the top things to do in Cambodia beyond the temples to enrich your itinerary.

Suggested 10-Day Cambodia and Laos Itinerary

Days 1–3: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat (Cambodia)

Kick off your journey in Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat.

Start early with sunrise at Angkor Wat-a magical experience.
Explore Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm (the “Tomb Raider” temple), and the vast Angkor Thom complex.
In the evenings, head to Pub Street for lively dining, and browse local night markets for souvenirs and street eats.

Days 4–5: Phnom Penh (Cambodia)

Next, head to Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, to explore its history and charm.

Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda for a glimpse of Cambodian royalty.
Learn about the country’s darker history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields.
Unwind with a Mekong River sunset cruise, and try authentic Khmer food at a riverside restaurant or local street vendor.

Don’t miss iconic Cambodian tourist places that make your travel truly unforgettable.

Day 6: Travel from Phnom Penh to Vientiane (Laos)

Make your way to Laos by flight (faster) or overland bus (budget-friendly).

Flights are available from Phnom Penh to Vientiane with one stop (often via Bangkok).
If going overland, cross at Dom Kralor–Veun Kham and continue north.
Tip: Carry passport photos, small USD bills, and printed visa confirmations.

Days 7–8: Vientiane (Laos)

Vientiane offers a relaxed capital city vibe with plenty of charm.

Visit the golden Pha That Luang stupa and quirky Buddha Park.
Explore local life at the Talat Sao Morning Market or chill at trendy riverside cafes.
Walk along the Mekong promenade and enjoy the night market for Laotian snacks and handmade crafts.

Days 9–10: Luang Prabang (Laos)

Fly or take a scenic bus to the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang.

Don’t miss the turquoise Kuang Si Falls, the serene Royal Palace Museum, and the hike up Mount Phousi.
Experience the peaceful alms-giving ceremony at sunrise.
Walk across the seasonal bamboo bridge and relax by the Mekong River at sunset.

14-Day Itinerary Option: Add-On Destinations

If you have more time, extend your trip with these offbeat gems:

In Cambodia

Kampot – Known for pepper farms and river cruises
Kep – A quiet seaside town famous for crab and colonial ruins
Koh Rong – A tropical island paradise with white sand beaches

In Laos

Nong Khiaw – A scenic riverside town perfect for trekking and mountain views
4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) – Chill island life and dolphin spotting on the Mekong
Plain of Jars – Mysterious stone jars scattered across the countryside in Xieng Khouang

Sample 2-Week Breakdown:

Days 1–4: Siem Reap
Days 5–6: Phnom Penh
Days 7–9: Vientiane
Days 10–12: Luang Prabang
Days 13–14: Nong Khiaw or 4000 Islands

Budget Breakdown Vietnam and Cambodia

Traveling in Cambodia and Laos can be incredibly budget-friendly.

Backpackers can get by on $25–$40/day, covering dorms or budget guesthouses, street food, and public transport.
Mid-range travelers should budget $50–$80/day, which includes private rooms, air-conditioned transport, and occasional guided tours.

Breakdown:

Transportation: $2–$15 (bus, tuk-tuk, or internal flights)
Accommodations: $5–$15 (hostel), $20–$50 (mid-range hotel)
Entrance fees: $37 for Angkor Wat (1-day pass), minimal for Laos attractions
Food: $1–$3 (street food), $5–$10 (restaurants)

Extras:

Buy a local SIM card: Metfone (Cambodia), Unitel, or Lao Telecom (Laos), ~$5–$10 for a data package.
Travel passes aren’t necessary, but booking long-distance buses online can save time.

Get a clear idea of the Cambodia trip cost from India to budget your combined Cambodia and Laos tour.

Travel Tips for Cambodia and Laos

Understanding local norms helps make your trip smoother.

Currency:
Cambodia uses the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but USD is widely accepted.
Laos uses the Lao Kip (LAK)-carry small notes as card use is limited.
Cultural Etiquette:
Dress modestly when visiting temples-shoulders and knees covered.
Greet with a "sampeah" (Cambodian bow) or "nop" (Laotian gesture).
Connectivity:
SIM cards with 4G data are affordable and available at airports or shops.
Wi-Fi is common in most hotels, cafes, and guesthouses.
Health & Safety:
Pack mosquito repellent (dengue risk), stay hydrated, and use bottled water.
Consider travel insurance for health coverage and trip protection.

If you’re curious about adding Vietnam, explore our Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary for extended travel options.

What to Pack for Cambodia and Laos

Pack smart for comfort and cultural respect:

Clothing:
Dry season (Nov–Mar): light, breathable clothes and a light jacket for cool evenings.
Wet season (May–Oct): waterproof jacket, fast-drying clothes, umbrella.
Essentials:
Mosquito repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, universal adapter, and refillable water bottle.
Portable charger and power bank for long travel days.
Footwear:
Sandals or flip-flops for casual days
Closed shoes for hikes and temple visits
Documents:
Carry passport copies, visa printouts, and travel insurance details.
Keep some USD in cash for emergencies or visa fees.

Check out a detailed Cambodia itinerary for 7 days to customize your stay within this Southeast Asia combo.

Final Thoughts:
Combining Cambodia and Laos in a single trip offers a rich blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty that’s hard to match elsewhere in Southeast Asia. From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the serene Mekong sunsets in Luang Prabang, this journey delivers a deep cultural experience and slow travel charm.

The best part? You can easily tailor the itinerary to suit your travel style-history buffs might spend extra days in Siem Reap or Vientiane, while nature lovers can detour to places like Kampot or Nong Khiaw. Foodies can explore street eats in Phnom Penh or sample Laotian dishes in local markets.

Don’t be afraid to go beyond the guidebooks-chat with locals, take the scenic route, or spend an afternoon in a quiet riverside town. Some of the most memorable moments often come from places not pinned on the map.

This itinerary is more than just a checklist-it’s a doorway into the heart of Southeast Asia.