My 12-Day Solo Adventure Across Cambodia & Laos!

by · Published · Updated

Introduction

Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of culture, history, and adventure – and Cambodia and Laos stand out as two of the most enchanting destinations in this region.

When I first dreamt of exploring Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Laos topped my list for their mystical temples, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This 12-day solo journey turned out to be a beautiful blend of history, adventure, and soulful experiences. Here’s my day-by-day itinerary with practical travel tips and interesting trivia to help you plan your own trip!

✨ Essential Travel Trivia Before You Go

  • Countries Covered: Cambodia & Laos
  • Capital Cities: Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Vientiane (Laos)
  • Languages: Khmer (Cambodia), Lao (Laos). English is widely understood in tourist areas.
  • Currency:
    • Cambodia – Cambodian Riel (KHR), but USD is widely accepted.
    • Laos – Lao Kip (LAK). Carry some cash as ATMs are limited in smaller towns.
  • Weather in June: Hot and humid, with occasional rain. Light cotton clothes and waterproof gear are must-haves.
  • Neighboring Countries: Cambodia (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos), Laos (China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar).
  • Visa:
    • Cambodia – e-Visa available online (Got in 2 working days) for 3 months.
    • Laos – e-Visa or Visa on Arrival (Got in 1 working day) for 2 months.
  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for both countries. I took ICICI Lombard travel insurance.
  • Country Codes: Cambodia (+855), Laos (+856).
  • Food to Try:
    • Cambodia: Amok curry, Khmer noodles, fresh tropical smoothies.
    • Laos: Sticky rice, Laap (spicy salad), coconut desserts, Beerlao.
  • Safety Tip: Both countries are safe for solo travelers, but keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid dark alleys at night.

💡 Travel Tips

  • Connectivity: Local SIMs are affordable and widely available at airports.
  • Transport Apps: Download Grab (Cambodia), LOCA/Maxim (Laos) before arrival.
  • Packing: Lightweight clothes, a good pair of hiking sandals, a rain jacket, and a power bank are essentials.
  • Best Time to Visit: November–February for pleasant weather. June is great for fewer crowds but expect rain.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Cover shoulders and knees while visiting temples.

Flights & Transportation

My journey began on 11th June with a late-night flight from Mumbai to Phnom Penh via Kuala Lumpur, flying with Malaysia Airlines. After a quick 1.5-hour layover, I arrived in Phnom Penh around 10 a.m. the next morning.

For the return leg, on 23rd June, I flew from Vientiane back to Mumbai with Vietnam Airlines, with a short stopover in Ho Chi Minh City before reaching home that evening.

To move between destinations, here’s how I traveled:

  • Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: I took a comfortable luxury AC minivan for the 5.5-hour scenic ride.
  • Siem Reap to Bangkok: A short flight with Thai AirAsia, perfect for a quick stopover in Thailand’s capital.
  • Bangkok to Luang Prabang: Another Thai AirAsia flight that brought me straight into the serene beauty of northern Laos.
  • Within Laos:
    • For Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng and later Vang Vieng to Vientiane, I hopped on the high-speed Laos-China Railway trains, which were clean, fast, and efficient.
  • For local travel:
    • Cambodia: I relied on Grab tuk-tuks, which were easy and affordable.
    • Laos: Used Maxim and LOCA apps, along with local tuk-tuks for short distances.

Where I Stayed During My Trip

I chose budget-friendly hostels throughout my journey, perfect for solo travelers who love social vibes and clean, comfortable stays. Here’s a quick look at my accommodations booked via Booking.com:

  • Phnom Penh (12–14 June) – Onederz Hostel: A popular backpacker hub with a rooftop pool and a great social atmosphere.
  • Siem Reap (14–16 June) – Onederz Hostel: Loved it so much, I booked their Siem Reap branch too—ideal for exploring Angkor Wat.
  • Bangkok (16–17 June) – The LOL Elephant Hostel: A cozy spot for a short overnight stay, close to Khao San Road.
  • Luang Prabang (17–19 June) – Sabai Sabai Backpackers Hostel: Simple, clean, and within easy reach of the Old Quarter.
  • Vang Vieng (19–22 June) – Vang Vieng Chill House: True to its name, this place had relaxed vibes and was perfect for adventure days.
  • Vientiane (22–23 June) – Venn Hostel: A no-frills, convenient stop for my last night before flying out.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: My Experience

Day 0: Mumbai to Phnom Penh, Cambodia

My trip started with a late-night flight from Mumbai via Kuala Lumpur. Before boarding, I grabbed a Falafel Bullet Platter at New York Burrito Company at Mumbai Airport. Dinner was served later during the flight.

Day 1 – 12th June | Phnom Penh

  • Layover at Kuala Lumpur Airport – Short 30-minute layover before the onward flight.
  • Breakfast on Flight – Light meal served en route to Phnom Penh.
  • SIM Card Purchase from Phnom Penh airport – Local SIM with 30GB for 7 days to stay connected.
  • Grab Tuk-tuk to Hostel – Quick and convenient 25-minute ride to the hostel.
  • Visa Sticker – Fast and hassle-free, completed in under 2 minutes.
  • Currency Exchange to Cambodian Riel & Hostel Check-in – Smooth check-in process with refundable deposit.

Sightseeing & Experiences

  • Wat Phnom – The oldest religious structure in Phnom Penh, built in 1373, and a significant symbol of the city. Wat Phnom is considered the birthplace of Phnom Penh. Legend says the city was named after Lady Penh, who discovered sacred Buddha statues here in 1373.
  • Monkey Temple – Known for its playful monkeys and serene surroundings, a unique local experience.
  • Golden Temple – A beautiful temple adorned with golden details, representing Cambodian Buddhist culture. The temple shimmers because of its golden details, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and purity in Cambodian culture.
  • Night Market – Bustling evening spot with local crafts, clothes, and street food, perfect for a cultural taste.

Food & Drinks

  • Fresh coconut water at the hostel for a refreshing start.
  • Tropical smoothie bowl with orange juice at the hostel café.
  • Fresh Coconut ice cream with peanuts at the night market.
  • Banana cake back at the hostel for a sweet end to the day.

Activities & Shopping

  • Quiz Night – Enjoyed a lively quiz night at the hostel’s rooftop restaurant, complete with a poolside ambiance.
  • Booked Killing Fields & Genocide Museum tour for the next day.
  • Bought trendy black shorts and an orange swimsuit corset from the night market.

Day 2 – 13th June | Phnom Penh (It was an Emotional Day)

Morning

  • Breakfast at Hostel – Enjoyed a choco protein smoothie bowl with cold coffee for a nutritious start.
  • Exchanged additional currency for convenience.

Sightseeing & Experiences

  • Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda – A stunning complex showcasing Khmer architecture and Cambodian heritage. The Silver Pagoda is famous for its silver-tiled floor and precious Buddha statues. The Silver Pagoda gets its name from its floor, which is inlaid with over 5,000 solid silver tiles, each weighing around 1 kg!
  • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) – A somber site that was once a prison during the Khmer Rouge era, providing a powerful insight into Cambodia’s tragic past. Before becoming a prison during the Khmer Rouge era, this site was actually a high school named Tuol Svay Prey.
  • Killing Fields (Choeung Ek) – A memorial site honoring genocide victims; a deeply moving experience that reflects the resilience of the Cambodian people. More than 20,000 mass grave sites exist across Cambodia, but Choeung Ek is the most well-known, marked by a Buddhist stupa filled with thousands of skulls as a memorial.
  • Paid respects by donating incense sticks to the victims.

Refreshments

  • Coconut water at Killing Fields for a quick refresh.

Meals

  • Lunch/Dinner at Hostel Restobar – Enjoyed a vegetable pizza.
  • Dessert & Coffee – Tiramisu paired with an iced latte for an indulgent treat.

Social Experience

  • Celebrated the birthday of the lady at the counter along with two women from Turkey – a warm, memorable hostel moment.

Logistics

Booked the luxury AC minivan to Siem Reap for the next day (12 PM departure).

Day 3 – 14th June | Phnom Penh → Siem Reap

Morning in Phnom Penh

  • Breakfast at Hostel – Fresh passion fruit juice with fancy avocado toast and scrambled eggs for a healthy start.
  • Wat Ounalom – One of Phnom Penh’s oldest and most significant pagodas, considered the center of Cambodian Buddhism. It’s considered the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism and houses an eyebrow hair of Buddha in a sacred relic.
  • National Museum of Cambodia – Home to the world’s largest collection of Khmer art and artifacts, offering a deep dive into Cambodia’s cultural heritage. The museum houses over 14,000 artifacts, including ancient Angkorian sculptures and bronzes dating back to the 4th century.

Transport & Refreshments

  • Took a tuk-tuk to the Golden Temple, then returned to the hostel before departure.
  • Boarded a luxury 12-seater AC minivan for a 5.5-hour scenic journey to Siem Reap.
  • Refreshments on the way: iced latte at Micro Café and fresh pineapple slices.

Arrival in Siem Reap

  • Checked in at Onederz Hostel, a social backpacker-friendly stay with great facilities.

Evening Activities

  • Apsara Dance Show at Apsara Theatre – Witnessed a mesmerizing traditional Cambodian dance performance from 8:30–9:30 PM. Apsara dance is a UNESCO-recognized art form that originated in the Angkor era (9th–15th century) and was performed exclusively for royalty. This cultural show happens every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, and offers an authentic glimpse into Khmer heritage, typically drawing an intimate audience of around 50 guests.
  • Explored Pub Street – The heart of Siem Reap nightlife, buzzing with music, bars, and vibrant energy.
  • Night Market & Phsar Khmer Food Court – Tried local flavors and explored craft stalls for souvenirs.
  • Indulged in an avocado shake for a refreshing evening treat at Pub street night market.

Bookings

  • Secured a sunrise guided tour (4:30 AM–12:30 PM) for the next day to explore Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Keo, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei.

Late Night Snack

Ended the day with two matcha croissants from the hostel café.

Day 4 – 15th June | Siem Reap (Angkor Temples & Local Experiences)

This was one of the best days of the trip!

Morning: Angkor Temples Exploration

  • Angkor Archaeological Park – Explored the world’s largest religious monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning 400 sq. km and home to over 200 temples. It’s so massive that it is visible from space and appears on the Cambodian national flag, making Cambodia the only country to feature a monument on its flag.
    • Angkor Wat – The centerpiece of the complex, 300 times the size of an American football stadium, with a 6 km moat symbolizing protection and balance.
    • Architectural concept: Three layers representing underworld, earth, and heaven, with water, walls, and temples forming a spiritual cosmology.
    • Historical note: Kings lived in wooden houses, as stone structures were reserved for the divine.
  • Purchased a 1-Day Pass via Angkor Pass app for seamless entry.
  • Captured 45 professional photographs at Angkor Wat for memories of this iconic landmark.

Meals & Refreshments

  • Enjoyed fried vegetables with rice and an iced latte after the temple tour.

Afternoon: Floating Village Experience

  • Kampong Phluk Floating Village Sunset Tour – Booked a 5-hour excursion with Hello Bird Tours, starting at 2:30 PM. This unique village of ~5,000 locals lives on stilts and floats during the wet season (July–December), showcasing an extraordinary way of life on Tonle Sap Lake. Houses in this village are built on stilts up to 10 meters high to withstand the dramatic seasonal water level changes of Tonle Sap Lake.
  • Sipped on an avocado shake at a floating café, soaking in serene sunset views over the water.

Evening: Cultural Show

  • Phare: The Cambodian Circus – Watched an inspiring performance blending theater, music, dance, and acrobatics, telling powerful Cambodian stories through art. Phare performers are former street children trained at a non-profit art school in Battambang, making the show a social enterprise that transforms lives through art.

Dinner & Treats

Vegan avocado sandwich (toasted bread topped with sun-dried red capsicum, red onion, and fresh avocado) and black forest pastry at the hostel café.

Day 5 – 16th June | Siem Reap → Bangkok

Morning in Siem Reap

  • Breakfast at Hostel – Enjoyed an iced latte to kick-start the day.
  • Exchanged leftover Riel and Euros into USD for onward travel.

Airport Transfer & Departure

  • Took a tuk-tuk to Siem Reap airport and paid the entry fee.
  • Bought a cute fridge magnet as a keepsake before departure.
  • Flight to Bangkok – Smooth flight experience; Thailand offers FREE visa-on-arrival for Indian travelers, requiring only a Digital Arrival Card (online or at the immigration counter).

Arrival in Bangkok

  • Exchanged USD for Thai Baht at the airport.
  • Grabbed a quick bite at 7/11 – spinach cheese sandwiches and iced latte for a light meal.

Transfer to Hostel

  • Took a Grab car via highway for a faster commute (extra charge for expressway toll).

Evening in Bangkok – Khao San Road

  • Khao San Road – The ultimate backpacker hub known for its vibrant nightlife, street food, and bargain shopping. Khao San Road became famous after being featured in the movie “The Beach” (starring Leonardo DiCaprio) and is considered the backpacker capital of the world.
    • Bought a chic black mini skirt from a street vendor.
    • Savored iconic Mango Sticky Rice, a must-try Thai dessert.
    • Savored cranberry juice at Tom Yum Kung, one of the popular restaurants on the street.
  • Returned to the hostel via Grab bike for a quick and budget-friendly ride.

Day 6 – 17th June | Bangkok → Luang Prabang (Laos)

Morning in Bangkok

  • Exchanged remaining USD for Thai Baht for airport expenses.
  • Grab cab to Bangkok Airport via highway for convenience.
  • Quick snack stop at Camden Food Co – indulged in a chocolate croissant and premium black sesame bun before the flight.

Flight to Luang Prabang

  • Smooth immigration on arrival. Exchanged Euros for Lao Kip and purchased a Unitel SIM card for connectivity.
  • Downloaded LOCA (local ride-hailing app) and booked a cab to the hostel.

Check-in & Essentials

  • Paid for a 2-night stay and refundable deposit at the hostel.
  • Organized currency and essentials for exploring the city.

Evening Exploration – Luang Prabang Night Market

  • Strolled through the colorful Night Market, famous for its handcrafted goods and vibrant food stalls.
    • Tried tapioca green milk tea for a refreshing drink.
    • Enjoyed a Japanese-style pancake (Taiyaki) filled with red bean paste.
    • Coconut water to beat the heat.
    • Bought two beautiful fridge magnets as souvenirs.

Dinner & Dessert at Indigo Café

  • Relished Pad Thai noodles with tofu and eggs, a hearty Lao-Thai dish.
  • Ended the night with a banana chocolate brownie at this cozy café.

Fun Fact:
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often called the “spiritual heart of Laos,” home to over 30 golden Buddhist temples and the famous almsgiving ritual.

Day 7 – 18th June | Luang Prabang (Old Quarter & Night Market)

Morning in Old Quarter

  • Breakfast at Luang Prabang Cat Café – Enjoyed a vibrant spirulina mango smoothie bowl, iced matcha, and a fluffy scrambled egg baguette, all while surrounded by adorable cats.
  • Wat Visoun – The oldest functioning Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang, dating back to the 16th century, known for its unique “Watermelon Stupa” and serene ambience.

Midday Treats

  • Relaxed with an iced latte at Thep Café, a chic spot in the Old Quarter.

Afternoon Relaxation

  • Indulged in a 1-hour full-body Lao massage at a local spa, perfect for easing travel fatigue.

Evening at Night Market

  • Savored homemade Lao almond ice cream at Miti Restaurant.
  • Enjoyed a fresh orange juice at Mookata while soaking up the market vibes.

Night Swim Experience

Ended the day with a magical night dip in the swimming pool at the hostel during a light drizzle – a truly serene and healing experience.

Day 8 – 19th June | Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng (Kuang Si Waterfalls & Mount Phousi)

Morning & Check-out

  • Checked out of the hostel, stored luggage at reception, and received the key deposit refund.
  • Breakfast & Refreshments – Pad Thai noodles from a local street stall, followed by an iced matcha latte at Tuk Tuk Coffee.

Excursion to Kuang Si Waterfalls

  • Took a private AC minivan to Kuang Si Waterfalls, a multi-tiered turquoise cascade surrounded by lush jungle.
  • Bear Rescue Centre – Located at the waterfall entrance, it rescues and rehabilitates Asiatic black bears saved from poaching.
  • Enjoyed fresh mango pieces before entering the falls.
  • Entrance fee to Kuang Si Waterfalls. Spent time relaxing by the crystal-clear pools, dipping feet in the cool waters, and soaking in the peaceful, natural beauty of the surroundings.
  • Stopped at Laos Buffalo Dairy for frozen yogurt ice cream, a popular eco-friendly farm supporting local communities.

Fun Fact:
The magical turquoise color of Kuang Si’s pools comes from high levels of limestone particles suspended in the water.

Afternoon Exploration

  • Hazelnut ice cream near Mount Phousi entrance, opposite the Royal Palace Museum.
  • Climbed Mount Phousi, a sacred hill offering panoramic views of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
  • Mount Phousi Fun Fact: The hill is dotted with 328 steps leading past golden Buddha statues and is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset views.

Evening Transfer to Vang Vieng

  • Cab booked through Maxim app to the railway station.
  • LCR High-Speed Train (C81) – Booked via Baolau, departed at 7:37 PM and reached Vang Vieng at 8:29 PM in just 52 minutes.
  • Snacked on a coconut cake at the railway station.

Dinner & Night

Dinner at Peeping Som’s, near the hostel known for its flavorful fried rice.

Checked in to the hostel and enjoyed a chilled Beerlao to unwind.

Day 9 – 20th June | Vang Vieng (Riverfront & Paramotor Adventure)

Morning

  • Exchanged Euros for local currency Kip to prepare for upcoming activities.
  • Sipped on a refreshing coconut shake to start the day.
  • Extended stay at the hostel from 2 nights to 3 nights and canceled the plan for Vientiane to spend more time in Vang Vieng.

Meals

  • Lunch at Peeping Som’s – Pad Thai noodles paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple shake.

Adventure Activity

  • Paramotor Ride at Sunset booked via Oasis Tour – A thrilling 15-minute flight over the stunning Vang Vieng landscape, offering breathtaking views of the karst mountains and the Nam Song River as the sun set.

Fun Fact:
Vang Vieng is known as the adventure capital of Laos, famous for hot air ballooning, tubing, and aerial sports like paramotoring, offering a bird’s-eye view of its limestone cliffs.

Evening by Nam Song River

  • Relaxed at the riverfront with a plate of fried rice and a chilled Beerlao, soaking in the calm riverside atmosphere.

Nightlife

Headed to PK Bar, a lively spot 2.2 km from the hostel, to enjoy another Beerlao and the vibrant night scene of Vang Vieng.

Day 10 – 21st June | Vang Vieng (Adventure Tour & Night Market)

Full-Day Adventure Tour

  • Booked a full-day adventure tour via Oasis Tour, which included:
    • 7 Zipline Rides – Adrenaline-packed rides across lush canopies and breathtaking views.
    • Tubing in Tham Nam Water Cave – A unique cave tubing experience with headlamps, floating through serene underground waters.
    • Elephant Cave Visit – Known for its elephant-shaped rock formation, considered sacred by locals.
    • Kayaking on Nam Song River – A scenic paddle along the river’s stunning karst backdrop.
    • Blue Lagoon 1 & Poukham Cave – Relaxed by the turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon and explored the mystical Poukham Cave.
    • Lunch included during the tour.

Fun Fact:
The water at Blue Lagoon 1 gets its brilliant turquoise color from the high limestone content, which reflects sunlight beautifully.

Snacks & Drinks

  • Mango Shake at Blue Lagoon 1 for a refreshing break.
  • Back at the hostel: Avocado Shake and crispy French fries.
  • Tried a nutella, banana, and coconut pancake from a roadside stall – a sweet treat after the adventurous day.

Evening & Night Market

  • Explored Vang Vieng Night Market, a laid-back spot with local crafts and food stalls.
  • Dinner at Vela Café, where I tried Mee Krob (crispy, crunchy noodles with a tangy sauce).

Evening Relaxation

Ended the day with a soothing foot and leg massage to unwind.

Day 11 – 22nd June | Vang Vieng → Vientiane (Blue Lagoons & Train Transfer)

Morning & Shopping

  • Bought pink slippers for the day’s adventures.

Blue Lagoons Exploration

  • Blue Lagoon 2 & Blue Lagoon 3 – Paid entry and explored these serene turquoise lagoons surrounded by limestone mountains and jungle.
  • Enjoyed a mango shake at Blue Lagoon 3.
  • Attempted to visit Nam Xay Viewpoint, but skipped the 45-minute muddy and slippery hike due to weather conditions.
  • Returned to Blue Lagoon 1, revisiting its iconic rope swings and relaxing pools.

Fun Fact:
Nam Xay Viewpoint is known for its famous motorbike photo spot at the summit, offering panoramic views of Vang Vieng’s karst mountains and rice fields.

Meals & Treats

  • Lunch at Peeping Som’s – Veg fried rice, a local favorite.
  • Green tea mix Taiwan milk tea at J-AEUM for a refreshing break.

Relaxation

  • Enjoyed a full-body Lao massage, perfect after days of adventure.

Evening Transfer to Vientiane

  • High-Speed Train (C81) LCR – Departed at 8:33 PM, reaching Vientiane by 9:26 PM (booked via Baolau).
  • Snacks: Lays chips at the station.
  • Took a cab from Vientiane Railway Station to the hostel.
  • Paid for hostel accommodation upon arrival.

Dinner

Ended the day with a comforting bowl of noodles from a roadside stall.

Day 12 – 23rd June | Vientiane → Ho Chi Minh → India

Morning & Check-out

  • Had a simple breakfast at the hostel before departure.

Transfer to Airport

  • Took a tuk-tuk to Vientiane airport.
  • Exchanged remaining Kip into USD for final expenses.

Snacks & Coffee at Vientiane Airport

  • Enjoyed a buttery croissant at Lane Xang.
  • Treated myself to a dark chocolate iced latte and tiramisu cake at DEX Coffee, perfect for a sweet send-off from Laos.

Transit at Ho Chi Minh City Airport (HCMC)

  • Sipped a Vietnamese classic milk coffee at Star Café, a must-try Vietnamese specialty known for its strong, sweet flavors.

Flight to India

  • Boarded the Vietnam Airlines flight to India via Ho Chi Minh City.

Fun Fact:
Vietnamese coffee is traditionally made using a slow-drip filter (phin), creating a strong and rich brew often served with sweetened condensed milk.

Highlights of My Trip

✔ Adventure: Ziplining, kayaking, paramotoring
✔ Nature: Kuang Si Waterfalls, Blue Lagoons
✔ Culture: Angkor Wat, Wat Visoun, Night Markets
✔ History: Genocide Museum, Killing Fields

Total Trip Snapshot

  • Duration: 12 Days, 11 Nights
  • Route: Phnom Penh → Siem Reap → Bangkok → Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng → Vientiane

This was one of my most memorable solo trips – filled with culture, adventure, and moments of peace. If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia and Laos, save this itinerary for reference!

You may also like...

Share Your Thoughts!

error: Content is protected !!