Indochina is a region in Southeast Asia that includes Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia which are usually combined in the first-time holiday in this region.
Not only known for its rich history and vibrant cultures, the Indochina region also attracts and impresses its visitors with its stunning landscapes.
If you are planning a trip to Indochina, but don't know where to start, or what to do in Indochina, then spend around 5 minutes reading all the top 15 things to do in Indochina shared in this travel article.
The Very First Tip: Prepaid data SIM card for Indochina Trip
In any trip abroad, in addition to the visa issue, one important thing that you should well prepare is a data SIM/eSIM card, as it helps you stay connected with your beloved at home, or find your way in a strange country.
In case you have an eSIM-compatible device, buying an Indochina eSIM before the trip is highly recommended, as it keeps you connected right from your first stop in your destination without a physical SIM card, and release you from crazy international roaming charge.

Check out the following links for the best prepaid eSIM plans for your Indochina trip:
You will see that there are so many plans for you to choose. In case you don't know which one to choose, seek advice from the provider.
Wish you a great trip to Indochina!
1. Visit the Angkor Wat ancient city in Cambodia
Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of the Angkor temple complex in Cambodia, and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It is a fine example of Khmer architecture and is home to dozens of temples and ruins, including the famous Angkor Wat temple.

A visit to the ancient city of Angkor Wat in Cambodia will give you a great opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the temples here.
Best time to visit:
- Angkor Wat: Sunset, after 4:30 pm, lunchtime
- Angkor Thom: early morning or 12 - 2pm
- Ta Prohm: early morning or lunchtime
Opening hours:
- Ticket office: 4:30 am - 5:30 pm
- Angkor Wat (+ Srah Srang): 5:00 am - 5:30 pm
- Pre Rup, Phnom Bakheng: 5:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Other temples: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm.
Ticket prices:
- 1-day pass - US $37;
- 3-day pass - US $62;
- 7-day pass - US $72;
- Free for Children under 12 years old.
2. Explore the Mekong Delta in Vietnam
Once visiting, you will fall in love with this destination, I'm sure about that.

Mekong Delta is a vast network of waterways and rice paddies that covers much of southern Vietnam. This region has many things to offer, including endless paddies for agricultural production, bustling floating markets, traditional villages, unique ecosystems, and stunning landscapes.
Visitors to Mekong Delta in Vietnam can take boat tours through small waterways of the delta, visit local farms and markets, and learn about the traditional way of life in the region.
Must-do things in Mekong Delta Vietnam include:
- Enjoy a romantic evening at Ninh Kieu Wharf, Can Tho City
- Browse Cai Rang Floating Market
- Stroll the brilliant Vinh Trang Pagoda
- Shop at Cai Be Floating Market
- Disappear into Tra Su Mangrove Forest
- Explore the Mekong by bicycle
- Discover Tram Chim National Park
- Pick up fruits in orchards, and
- Climb Sam Mountain in An Giang.
3. Take a cruise on Halong Bay in Vietnam
Halong Bay should not be missed in your trip to Indochina as it is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in this region, named in the UNESCO World Heritage List and the world's new Seven Wonders of Nature. This bay is filled with limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and hidden caves.

Here are top 5 experiences that you should not miss on a Halong Bay trip:
- Take a fantastic cruise through the crystal-clear waters of this beautiful landscape.
- Do kayaking, swimming, or rock climbing.
- Discover the local life in the floating villages.
- Visit magnificent caves and grottoes.
- Be romantic with a luxury cruise, spa, and dining in a cave.
4. Visit Luang Prabang in Laos
Luang Prabang - a picturesque city in northern Laos - is another must-see destination in your trip to Indochina.

Being known for its historic temples, colonial architecture, and laid-back atmosphere. Luang Prabang is popular among travelers who want to experience the traditional culture of Laos. Visitors to this city will have opportunities to explore the temples, wander through the night markets, and participate in traditional ceremonies and festivals.
Like Halong Bay of Vietnam, Luang Prabang, Laos is also named in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
Top things to do in Luang Prabang, Laos:
- Explore the UNESCO Old Town and Heritage Architecture
- Wander the morning market
- Visit the Royal Palace
- Climb Phousi Mountain
- Tour Wat Manorom
- Admire Wat Xieng Thong
- Visit Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham
- Shop at the Handicraft Night Market
- Explore Wat That Luang
5. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam
The Cu Chi Tunnels is a very famous attraction - very close to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam. It is a network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, offering visitors first-hand experiences inside the massive underground cave and exciting insights into the lives of Vietnamese soldiers during the war.
Best time to visit:
- Early morning to beat the crowds and the afternoon sun
Suggested duration:
- 2-3 hours
Opening hours:
- 7 am - 5 pm (7 days a week)
Ticket prices:
- Ben Duoc: VND 110,000/person
- Ben Dinh: VND 90,000/person
6. Visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh are 2 destinations that allow visitors to delve deeper into the darker corners of Cambodian history, under the Khmer Rouge. These sites now serve as a reminder of the importance of human rights and justice.

Best time to visit:
- Early morning to beat the crowds and the afternoon sun
Suggested duration:
- 4 - 6 hours
Opening hours:
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm every day
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm every day
Ticket prices:
- Killing Fields: $6 USD per person, including a multilingual audio guide + headphones
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum:
- Non-Cambodian Adults: US $5.00
- Non-Cambodian Citizens: between 10-18: US $3.00
- Free for Non-Cambodian Citizens under 10 years olds
- Cambodian Citizens: Free of charge
Audio guide charge:
- Cambodian: US $1.00
- Non-Cambodian: US $5.00
7. Take a cooking class in Hoi An, Vietnam
Don't miss a cooking class in Hoi An, Vietnam, if you are on a tour here, as the cooking class will introduce you to Vietnamese cuisine which is renowned around the world for its fresh and flavorful dishes.

Joining a cooking class is not only a fun activity, but also offers great insight into local culinary culture. In addition to learning awesome recipes, you get to make delicious food and memories to last a lifetime.
Best cooking classes in Hoi An, Vietnam include:
- Red Bridge Cooking School
- Tra Que Waterwheel Organic Farm Cooking Class
- Green Bamboo Cooking School
- My Grandma's Home Cooking
- Taste Vietnam - Ms Vy's Cooking classes
- Hoi An Eco Cooking Class
Suggested duration:
- 4.30 hours
Opening hours:
- Every day
8. Go trekking in Sapa, Vietnam
Located in the misty clouds of Northern Vietnam, Sapa is known for its stunning rice terraces and rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Most visitors to this land experience trekking, no matter easy or challenging, to explore the villages and learn about the traditional way of life. This is the best way to experience the natural beauty of this region and to connect with the local people.

Where to trek in Sapa, Vietnam:
- Fansipan Mountain,
- Ta Phin Village,
- Cat Cat Village,
- Hoang Lien Son National Park,
- O Quy Ho Pass,
- Ban Ho Village,
- Muong Hoa Valley,
- Ham Rong Mountain,
- Heaven's Gate.
9. Visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is the icon of this capital city, and a stunning example of Khmer architecture, and is home to the current king of Cambodia.

Visitors can explore the palace and its grounds and learn about the history of the monarchy in Cambodia. This is a fascinating and unique experience that offers insight into the country's culture and traditions.
Best time to visit:
- In the morning to avoid heat (from 7:30 am)
Suggested duration:
- 2 - 3 hours
Opening hours:
- 8:00 am - 10:30 am, and 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm on Fridays)
Ticket prices:
- US $10/person
Visit rules:
- Dress modestly, or buy a sarong covering at the entrance otherwise.
10. Explore the ancient city of Hue in Vietnam
Located on the bank of the Huong River, the Hue Ancient City has been recognized as one of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO since 1993.

Being the former imperial capital in central Vietnam that is known for its historic temples, tombs, and palaces, the Hue Ancient City is a great destination for history buffs and those who want to experience the cultural heritage of Vietnam.
Best time to visit:
- In the morning or early afternoon
Suggested duration:
- 3 - 4 hours
Opening hours:
- In summer: 6:30 am - 5:30 pm
- In winter: 7:00 am - 5:30 pm
- Every day throughout the year
Ticket prices:
- Adults: VND 200,000 (US $8.50)
- Children: VND 40,000 (US $1.70)
11. Take a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia
Located in the Lower Mekong Basin, the Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap, Cambodia is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake (4,000 square miles), and is home to floating villages and one of the world's most vibrant ecosystems.
The best way to discover the lake is to get on a boat which will take you to explore the villages and learn about the traditional way of life in Cambodia.

Popular villages to visit on a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake:
- Chong Khneas,
- Prek Toal,
- Kampong Phluk,
- Kampong Khleang.
Best time to visit:
- During the rainy season (June to October)
Price:
- Around US $30 to US $40 per person for a half-day boat trip on Tonle Sap including pick up and drop off in Siem Reap, and some drinks and fruit.
Suggested duration:
- 2 - 6 hours, depending on the cruise
Best time to visit:
- Morning, afternoon, or late afternoon with sunset
So, we have guided you through the top 11 things to do on your trip to Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia). Obviously, the region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and has many things on offer for you to discover, from ancient temples to beautiful landscapes and delicious cuisine. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or culture, there is something for you to join and enjoy in Indochina. So, pack your bags and head to this fascinating region to experience all that it has to offer.