Our last day in Pakbeng before heading to Luang Prabang. We really enjoyed this little town. Now back on the boat ! You can see that a lot of the shoreline is quite steep so usually lots of stairs to get to the top. The third photo down shows a man with his elephant. The elephant had heavy chains on him and I felt just sick seeing that. He was using him for heavy labour.
Clint enjoying the front of the boat 
Mekong River 
One of our lunches 
Poor Elephant 
Lots of stairs !
As we continued down the Mekong River, we stopped at the Pak Ou Caves. Quite impressive how these places got built. This is a religious site and consists of two caves situated upstream from the Mekong, about 20 miles from Luang Prabang. You can access them by road but it’s a very rugged 6-7 miles, boat is preferred and the better option.
We arrived at Luang Prabang, Laos and headed to our hotel. We are here for a couple of days and we really enjoyed and we did some very interesting things which I’ll tell you about next time !
Trums Travels 
I see what you mean by tours by this company being rigorous. But you two persevered and it has made for a beautiful experience so far. I, too, feel for the elephant being used for heavy labor – the poor thing no doubt will drop to its knees at an early age from work and those chains.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I felt so bad for him too but that’s how they get things done I guess.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I guess they don’t/can’t have heavy machinery there, not just the cost, but perhaps an inability to get it into that area. Not that I’m condoning it either.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes I agree with you, I don’t condone it but it’s a different country/culture.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it’s always important to remember that it’s a different culture for what you see (and even eat).
LikeLike
No getting away from those stairs, it seems! 😅 Poor elephant, yes. Thank you for sharing your incredible experiences. 🙏🏻
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are welcome 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is such a trip of your lifetime. You have seen so much and learned so much, poor elephant!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes I felt bad for him
LikeLike