What's The Banana Pancake Trail, Anyway?

The “Banana Pancake Trail” is a popular backpacking route in Southeast Asia. The trail gets its name from the banana pancake breakfast offered in guesthouses and cafes catering to Western backpackers. The standard route covers Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, with some people extending it downward to Malaysia, Indonesia and even over to the Philippines.

Why’s it so popular? Well, for one thing, all the countries on the trail are budget-friendly! Plus, they have really fun experiences available for travelers that you can’t find in other places. And because it’s so popular, there’s tons of travelers going on it every month, so it’s easy to meet people and make friends.

While it might’ve first gotten popular in the 1960s and 1970s, the Banana Pancake trail is still a popular route to take even today! If you’ve never gone on a major trip before, starting with the Banana Pancake trail is a good way to go because it’s so easy to explore and visit amazing places.

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Why Travel the Banana Pancake Trail?

Typical banana pancake found along the Banana Pancake Trail!

While the Banana Pancake trail is super popular (aka many, many tourists), there’s still plenty of places to have a off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether you’re trekking through rainforests, diving into crystal-clear waters, or exploring bustling cities, the Banana Pancake Trail is full of exciting places waiting to be discovered.

Another benefit is the diverse mix of cultures, languages, and traditions found in Southeast Asia. Each country on the trail offers unique experiences, from ancient temples to street markets and traditional festivals.

Worried about your budget? One of the biggest draws of the Banana Pancake Trail is how much you can travel on a lower budget than other places around the world. With inexpensive accommodations, cheap but yummy street food, and low-cost transportation, it’s perfect for budgets of all levels.

And finally, because the trail is well known by backpackers, it’s easy to meet like-minded travelers, share experiences, and make friends. You’ll never be lonely going on the Banana Pancake Trail!

Major Stops Along the Banana Pancake Trail

This is the typical route for the Banana Pancake trail. It’s very easy to get between countries using ground transportation (much cheaper than flying) and you can cover a lot of ground within three months (the typical amount of travel time).

Thailand

Thailand is often the starting point for most people, as Bangkok is a major transportation hub easy to get to from mostly everywhere. Known for its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, Thailand is a must-visit.

Bangkok: The capital of Thailand! Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Khao San Road, where the Banana Pancake Trail originated, or go shopping in huge modern malls with intense air conditioning. Bangkok is a sensory overload with its street food, night markets, and lively nightlife.

Ayutthaya: One of the old capitals of the kingdom of Siam, destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century and now an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit its amazing ruins and learn a bit of Thailand’s history. Only an hour or so away from Bangkok, and well worth stopping by.

Phuket: Thailand’s largest island, famous for beautiful beaches, busy nightlife, and luxury resorts. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Patong, Kata, and Karon. Take a boat tour to the nearby Phi Phi Islands or explore the old town of Phuket with its Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Chiang Mai: Located in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a haven for those seeking a cultural activities and outdoor adventures. Visit the historic Old City, participate in a traditional Thai cooking class, or venture out to the nearby mountains for hiking.

Pai: A small town in northern Thailand, a few hours away from Chiang Mai. Pai is an old hippie town turned new age paradise. Rent a scooter and explore the surrounding countryside, or simply unwind in one of the town’s many cafes. Popular with yoga enthusiasts and seekers of spiritual enlightenment.

Inside Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple, in Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai: Another small town in the north, very near to the Laos border. Worth stopping by for a day or two to explore the amazing Blue and White Temples, and go visiting the border of Thailand and Myanmar. A good final stop before heading into Laos.

Laos

Laos is a landlocked country known for its laid-back vibe, amazing landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a quieter stop on the Banana Pancake Trail, perfect for those looking to slow down and soak in the scenery. If you’re coming from Thailand, try crossing the border from Chiang Rai and going on the slow boat from Xuayxai to Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang: Known for its well-preserved architecture and bright temples, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the alms-giving ceremony at dawn, where monks collect food from locals, or the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfall where you can swim in turquoise-colored pools.

Sayaboury: Go visit elephants in the Elephant Conservation Center, and learn about how they’re being rehabilitated and released into the wild! Technically you’ll get picked up in Luang Prabang, too, so it’s easy to get out there and back.

Vang Vieng: Once notorious for its party scene, Vang Vieng has transformed into an outdoor adventure hub. Go tubing down the Nam Song River, explore the numerous caves, or hike through the breathtaking karst landscapes. Take an early-morning hot air balloon ride and see Laos from the sky!

Vientiane: The capital of Laos offers a more relaxed pace. Visit the Pha That Luang, a gold-covered Buddhist stupa, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River promenade, sampling local delicacies from street vendors. Go out to Buddha Park and see over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues.

Pakse: A gateway to the Bolaven Plateau and the 4000 Islands. This charming town is known for its French colonial architecture, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls. Explore the ancient ruins of Wat Phu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a boat trip along the Mekong River.

4000 Islands (Si Phan Don): Located in the Mekong River, this archipelago is a great place to unwind. Explore the islands by bicycle, watch for freshwater dolphins, and relax in a hammock to soak in the peaceful setting.

Vietnam

Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences, from massive cities at the banks of the river to rural countryside town tucked in the side of mountains. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine (plus low cost) make it a favorite among travelers on the Banana Pancake Trail.

Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam is a blend of old and new, with its centuries-old architecture and modern developments. Wander through the intensely busy Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. Egg coffee originated here, so be sure to give it a try!

Ha Long Bay: Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a few hours away from Hanoi. Take a cruise to explore the bay, visit floating villages, and kayak through hidden lagoons.

Photo of a road twisting back on itself in a deep S shape. This is "Dốc Thẩm Mã" viewpoint on the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam. — Dốc Thẩm Mã on the Ha Giang Loop

Ha Giang: Northern Vietnam’s intensely beautiful mountains take the spotlight on the Ha Giang Loop Tour, a multi-day motorcycle adventure. Highly recommend taking the time to go up and explore this part of Vietnam!

Sapa: A small town known for its terraced rice fields. The region is home to various hill tribes, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. Trek through lush landscapes, visit local villages, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.

Woman sitting with a traditional Vietnamese hat in front of a colorful wall of incense in Hue, Vietnam. — Incense-making village in Hue

Hue: A small town famous for its Citadel, the old Imperial City constructed in 1803 and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop by on your way to Hoi An! Do a day tour and visit the incense village, abandoned water park, and some temples, or go out to the DMZ zone just outside the city.

Hoi An: This charming ancient town is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, custom clothing shops, and culinary delights. Stroll through the lantern-lit streets, take a cooking class, or enjoy a boat ride on the Thu Bon River.

Ho Chi Minh City: The economic hub of Vietnam and a massive city, famous for sleek skyscrapers standing alongside historic French colonial buildings. Visit the War Remnants Museum, explore the Ben Thanh Market, and take a stroll down Dong Khoi Street.

Cambodia

Cambodia is a country with a tumultuous history, but it is also home to some of the most awe-inspiring temples and warm-hearted people. It offers a mix of historical exploration and natural beauty. A lot of people skip Cambodia, but if you’re interested in history then it’s worth stopping by!

Siem Reap: The gateway to the ancient Angkor Wat temples, Siem Reap is a cute smaller town with a decent nightlife. Spend a few days exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park, eat some really good food and talk to the friendly locals.

Kampot: A riverside town known for its pepper farms and relaxed atmosphere. Explore the countryside, visit the nearby Bokor National Park, and enjoy a sunset cruise on the river. Maybe you’ll see one of the endangered pink dolphins!

Phnom Penh: The capital city of Cambodia is rich in history and culture. Visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the harrowing Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn about Cambodia’s recent past.

Sihanoukville: For beach lovers, Sihanoukville is the gateway to Cambodia’s best beaches and islands. Relax on the sandy shores of Otres Beach or take a boat trip to the pristine Koh Rong Island.

Final Thoughts

The Banana Pancake Trail is more than just a travel route! It’s an experience that showcases the spirit of adventure, personal connection and cultural discovery.

Each stop on the trail has something special to offer, from the busy streets of Bangkok to the tranquil islands of Laos. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time backpacker, the Banana Pancake Trail promises a journey filled with memories, new friendships, and stories to tell for a lifetime.

Pack your bags, put on your adventure hat, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime on this incredible Southeast Asian journey.