Highlights of Cambodia

Welcome to Cambodia – a land of vibrant culture, ancient temples, and warm smiles! Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel to settle in. Take some time to relax or begin soaking in the city’s energy before joining your fellow travellers over welcome drinks. Your Tour Leader will walk you through the journey ahead, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure through Cambodia’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

Overnight in Luxcity Hotel & Apartment (4 Star) or similar.

Explore Phnom Penh by Cyclo (bicycle rickshaw), experiencing this chaotic, energetic, and always fascinating city from a unique perspective. Begin your tour at Wat Phnom, the hilltop temple that marks the birthplace of the capital. Next, visit the Royal Palace, home to King Norodom Sihamoni, and admire the exquisite Silver Pagoda within its grounds. A short walk takes you to the National Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of Khmer art showcasing Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Later, explore Phnom Penh's Central Market, a bustling maze of stalls offering everything from DVDs to silk, crafts, jewelry, and everyday items. In the afternoon, travel by vehicle to Toul Sleng Museum, formerly a high school that was converted into a notorious interrogation and torture center by the Khmer Rouge regime.

Overnight in Luxcity Hotel & Apartment (4 Star) or similar.

In the morning, embark on an overland transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. En route, visit the infamous spider and insect market in Skun, where a variety of local delicacies are on offer. Continue to the stone mason village near Santuk to see traditional craftsmanship. Before arriving in Siem Reap, explore the floating village of Kampong Phluk, an isolated community consisting of three villages built on stilts over Tonle Sap Lake. This village experiences seasonal flooding from August/September to February, allowing access by small boats through flooded mangrove forests, an exceptional ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife. If water levels permit, enjoy a rowing boat ride through this unique environment. Afterwards, return to the vehicle and continue to Siem Reap for hotel check-in.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Begin your day at pre-dawn to witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia's iconic temple complex, renowned for its scale, architecture, and intricate bas-reliefs. After sunrise, explore the bas-reliefs and central complex of Angkor Wat in the peaceful early morning hours. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Next, proceed to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, the “Great City,” which features some of the finest temples built by King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Key highlights include the towering 23-meter-high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, famously seen in the Tomb Raider film. At the center lies Bayon temple, known for its hundreds of gigantic stone faces. Continue to the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Later, visit the 11th-century temples of Baphuon and Phimeanakas before concluding at Ta Prohm, distinguished by massive trees with thick roots that intertwine with the temple ruins. Return to Siem Reap for overnight.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Start this day with a visit to Damdek local market, offering insight into daily life and local produce. Proceed to Beng Mealea temple, a largely unrestored temple complex built from perfectly squared sandstone blocks, partially hidden by dense vegetation. Its decorations date from the first half of the 12th century, with pediments sculpted with scenes from the Ramayana. Although Hindu iconography is dominant, Beng Mealea is primarily a Buddhist sanctuary, similar to Banteay Samre, as evidenced by the statue of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara originally found there and now housed at the Angkor Conservancy. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Banteay Srei, known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. On the return, stop at the Landmine Museum, established in 1997, where visitors can see safe, defused landmines and learn about their operation and ongoing clearance efforts. Finally, visit a local village to observe the traditional production of sugar palm before enjoying a Khmer Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Your journey concludes today. A transfer will take you to the new Siem Reap airport for your onward travel, carrying memories of Cambodia’s ancient temples, historical insights, and vibrant street life.

Included

Not Included