DAY 1: SIEM REAP ARRIVAL
Welcome to Siem Reap, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire. Upon arrival, collect your luggage and meet our local guide, transferring to your hotel to complete check-in procedures. The rest of the day is free at leisure to get settled into this charming little town. Shoppers will love browsing artisanal handicrafts at Artisans Angkor while those who just want to soak up the lively ambiance can people watch with a cocktail in hand at Pub Street, a collection of open-air market stalls, restaurants, and boutique bars.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
DAY 2: THE LOST TEMPLES OF ANGKOR – SHORT CIRCUIT (B,L)
Don’t skip breakfast this morning as you’ll need all your energy for a full day of exploring the most fabled temples in Angkor Archaeological Park’s short circuit.
First on the list is the impressive ancient fortress city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Built in an almost-exact square layout and surrounded by an 8-meter high 12 kilometer long stonewall with five entrance gates, the impressive gates are carved with three giant faces, while the causeways are flanked by sculptures of 54 gods on the left and 54 demons on the right.
Continue to the Bayon Temple, the centerpiece of the Angkor Thom complex, renowned for its 54 towers decorated with 216 mysterious stone faces. Proceed to Baphuon Temple nearby. This 11th century pyramid–style temple was probably amongst the most impressive of the Angkor temples in its day. Climb its steep stairs to the upper terrace of the temple, taking in the great views from there, ending the morning part of the tour with visits to the Elephant’s Terrace and the Leper King’s Terrace, both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.
Rest during a delicious Khmer-style local lunch before the moment you have been waiting for, magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The 12th century architectural masterpiece took 30 years to complete and represents the Khmer civilization at it grandest. Crowned by five towers with elaborate bas-reliefs and detailed statues, let yourself be enthralled by this world wonder and national symbol of Cambodia.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure, perhaps trying out a pampering body treatment at any one of Siem Reap’s highly praised and affordable spas.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
DAY 3: THE LOST TEMPLES OF ANGKOR – GRAND CIRCUIT (B,L)
Have another delicious breakfast at the hotel and gear up for a full day of adventure in Angkor Archaeological Park’s grand circuit of exotic temples.
First stop is the famous “Tomb Raider” temple, the picturesque Ta Prohm., largely overgrown by jungle vines, and Preah Khan. While Ta Prohm was built to honour King Jayavarman VII’s mother, Preah Khan was built for his father. Preah Khan is less crowded and not as renovated as Ta Prohm, therefore offering more of an “Indiana Jones” experience.
If time permits, check out the less visited temples of Banteay Kdei and Takeo nearby. Banteay Kdei translates to “a Citadel of Chambers”, and lives up to its name as a photogenic temple made up of a fascinating maze of chambers, while Takeo is the first temple built entirely in sandstone during the reign of King Jayavarman V (968 - 1001). As one of the tallest monuments within Angkor, its five sanctuaries are placed atop a 22-meter high stepped pyramid, showcasing excellent views of the surrounding area.
After lunch, travel into the countryside to a hidden gem of the Angkor Archaeological Park, the beautiful temple of Banteay Srey, the only temple constructed from pink sandstone. Due to its remote location, the temple is often passed over by visitors but it’s arguably the best-preserved monument of the entire Angkor complex, with extra fine bas-reliefs too.
As you return to Siem Reap, stop by the charming temple of Ta Som. Similar to the Bayon temple seen yesterday, this restored monument’s highlight includes a huge strangler fig tree engulfing the eastern gate, providing excellent photo opportunities.
End the day with a sunset viewing over temples and the jungle from the top level of Pre Rup temple before returning to your hotel for a much-deserved rest.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
DAY 4: TONLÉ SAP LAKE - SIEM REAP DEPARTURE (B,L)
Your final day in Cambodia begins with an exquisite breakfast at the hotel and a trip through the countryside, driving past expansive rice fields and quaint local villages to Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Take a relaxing boat trip along the canals that lead to lake, visiting floating fishing villages and observing the vibrant daily life of the locals.
Then, learn about the ancient Khmer art craft of silk production at Angkor Silk Farm, where you can learn all about the breeding process and life cycle of the silkworm to how to spin, dye, and create beautiful silk weavings on wooden hand looms.
Have lunch in a local restaurant before transferring to Siem Reap International airport for your upcoming travel arrangements.
