Heritage & Wonders: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh Adventure
Experience the wonders of Cambodia on this captivating 4-day, 3-night tour that takes you from the ancient temples of Siem Reap to the historic landmarks of Phnom Penh.
Highlights of Your Adventure:
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Siem Reap: Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Angkor Wat, explore the enigmatic Bayon Temple with its serene stone faces, and wander through the jungle-clad ruins of Ta Prohm. Delve into local culture at Artisans d’Angkor, where traditional Khmer arts are revived, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Old Market (Psar Chars).
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Tonlé Sap Lake: Embark on a boat journey to the floating villages, witnessing the unique lifestyle of communities living in harmony with Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
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Phnom Penh: Gain profound insights into Cambodia’s history with visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museumand the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, honoring the resilience of the Cambodian people.
This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a blend of awe-inspiring sights and cultural experiences, providing a deep understanding of Cambodia’s past and present. Join us on this unforgettable journey through the heart of Cambodia.
You will be welcomed and greeted by our professional tour guide at Siem Reap airport and transfer to hotel (The room maybe not yet ready until afternoon). After check in, we take short walk along the road in front of the King’s Residence to see the Main Shrine, where the local people usually worship, with its statue of Yeay Teap, Preah Ang Chek and Preah Ang Chorm. Buying jasmine and lotus flowers to worship is very important for the Cambodians. We will also visit Artisans D’Angkor where young Cambodian are trained to learn how to do carving before visiting one of the city’s lively open market, Psar Chars, also called the “Old Market”, where anything and everything is for sale!
Overnight in hotel in Siem Reap.
After breakfast at hotel, visit the most famous of all the temples on the plain of Angkor: Angkor Wat. The temple complex covers 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its distinctive five towers are emblazoned on the Cambodian flag and the 12th century masterpiece is considered by art historians to be the prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture. Angkor Wat's five towers symbolize Meru's five peaks - the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world and the surrounding moat, the ocean beyond. We continue to the South Gate (with its huge statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk), the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century), Bayon Temple (unique for its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara), the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephants Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King. We will end our day discovering Ta Prohm, one of the area's most beautiful temples. Ta Prohm has been relatively untouched since it was discovered and retains much of its mystery. Late afternoon, you will enjoy Remork ride (commonly called Tuktuk) around the city and you will have a blessing ceremony by Buddhist monk for the prosperity, happiness and safety for your trip.
Overnight in hotel in Siem Reap.
Note: During the visit of the Bakan Tower of Angkor Wat Temple
- Visitors are required to wear proper attire, covering shoulders and knees (no short, miniskirt or short trousers)
- Visitors have to be in the queue and waiting to climb up the Bakan Tower of Angkor Wat
- Children under twelve years old are not allowed to climb up this tower.
- It will be closed on the Buddhist Sabath Days, the Buddhist religious days (four days a month).
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off to explore the floating village, located about 15 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on a traditional wooden boat across Tonlé Sap Lake, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia and one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.
In the afternoon, we visit Chantiers Ecoles - Les Artisans d'Angkor, a renowned training center dedicated to preserving Cambodia’s ancient stone carving and wood sculpting traditions, providing young artisans with the opportunity to hone their skills.
Later, we travel by private vehicle to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital. Along the way, we stop at the ancient Naga Bridge, an impressive remnant of the Khmer Empire. We also visit a stone carving workshop in Santuk district, where skilled craftsmen continue this time-honored art, and make a quick stop at the spider market, famous for its unique local delicacies.
Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, enjoy your free time at leisure.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
After breakfast at the hotel, we visit the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, two haunting sites that serve as stark reminders of Cambodia’s tragic past under the Pol Pot regime. It is difficult to fathom such cruelty in this peaceful land, yet these sites stand as powerful testaments to the resilience of the Cambodian people.
At Choeung Ek, the Buddhist memorial stupa honors the 1.7 million victims who perished between 1975 and 1979, ensuring that their stories are never forgotten. While this visit may be emotionally challenging, it is a crucial part of understanding Cambodia’s history and cultural identity.
Enjoy your free time at your own leisure, whether it’s relaxing at the hotel, exploring the city, or picking up some last-minute souvenirs. Take in the final sights and sounds of Phnom Penh before our team arranges your transfer to the airport for your departure. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey ahead!
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