Cambodia Experience

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival

Welcome to Cambodia! On arrival in Phnom Penh, you will be met for your private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy some free time to unwind until you meet your fellow travellers over welcome drinks while your Tour Leader explains some important details and logistics of the journey ahead.

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

Day 2: Phnom Penh (B/ L)

Explore Phnom Penh by Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw), a chaotic, energetic and always fascinating city. Start your tour at the Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital. Then, visit the Royal Palace, the residence of King Norodom Sihamoni, with its stunning Silver Pagoda. A short walk away is the National Museum, which contains a comprehensive collection of Khmer art. Do not miss Phnom Penh's Central Market, a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from DVDs to silk, crafts, jewelry and daily household items. Midday, stop by a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon (by vehicle), visit the Toul Sleng Museum. Formerly a high school it became the most infamous interrogation and torture facility for the Khmer Rouge regime.

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

Day 3: Phnom Penh to Kampong Thom (B/ L)

In the morning travel overland to the provincial capital Kampong Thom. Along the way stop at the infamous Spider & Insect Market in Skun to see some very special local snacks. Lunch at your hotel in Kampong Thom. In the afternoon excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sambor Prei Kuk. Also known as Isanapura, it is the former capital of the pre-Angkorian Empire of Chenla. The temples, about 30 km away from the town, present some of the most impressive group monuments in Cambodia, and were built mainly in the 7th century.

Overnight in Glorious Hotel & Spa (3 Star) or similar.

Day 4: Kampong Thom to Siem Reap (B/ L)

In the morning leave towards Siem Reap. On the way visit Naga Bridge in Kampong Kdei. Before arrival in Siem Reap we will visit Kampong Kleang, a stilted & floating village, situated about 55 kilometers outside of Siem reap city. This village is a large settlement at the Tonle Sap, which is the biggest lake in Southeast Asia. Take a boat trip on the mighty Tonle Sap and along the fishermen villages. The floating village is something indeed different to see, and you will get an insight into a quite different way of life. Kampong Khleang is surrounded by flooded forests. The floating houses of the village move along the lake according to the seasons. Lunch will be served at a local homestay or at a local restaurant. Afterward continue to Siem Reap.

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

Day 5: Siem Reap (B)

Today we start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. After sunrise visit the bas-relief and central complex of Angkor in the quiet early morning. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Experience an original monk blessing ceremony in an active pagoda in Angkor. The monk will sprinkle holy water while chanting sacred Pali canons to wish good luck and health for everyone. Continue to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, built at the end of the 12th century and adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. The tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas. Continue the day by visiting Ta Prohm, known for the massive trees with thick roots that entangle the walls. Return to Siem Reap.

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

Day 6: Siem Reap (B/ L)

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Damdek before continuing your journey to Beng Mealea temple. Beng Mealea is built from perfectly-squared sandstone blocks, still partly buried under vegetation. The temple’s outstanding decoration dates back to the first half of the 12th century, featuring pediments sculpted with narrative scenes from the Ramayana. While Hindu iconographic themes are prevalent, Beng Mealea is primarily a Buddhist sanctuary, similar to Banteay Samre. Confirming this is the magnificent statue of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara discovered within the monument, now housed at the Angkor Conservancy. Enjoy some lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Banteay Srei temple. Stop and visit the Landmine Museum, established in 1997. See defused and safe landmines up close, learn about their workings and how you can contribute to the ongoing efforts of clearing these weapons worldwide. On the return journey, visit a local village to see the local sugar palm production.

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

Day 7: Siem Reap to Battambang (B/ L)

In the morning, overland transfer to Battambang (ca. 3 hours driving time). In Battambang, you will find French Colonial architectures that are well preserved. Discover this picturesque city, the second largest city in the country, with its small temples, market places and small art galleries showcasing young local talents. After arrival take a half-hour ride on the "Bamboo Train", a simple construction with bamboo sticks as a base - a unique experience! In recent years, still could be driven across Cambodia with the bamboo train. For several years, this experience is only possible on an 8 km stretch in Battambang, where the government can close this last little piece at any time. Afterwards you will stroll through the town see the charming old colonial buildings. You can also stop at the small art galleries dotted across the old town.

Overnight in Classy hotel (3 Star) or similar.

Day 8: Battambang to Siem Reap (B/ L/ D)

In the morning enjoy a village tour by Remork (Tuk Tuk). You will spend your morning exploring the beautiful countryside around Battambang. Visit Cambodian families who produce traditional products (such as rice paper, dried bananas, bamboo sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine) made in the same way they have been for generations. You will learn first-hand about the everyday life in rural communities, which make up over 70% of Cambodia’s population. Learn from local families about how they make these traditional products. Taste the products freshly “off the fire”. Spend some relaxing time in a traditional Khmer house enjoying seasonal fruits and coconut water. Your morning tour finishes by visiting a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. Enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant, before returning to Siem Reap. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (3 Star) or similar.

Day 9: Siem Reap Departure (B)

It’s time to say goodbye, but think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel. As you depart Cambodia, take with you unforgettable memories of ancient temples, vibrant cities, warm local hospitality, and the rich tapestry of culture and history that made this journey truly special.

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