TRIP | CAMBODIA DISCOVERY
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Phnom Penh (3) - Siem Reap (3)
An enchanting land steeped in history, Cambodia beckons the intrepid traveller. Focus on Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to connect the country’s intriguing past with its present charm. See the iconic sites and then dig deeper for a better understanding of Khmer culture and traditions.
Spend time getting to know the two intriguing destinations of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Arrive in Phnom Penh and embark on a relaxing tour of its majestic sights including a visit to the Tuol Sleng Museum. Then it's off to Siem Reap and the ancient city of Angkor. Visit the impressive temples then relax with some insightful touring. All along this week-long discovery of Cambodia, get an insider’s point of view as you travel with expert local guides who provide deeper insight to the country’s history by sharing personal stories and experiences. As you skip the flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and instead travel overland through the countryside you will to discover the rural charm of Cambodia. Tap in to local culture with a boat trip on the Tonle Sap River, stopping in villages untouched by time.
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BEST TIME TO VISIT
July - March BASICS
6-nights; flights & road |
IDEAL FOR
Groups of family and friends PRICES START FROM
US$ 1215 per person valid to 30 Sept 2018 excluding domestic & international flights, and visas |
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN PHNOM PENH | AFTERNOON WALKING TOUR
Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you will be welcomed by your local English speaking guide, who will accompany you to your hotel for check in.
Phnom Penh was once considered as one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history, it still retains a colonial charm. Cambodia’s capital is a bustling city, majestically located at the confluence of the mighty rivers of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap. Wide tree-lined boulevards and many colonial-era buildings reflect the glorious days and add to the allure of the city, where Asian and Western traditions meet in a fascinating way.
In the afternoon, after resting for a while, go on a half-day walking tour of Phnom Penh. See Phnom Penh from a local’s point of view. Take a walk through a quiet corner of the capital, stopping to admire unique modern buildings and picturesque pagodas. Meet with a local resident and get a glimpse into what life is like in the big city. Armed with a greater understanding of the city and its people, return to the hotel.
This evening you will have a welcome dinner at one of several exclusive fine-dining restaurants serving tasty Khmer (and Western) cuisine.
After the dinner you can either be dropped back at your hotel or at the night market on the riverfront.
Phnom Penh was once considered as one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history, it still retains a colonial charm. Cambodia’s capital is a bustling city, majestically located at the confluence of the mighty rivers of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap. Wide tree-lined boulevards and many colonial-era buildings reflect the glorious days and add to the allure of the city, where Asian and Western traditions meet in a fascinating way.
In the afternoon, after resting for a while, go on a half-day walking tour of Phnom Penh. See Phnom Penh from a local’s point of view. Take a walk through a quiet corner of the capital, stopping to admire unique modern buildings and picturesque pagodas. Meet with a local resident and get a glimpse into what life is like in the big city. Armed with a greater understanding of the city and its people, return to the hotel.
This evening you will have a welcome dinner at one of several exclusive fine-dining restaurants serving tasty Khmer (and Western) cuisine.
After the dinner you can either be dropped back at your hotel or at the night market on the riverfront.
DAY 2: IN PHNOM PENH | KHMER ROUGE & THE CAPITAL’S SIGHTS
This morning, gain some insight into Cambodia’s recent dark history on a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Taken over by the Khmer Rouge, this former high school was converted into a detention and torture center known as ‘S-21’. Equally as harrowing are the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Both are grim, but important visits that allow one to dig below the surface and understand present day Cambodia better.
Before lunch, stop at the Russian Market. This bustling bazaar earned its name in the 1980s as the expat Russian population often shopped here. These days the market is filled with everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts, silver jewellery to electronic goods.
After lunch head back to the hotel and embark on a cyclo tour through the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh. This morning, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you on a tour to the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh in a cyclo, an original Phnom Penh means of transportation and a fun way to explore this lively city. First, visit Wat Phnom, which is situated near the northern boundary of the city. The site contains some good examples of Khmer architecture and statues.
Continue along the lively riverfront to the Royal Palace. This palace dates back to 1866 and houses the Silver Pagoda, named for the over 5000 heavy silver tiles that cover its floors. Its original name is Wat Prakeo, meaning Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In this temple you will view a collection of Buddhas in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.
Then visit the National Museum, which was built in traditional Khmer style. It houses the world's foremost collection of ancient Khmer artistic, archaeological, and religious artifacts from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth. In addition, the roof space is home to a large bat colony!
Back in town, relax with some sunset drinks at the renowned Foreign Correspondents’ Club located on the Riverside. The building is a colonial gem with great views of the confluence of the Upper Mekong, Lower Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers.
Before lunch, stop at the Russian Market. This bustling bazaar earned its name in the 1980s as the expat Russian population often shopped here. These days the market is filled with everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts, silver jewellery to electronic goods.
After lunch head back to the hotel and embark on a cyclo tour through the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh. This morning, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you on a tour to the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh in a cyclo, an original Phnom Penh means of transportation and a fun way to explore this lively city. First, visit Wat Phnom, which is situated near the northern boundary of the city. The site contains some good examples of Khmer architecture and statues.
Continue along the lively riverfront to the Royal Palace. This palace dates back to 1866 and houses the Silver Pagoda, named for the over 5000 heavy silver tiles that cover its floors. Its original name is Wat Prakeo, meaning Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In this temple you will view a collection of Buddhas in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.
Then visit the National Museum, which was built in traditional Khmer style. It houses the world's foremost collection of ancient Khmer artistic, archaeological, and religious artifacts from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth. In addition, the roof space is home to a large bat colony!
Back in town, relax with some sunset drinks at the renowned Foreign Correspondents’ Club located on the Riverside. The building is a colonial gem with great views of the confluence of the Upper Mekong, Lower Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers.
DAY 3: IN PHNOM PENH | RIVERBOAT ON THE TONLE SAP
Begin the morning with a boat trip along Cambodia’s Tonle Sap River. A private, wooden vessel will provide some insight into this lifegiving region of the country; a part of Phnom Penh rarely visited by other travelers.
Travel north along the river, passing many floating villages and fishing stations along the way. Spot pagodas, mosques, and Chinese temples, and pay a visit to some local villages. One of the most intriguing villages belongs to the people of Koh Chen. The so-called ‘Silver Island’, this village specializes in silver and copper smithing.
After lunch (served on board), return to Phnom Penh by boat in the afternoon. Spend the rest of the day browsing through the colourful markets of Phnom Penh. Visit the art-deco Central Market, one of the largest markets in Cambodia, selling clothes, souvenirs, jewellery, and food.
Travel north along the river, passing many floating villages and fishing stations along the way. Spot pagodas, mosques, and Chinese temples, and pay a visit to some local villages. One of the most intriguing villages belongs to the people of Koh Chen. The so-called ‘Silver Island’, this village specializes in silver and copper smithing.
After lunch (served on board), return to Phnom Penh by boat in the afternoon. Spend the rest of the day browsing through the colourful markets of Phnom Penh. Visit the art-deco Central Market, one of the largest markets in Cambodia, selling clothes, souvenirs, jewellery, and food.
DAY 4: OVERLAND TO SIEM REAP
Depart from Phnom Penh and travel through the Cambodian countryside and small villages towards Kampong Thom. Stop en route at Skun Market to buy a bag of the ch’ngain (tasty) eight-legged creatures. The spiders are caught in the soft ground of the surrounding countryside and dug out of their burrows.
Also make a stop at Sambor Prei Kuk, one of the most important pre-Angkorian sites in the country that is enlisted to potentially become Cambodia’s next UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sambor Prey Kuk was built in the Chenla period between the 6th and 7th century and there are over 100 well preserved temples scattered in the forest. The three main sites are linked by small and shady tracks. Enjoy a beautiful walk through the jungle with breathtaking views. Your visit supports a community-based tourism project.
The villages around the temple complex still practice the ancient art of craft making, using materials such as bamboo and rattan. Stop at one village to observe the local production. The community runs the Isanborei Craft Hut next to the temples and sells their products there as part of a community-based tourism project. You will have the chance to contribute to the sustainability of the people’s livelihood as the local community will prepare a simple but very tasty lunch for you near the temples.
Continue to Siem Reap and check-in to your hotel on arrival, late evening.
Also make a stop at Sambor Prei Kuk, one of the most important pre-Angkorian sites in the country that is enlisted to potentially become Cambodia’s next UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sambor Prey Kuk was built in the Chenla period between the 6th and 7th century and there are over 100 well preserved temples scattered in the forest. The three main sites are linked by small and shady tracks. Enjoy a beautiful walk through the jungle with breathtaking views. Your visit supports a community-based tourism project.
The villages around the temple complex still practice the ancient art of craft making, using materials such as bamboo and rattan. Stop at one village to observe the local production. The community runs the Isanborei Craft Hut next to the temples and sells their products there as part of a community-based tourism project. You will have the chance to contribute to the sustainability of the people’s livelihood as the local community will prepare a simple but very tasty lunch for you near the temples.
Continue to Siem Reap and check-in to your hotel on arrival, late evening.
DAY 5: SUNRISE AT ANGKOR WAT | AFTERNOON AT TA PROHM & BAYON
Early morning at 0500 hrs, you will be transferred to the world famous Angkor Wat for a sunrise visit of the temple. Your tour is led by an English-speaking expert guide.
Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, it is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.
Return back to your hotel mid-morning for breakfast and relax until lunch. You are transferred to one of several select restaurants in Siem Reap for lunch.
After lunch, take a remork (Cambodian tuk-tuk) and visit Ta Prohm temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes Ta Prohm one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples.
From here, continue to Bayon Temple in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire.
Return to your hotel late evening.
Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, it is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.
Return back to your hotel mid-morning for breakfast and relax until lunch. You are transferred to one of several select restaurants in Siem Reap for lunch.
After lunch, take a remork (Cambodian tuk-tuk) and visit Ta Prohm temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes Ta Prohm one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples.
From here, continue to Bayon Temple in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire.
Return to your hotel late evening.
DAY 6: IN SIEM REAP | VISIT BANTEAY SREI | AFTERNOON MARKETS & ARTISANS | EVENING AT PHARE CIRCUS
This morning, drive to Banteay Srei, the “gem” of the Angkor area. Also known as the “Citadel of the Women,” this landmark remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia, displaying fine examples of classical Khmer art and remarkable bas-reliefs. Its pink sandstone is also found nowhere else in Angkor.
Return to your hotel for lunch.
In the afternoon explore the Old Market for souvenirs or Psa Leu for a more local shopping experience. Visit the Artisans D´Angkor workshop and Theam's House to see how local handicrafts are made.
This evening attend a performance of ‘Phare, the Cambodian Circus’. Starting at 8pm, professional artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) will perform an inspiring show suitable for people of all ages. Set up in Battambang in 1994 by young returnee Cambodians from the refugee camps who learned about using art as a means of coping with trauma, PPS has played an influential role in promoting and developing Khmer culture over the years after the Khmer Rouge genocide. The hour long show mixes traditional and modern theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling and contortion performed in a story about Cambodian lives and society.
Return to your hotel after the performance for a late dinner.
Return to your hotel for lunch.
In the afternoon explore the Old Market for souvenirs or Psa Leu for a more local shopping experience. Visit the Artisans D´Angkor workshop and Theam's House to see how local handicrafts are made.
This evening attend a performance of ‘Phare, the Cambodian Circus’. Starting at 8pm, professional artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) will perform an inspiring show suitable for people of all ages. Set up in Battambang in 1994 by young returnee Cambodians from the refugee camps who learned about using art as a means of coping with trauma, PPS has played an influential role in promoting and developing Khmer culture over the years after the Khmer Rouge genocide. The hour long show mixes traditional and modern theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling and contortion performed in a story about Cambodian lives and society.
Return to your hotel after the performance for a late dinner.
DAY 7: SIEM REAP - DEPARTURE
Breakfast at your hotel and relax until you are transferred to Siem Reap airport to board your flight home.
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