From Angkor to the beach

THROUGH THE TOUR FROM ANGKOR TO THE BEACH, YOU WILL DISCOVER

 

Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap (D)

Upon your arrival at Siem Reap airport, our guide and our driver will be there to greet and transfer you to your hotel.

Embark on a tuk tuk and start your exploration of Angkor temples. Built in the reign of King Suryavarman II – twelfth century, Angkor Wat is built depicting the holy mountains symbolizing Mount Meru, the home of the Gods. See inside the temple, there are over 2000 dancers and bas-reliefs carving on the walls depicting Hindu mythology and war victories from Suryavarman II. Today, Angkor Wat imprints on the national flag of Cambodia as symbolizes for the spirit of its’ Khmer. Take time to enjoy sunset there as Angkor Wat will be less visited and the Apsaras will best lit in the day.

Return to town for welcome dinner at the beautiful Mahob Restaurant. Mahob, in the Cambodian means “food,” is a unique traditional Khmer cuisine hotspot. Set in traditional Khmer style in wooden house away from the bustling street, Mahob offers you with only authentic Khmer dining experience.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Siem Reap – Tonle Sap lake (B, L)

Early in the morning, discover an ancient city of Khmer civilization at Roluos temple group. It was built in the 8th and the 9th century as the first city. The group includes three temples: Lolei, Bakong, and Preah Ko which nestle in the green countryside with of rice fields dotted with palms. Hop on an ox cart for a ride through the peaceful villages and enjoy the rural landscapes in a fun way. Reach the next stop at a pagoda, where Buddhist monks will celebrate a private blessing for you, wishing you a good health and a safe journey – a unique experience!

Drive to Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in the Southeast Asia. Its water area varies depends on the different seasons. From Kampong Phluk village which is built on stilts over Tonle Sap lake, take a boat trip and discover the ecosystem in the mangrove forest with species of water birds and wildlife, especially fishing macaques (they eat crabs)!

Note: During the dry season, when the boat trips are not possible. However, an alternative floating village in Chong Kneas can be arranged instead.

After lunch at a floating house or on a local boat, spend some time for relaxing and watching the daily life of the villagers in the area, get back by boat then transfer on car to Siem Reap.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor temples (B, D)

In the afternoon, visit Ta Prohm temple, the mid-12th style temple has been remaining much the same as it was discovered first time: covered by forest and parasites with many parts scattered down on the grounds, Ta Prohm is one of the most picturesquely beautiful one in Angkor. Next, continue to visit Buddhist monastery Banteay Kdei and the pool of ablution Srah Srang.

Following is the Angkor Thom ancient city as the Great Khmer Empire’s final capital, during the Jayavarman VII’s reign. The city is protected by an 8 m high stone wall featuring with magnificent stone gate flanked by Elephants and giant faces sitting on top facing four directions.

Further to the center, there is Bayon temple, built in 12th century; this is a truly building masterpiece. The temple comprises of 54 enigmatic faced towers with which are believed to represent for the 54 regions of the Great Khmer Empire. In this temple, the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King are also must- see things as they are well known intricate art of bas-reliefs.

Next move to visit the pyramid shaped Phimeanakas. The temple Basins were once for religious rites, but they become bathing pools for Khmer kids. Climb to the top of the temples for a great panorama of Angkor complex.

You will then return to your hotel for the rest of the day free at your leisure.

Enjoy a dinner following with a traditional Khmer dance.

Hotel in Siem Reap.

Day 4: Siem Reap – Fly to Sihanoukville (B)

Enjoy the morning hours for free time or visit colorful market on own before taking the onward flight to Sihanoukville – the destination in the next few days.

Hotel in Sihanoukville.

Days 5 & 6 : Sihanoukville (B)

Enjoy daily breakfast at the hotel and spend two day the pace you desire. Relax on this beautiful Cambodian beach or take some options discovering the area on bicycle or taking a boat trip to discover further.

Overnight in Sihanoukville.

Day 7: Sihanoukville – Phnom Penh (B)

Today, be transferred by car for 4 hours to Phnom Penh.

Spend the rest of the day discover the highlights of Phnom Penh. The landmarks of the day will be the Royal Palace then the Silver Pagoda or known as the Jade Buddha Pagoda. This sacred pagoda has its floor tiled with more than 5000 silver pieces of total 6 ton weigh!

Visit The National Museum, built in Khmer style in 1920, the Museum has a greatest collection of Khmer statues, archeological items found in Angkor. Here, see a stunning bronze statue of Vishnu, a God in Hindu from the 6th century. If time permits, transfer to Vat Phnom pagoda which locales on top of a hill where the story of Phnom Penh began.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 8 : Phnom Penh – Departure (B)

Visitors after visiting all the world wonders of Cambodia may have the feeling that this country is a land of paradoxes. Visiting the Tuol Sleng Museum and the “Killing Fields” is the good way to understand why such that feeling arise.

First, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum which had been a high school then was converted into the prison named Security Prison 21 (S-21). Today the Museum features the documents about how the Khmer Rouge tortured thousands of Cambodians. Quickly, it became the largest detention and torturing center of the Genocide regime.

After visiting the S21 center, transfer to the killing fields – Choeung Ek where more than 17,000 people of all ages and genders had been killed brutally. No large pits are seen anymore but a stupa was built and filled with thousand of skulls and bones for memorial.

Please note that some photos are very emotional and may hurt your sensitivity.

You will have a transfer to the airport for your international flight back to home country.

 

You might be interested in our Southern Cambodia tour, otherwise look for other interesting options in our Cambodia multi-destination tours!