Cambodia
Art & Culture
January, February, November, December
Day
1
Welcome to Cambodia. Upon arrival at the airport in Siem Reap, your guide will transfer you to your accommodation. After settling in, the rest of the day can be tailored to your preferences, depending on your arrival time. You may opt for a sunset visit to Angkor Wat or a trip to a local artisan market to learn about Cambodian arts and crafts.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Khmer cuisine, accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance performance that originated in the royal courts of Angkor.
Day
2
Begin your exploration with the Roluos group, one of the earliest Angkorian temple complexes. Visit Preah Ko and Lolei, known for their ancient Sanskrit carvings, and Bakong, a five-tiered temple representing Mount Meru and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
In the afternoon, travel to Tonlé Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Take a boat ride to Kompong Phluck, a stilted village where you can observe daily life shaped by changing water levels, from fishing during high water to farming when the lake recedes. Return to Siem Reap in the evening.
Day
3
Rise early to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, with reflections in the pond creating one of the most iconic views. After sunrise, explore the temple complex, originally built by Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu.
Continue to Angkor Thom, entering through the South Gate and visiting Bayon Temple with its many carved faces. Explore Phimeanakas, the Royal Palace area, and the Terraces of the Elephants and Leper King. End the day at Ta Prohm, where tree roots intertwine with the temple ruins.
Day
4
Explore the temples of the Grand Circuit by remork. Start at Sra Srang, the former royal bathing pool, then visit Pre Rup for elevated views. Continue to Eastern Mebon, dedicated to Shiva, and Ta Som, where a tree has overtaken the entrance.
Visit Neak Poan via a wooden walkway and continue to Preah Khan, a restored monastic complex built by Jayavarman VII. Spend the afternoon in the temple area and enjoy sunset views of Angkor Wat.
Day
5
Travel into the countryside to visit Banteay Srei, a well-preserved temple built from pink sandstone, known for its intricate carvings and depictions of Ramayana scenes.
Later, visit Pre Dak village, known for its noodles and local products. In the evening, return to Siem Reap for a performance of Phare, the Cambodian Circus, combining theatre, music, and acrobatics.
Day
6
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Siem Reap with breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the airport for your departure.