Itinerary
Welcome to Siem Reap, Cambodia!
Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our local tour guide and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, we will begin our exploration with a visit to Wat Bo, a revered pagoda founded in the 18th century, known for its unique wall paintings of the Reamker (Ramayana) from the late 19th century. Next, we’ll visit "Les Artisans d'Angkor – Chantiers Ecole," where you can admire the finest authentic Khmer arts and crafts. Our day concludes at Psar Chars, also known as the "Old Market," a bustling market where you can find just about anything for sale.
You will spend the night in Siem Reap.
Please note: Standard check-in time is between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Early check-in is not included and is subject to hotel availability.
After breakfast, we will begin our exploration of Angkor Thom through its South Gate, often referred to as Big Angkor. This expansive royal city, covering 3 square kilometers and surrounded by walls and moats, was the last capital of the Angkorian Empire. Our first stop is the renowned Bayon Temple, an architectural masterpiece known for its intricate construction that evolved over more than a century.
Next, we'll visit the Terrace of the Elephants, an impressive wall approximately two and a half meters high and 300 meters long, adorned with carved elephants and other intricate designs. This terrace stretches through the heart of Angkor Thom, situated in front of the majestic Baphuon temple mountain, and includes the Royal Palace Area and the Phimeanakas—a striking sandstone pyramid.
At the northern end of the Terrace of the Elephants, we'll explore the Terrace of the Leper King, a double terrace featuring deeply carved nagas, demons, and other mythological figures. Our final morning visit will be to Ta Prohm Temple, a stunning blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty, where giant trees have intertwined with the ancient structures for centuries.
In the afternoon, we'll travel overland to visit the highlights of the Grand Circuit, including:
- Preah Khan: Meaning "The Sacred Sword," this temple was also built by Jayawarman VII and is famous for its extensive cruciform corridors and delicate carvings.
- Neak Pean: A beautiful example of Khmer art, this temple was constructed by Jayavarman VII and symbolizes heaven on earth.
- Ta Som: A small, classic Bayon-style monastic complex with a relatively flat enclosure.
- East Mebon: Built in the 10th century by Rajendravarman, this temple is located on a small island in the middle of the Eastern Baray reservoir.
- Pre Rup: Another 10th-century temple constructed by Rajendravarman.
After a day rich with cultural and historical discoveries, we will return to Siem Reap for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, we'll visit the Chong Kneas Floating Villages, located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Here, we'll take a ride in a traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap, Cambodia's "Great Lake" and the largest lake in Asia. This excursion offers a glimpse into the Khmer way of life on the Tonle Sap.
In the afternoon, we'll explore the iconic Angkor Wat temple, one of the wonders of the oriental world and a masterpiece of both decorative details and architectural style. The awe-inspiring ruins stand as a testament to the remarkable achievements of Southeast Asia's greatest civilization. Angkor Wat is designed as a replica of the universe according to Hindu mythology, with Mount Meru at its center, surrounded by continents and oceans. The temple’s extraordinary bas-reliefs depict various Khmer epics and myths. Angkor Wat's five famous towers rise majestically into the sky, surrounded by numerous galleries, adorned with bas-reliefs, stone images of celestial Apsara dancers, portals, chambers, and courtyards.
We'll end the day by enjoying the sunset at Phnom Bakheng, which rises nearly 70 meters above the plain where the other temples are located, offering a magnificent view of Angkor. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Breakfast at the hotel. Time at leisure until check out time and transfer to the airport with driver only (no guide) for the departure flight back to your sweet home.