Cambodia’s Treasures & Tranquility 12 Days

Arrive at Siem Reap Airport where you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, allowing you to relax and adjust to your new surroundings.

• Meals: None
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Begin your day with a visit to Preah Khan, a sprawling monastic complex whose name translates to “Sacred Sword.” Explore its serene corridors and intricate carvings. Continue to Neak Pean, a small island temple with an elaborate water system, and then to Ta Som, another of King Jayavarman VII’s creations, showcasing the influence of Mahayana Buddhism.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Angkor Wat, the largest and most impressive Hindu temple complex globally. Originally dedicated to Vishnu, it is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and rich Khmer artistry. As sunset approaches, ascend Phnom Bakheng Hill for a panoramic view of Angkor Wat bathed in the golden hues of dusk.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Start with a guided trek through the jungle from the lesser-known East Gate to Victory Gate. East Gate, or “Death Gate,” is historically significant yet less crowded, offering a more peaceful exploration. Upon reaching Victory Gate, continue your journey to Angkor Thom. Visit Bayon Temple, renowned for its enigmatic smiling faces and its shift from Hinduism to Buddhism. Explore the Elephant Terrace, the Leper King Terrace, and the Baphuon Temple. Conclude with Ta Prohm, a temple overtaken by colossal tree roots, reflecting its rediscovery in the 19th century.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Travel south to Banteay Srey, the “Citadel of Women,” known for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings dating back to the 10th century. Next, visit Banteay Samre, a temple with architectural similarities to Angkor Wat. Along the way, observe local villagers making palm sugar.  In the afternoon, embark on a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake to explore the floating village of Kompong Pluk. Navigate through the flooded forest in a traditional dugout canoe and experience life in this unique village of stilted houses.

(Note: From March to August, if Kompong Pluk is dry, we will visit Chong Kneas instead.) 

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Board a speedboat for a scenic 6-7 hour journey across Tonle Sap Lake to Battambang. Enjoy a picnic lunch on board while taking in the picturesque landscape and local life along the riverbanks. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Enjoy a morning cycling tour through Battambang’s charming countryside. Visit local villages to see traditional rice paper making, prahoc (Cambodian fish paste), and grolan (sticky rice in bamboo).  Experience a ride on the Bamboo Train, a unique local transport mode on a simple bamboo platform. Then, visit Wat Ek Phnom, an 11th-century temple with a peaceful setting and extensive Buddhist artwork.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Drive from Battambang to Phnom Penh, stopping at Ban Chkol, known for its pottery. Explore local temples and the impressive Vihara of the 18-Cubit Buddha. Continue to Kampong Chhnang Province to visit the ancient Kompong Tralach Leu Pagoda. Arrive in Phnom Penh by late afternoon and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Chatomouk River before returning to your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Visit Tuol Sleng Museum, originally a school turned Khmer Rouge prison, now a somber reminder of Cambodia’s tragic past. Continue to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where the Memorial Stupa houses the remains of thousands of victims. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum, home to a vast collection of Khmer art, and the Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda. Enjoy some free time for shopping at the Russian Market.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Travel to Sihanoukville, a vibrant port city on the Gulf of Thailand. Relax at the beach and enjoy the city’s growing charm.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Transportation: Private vehicle

Spend the day at your leisure, enjoying the beach or exploring the local area.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel

Enjoy another free day or join an optional boat trip exploring three nearby islands. Snorkel among colorful corals at Koh Chaluh, swim or relax at Bamboo Island’s sandy beach, and savor a seafood BBQ lunch. Choose between snorkeling at Koh Tres or relaxing at Koh Takiev before returning to Sihanoukville in the afternoon.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation:Hotel

After breakfast, transfer back to Phnom Penh Airport for your departure flight, concluding your Cambodian adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Transportation: Private vehicle