Cambodian Immersion From Angkor to Battambang- 10 Days

Start your day with an early departure from the hotel to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Witness the breathtaking view of the Angkor complex as the sun rises above the horizon. After this awe-inspiring experience, return to your hotel for breakfast before embarking on a full day of hiking in Angkor Park.

Begin your exploration with a visit to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your walking tour will take you around the temple's moat and along a narrow trail that passes through a small local village.

Continue by crossing the Angkor Thom South Gate, where you can climb the ancient wall and walk along a shaded path lined with historic trees. This will lead you to a small temple and eventually to the heart of the Khmer capital, where you’ll encounter the impressive Bayon Temple.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before resuming your exploration of Angkor Thom. Discover the Royal Palace, the Terrace of the Elephants, and other remarkable temples in the area. Conclude your visit at Bayon Temple and return to your hotel.

In the evening, dive into the world of street food. Experience the rich flavors of Cambodian cuisine as you stroll through Siem Reap’s center, savoring a variety of local delicacies. Begin your culinary adventure with an aperitif and a selection of well-known Khmer dishes at a restored local house. Then, head to a popular eatery to enjoy traditional saak koh ang (grilled beef with fresh vegetables) paired with local beer or drinks. Finish your evening with a visit to the night market and a riverside stop to enjoy a traditional dessert. This gastronomic journey promises an evening filled with delightful flavors!

In the morning, around 7:00 AM, set off from Siem Reap towards Phnom Kulen, the largest forested area in the Siem Reap province. After just 5 kilometers of driving, you’ll find yourself immersed in the Cambodian countryside, passing through rural villages, expansive rice fields, and coconut groves. Welcome to Cambodia’s wilderness!

Upon reaching the National Park checkpoint at the base of Kulen Mountain, we’ll present our tickets and continue along the road to our starting point. There, you’ll be met by a local ranger and our professional guide, who will accompany you throughout the 2-day trek. After a brief orientation, venture into the jungle, beginning with a visit to the River of 1000 Lingas. Marvel at the intricate carvings dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and the golden Reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom. Following these highlights, stop by the Phnom Kulen Waterfall and, if you wish, enjoy a refreshing swim.

After a revitalizing break, continue along a trail that plunges into the dense forest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and possibly spot some Cambodian wildlife. By midday, you’ll arrive at a scenic spot along a small river for lunch. Assist the guide and ranger in setting up a picnic and enjoy a well-deserved meal amidst the tranquil beauty of nature.

Following lunch and a brief rest by the river, resume your trek, concluding at the local homestay where you’ll spend the night.

Depart Siem Reap and travel to Banteay Chhmar. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the local community and check into your homestay. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, prepared by the villagers.

After lunch, embark on a guided exploration of the area with a community guide. Start with a walk to the Banteay Chhmar and Ta Phrom Temples, followed by a visit to the Soierie du Mékong silk center. Finish the afternoon with a trip to a barray to watch the sunset while enjoying a refreshing drink.

Meanwhile, the local villagers will prepare your dinner using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to savor an authentic traditional Cambodian meal.

Following breakfast, you'll explore local rice fields, vegetable gardens, and farms, and visit several impressive temples. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage with the locals by assisting them in the fields. Enjoy lunch at a community restaurant.

After lunch, it’s time to bid farewell to your hosts and proceed to Battambang. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.

The tour begins with a visit to the local market, where you'll explore the diverse range of local products available. From there, proceed past historic French colonial buildings along the riverfront boulevard, making your way to the French governor’s house and the Wat Tahm-rai-saw (the ‘White Elephant’ temple).

Next, travel to the ancient pagoda of Wat Balat, located about 3 kilometers from the city center. Along the route, follow a scenic path beside a small stream, passing traditional houses that have remained unchanged for generations, as well as rice paddies and local workshops. Engage in the village's daily activities, such as preparing sticky rice, drying bananas, making rice wine, crafting rice paper for fresh spring rolls, forging custom knives, and preparing the traditional fish paste, prahok. The experience is made even more memorable by the enthusiastic local children who greet you with cheerful “hello! hello!” as you explore. Conclude your tour with a visit to the small Angkorian temple Ek Phnom, built in the 11th century, before returning to your hotel.

Spend the rest of the day at your leisure or explore Battambang at your own pace.

In the morning, take part in a cooking class at Nary Kitchen Restaurant and Cooking School, centrally located in Battambang near Psaar Nat (the central market), within walking distance from most hotels. Nary Kitchen, a vibrant family-run establishment since 2009, is managed by Mr. VUTHY and his wife, Mrs. NARY. They are enthusiastic about sharing authentic Khmer recipes with you. Mr. VUTHY, fluent in both English and French, is known for his cheerful and engaging personality.

Before starting the cooking lesson, you'll have the opportunity to visit the market to select your ingredients. During the class, you'll learn to prepare four dishes (three meals and one dessert). Enjoy not just the cooking process, but also the delightful meal you’ll get to savor at the end.

At the conclusion of the class, you'll receive a recipe book as a souvenir, allowing you to recreate the dishes at home.

In the afternoon, visit Phare Ponleu Selpak, an NGO established in 1994 in Battambang, dedicated to providing artistic training and formal education to underprivileged Cambodian youth. Originally starting as a visual arts school, the organization now includes a library, child development center, and social and health care services. Their Circus Skills School has gained international acclaim, with performances in Battambang, Siem Reap, and beyond. Spend at least an hour with a PPS guide to learn about the organization’s mission and history.

Next, head to the Bat Caves of Phnom Sampov. Climb the mountain to enjoy panoramic views and a sunset before returning to your hotel.

At a convenient time, you will return to Siem Reap. The journey will take you north of the vast Tonle Sap Lake, passing through Sisophon in the Banteay Meanchey province. Along the way, you'll have the chance to take in the picturesque rice fields and traditional Khmer villages. You'll also observe stonemasons practicing techniques that have been handed down since the Angkorian period. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

In the evening, the guide will reconvene with the group for a farewell dinner.

At a convenient time, make your way to Siem Reap airport for your departure flight.