Classic Cambodia – 10 Days

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, prepare for the main event—a full day exploring the remarkable Angkor temple complex with a guided tour. We’ll start with Angkor Wat, the most iconic of all the Angkor temples. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, the temple boasts three levels of libraries, galleries, and towers, all enclosed by a thick retaining wall and an impressive moat. With a professional historian as your guide, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the details and make the most of your time at the temples.

Next, we’ll venture into the heart of Angkor Thom, entering the city through its ancient Gate, a grand stone structure adorned with elephant carvings and four giant faces. From there, we’ll continue to Bayon Temple, located at the city’s center, renowned for its mysterious faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. Don’t miss the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both celebrated for their intricate bas-reliefs.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring exotic Khmer cuisine before heading to Ta Prohm, your next destination. Ta Prohm stands out for being left largely in its original state—overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with parts of the temple crumbling to the ground, creating one of the most photogenic and atmospheric sites in all of Angkor. Afterward, you’ll have some leisure time in the late afternoon.

Today, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscape of Tonle Sap Lake. This unique adventure takes you into the heart of Siem Reap’s countryside, where you’ll explore a floating village and witness the daily lives of Cambodian people up close.

We’ll venture along Siem Reap’s backroads, giving you the chance to experience the local way of life. Warmly welcomed by friendly locals, you’ll gain a deeper insight into their customs and traditions. The journey culminates at Tonle Sap Lake, where you’ll observe the lifestyle of those living in floating villages, providing a unique glimpse into how families have adapted to life on the water.

We’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Today, we set out for Banteay Chhmar temple, located about 130 km from Siem Reap. Along the way, you'll pass through the scenic countryside, with views of rice fields, local markets, and glimpses of daily life.

Upon arrival, explore the temple with your local expert. Banteay Chhmar is one of Cambodia’s most significant yet least understood temples from the Angkorian era. The complex, including its moat, Baray (reservoir), and the surrounding pristine environment, forms a unique archaeological site and an essential part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage.

After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we'll continue to Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city. Battambang is strategically located on the highway and railway connecting Phnom Penh with Thailand. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your hotel.

This morning, we'll embark on a tour of the Bamboo Trains, where you'll enjoy a unique ride on a bamboo platform known locally as a Norrie. This experience offers a delightful view of the picturesque Battambang countryside, so be sure to capture plenty of photos during this enjoyable and distinctive ride!

Next, we'll visit Cambodian families who craft traditional products like rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice using methods passed down through generations. This visit provides an insightful look into daily life in rural communities.

In the afternoon, we'll head to Sampov Mountain to catch the sunset and enjoy stunning views of Battambang. Sampov Mountain is a special and picturesque spot favored by both locals and visitors; you can relax in the serene atmosphere and cool mountain breeze. The mountain is home to several killing caves, now inhabited by thousands of bats and a group of macaques that feed on bananas left by pilgrims at the cave shrines. If you choose, you can stay until dusk to witness the spectacular sight of bats emerging from the caves and flying across the surrounding rice fields in search of food.

Today, embark on a 5-hour drive to the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko, with several stops along the way. You'll visit a pottery family and enjoy a brief boat ride. By the afternoon, you'll reach the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, where you can unwind by the charming swimming pool or indulge in a relaxing massage.

*Established in 2015 by the local NGO Smiling Gecko Cambodia, the Farmhouse aims to provide training opportunities for disadvantaged locals to gain skills for sustainable livelihoods without leaving their rural communities. In the afternoon, a member of the Smiling Gecko team will give you an overview of their inspiring projects, which focus on education, local employment, and self-help initiatives. Your stay directly supports the local community's well-being.

This morning, join a farm tour to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative and holistic social project, including visits to its various cluster projects and the Smiling Gecko School (note that the school is closed on weekends, public holidays, and during school vacations). After lunch, you'll join other participants on an excursion to a local monastery, beautifully located on a hill, where you can enjoy the scenic backdrop of a sunset.

Today, bid farewell to the Smiling Gecko as you drive to Phnom Penh, a journey of approximately 2 hours. Along the way, stop at the ancient Cambodian capital of Phnom Oudong, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding plains and rice fields from the hilltop.

Continue on to Phnom Penh, a city renowned for its colonial charm and considered one of the most beautiful cities in Cambodia. Situated at the confluence of the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, the capital boasts numerous colonial-era buildings that reflect its illustrious past and enhance the city’s unique blend of Asian and Western influences.

In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time before embarking on a sunset cruise along the Phnom Penh riverfront. Relax with a cocktail, beer, or soft drink as you take in the distinctive views of Phnom Penh.

Today, set out to explore this remarkable city. The first stop will be Choeung Ek, commonly known as the ‘Killing Fields,’ where thousands were executed during the Khmer Rouge era. The visit will continue at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), a stark reminder of the Cambodian genocide during that time.

Next, head to the National Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Angkorian and pre-Angkorian periods, highlighting the rich history of the ancient Khmer Empire. Adjacent to the museum is the Royal Palace complex, which includes the renowned Silver Pagoda.

End the day with a visit to the bustling Russian Market, known for its diverse range of products and vibrant atmosphere.

Today marks the conclusion of our exploration of Cambodia's highlights. There are no scheduled activities for the final day. You can either enjoy some personal time or prepare for your return trip. Our drivers will be available to take you to Phnom Penh airport for your departure flight.