Tour Code: X2U25L3QA4DM
7 days
Specific Tour
1 person
___
Embark on a remarkable 6-day Cambodia Discovery tour, beginning in Phnom Penh and concluding in Siem Reap. This immersive cultural journey takes you to captivating destinations including Kompong Cham and Kompong Thom. Experience the best of Cambodia with comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and private transportation.
Upon your arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, our friendly local guide will greet you and escort you to your hotel for check-in. Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, sits gracefully at the convergence of the mighty Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. The city's charm lies in its blend of classic French colonial architecture, traditional Khmer pagodas, bustling markets, and Southeast Asian shophouses. Immerse yourself in the old central city, where you'll find iconic landmarks and historic sites. In the afternoon, embark on a captivating cyclo tour starting at Wat Phnom, the city's founding temple situated atop a small hill. It holds the remains of King Ponhea Yat, who relocated the Khmer capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh in the 15th century. Continue your journey to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, where you'll marvel at a stunning collection of gold, silver, and crystal Buddhas housed in Wat Preah Keo. The pagoda's floors are adorned with over 5,000 shimmering silver tiles. Next, visit the National Museum, a charming terracotta building with traditional Khmer design. Nestled in a serene courtyard garden, this museum showcases an extraordinary collection of Khmer sculptures spanning over a thousand years of artistic mastery. As the day draws to a close, savor a delightful sunset river cruise on the Mekong River, soaking in the breathtaking views of colonial buildings that line the riverbanks. Overnight in Phnom Penh. Meals: None
After a satisfying breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a school transformed into a prison by the Khmer Rouge. This chilling site, known as 'S-21', served as their main detention and torture center. Gain insight into the tragic history of Cambodia during this dark period. Continue your somber journey to The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, the extermination camp where prisoners from 'S-21' were transported for execution. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant markets of Phnom Penh. Explore the iconic Central Market, a bustling landmark offering a wide array of clothes, souvenirs, and jewelry. Continue your shopping adventure at the Russian Market, renowned for its exquisite wood and stone carvings, jewelry, clothing, and Cambodian silk souvenirs. Overnight in Phnom Penh. Meals: Breakfast
Today, embark on a scenic overland journey to Kampong Cham in the comfort of a private transport accompanied by your knowledgeable guide. Along the way, make a unique stop in the town of Skuon, known for its unusual delicacy of deep-fried insects, snakes, and notably, spiders – a favorite snack among locals. These spiders are caught in the soft soil of the surrounding countryside, giving Skuon its nickname as the "spiders market." Continue your journey to Kampong Cham, aptly nicknamed the "Port of the Chams," situated in the central lowlands of the Mekong River. As you explore the town, you'll encounter the remnants of classic French buildings, testaments to its significant trading history during the French period. Before reaching the downtown area, visit the modern Nokor Bachey Pagoda nestled within the ancient walls of an Angkorian temple dating back to the era of Jayavarman VII. Arrive at your hotel and check-in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take in the breathtaking sunset views over the Mekong River, where you'll spot the French watchtower on the far side of the Kizuna Bridge. This proud remnant from the 1900s was built to safeguard the nearby rubber plantations against river bandits and underwent renovations in 2005. Overnight in Kampong Cham. Meals: Breakfast
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel. This morning, embark on a scenic drive towards the northern region of Kampong Cham. Along the picturesque road that runs alongside the Mekong River, you'll discover the captivating Prasat Han Chey. Perched atop a hill, this site combines a large monastery, several pagodas, an impressive statue garden, and ancient Angkorian ruins, creating a unique and somewhat whimsical pagoda complex. Next, visit another noteworthy attraction in Kampong Cham, the bamboo bridge. This remarkable structure holds the title of being the world's longest bamboo bridge. Reconstructed annually after the rainy season, the bridge spans nearly a kilometer, constructed entirely of smooth bamboo poles. It remains in place until the river rises again, submerging and washing away the bridge with its sandy banks. In the afternoon, as you journey from Kampong Cham to Kampong Thom province, take a moment to visit the intriguing hill temples of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei. These two hills face each other, creating a captivating sight. Phnom Pros (Men's Hill) boasts a grand and ornate pagoda atop its summit, while Phnom Srei (Women's Hill) showcases a cluster of pagodas with a more modest appearance. Despite the contrasting styles, Phnom Srei's elevated position seems to inspire a sense of competition between the hills. Continue your journey to Kampong Thom, where you'll arrive and check-in at your hotel. Overnight in Kampong Thom. Meals: Breakfast
After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, embark on a journey to a hidden gem older than Angkor, nestled within serene forests. Sambor Prei Kuk, dating back to the Chenla period between the 6th and 7th centuries, holds more than 100 well-preserved temples scattered throughout the lush greenery. This mystical site captivates visitors with its enchanting combination of ancient brick structures and natural surroundings. Continue your journey towards Siem Reap, making a noteworthy stop at the ancient Kampong Kdei bridge, built by Jayavarman VII during the Angkor period over 1,000 years ago. This historical bridge has withstood the test of time, bearing witness to centuries of history. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, proceed to your hotel for check-in. Siem Reap, once a humble village, gained prominence with the discovery of Angkor by French explorers. The city boasts a charming blend of colonial and Chinese-style architecture, particularly in the Old French Quarter and around the Old Market. Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its awe-inspiring temples and is considered one of the world's most significant historic areas. In the late afternoon, embark on an excursion to the Kampong Phluck floating villages for a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake. Immerse yourself in the daily life of the local people who reside on the lake, observing houses elevated on stilts and surrounded by the flooded mangrove forest. As you journey through the villages, you may encounter wildlife and interact with the friendly residents. Enjoy an ox-cart ride through the local villages, rice fields, and vegetable fields, immersing yourself in the rustic charm of the countryside. If timing permits, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the rice fields. (Note: Please note that the boat trip is only available from June to March. However, alternative floating villages at Chong Kneas or Mechrey can be arranged.) In the evening, you have the freedom to explore Siem Reap at your leisure. Discover the local lifestyle and vibrant markets, indulging in delicious street food or strolling through the bustling night market. Overnight in Siem Reap. Meals: Breakfast.
Today, start your day with the option of witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Angkor Wat temple. Observe as the sun illuminates the temple, revealing its natural beauty. Afterward, return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, embark on a tour of the ancient city of Angkor Thom. This complex served as the capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of King Jayavarman VII. Capture stunning photos in front of the impressive South Gate, adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting the four-faced tower of Avalokiteshvara. Enter the city and be enthralled by the 54 Gothic towers of Bayon Temple, each adorned with a mesmerizing smiling face of Avalokiteshvara. Explore the heart of Angkor Thom, where you'll discover over 1.2 kilometers of extraordinary bas-reliefs showcasing more than 11,000 figures. Don't miss the captivating Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both adorned with exquisite bas-reliefs. Continue your journey to the iconic temples of Ta Prohm, known for its enchanting "Tree in Temple" ambiance. This unique temple is intertwined with jungle trees and vines, creating a mesmerizing sight. Visit Banteay Kdei, a Buddhist monastery from the late 12th century, and Srah Srang, also known as the "pool of ablutions." In the afternoon, visit the renowned Angkor Wat temple, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Built during the early 12th century under the reign of King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat represents the earthly abode of Mt Meru and is surrounded by a vast moat. Marvel at the intricate carvings and more than 2,000 Apsara dancers that adorn the temple. Conclude your day by enjoying the panoramic views from the top of Bakheng Mountain during sunset. Return to your hotel and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Siem Reap. Meals: Breakfast.
Today, you have the option to enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace or take a half-day city tour in a Remork (Tuk Tuk) at your own expense. Explore the renowned Artisans d'Angkor, an arts and crafts school established in 1992 to support underprivileged Cambodian youth and preserve traditional arts. Admire the exquisite wood and stone carvings, as well as the intricate silk paintings available here. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Meals: Breakfast. End of services. ***Note: This tour guarantees daily departure with a minimum of 2 participants.
Leave a review