Thailand, Laos and Cambodia : Kingdoms Explorer – 16 Days

Today, we leave the vibrant Thai capital and head to Ayuthaya, which served as the ancient capital from 1350 to 1770. Ayuthaya boasts stunning ruins and a rich historical background. Our exploration includes a visit to Ban Than Prasat, an archaeological site in a quaint village where locals have uncovered artifacts dating back over 3,500 years. We will also tour the Phi Mai Khmer Temple, renowned for being one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand, offering insights into the grandeur of the ancient Khmer emperors.

Explore a pottery village located just south of Khorat and connect with the locals in this serene and remote area of Thailand. Continue your journey by visiting the Phnom Rung and Muang Tam temples, each showcasing distinct architectural styles and serving as key historical landmarks along the ancient "Royal Road" leading to Angkor Wat. Afterward, we proceed to Surin for the night.

From our base in Surin, we explore the Suai minority community, who rely on local elephants for their livelihoods. Enjoy an early morning ride on these gentle giants and visit a small museum, along with a charming silk handicraft village renowned for producing some of the finest silk in Thailand. Later, tour a handicraft center, museum, and temple in Ubon Ratchathani before heading to Khong Jiam. Here, check into our scenic resort with views overlooking the Mekong River.

Following breakfast, we head to Pha Taem National Park to view ancient cliffside paintings and take in stunning vistas of the Mekong and Laos. Later, we'll stroll through the charming town of Khong Jiam before heading back to the resort to relax for the afternoon.

Today, we delve into the impressive Preah Vihear Temple, also known as Khao Phra Viharn in Thai. This unrestored Khmer structure offers a true ‘Indiana Jones’ adventure as we explore its remarkable ruins. Afterward, we head to the Lao border, where you can haggle for souvenirs and sample local delights before crossing into the Kingdom of a Thousand Elephants. We will spend the evening in the quaint town of Pakse.

After breakfast, we leave Pakse and journey by road to the ancient Wat Phou, a Hindu-influenced temple complex that predates the Angkor structures in Cambodia. Recently designated a 'World Heritage' site, these temples are celebrated for their cultural and historical importance. By mid-afternoon, we reach the charming Khong Island, the largest island in this extensive stretch of the Mekong River. You’ll have free time to rent a bicycle and discover the island and its friendly locals.

Today, we embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Mekong River's '4,000 Islands' region. Enjoy the serene river scenery before arriving at Khone Island. During our visit, we'll explore the remnants of a French-era railway and the beautiful Li Phi Waterfalls. We'll also search for the elusive Irrawaddy Dolphin and marvel at the powerful Khonephapheng Falls before heading back to Khong Island for the evening.

This morning, we head south to the Cambodian border, which marks the entrance to the present-day Khmer kingdom. By midday, we'll reach the rugged town of Stung Treng. Here, we'll take a short excursion to visit a local women’s cooperative. In the afternoon, we continue along the Mekong River to the charming town of Kratie. This picturesque town, situated beside Southeast Asia’s largest river, boasts notable examples of colonial French architecture.

Today, we take a relaxed approach to exploring the Cambodian countryside, visiting a nearby 100-pillar pagoda and the charming town of Kratie. In the afternoon, we embark on a boat trip along the Mekong River in search of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin. The evening is spent by the riverside, enjoying a refreshing Cambodian fruit shake!

En route to Phnom Penh, we will visit a rubber plantation once managed by the Michelin company during the colonial era. We will also explore the unique Wat Nokor and take a brief tour of Kampong Cham, Cambodia’s third-largest city. By the end of the day, we will reach Phnom Penh, a relaxed city known for its low-rise skyline, one of the few in Asia.

Today, we will explore the key attractions of the capital, including the glittering Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the impressive National Museum. We will also visit the poignant Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields. Additionally, you'll have some free time to experience the distinct atmosphere of this remarkable city.

Today, journey along Route 6 to Skuon town to try sautéed spiders, a unique local treat. We will pause our drive in Kampong Thom town and visit a historic stone bridge in Kampong Kdei, constructed by the Khmers over a millennium ago. After a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes on a newly paved road, we will reach Siem Reap.

The Angkor temples span 600 years of Khmer civilization (802-1432), marking one of Asia’s most illustrious empires. Begin your day early with a tuk-tuk ride to witness the sunrise at the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument globally. Constructed in the 12th century and taking 30 years to complete, this architectural marvel epitomizes Khmer grandeur. Next, enter Angkor Thom through its southern gate to explore the fascinating Bayon Temple, the Terrace of Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King. Before lunch, enjoy a panoramic view of Angkor from a fixed cable balloon, soaring 200 meters above the ancient city. In the late afternoon, embark on a short boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake, the vital water source for the country and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake.

Explore two of the most enchanting temples within the Angkor complex. Ta Prohm captivates with its overgrown, jungle-clad ruins, while the intricate pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei offer a striking contrast to the grander, more renowned temples. Afterward, head back to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, discovering Siem Reap's variety of shops and cafes.

Today, you will be taken to the airport for your departure.