5 Days: Cambodia's Grandeur – A Journey Through History & Wonder

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Immerse yourself in the captivating heart of Cambodia with our 5-day "Major Sites" tour! This comprehensive adventure unveils the vibrant history of Phnom Penh and the ancient splendor of Siem Reap's Angkor complex. From the poignant past to the architectural marvels of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Ta Prohm, and the sprawling Angkor Thom with its iconic Bayon Temple, you'll also discover the remote jungle temple of Beng Mealea, the exquisite Banteay Srey, and experience local life on Tonlé Sap Lake. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through a land of timeless beauty and profound stories.

OVERVIEW ITINERARY

Here is overview itinerary. Please contact for more details and better offers. 

Day 1: Phnom Penh – Arrival & Capital's Royal Charms

Day 2: Phnom Penh – Poignant History & Royal Legacy, Then to Siem Reap

Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor's Iconic Masterpieces & Sunset Spectacle

Day 4: Siem Reap – Remote Temples & Jungle Discoveries

Day 5: Siem Reap – Cultural Insights, Floating Life & Departure

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Phnom Penh – Arrival & Capital's Royal Charms

Welcome to Phnom Penh, Cambodia's resilient and vibrant capital! Upon your arrival at the airport, our friendly team will warmly greet you and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel. The remainder of your day is entirely at your leisure. Take this opportunity to settle in, relax after your journey, or begin your personal exploration of the city's unique ambiance.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Phnom Penh
• Meals: None included

Day 2: Phnom Penh – Poignant History & Royal Legacy, Then to Siem Reap

This morning, we delve into a crucial chapter of Cambodian history, visiting the solemn Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21 Prison). These sites serve as a powerful testament to the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979), offering a vital understanding of the country's past. We'll then pause at the Independence Monument for photos before exploring the opulent Royal Palace, home to Cambodia's Royal family, and its dazzling Silver Pagoda, named for its floor of 5,000 silver tiles. Continue to the National Museum, housing a superb collection of Khmer art and artifacts. Our last stop in Phnom Penh is Wat Phnom, the city's most famous Buddhist temple. After the tour and lunch, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap.

• Accommodation: Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap
• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Day 3: Siem Reap – Angkor's Iconic Masterpieces & Sunset Spectacle

Prepare for a truly awe-inspiring day as we explore the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire. This morning begins with Angkor Thom, the ancient capital, where you'll enter through its famous South Gate adorned with colossal statues. Within, marvel at the enigmatic Bayon Temple, renowned for its 54 towers bearing over 200 serene smiling faces of Avolokitesvara. You'll also explore the Baphuon, Phimeanakas, the Royal Enclosure, the grand Elephants Terrace, and the intriguing Terrace of the Leper King. Afterwards, journey to Ta Prohm, a stunning temple complex famously embraced by giant tree roots and jungle vegetation, retaining much of its original, mystical allure. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, the highlight awaits: Angkor Wat. This massive temple complex is not only the most famous of all Angkorian temples but also one of the largest religious monuments in the world, celebrated for its intricate architecture and breathtaking beauty. Explore its central temple, outer walls, and surrounding moat. In the evening, savor a delicious buffet dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a graceful Khmer Traditional Dance Show (Apsara dance) – a perfect cultural immersion.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Siem Reap
• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

Day 4: Siem Reap – Remote Temples & Jungle Discoveries

Today, venture off the beaten path to discover more of Angkor's hidden gems. We depart early for Koh Ker, a former capital of the Angkorian empire (AD 928-944), about 1.5 hours away. Here, you'll explore the deserted ruins and surrounding forest of this fascinating temple complex, including its impressive pyramid-like Prasat Thom. Around 10:30 AM, we drive back towards Siem Reap, making stops at two famous, smaller temples: Prasat Neang Khmaw and Prasat Pram. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Beng Mealea temple.

In the afternoon, around 1:30 PM, prepare to explore the atmospheric Beng Mealea temple itself. Enjoy a short walk through the dense jungle as you discover the wonders of this overgrown, largely unrestored temple that lay hidden for centuries. Our final stop for the day is Banteay Srey, often called the “gem” of the Angkor area, famous for its exquisite, intricately carved pink sandstone.

• Accommodation: Overnight in Siem Reap
• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

Day 5: Siem Reap – Cultural Insights, Floating Life & Departure

This morning, begin your day with a visit to the Angkor National Museum, where you can explore a superb collection of Khmer art, artifacts, and historical exhibits, providing invaluable insights into Cambodia's rich culture and the Khmer civilization. Afterward, embark on a unique boat trip for a fascinating sightseeing experience on Tonlé Sap Lake, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia and one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes. Enjoy a brief cruise past vibrant floating villages, complete with their own schools, restaurants, and hospitals, offering a captivating glimpse into a unique way of life.

Leaving the lake, we'll head downtown to visit Artisans Angkor, a renowned craft school where you can witness the intricate art of stone carving and other traditional Cambodian crafts. Our final stop is Wat Thmei, a poignant pagoda known for its memorial stupa containing the skulls and bones of victims from the Khmer Rouge regime. Afterwards, enjoy lunch and spend some leisure time in Siem Reap until it is time for your comfortable transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

• Accommodation: Not included
• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)