Cambodia’s Treasure 5 Days / 4 Nights

In the morning, depart to Preah Khan Temple, located northeast of Angkor Thom and just west of the Jayatataka baray, a water reservoir 3,500 meters long and 900 meters wide. Preah Khan was the center of a substantial organization, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It was also associated with the Jayatataka baray, which is now dry. Next, visit Neak Poan, meaning “the entwined snakes”, a small temple located on an island in the center of the baray. Continue to Ta Som, which offers some beautiful photo spots, especially the rear entrance where tree roots adorn the gateway.

Drive to the rural outskirts, 35 km from the Angkor area, to visit the smallest but magnificent Banteay Srei, built in the 10th century and dedicated to Shiva. The temple was the birthplace of Khmer classical style architecture and the bas-relief work is the best example of Khmer classical art remaining. The pink sandstone structure bears a series of striking and beautiful sculptures, lintels, pediments and friezes. Khmers say the temple must have been carved by women, for the details are too fine for the hands of a man. On the way back, stop at Pradark Village, where you will see the villagers making palm sugar and handicrafts for selling to tourists. It’s a nice chance for you to see the local people living in the countryside and their struggles for daily life.

Not to be missed is Banteay Samre, whose rose-colored sandstone walls are decorated with carvings and bas-reliefs, which are among the most accomplished Angkor has to offer.

For the late afternoon, head back into the main Angkor Park and journey to Pre Rup. Finish by experiencing sunset over the rice fields from the royal crematorium of Pre Rup, a classic view of the Cambodian countryside.

Overnight in Siem Reap

In the morning, drive to Angkor Thom, the masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII, who built an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire after the Chams invaded Angkor from 1177 to 1181. 

Start with a visit to Bayon Temple, located at the exact center of Angkor Thom. This temple is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king, with his smiling face carved on 54 towers. Photo stop at the Terrace of the Leper King, a platform with a statue of a mythical king who was said to have leprosy. Along the Terrace of Elephants, you will see a viewing gallery that was originally used by the king to preside over parades, performances and traditional sports. At the southern end, you will find the Baphuon, one of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman I in the 11th century. 

Continue to the picturesque Ta Prohm, a temple that had nearly disappeared into the jungle and remains overgrown, creating an oddly haunting and exotic scene. You will be amazed by the magnificent roots of a tree, pushing between the huge stone blocks of the temple in a sort of embrace, evoking feelings that you may remember forever. 

We journey out to the mother of all temples, Angkor Wat, believed to be the world’s largest religious building. This temple is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Khmers.

Overnight in Siem Reap

Embark on a journey into the countryside to experience the delights of village life in rural Cambodia. Well away from the tourist crowds, you’ll get to see the real Cambodia. Enjoy an ox-cart ride and see traditional farmers tending their crops. Meet students and teachers at a village school. Take a short walking tour to see rice paddies and meet local people. You may even witness a local wedding. It will be a day worth remembering! Then, visit a local pagoda and participate in the Srouch Teok ceremony, a traditional water blessing ritual. You will need to wear clothes that can get wet, as a monk will sprinkle water on you while reciting prayers in Pali, the ancient language of Buddhism. This ceremony is believed to cleanse you of negative karma and bring you good fortune. Then continue with a boat trip to enjoy the beautiful lake view and mangrove forest on the lake, and spend the rest of the morning at the largest village on the lake to discover the fascinating daily lives of the local people who live on the water.

Overnight in Siem Reap

Transfer to the Siem Reap International Airport for your departure to your next destination. 

It’s time to say goodbye: we sincerely thank you for traveling with us and hope you had a wonderful time! We warmly invite you to come again!