DAY 01-ITINERARY
Morning
Visit Angkor Thom, where the giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognizable images in classic Khmer art and architecture. There are 37 standing towers, most of which sport four carved faces oriented toward the cardinal points.
Next, visit the Baphuon temple, a three-tiered Temple Mountain built as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II and dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva.
Explore the Elephant Terrace, an impressive 300-meter long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and garudas that spans the heart of Angkor Thom.
Don’t miss the Palace & Terrace of the Leper King, a double terrace wall with deeply carved nagas, demons, and other mythological beings. The terrace was named after the status of the ‘Leper King’ that sits on top.
Lastly, visit Preah Palilay, a picturesque sandstone and laterite tower located in a cool, shaded forest setting. The eastern gopura displays some particularly nice Buddhist-themed carvings.
Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant in the Angkor area.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, head to Banteay Srei, a temple known as the ‘citadel of women’ due to the delicate beauty of its carvings. Banteay Srei showcases some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.
Next, visit Banteay Samre, a large, flat temple displaying Angkor Wat-style architecture and artistry. There is a legend connecting the naming of this monument with a farmer who mistakenly killed the then ascended the throne.
Optional: If you have time, catch the sunset at Phre Rub Temple. This temple-mountain is architecturally and artistically superior, with beautifully carved false doors on the upper level and an excellent view of the surrounding countryside.
After lunch, travel to the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom, passing through the parkland behind the Terrace of The Elephants. Walk past Phimeanakas and the Baphuon temple before ending your day at Bayon.
Itinerary time: | 8.00am – 5.00pm |
Temple to visit: | Morning: Angkor Thom (Bayon), Baphuon, Elephant Terrace, Palace & Terrace of leper king, Preah Palilay Afternoon: Banteay Srie, Banteay Samre |
Dress code: | Light clothes cover shoulders and knees |
DAY 02-ITINERARY
Cambodia’s Ancient Temple City: Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s ancient temple city, is a wonder of the oriental world. It is renowned for its masterpieces of decorative details and architectural style, serving as a testament to the spectacular achievements of Southeast Asia’s greatest civilization.
The Replica of the Universe
According to Hindu mythology, Angkor Wat is a replica of the universe. It is composed of Mount Meru, surrounded by continents and oceans. The temple’s extraordinary bas-reliefs depict Khmer epics and myths, adding to its allure.
Awe-Inspiring Ruins
Angkor Wat’s five famous towers rise into the sky, forming a geometrical arrangement of numerous galleries. These galleries are adorned with bas-reliefs and stone images of celestial Apsara dancers. The temple also features portals, chambers, and courtyards, all contributing to its grandeur.
Taprohm: The Jungle Temple
A visit to Taprohm is a must. This sprawling monastic complex, partially cleared of jungle overgrowth, offers some of the best “tree-in-temple” photo opportunities in the Angkor Complex. Taprohm is reminiscent of Ta Som and showcases classic Jayavarnan VII artistry. Visitors can admire Apsara and lintel carvings at this site.
Exploring Bakong Temple
In the afternoon, make your way to Bakong Temple, the most impressive member of the Roluos Group. Situated at the center of the first Angkorian capital, this temple is a sight to behold.
Lolei and Phreah Ko
Next, explore the ruins of Lolei, an island-temple built in the middle of a now dry baray called Indratataka. This baray was the first large-scale construction project by a Khmer king. Also, don’t miss Phreah Ko (Sacred Bull), one of the empire’s first major temples, located at the early Khmer capital of Hariharalaya.
Old Market: A Shopper’s Paradise
After finishing your visit to the Roulous Group, head to the Old Market, the most visited market in the area. Here, you’ll find the deepest selection of souvenirs and curios among all the traditional markets. The market is filled with vendors offering silks, silverworks, carvings, statuary, art, and handcrafts.
Artisan d’Angkor: Empowering Rural Youth
While at the Old Market, make sure to visit Artisan d’Angkor. This training ground provides unschooled rural youth, aged between 18 and 22, with the skills necessary to make a living from handicraft production.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant nearby the Angkor Area Hotel or return to the hotel for lunch.
Itinerary time: | 8.00am – 5.00pm |
Temple to visit: | Morning: Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Tanie Afternoon: Bakong, Lolei, Phreah Ko, Old Market, Artisan d’Angkor |
Dress code: | Light clothes cover shoulders and knees |
Time Start: The tour can start at either 8:00 am or 9:00 am, depending on your preference. Our guide and driver will come to pick you up from your hotel lobby at the chosen time. Please ensure that you are ready by this time.
Payment: Payment for the tour is accepted in US Dollars and can only be made in cash. You are not required to make a deposit or pay upon booking. The payment can be settled at the end of your tour.
Private Package Tour
Number of PAX | Fee Per Group |
---|---|
1-3 PAX | 220 USD |
4-10 PAX | 295 USD |
Include Tour | Exclude Tour |
Pick up/transfer from hotel | Temple pass |
English-speaking guide | Meal (B / L / D) |
Pure drinking water & cold towel | Tourist personal insurance |
A/C car / van / bus with a license driver |