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.
Continue to the Elephant Terrace, an impressive 300-meter long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and garudas that spans the heart of Angkor Thom.
Finally, explore 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.
Don’t miss the picturesque Preah Palilay, a 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, which translates to ‘citadel of women’. This temple is known for its delicate beauty and displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.
Next, visit Banteay Samre, a large, flat temple that showcases Angkor Wat-style architecture and artistry. According to legend, the monument is named after a farmer who mistakenly killed the then ascended the throne.
Optional: Experience the sunset at Phre Rub Temple, an architecturally and artistically superior temple-mountain. It features beautifully carved false doors on the upper level and offers an excellent view of the surrounding countryside.
| Itinerary time: | 8.00am – 5.00pm |
| Temple to visit: | Morning: Taprohm, Tanei, Ta Keo, Victory gate of Bayon Temple Afternoon: Banteay Srie, Banteay Samre |
| Dress code: | Light clothes cover shoulders and knees |
DAY 02-ITINERARY
Cambodia’s Ancient Temple City: A Wonder of the Oriental World
Cambodia’s ancient temple city is a true marvel of the oriental world. These awe-inspiring ruins, masterpieces of decorative details and architectural style, stand as a testament to the remarkable achievements of Southeast Asia’s greatest civilization.
Angkor Wat: A Replica of the Universe
Angkor Wat, a replica of the universe according to Hindu mythology, is composed of Mount Meru surrounded by continents and oceans. Its extraordinary bas-reliefs depict Khmer epics and myths, while its five famous towers rise into the sky. The temple complex features a geometrical arrangement of numerous galleries adorned with stone images of celestial Apsara dancers, as well as portals, chambers, and courtyards.
Taprohm: A Jungle Temple
Taprohm, a sprawling monastic complex, offers a unique experience with its partially cleared jungle overgrowth. It provides excellent opportunities for capturing “tree-in-temple” photos, reminiscent of Ta Som, and showcases classic Jayavarnan VII artistry. Visitors can admire Apsara and lintel carvings in this serene setting.
Lunch and Afternoon Exploration
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant near the Angkor Area or return to the hotel for a meal. In the afternoon, visit Bakong Temple, the most impressive member of the Roluos Group, located at the center of the first Angkorian capital. Explore the ruins of Lolei, an island-temple built in the middle of a now dry baray, and Indratataka, the first large-scale buray constructed by a Khmer king. Lastly, discover Phreah Ko (Sacred Bull), one of the empire’s earliest major temples, situated at the early Khmer capital of Hariharalaya.
Old Market: Souvenirs and Handicrafts
After exploring the Roulous Group, make your way to the Old Market. This bustling market is a popular destination, offering a wide selection of souvenirs and curios. Here, you’ll find vendors selling silks, silverworks, carvings, statuary, art, and handcrafts. Don’t miss Artisan d’Angkor, a training ground for unschooled rural youth aged between 18 and 22. This organization equips them with skills to make a living through handicraft production.
| Itinerary time: | 4.30am – 2.30pm |
| 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 |
DAY 03-ITINERARY
Morning: Visit to Koh Ker Temple
In the morning, you will head to Koh Ker temple. This temple was constructed during a period of internecine strife within the Angkorian Kingdom and served as the temporary capital of King Jayavarman IV.
Afternoon: Beng Mealea Temple
In the afternoon, you will travel through villages on the outskirts of Siem Reap to reach the mysterious Beng Mealea Temple. Located about 60 kilometers from Siem Reap town, this Hindu temple is covered by jungle and spans over a 1-square kilometer area. It was built around the end of the 11th century, before Angkor Wat, but there are no inscriptions or known details about its origins. Despite minimal restoration, you can still explore the archaeological sites and experience a sense of adventure. While the temple may not boast grand sculptures, it offers a captivating immersion in beautiful archaeological surroundings.
Optional: Sunset at Phre Rub Temple
If you choose, you can also visit Phre Rub Temple for a sunset experience. This temple-mountain is architecturally and artistically superior, featuring beautifully carved false doors on the upper level and offering an excellent view of the surrounding countryside.
| Itinerary time: | 8.00am – 5.00pm |
| Temple to visit: | Morning: Koh Ker Temple Afternoon: Beng Mealea Temple |
| Dress code: | Light clothes cover shoulders and knees |
Time Start: The tour can start at either 8:00 am or 9:00 am, whichever is more convenient for you. Our guide and driver will come to pick you up from your hotel lobby.
Payment: We accept payment in US dollars, and cash only. 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 | 438 USD |
| 4-10 PAX | 545 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 | |
