#9 Cambodia

Welcome to Siem Reap, the charming gateway to the famed Temples of Angkor. You will be greeted by your local English speaking guide, who will accompany you to your hotel for check in. Settle in and enjoy some time at leisure to refresh.

This afternoon begin your exploration of the Angkorian temples. Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. The divine residence of Vishnu, the King himself was to reside here after his death. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor. Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia’s national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people. Your visit will coincide with the ‘Golden Hour’ to ensure you catch the Apsaras gleaming in their best light.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Start early to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat – it surely is a memorable experience to see the first sunrays slowly appear over the five iconic towers. A breakfast box will be ordered from your hotel.

After, head to Ta Prohm, built in the mid 12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples. An early morning visit ensures less tourists and tours buses are present.

Drive to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is surrounded by an 8 m high wall, drawing a perfect square. Next stop is Preah Pithu, a group of 12th century Hindu and Buddhist temples enclosed by a wall. Most tourists miss this temple which is a bonus for photographers who can fully appreciate the many well-preserved carvings found at the site. On your way back to the hotel stop at the North Gate of Angkor Thom, an impressive stone gate cared with Elephants and four giant faces. Take a break back at the hotel.

In the late enjoy a relaxing cruise in a gondola paddle boat at the moat of Angkor Thom compound while watching a spectacular sunset at Prasat Chroung temple. Drinks and canapés will be available on the boat, as your boat paddles slowly along the ancient moat.

This evening enjoy a visit to the John McDermott’s Gallery to see his latest photo exhibition. This is followed by an a la carte dinner at the neighbouring Foreign Correspondents’ Club (The FCC).

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After an early breakfast, depart for an interesting boat trip on the Tonlé Sap Lake, where you will have the opportunity to learn about life on the lake. Tonlé Sap is South East Asia’s largest freshwater lake with its size varying greatly depending on the season, as it is swelling to about four times it size during the wet season. Board a local boat and visit Kampong Phluck, a village where you will see houses on stilts that are submerged when Tonlé Sap Lake extends. On the way, you will pass floating houses and impressive flooded forests, portraying life on the water. (Note: Due to low water levels during the dry season, the boat trip is only possible from June to March. However an alternative floating village at Chong Kneas can be arranged instead).

On your return to Siem Reap visit the Roluos area and explore the surrounding countryside with its paddy fields and sugar palm trees is very typical for Cambodia. Your destination is Roluos Pagoda, where Buddhist monks will celebrate a private blessing ceremony for you, wishing you health and a safe journey – a memorable experience!  Take a break back at the hotel.

Late afternoon, return to Angkor Thom to catch the ‘Golden Hour’ at Bayon Temple, in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. After return to your hotel where the evening is at leisure.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, depart for the village of Preah Dak to explore the quiet, local market. Continue on to see the “gem” of the Angkor area, the pretty temple of Banteay Srei. The so-called “Citadel of the Women” remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia. It displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art as this small temple is noted for its truly remarkable fine bas-reliefs. Banteay Srei is unique in that it is constructed of pink sandstone, which is seen nowhere else in Angkor.

A picnic lunch will be served in a quiet spot where you can relax for a while.

In the afternoon, head through more beautiful countryside to Chau Srei Vibol. The hilltop temple has collapsed upon itself and sees few visitors. Another great location for photography! Head back to Siem Reap for a chance to freshen up.

This evening, enjoy an Apsara show at Fou-Nan restaurant in an intimate location.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Depending on your flight departure time, enjoy some time at the huge local market of Psar Leu. The food hall and surrounding is full of interesting photogenic sellers and product. Then it’s time to wish ‘chum reap lear’ (goodbye) as you bid farewell to the Kingdom of Wonder, Cambodia.

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.