HIGHLIGHTS

       . Siem Reap

       . Angkor Temples

       . Tonle Sap Lake

       . Phnom Penh

       . Sihanoukville Beach

On arrival at Siem Reap Airport, you are met and transferred to hotel. The town of Siem Reap is our base for visiting the world famous temples of the ancient city Angkor, which was l the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from  802 AD to 1350 AD. After checking into hotel,  we drive to the archeological area to visit the  Roluos Group  of temples including  Lo Lei, Preah Ko, Bakong. O/N in Siem Reap.

Day 2:  Siem Reap - Angkor Temples

Today, we continue exploring the wondrous ancient ruins with the South Gate of Angkor Thom, which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone,  the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King and the largest as well as the most complete temple of Angkor Wat. A view of the spectacular contrast colours of the sunset over these sandstone monuments is a perfect way to finish the day.  O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 3: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples

The temple of Ta Prohm, with enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers embracing themselves in the stone foundations of the structure giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature is an incredible sight. We explore this masterpiece as well as its surrounding temples of Banteay Kdei, Sra Srong, Ta Keo, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevado. The grand circuit including Preah Khan, the Kravan, Neak Pean, Krol Ko, Ta Som, East Mebon, Pre Rup Temple is also visited, this afternoon before we walk up to Phnom Bakheng Hill for the sunset watching. O/N in Siem Reap.(B)

Day 4: Siem Reap - Banteay Srei - Angkor Temples

Heading out of the town, we visit some outlying sights including the Preah Dark village , the intricately carved and well preserved temple of Banteay Srei, the River of 1000 Lingas, locally named Kbal Spean and the Banteay Samre Temple, with its impressive reliefs depicting scenes of Vishunu as well as Krishna legends. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and strolling around the shopping area. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 5:  Siem Reap - Phnom Penh

An early morning start to navigate by hydrofoil on the Tonle Sap River to Phnom Penh. The cruise is long; however the picturesque  scenery changing  along the way makes for an interesting journey. The capital city of Phnom Penh was once considered the  loveliest  city of Indochina. Despite its recent turbulent history, it still maintains considerable charm. A city tour acquaints us with its major sights.  The private quarters of the Royal Palace are now home to the royal family and are therefore very close to the public. At the northern area of the palace grounds is Silver Pagoda, which is  the most sacred temple in the country.  We visit both structures as well as the National Museum, with an  excellent collection of  actefacts illustrating the splendor of Khmer history. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)

Day 6: Phnom Penh

After breakfast, we continue exploring the capital city with the bustling Central Market, the Independence Monument, Wat Phnom with its impressive stupa, and Wat Ounalom, which is now the center of Cambodian Buddhism. As a major part of our sightseeing tour, we head out of the town to the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek. They. A visit to these sights tells a story of the painful bloody rule of the Khmer Rouge. O/N in Phnom  Penh. (B)

Day 7: Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville

Today, we make our way to Sihanoukville. As some of the most unspoiled in Cambodia,  the beaches of Sihanoukville are an ideal place for anyone seeking an enjoyable escape. After checking into hotel, we take a short guide tour of the town, and spend the remainder of the day on the turquoise water enjoying swimming or lazing on a beach. O/N in Sihanoukville. (B)

Day 8: Sihanoukville - Phnom Penh

A free morning on beach. As an option, we visit  the Ream national park with its mangrove forest and eco-system before  driving  back to Phnom Penh. Along the way,  you can make stop as you please, to strech your legs and admire the scenic countryside. An ideal way to spend your last evening in Cambodia is to relax in a café by the riverfront. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)

Day 9: Phnom Penh - Departure

There is a free time for your own exploration of  the town and strolling around the shopping area. The tour ends after your transfer to Pochentong Airport for departure. (B)

INCLUDING: + Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with driver + Accommodation:  twin sharing room at the below  mentioned hotel or similar one +  English or French speaking guide +  Entrance fee to indicated sights +  Daily breakfast ( B) +  Express boat Siem Reap - Phnom Penh

NOT INCLUDING : Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room supplement, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa to Cambodia, flight in/ out Cambodia, any optional additional tours or activities during free time.

TRIP NOTES:

During the dry season (May - July) the low level of the Tonle Sap River does not permit a cruise to the fishing village on the Tonle Sap. The excursion will be replaced by a visit to The Chantiers Ecoles.