Welcome to Siem Reap, the second largest cities of Cambodia, which boasts its magnificent architecture and meticulously crafted reliefs of Angkor Wat. Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, our local English-speaking guide will greet you at the airport, marking the beginning of your exploration tour to Angkor culture.  

Today, you will do a small circle of Angkor and explore its highlights. The day tour starts from Angkor Thom, also known as Great Angkor or the City of Angkor, which served as the last capital city of the Khmer Empire. It was repeatedly ravaged by wars and subsequently rebuilt multiple times, acting as the “heart” of the Angkor archaeological site. At its zenith, the city boasted a population of up to a million people. Today, the moat bridge, city gates, as well as in-city ruins such as the Bayon Temple, Baphuon Temple, and the Phimeanakas (often referred to as the “Aerial Palace”), are among the major attractions for visitors. The Bayon Temple stands at the heart of Angkor Thom and represents its quintessential part. Built in the late 12th century, it was constructed as a temple for King Jayavarman VII himself. Here, you can not only witness the renowned “Khmer Smile” but also admire the rich and vivid bas-reliefs adorning the temple’s corridors. The Terrace of the Elephants is located within Angkor Thom. It once served as the venue where the Angkor kings selected their mounts, conducted military reviews, and held ceremonial celebrations. It consists of three platforms, stretching approximately 350 meters in length and standing 2-3 meters high. The lengthy base is adorned with numerous meticulously carved elephant heads and elongated trunks, each brought to life with exquisite detail. Baphuon Temple is situated approximately 200 meters northwest of the Bayon Temple. It was constructed as a state temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva by Udayadityavarman II. This architectural marvel was truly majestic and predated the construction of Angkor Thom. However, due to the collapse of most of its structures, only a few sculptures remain within the temple. The sight of numerous stone blocks scattered about is likely to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

After lunch, drive back to your hotel and have a short break.

In the afternoon, continue on your exploration tour. Ta Prohm Temple, located to the east of Angkor Wat, was built in 1186 by Khmer King Jayavarman VII to honor his mother, hence it is also known as the “Mother Temple.” Constructed from massive stones, it once served as a sanctuary housing monks, priests, and dancers, functioning both as a temple and a monastery. Over time, however, it was invaded by rampantly growing tropical trees. Tree roots, resembling pythons, have crept over the temple and penetrated deep into its structures, causing internal stone towers and enclosing walls to collapse. The once orderly architecture has been transformed into a “labyrinth” by the intertwining of rubble and vegetation. This unique blend of natural and human-made wonders has even served as a filming location for the movie “Tomb Raider.” The day tour ends at the most popular site of Angkor, Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is the largest religious monument globally. Built in the 12th century by Khmer King Suryavarman II, it’s dedicated to Hinduism. With intricate carvings and grand architecture, it showcases ancient Khmer civilization’s splendor and remains a symbol of Cambodia. You will have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking sunset scenery at Angkor Wat (depending on the weather). After the tour, drive back to your hotel.

After breakfast, you will continue to explore the highlights of outer cycle of Angkor.  First, drive to visit Banteay Srei, often hailed as a “pearl in the crown of Angkorian art.” Its vibrant colors and exquisitely detailed reliefs are truly captivating. Unlike most Angkorian monuments constructed from gray sandstone, Banteay Srei was built using the unique Khmer materials of laterite and a slightly pinkish stone, resulting in an exceptionally vivid palette. Almost every surface of its walls, columns, and lintels is adorned with reliefs, leaving no space untouched. These carvings, with their intricate and rounded forms, delicate and graceful lines, are truly awe-inspiring. Next, you will proceed to the Roluos Group, the cradle of Angkorian architecture. The Roluos Group is a masterpiece of Indravarman I and represents one of the earliest large-scale temples constructed by the Khmer people, marking the dawn of the Khmer classical art era.

Lunch,

After lunch, you will visit one of Angkor’s most enigmatic temples, Beng Mealea. Entirely overgrown by the wilderness, Beng Mealea offers a chance to explore the primitive state of Angkor amidst dense jungle ruins. It is both a must-visit and a challenging site within the Angkorian ruins complex. Its scale and design style closely resemble those of Angkor Wat, yet it remains tightly enshrouded by the jungle, preventing a full view. Upon arrival at Beng Mealea, you’ll find it much as it was when foreign explorers first discovered Angkor: the temple is heavily collapsed, shrouded by trees, and seemingly impassable. Those who have seen the movie “Tomb Raider” may still remember the eerie atmosphere of Ta Prohm Temple. While Ta Prohm evokes a sense of strangeness, Beng Mealea leaves a profound impression of awe.

In the late afternoon, head to Phnom Bakheng. Standing at approximately 70 meters tall, Phnom Bakheng is the highest point nearby and a prime spot for watching the sunset over Angkor Wat. The golden halo of the setting sun over the ruins hidden within the jungle, as viewed from the mountaintop, is truly unforgettable.

Special Notice:

Phnom Bakheng is a popular sunset-watching spot, and the temple restricts the number of visitors to 300 people at a time. During peak seasons, the reservation might be fully booked and there is no guarantee of entry.

Today, you will drive northward to the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh (approximately 325 kilometers away, taking around 5.5 hours). Lunch will be served during the way.

In the afternoon, you will spend a half day to explore the highlights of the capital. Wat Phnom is the birthplace of Phnom Penh. With a height of a hundred meters, the hill is topped with a statue of Lady Penh (known as “Penh” in Khmer, from whom the name “Phnom Penh” is derived). It is one of the symbols of Phnom Penh. Climbing to the top of the hill and ascending the pagoda allows visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city. After that, visit the Royal Palace of Phnom Penh, also known as the Grand Palace at the Confluence of the Four Arms, which is named for its location at the confluence of the Mekong River, the Tonle Sap River, and the Bassac River. It was constructed by King Norodom between 1866 and 1870 and is imbued with traditional Khmer architectural styles and religious significance. Serving as the residence of the King of Cambodia, the Royal Palace of Phnom Penh comprises a cluster of buildings encircled by golden-roofed pavilions and yellow walls, boasting exquisite designs and a resplendent, gilded appearance. The Independence Monument was erected to commemorate Cambodia’s complete independence from French colonial rule on November 9, 1953. Designed by the renowned Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, the monument was inaugurated in March 1958. Standing 37 meters tall and comprising seven storeys, it is adorned with 100 depictions of the Naga (a seven-headed serpent deity, a cultural symbol in Cambodia). Every year on the National Day, the King of Cambodia or his representative holds a grand ceremony here, making it a site of great commemorative significance. The Sihanouk Bronze Statue Memorial Hall was built to commemorate the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk, who is revered as the Father of Cambodian Independence and National Reconciliation. Throughout his life, this king made historic contributions to Cambodia’s national sovereignty, independence, national reconciliation, peace, and development, earning him deep affection and respect from the Cambodian people.

The day tour ends on Phnom Penh’s pedestrian street. You will have some leisurely exploration on your own.

It’s the ending day for your exploration tour in Cambodia. You are free until being transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Wishing you safe travels home and wonderful memories to cherish from your journey to Angkor!