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 journey in Cambodia.

Today, you will have a lazy morning and wake up naturally, allowing yourselves to recharge and fully rest. You will leisurely enjoyed breakfast at the hotel, savoring the relaxed ambiance of your vacation.

This afternoon, the first destination is the Angkor National Museum. Covering an area of 10,000 square meters, with 5,000 square meters dedicated to art and artifact exhibition halls, the museum houses a collection that represents the artistic achievements of various periods of the Khmer Empire. The museum’s exterior design embodies the principles of macroscopic inspiration and microscopic variations. From afar, the museum’s roof resembles the ancient towers of Angkor Wat in its charm. Inside the museum, details such as corridors, gateways, and window frames, deeply inspired by the designs of Angkor Wat, seamlessly integrate modern elements, attracting numerous tourists to explore the rich heritage left behind by Khmer culture.

Then, you will head to the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia – Tonle Sap Lake. We took a boat tour to Kompong Phluk Floating Village, delving deep into this serene and secluded waterborne community. As a special bonus, you are treated to a Water Forest Cruise. You will venture into the heart of Tonle Sap Lake, boarding a wooden boat to navigate through the aquatic forest, experiencing the unique natural scenery of Siem Reap amidst the mangroves. 

Dinner will be served with local Cambodian food.

After breakfast, embark on your magical journey to Angkor, heading first to Ta Prohm Temple. Ta Prohm Temple was served as a filming location for the movie “Tomb Raider,” renowned for the ancient spectacle where tree roots, resembling giant serpents, have fused with the temple structures. Over the course of 500 years, the Kapok trees have entwined themselves around the temple walls and gateways, with their roots sprawling in all directions, intertwining like massive snakes clinging to the pagodas and temple walls—a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Next, proceed to visit Preah Khan Temple, a major temple in Angkor, constructed during the reign of Jayavarman VII in the 12th century. Its rectangular enclosure measures 800 meters in length and 700 meters in width. There are four paths leading to the temple, and at its entrance stand several statues of Asuras and Devas holding a serpent to churn the Ocean of Milk. As one of the largest temples in Angkor, it features intricately carved arched corridors, exquisite sculptures, and moss-covered boulders.

After lunch, make your way to the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire—Angkor Thom (Great Angkor). Also known as Great Angkor, Angkor Thom is the heart of the Angkor archaeological site. It is surrounded by a 14-kilometer-long city wall and a moat. Continue to visit the central and most exquisite temple within Great Angkor, Bayon Temple. Bayon Temple is composed of 49 large and small stupas forming a single grand stupa. A unique feature is that each stupa bears the smiling countenance of Jayavarman VII, carved three meters high on all four sides. Over two hundred such smiles emerge amidst the lush green forest, with arched eyebrows, a steady nose, warm, thick lips, and a benevolent aura—this is where the phrase “the Khmer smile” originates.

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.

Early in the morning, you will pack breakfasts at the hotel and head to Angkor Wat (Small Angkor) to wait for the special moment-sunrise and Savor the beauty of life.

After sunrise, continue your visit to the largest and best-preserved architectural marvel among the Angkor ruins. Angkor Wat, commonly known as Small Angkor, is a representative masterpiece of Angkorian art at its zenith. It was constructed in the mid-12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu and later transformed into a Buddhist temple in the late 13th century. It is widely regarded as the world’s largest religious monument. Not only is it grand in scale and symmetrical in design, but its bas-reliefs are also exquisitely crafted, embodying the pinnacle of Khmer classical architectural art. It is featured on Cambodia’s national flag as a symbol of the country.

After that, you will proceed to experience the Special Khmer Culinary School. The blend of sour, sweet, and spicy flavors in Khmer cuisine is truly captivating. Similar to Thai cuisine, Khmer dishes utilize unique seasonings, many of which are indigenous to Southeast Asia or even Cambodia. Your instructor will guide you through the process, from basic seasonings to demonstration cooking. You will have the opportunity to cook by yourself and finally savor the fruits of your labor—a truly enjoyable experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time. If you haven’t had your fill of Angkor, our three-day pass still grants your access to the site, allowing you to explore at a leisurely pace. Alternatively, you can visit the Old Market in the city center to pick up some local souvenirs or choose a special massage center to indulge in a Khmer-style SPA.

The followings are the recommendation for your own exploration.

* Siem Reap SPA Recommendation:

–Bodia Spa
This is a low-key yet high-end SPA retreat offering body oil massages, facial treatments, and foot reflexology. Before the massage, guests can select their preferred essential oils, such as ylang-ylang, ginger, or lemongrass. The natural scents provide a deeply relaxing and enjoyable experience for both body and mind.

* Siem Reap Restaurant Recommendation:

–Khmer Kitchen Restaurant
A highly popular Khmer cuisine restaurant in Siem Reap, serving delicious Khmer and Thai dishes. The restaurant, with its red-checkered tablecloths, exudes a clean and pleasant atmosphere. The portions are generous, and the flavors are tailored to suit tourists’ palates. The staff taking orders can communicate smoothly in English.

–The Red Piano
A renowned bar and restaurant in Siem Reap, frequently visited by Angelina Jolie during the filming of “Tomb Raider.” Her stills and autographs adorn the walls. The restaurant is housed in a 100-year-old French two-story building, and its cuisine is highly acclaimed.

–The Blue Pumpkin
Located on Pub Street, this restaurant is famous for its ambiance, with highly recommended ice cream. The outdoor dining area exudes a laid-back vibe with its greenery, wicker chairs, and teak umbrellas. Upstairs, the all-white furniture and daybed-style seating create a minimalist yet stylish atmosphere. The menu features baked pastries, Khmer cuisine, and more.

After breakfast, you will drive to 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.

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.

This morning, there’s no MORNING CALL to disturb your sleeping—you’re free to wake up naturally. For lunch, we’ve arranged a meal at Chanrey Tree, a restaurant in Siem Reap that’s an absolute must-visit. It stands out in Cambodia for its exceptional taste, ambiance, and service, and its fame has soared even higher since David Beckham dined here. The cuisine is a delightful fusion of Western and local flavors, exquisitely presented and bursting with character, leaving a lasting impression on your palate. After lunch, your wonderful journey through Siem Reap will come to an end at an appropriate time.