Phnom Penh, the Pearl of Asia, capital of Cambodia at the hub of the three rivers, is often overlooked by visitors. The city is an incongruous cluster of crumbling French colonials, and the central riverside area has a pace all its own that’s great for walking around. Phnom Penh’s packed with history, such as the Royal Palace, a stone showpiece of classical Khmer architecture, and the Silver Pagoda, on the palace grounds, a jewel-encrusted wonder. Examine the painful, heart wrenching reminders of Cambodia’s ugly past under the Khmer Rouge regime at the Genocide Museum to learn more about the Cambodian civil war. Throughout the city, you’ll see the faded glory of aged French colonial architecture. Siem Reap is home of the Temples of Angkor. Angkor Wat, one of the greatest religious monuments in the world, was built in the early 12th century and is a masterpiece of classical Khmer art and architecture and is the most famous of all temples. Enjoy a breath taking birds’ eye view of Angkor Wat from aboard a Quik GTV-450 microlite aircraft.
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Day 1: Phnom Penh
On arrival, transfer to your hotel. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon tour of Phnom Penh’s tourist attractions.(L,D)
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Day 2: Phnom Penh
Visit the sobering Tuol Sleng Museum and the captivating Russian Market. This afternoon discover the city’s beautiful colonial architecture by cyclo. Conclude your day with an enchanting sunset cruise. (B,L,D)
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Day 3: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap
Travel by road to Kompong Thom, stopping at pre-Angkorian temples along the way. Continue to Siem Reap. (B,L,D)
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Day 4: Angkor Temples
Early morning pick up for an awesome experience to view the spectacular Angkor Wat temple aboard a 30 minute microlite flight. Continue your exploration of this spectacular and awe-inspiring site. After lunch, travel to Wat Anthvea pagoda and participate in the practice of giving alms to the Buddhist monks. This afternoon, explore the South Gate of Angkor Thom, including the picture-perfect faces of Bayon Temple. (B,L,D)
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Day 5: Angkor Temples
Travel to Kompong Khleang, home to a community of over 20,000 living in gigantic tilt houses on Tonle Sap Lake. Take a private boat around the lake. This afternoon, visit the relatively untouched temple of Ta Phrom and also Neak Pean and Preah Khan. Conclude the day with dinner and an Apsara dance performance. (B,L,D)
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Day 6: Siem Reap
This morning visit the 10th century Banteay Srei temple, regarded as the jewel in the crown of classical Khmer Art. After lunch, visit Les Artisans d’Angkor Chantiers Ecoles, a professional training school that helps young Cambodians to develop their skills in making traditional handicrafts. Transfer to the airport. (B,L).