HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, Transfer to your hotel. Remaining day is at leisure.

Overnight in SIEM REAP

We start the day with an excursion to Roluos group. The Roluos group includes three temples – Bakong, Prah Ko and Lolei – dating from the late 9th century and corresponding to the ancient capital of Hariharalaya, from which the name of Lolei is derived. Remains include 3 well-preserved early temples that venerated the Hindu gods. The bas-reliefs are some of the earliest surviving examples of Khmer art. Modern-day villages surround the temples. Afterwards continue to one of the jewels of Cambodia: the awe-inspiring Angkor Thom or ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. At the southern gate of Angkor Thom, you will marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. These astonishing carvings inspire awe and wonder in all who view them. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, which we will also visit. This temple-mountain, built at the end of the 12th century, is adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. This tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and the 12 identical towers of Prasat Suor Prat. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas, North Khleang and South Khleang. The day concludes with a visit of the Ta Prohm temple. The Ta Prohm Monastery was built in the late 12th century; it is unforgettable due to the massive trees with thick roots that entangle the walls. (B)

Overnight in SIEM REAP

Today we enjoy an excursion to Banteay Srei, a temple that dates back to 967 AD. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is famed for its intricate friezes carved into its walls. On the return we will visit Banteay Samre. Next on the itinerary are impressive temples from the 10th century: Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup, Prasat Kravan and Takeo. In the afternoon you finally explore the highlight of your trip – Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat today is the largest sacred edifice on earth and of high importance for the Khmer itself. Constructed in 12th century by King Suyavarman II, Angkor Wat is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. Surrounded by a giant moat, the temple itself can be reached via a beautiful naga balustrade only. Hundreds of ornaments and reliefs cover the walls of this huge and ancient construction. Once you climb up the steep steps to the top you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding jungle.
In the evening transfer to the airport and flight to Phnom Penh.

Upon arrival you’ll be met by your local guide and transfer to selected hotel.

(B)

Overnight in PHNOM PENH

In the morning you visit the National Museum where you will see many wonderful antiquities from the Khmer civilization. This will be followed by trips to the remarkable Silver Pagoda, as well as a tour of the Royal Palace with its ornate grandeur and colorful, steeply sloping roof. We visit Wat Phnom pagoda, followed by shopping at the Art Deco-era Central Market and/or the Russian Market. (If time available).
Later you will learn more of the painful suffering of the Khmer people during Pol Pot’s regime when you visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek mass graves, known as the Killing Fields.

(B)
Overnight in PHNOM PENH

Transfer to the airport. ( B )