Cambodia in Depth 10 days

Hotel breakfast.

In the morning, we will explore several popular destinations in Phnom Penh using cyclos as our mode of transportation. Our first stop will be the Wat Phnom Temple, which is the city's namesake. We will also visit the Central Market and the National Museum, also known as Musee des Beaux-Arts. This museum was designed in Khmer style by a French archaeologist and painter named Georges Groslier in 1917. It houses an impressive collection of Khmer art, particularly sculptures.

Next, we will visit the Tuol Sleng Museum, which was once a high school but was taken over by Pol Pot's security forces in 1975 and turned into a prison known as Security Prison 21 (S-21). This prison became the largest center of detention and torture in the country, and over 17,000 people were taken from there to be executed at the extermination camp at Choeung Ek. The museum displays include countless photographs of men, women, and children who were later killed.

Afterward, we will head to the Russian Market (Psah Tuol Thom Pong), a bustling outdoor market where you can find a variety of items such as antiquities, silver and gold jewelry, gems, silk, kramas, stone and wood carvings, as well as T-Shirts, CDs, and other souvenirs. Finally, we will enjoy a one-hour Mekong sunset cruise (joint tour).

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a drive to Kratie, passing through Kompong Cham and Snuol. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Snuol.

Upon arrival in Kratie, guests will check in at their hotel before embarking on an afternoon city tour of this charming provincial town. The tour will showcase the town's impressive colonial architecture, providing guests with a glimpse into its rich history. Kratie is a small town situated on the Mekong River, offering a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere that is sure to delight visitors. Guests will also have the opportunity to witness the rare freshwater Irrawady dolphins from the best riverside vantage point, which is best viewed during the late afternoon. The tour will conclude with a drive back to Kratie.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast at a nearby restaurant before embarking on a tour of Kratie pagoda and market. Next, journey to the tranquil village of Chhlong, situated on the Mekong River bank, where you can admire the unique blend of Khmer and Colonial architecture. One of the most remarkable structures in the village is the 100 columns house, a stunning wooden house dating back to the 19th century, which is supported by numerous columns.

En route to Kompong Cham, make a stop at Chhup, the largest rubber plantation in the country, established by Michelin, the French tire maker, during the French colonial era. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at a local restaurant in Kompong Cham before visiting the ancient temple and modern-style pagoda of Wat Nokor Pagoda, which dates back to the 12th century. Finally, drive to Kompong Thom and check-in at your hotel.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey to Sambor Prei Kuk, situated 35km northeast of Kompong Thom. Explore the ancient capital of Chenla, which boasts 100 temples dating back to the Pre-Angkorian era. Afterward, return to Kompong Thom for a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue your journey to Siem Reap, making a stop at the Naga Bridge (Spean Pratpo), which is located 40km from Siem Reap. Upon arrival in Siem Reap, transfer to your hotel. In the early evening, experience a unique mode of transportation by taking a Tuk Tuk, a small open-sided taxi commonly used in Cambodia, to cruise around the suburb of Siem Reap town. You will also participate in a blessing ceremony by Buddhist monks, wishing you happiness, prosperity, and safety for your journey.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Explore the Roluos Group, a collection of ancient monuments that served as the capital of Indravarman I during his reign from 877-89. These temples are some of the earliest examples of large, permanent structures built by the Khmers and mark the beginning of Khmer classical art. Among the temples in the group is Preah Ko, which was erected by Indravarman I in the late 9th century and dedicated to his ancestors in 880. Bakong, the largest and most fascinating temple in the group, features an active Buddhist monastery just north of the east entrance.

Lolei, built on an islet in the center of a large reservoir (now rice fields), was constructed by Yasovarman I, the founder of the first city at Angkor. In the afternoon, continue your temple tour to see the unique interior brick sculptures of Prasat Kravan, Srah Srang (once used for ritual bathing), Banteay Kdei (surrounded by four concentric walls), Eastern Mebon (guarded by stone figures of harnessed elephants), and the mountain-temple of Pre Rup until sunset. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant while watching the Apsara Dance Show.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a visit to the renowned Angkor Wat temple, situated on the plain of Angkor. This temple complex spans 81 hectares and is comparable in size to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. Its five towers, which are prominently featured on the Cambodian flag, are considered a prime example of classical Khmer art and architecture by art historians. The five towers symbolize Meru's five peaks, while the enclosed wall represents the mountains at the edge of the world and the surrounding moat represents the ocean beyond. During the visit, explore the South Gate, which features statues depicting the churning of the ocean of milk, the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century), Bayon Temple (unique for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces of Avolokitesvara), the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephants Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King. The day concludes with a sunset viewing at Angkor Wat.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

After having breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive to the remote Beng Mealea temple, located approximately 60 kilometers away from Siem Reap. The journey takes around 2 and a half hours and offers plenty of opportunities to witness the vibrant Khmer countryside, including bustling villages and vast rice paddies. Upon arrival, discover the ancient temple, which dates back to the 11th century and has been overtaken by the surrounding jungle. A lunch box will be provided for your convenience.

Begin your journey to the Banteay Srei temple, a masterpiece of classical Khmer art from the 10th century. This temple is considered the crown jewel of Khmer art and is a must-see destination. Afterward, visit Banteay Samre, a complex that has been restored using the anastylosis method, making it one of the most complete complexes at Angkor. The temple's name refers to an ethnic group of mountain people who once inhabited the region at the base of Phnom Kulen and were likely related to the Khmers. Although no inscriptions have been found, the architecture style is similar to that of Angkor Wat's classic art from the middle period. The temple's proportions are magnificent, and it features an interior moat with laterite paving, which would have created an ethereal atmosphere when filled with water. Finally, return to Siem Reap.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Explore the floating village of Chong Khneas, situated 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap, by embarking on a traditional wooden boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake, one of the largest lakes in Asia. Please note that from February to July, the Tonle Sap lake visit is not recommended due to low water levels. Instead, you can visit the Silk Farm of Puok to learn about the intricate process of producing handmade silk.
You can also visit Wat Inkosei, built on the site of an ancient temple, and Wat Bo pagoda to admire its well-preserved paintings and observe monks creating various moldings for the pagodas. In the afternoon, visit Preah Khan, a stunning temple built by King Jayavarman VII, featuring towered enclosures and shoulder-hugging corridors. Unlike Ta Prohm, Preah Khan is well-preserved, and ongoing restoration efforts are expected to enhance its condition. Additionally, visit Neak Pean, a fountain located in the middle of a pool, and the temple of Ta Som.

Stay overnight: Phnom Penh | Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

After having breakfast at the hotel, the temple tour will resume in the morning with visits to Takeo, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda, and Ta Prohm, which is considered one of the most stunning temples in the area. Ta Prohm has been preserved in its original state since its discovery, adding to its enigmatic allure. Unlike other Angkor monuments, it was abandoned and consumed by the jungle, resembling the way most of the temples appeared when European explorers first encountered them. Finally, transfer to the airport for the departure flight.

Note: 

• Mekong Dolphine: is the best availale one in town 

• Glorious hotel: is the best available one in town 

• Rajabori hotel: is the best available one in town