9-Day Cambodian Civilization

Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Begin your afternoon by exploring the National Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient Cambodian artifacts that showcase the nation’s rich heritage. Next, visit the majestic Royal Palace, where traditional Khmer architecture merges with French colonial influences. Within the palace complex, you’ll find the Silver Pagoda, known for its floor covered with over 5,000 silver tiles and housing treasures like the Emerald Buddha and a gold Maitreya Buddha adorned with diamonds.

As evening falls, unwind with a serene sunset cruise along the Mekong River. This peaceful excursion provides breathtaking views of Phnom Penh’s skyline as the golden hues of sunset illuminate it, while you enjoy refreshing drinks and relax in the tranquil ambiance.

Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh

Begin your day with a half-day food tour by Remork (Cambodian tuk-tuk) in Phnom Penh, blending culinary delights with sightseeing. Start with a traditional breakfast near Wat Botum, followed by Bai Sach Chrouk or Lort Cha. Refresh with sugar cane juice while visiting Wat Phnom and the Old French Quarter. Savor a Num Pang Pâté sandwich before concluding the tour at Central Market, where you can enjoy local dishes, fruits, and Phnom Penh Coffee with condensed milk.

In the afternoon, delve into Cambodia’s somber Khmer Rouge era (1975-1979) with a Phnom Penh Genocide Tour. Start at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school repurposed into a prison where over 17,000 individuals were tortured before being transported to the Killing Fields. Then, travel to Choeung Ek, situated about 30 minutes from the city, where you can visit the mass graves and the memorial stupa that contains over 8,000 skulls. This visit offers a profound reflection on the regime’s cruelty and pays tribute to the victims of this dark chapter in history.

Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on an overland journey to Battambang, a picturesque French colonial town nestled along the Sangké River. The scenic drive spans approximately 5 hours (293km), with stops for photo opportunities. En route, visit the country’s most famous traditional pottery community in Kampong Chhnang and the marble craft workshop in Pursat, adding cultural richness to your trip. Upon arrival in Battambang, check in at your hotel.

Later in the evening, take a leisurely walking tour of the town, admiring its iconic Buddhist monastery and colonial architecture. Sample local street foods and seasonal fruits before indulging in dinner at a local restaurant (at your own expense), rounding off your day in this charming town.

Overnight at a hotel in Battambang

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, embark on an exciting journey aboard the Bamboo train, known as Norry in Khmer, a unique experience where a small bamboo platform covered with a mat serves as a makeshift train. Drive along the picturesque Sangker River to Wat Slaket Pagoda, the residence of the provincial Buddhist patriarch. Explore a local market where Prahoc, a traditional Cambodian fish paste, is made. Witness the art of traditional rice paper-making at an ancient Khmer house, where family-run workshops line the main street, welcoming visitors to observe the process. Conclude the morning with a visit to Ek Phnom temple, an impressive but deteriorating 11th-century temple situated around 15km north of Battambang, next to a large pond and a contemporary 28m high Buddha statue.

In the afternoon, journey to Phnom Sampeou Mountain, steeped in legend and crowned by Wat Sampeou and a series of caves used as ‘killing caves’ by the Khmer Rouge, containing the remains of their victims. Explore natural caves and witness a spectacular natural phenomenon at dusk, as millions of bats emerge from a cave and create mesmerizing patterns across the sky—a nightly spectacle of nature lasting up to 40 minutes.

Optional: Experience the Phare Battambang Circus Show
Don’t miss out on Battambang’s #1 attraction, our Guinness World Record-holding Phare Battambang Circus! Come to campus and experience a spectacular show by our talented circus, dance, theatre, and music students. Your ticket purchase funds the next generation of Cambodian artists and performers.
*Note: The show runs on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, beginning at 7 p.m.

Overnight at a hotel in Battambang

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, drive to Siem Reap – the gateway to Angkor temples. It takes almost 3 hours (173 Km). Siem Reap is the hub for the Angkor Archaeological Park, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, which encompasses dozens of temple ruins including the legendary Angkor Wat whose archaeological significance and visual impact sets it amongst other wonders of the world, such as the Pyramids, Machu Pichu and the Taj Mahal.

Before reaching Siem Reap, take a detour to visit Angkor Silk Farm, where traditional silk production methods are showcased, from mulberry tree cultivation to weaving. Through guided tours, you’ll learn about silkworm rearing, cocoon harvesting, silk spinning, dyeing, and weaving. The farm’s gift shop offers handmade silk products, supporting local artisans and promoting Cambodia’s textile heritage sustainably.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap, proceed to your hotel for check-in.

Late Afternoon Optional Tours:

Siem Reap Cultural Walking Tour (4 pm – 9 pm)
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Siem Reap’s heritage with our captivating half-day cultural walking guided tour of some of the more fascinating corners of the Old Town of Siem Reap. Explore Wat Bo Pagoda, one of the city’s oldest temples with notable 19th-century murals. Visit the Shrine of Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm to make a wish. Wander through the Cambodian Made Market, the vibrant Old Market, and the energetic Pub Street. view more

Relaxing Sunset Gondola Ride in Angkor with Cocktails (4.30 pm – 6.30 pm)
Enjoy a relaxing sunset gondola ride along Angkor Thom’s moat, with a stop at Prasat Chhrung for panoramic sunset views. The journey, in a gondola styled after Angkorian-era crafts, offers tranquil scenery, bird melodies, and dragonflies. Savor complimentary soft drinks, local beer, and canapés onboard, creating an enchanting Angkor experience. view more

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Start your day early with a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. Admire the five towers, symbolizing Mount Meru, the temple’s impressive 1-mile-long bas-relief, and 2,000 Khmer Devas and Apsaras figures. As the sun rises, witness the golden light casting a magical glow over the ancient stones—an essential Angkor experience. Explore Angkor Wat’s intricate details with a professional guide, enjoying the cool morning air and avoiding the crowds. Afterward, savor a light breakfast at a local restaurant in Angkor.

Optional unique experience: Exclusive Monk Blessing and Champagne Breakfast
After sunrise at Angkor Wat, retreat to a serene Khmer wooden house near Srah Srang, where you can enjoy the peaceful rural charm of Angkor. Receive a personal Buddhist blessing with sacred mantras and holy water, then indulge in a Champagne toast and a delicious breakfast, featuring either traditional Khmer dishes or international favorites made with fresh, local ingredients. This tranquil experience beautifully complements your exploration of Angkor. view more

Following breakfast, delve into the fortified city of Angkor Thom. Begin your exploration at Angkor Thom’s southern gateway and proceed to Bayon Temple. Renowned for its architectural brilliance, Bayon is considered one of the finest examples of classical Khmer design. Its third level features 49 towers adorned with 172 serene faces of Avalokitesvara, while the temple’s inner chapels underscore its religious significance. Over 1,200 meters of intricate bas-reliefs on the outer walls depict scenes from daily life in 11th-century Angkor. Constructed during King Jayavarman VII’s reign, Bayon stands at the heart of Angkor Thom, making it both the most venerated and enigmatic temple in the city. Continue to visit the Baphuon and the Terraces of the Elephant and the Leper King, known for their detailed stone carvings.

End your morning with the enchanting Ta Prohm, often referred to as the “Kingdom of the Trees”. Here, nature and architecture intertwine, with massive roots and vines enveloping the temple ruins. This unique blend of man-made and natural elements creates a hauntingly beautiful scene, making Ta Prohm a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts. Built by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, Ta Prohm is a testament to nature’s enduring power and is famously featured in Hollywood films like Tomb Raider and Indiana Jones.

Return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, or take the opportunity to explore Siem Reap city.

Fine dining Options:

Experience the Countryside with a Candlelight Dinner (3 pm – 10 pm) – Joining
Embark on a countryside adventure filled with engaging activities, sunset cocktails, and a refined dining experience amidst lush rice paddies and lotus ponds. Savor a five-course Khmer dinner served under the stars, with hundreds of candles creating a magical ambiance against a starlit sky. This captivating evening offers elegance and tranquility, promising memories that will last a lifetime. view more

Khmer Gala Dinner “The Culture Night” (6.45 pm – 9.30 pm) – Joining
If you’re traveling to Siem Reap and seeking an exciting, luxurious evening that offers a unique glimpse into Cambodian traditions, don’t miss “The Culture Night”. This exceptional cultural dining experience showcases Cambodian culture through traditional dance performances and culinary delights, creating a memorable evening filled with elegance and heritage. Begin your evening with pre-dinner cocktails and canapés, along with engaging cultural activities. As you settle into your seat to enjoy a meticulously prepared 4-course authentic Khmer meal, you will be entertained by a series of traditional Khmer dances, including the centuries-old Apsara Dance, recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. view more

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Today, venture away from the bustling crowds to explore Kampong Khleang, the largest floating community on the edge of Tonlé Sap Lake, also known as the “Great Lake” or “sea of fresh water.” Home to over 10,000 people, this village offers a unique glimpse into traditional riparian life. Begin your adventure with a scenic boat trip through the village, where stilted houses, floating schools, and temples create a picturesque and dynamic landscape. As you glide along the waterways, observe the daily routines of the villagers, including fishermen casting their nets and children playing among the stilted structures. The resilience and adaptability of the community, who live in harmony with the lake’s seasonal changes, are truly inspiring. Enjoy a local picnic lunch in a traditional stilted house, immersed in the serene surroundings.

*Remark: During the dry season (Feb – May), the water levels of Tonle Sap Lake drop dramatically, causing boat tours to be limited, and some areas may become inaccessible. However, the dry season offers a different experience for tourists, with the chance to see the unique stilted villages and the exposed lakebed.

Optional: Private 1-hour River Monster lecture tour 
Before exploring the Tonle Sap Lake, delve deeper than the typical tourist experience with an in-depth exploration of Tonle Sap Lake’s unique aquatic ecosystem, guided by a marine biologist. Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access to conservation breeding programs and witness the commitment to protecting endangered species at Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium (AWA).

After lunch, continue to discover Beng Mealea, a remarkable temple complex often referred to as the ‘Lotus Pond’ in Khmer. Hidden deep within the jungle, Beng Mealea offers a unique and immersive experience. Navigate the elevated wooden walkways that meander through the ancient ruins, allowing you to explore the temple’s captivating blend of history and nature. The temple’s overgrown, mysterious atmosphere evokes the spirit of an ‘Indiana Jones’ adventure, making it a memorable highlight of the tour.

Afterward, detour to explore Banteay Srei, known as the “Citadel of Women.” This temple is renowned for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings, which are among the finest examples of Khmer art. The intricate and delicate carvings on the temple’s walls showcase the artistic prowess of the Khmer Empire and make Banteay Srei a must-visit for those interested in historical art and architecture. Along the way, immerse yourself in traditional Cambodian village life at Preah Dak Village. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with local artisans and witness traditional crafts such as basket making and palm sugar production.

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Enjoy a free day at your leisure or you may opt for other optional tours.

Private Khmer Cooking Class at a Beautiful Khmer Wooden House (9.30 am – 1.30 pm)
Immerse yourself in Cambodian cuisine by learning authentic Khmer cooking from scratch with fresh, local ingredients, guided by a local chef. Begin your adventure at 9:30 AM with a tuk-tuk ride to a bustling market, where you’ll gather ingredients and taste street food. Return to a Khmer wooden house for a cooking lesson on traditional techniques, and enjoy your creations for lunch with a view of Srah Srang, complementing your exploration of the majestic temples. view more

Explore the Hidden Gems of Angkor by Remork or JEEP Car (Half-day)
Embark on an off-the-beaten-path journey through Angkor Park with your tour guide to uncover hidden gems beyond the main Angkor temples that most tourists overlook. This journey offers a unique perspective on Angkor Park, highlighting lesser-known yet equally magnificent sites. Start at Srah Srang, the Royal Pool, then head to Pre Rup, renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the countryside. Explore Eastern Mebon Temple, protected by stone elephants, and visit the captivating Ta Som Temple. Discover Neak Pean, a fountain with detailed serpent carvings, and conclude with a visit to Preah Khan, a monastery and educational complex famous for its religious tolerance and elaborate apsara friezes. view more

Siem Reap Foodie Tour by Vespa (6 pm – 10 pm) – Joining
The Foodie Tour by Vespa in Siem Reap offers a thrilling culinary adventure with a personal Vespa driver. Begin your evening with a welcome drink at a chic bar, then embark on a journey through the city’s vibrant food scene. Enjoy stops for exotic snacks, traditional Cambodian dishes, and local barbecue, and experience a lively fun fair with games and activities. The tour wraps up with a final drink at a distinctive bar, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary Cambodian culture. All food and drinks are included. view more

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer to the airport or your next destination.