CAMBODIA HIGHLIGHT | 5 DAYS

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin your Phnom Penh city tour. Start with a visit to Wat Phnom, the symbolic heart of the capital, situated atop a small hill and considered the birthplace of Phnom Penh. Continue to The Independence Monument, built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953. The monument also serves as a memorial to the nation’s war heroes. Next, visit The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). Originally a high school before 1975, it was converted into a notorious interrogation and detention centre during the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, it stands as a museum documenting the tragic story of thousands of innocent Cambodians who were imprisoned and tortured. Walking through the former classrooms and narrow corridors offers a sobering insight into Cambodia’s turbulent history. Photographs and preserved artifacts provide a powerful reminder of this dark chapter. Although emotional, this visit provides essential historical understanding. • Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, among the most striking examples of traditional Khmer architecture in the capital. Originally constructed in 1866 during the French colonial period, the Royal Palace remains the official residence of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. The neighbouring Silver Pagoda is renowned for its floor, which is covered with 5,329 solid silver tiles. Inside, the pagoda houses many national treasures, including gold and jewelled Buddha statues, notably the highly prized 17th-century Baccarat crystal Buddha. Within the palace compound, you will also find Wat Preah Keo Morokat, where royal ceremonies are held, as well as several stupas, including the stupa of King Ang Duong. Continue to The National Museum of Cambodia, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Khmer art and sculpture, spanning over a millennium of history. The museum is housed in a beautiful terracotta building (constructed between 1917 and 1920) featuring a peaceful courtyard garden. • Dinner at a local restaurant. Services Included: • Transportation: Private vehicle with driver • Guide: English-speaking guide • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel for the overland journey to Siem Reap (approximately 314 km, about 6 hours’ drive). En route, make brief stops to visit the famous Spider Market (Skun) and the historic Ancient Bridge at Kampong Kdei, a well-preserved Angkorian bridge dating back to the 12th century. Arrival in Siem Reap is expected around 2:00 PM. Upon arrival, enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure. At approximately 4:30 PM, our guide and a remork (tuk-tuk) driver will pick you up from your hotel to visit Wat Damnak. Formerly a royal residence during the reign of King Sisowath — hence the name “Damnak,” meaning palace — the site is now home to the Center for Khmer Studies, an independent institution dedicated to promoting a greater understanding of Khmer culture. The temple complex also houses a research library and serves as a residence for many Buddhist monks. • Dinner at a local restaurant. Services Included: • Transportation: Private vehicle with driver (Phnom Penh – Siem Reap) • Guide: English-speaking guide • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, our guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to explore the magnificent temples of The Angkor Archaeological Park. Begin with Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world and the largest religious monument ever constructed. Be amazed by its impressive scale and architectural brilliance while learning about the prosperity of the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 13th centuries. Stroll through the intricately carved galleries adorned with detailed bas-reliefs and discover small shrines that remain active places of worship today. Continue to Prasat Kravan, a unique 10th-century brick temple partially restored in 1968. The central tower features remarkable brick bas-reliefs of the Hindu god Vishnu. The largest tower depicts the eight-armed deity taking three giant steps to reclaim the world, while another panel shows Vishnu riding Garuda. The northernmost tower displays carvings of Vishnu’s consort, Lakshmi. • Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Ta Prohm Temple, famous for its massive tree roots intertwined with ancient stone structures. The temple’s dramatic scenery creates a haunting yet exotic “lost city” atmosphere. Enjoy sunset views from Pre Rup Temple, offering panoramic scenery over the surrounding countryside. Continue to Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire. At its center stands the magnificent Bayon Temple, renowned for its serene stone faces believed to represent King Jayavarman VII, gazing in all directions. Explore The Terrace of the Elephants, once used as a royal viewing platform for ceremonies and celebrations, and the Terrace of the Leper King, known for its intricate carvings leading toward the Baphuon complex. - Return to your hotel for refreshment. • Dinner at a local restaurant. Services Included: • Transportation: Private vehicle with driver • Guide: English-speaking guide • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner • Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, drive to the southern part of Siem Reap to embark on a short cruise at Chong Kneas, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia’s largest natural freshwater lake. Enjoy a fascinating boat ride through the floating community, passing by houses built on stilts or floating platforms, schools, small shops, crocodile farms, and fishermen at work. You may also see children navigating the waters in small boats, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life of the lake’s residents. Return to the city and visit the handicraft centre of Artisans d’Angkor. Established in 1992, this organization provides employment opportunities for young people from rural areas while preserving and revitalizing traditional Khmer craftsmanship. Ancient techniques such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding, and silk painting are still practiced here today. • Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, if time permits, visit The Old Market (Psar Chas) for last-minute shopping before transferring to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure flight. Services Included: • Transportation: Private vehicle with driver • Guide: English-speaking guide • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch