THE CAPITAL CITY OF PHNOM PENH | 3 DAYS

Breakfast at the hotel. At approximately 8:00 AM, our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin your Phnom Penh city orientation tour. First, visit The Independence Monument, modeled after the central tower of Angkor Wat. Built in 1958, the monument commemorates Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953 and serves as a memorial to the country’s war heroes. It is an important national landmark where wreaths are laid on public holidays. Continuing to Wat Phnom, the iconic symbol of Phnom Penh, situated atop a small hill and considered the birthplace of the city. Next, visit Wat Ounalom, the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism. Founded in 1443, the temple complex consists of 44 structures. Although it suffered damage during the Pol Pot era, it has since been restored and remains an important religious center where the head of the Cambodian Buddhist brotherhood resides alongside many monks.  Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). Originally a high school before 1975, it was converted into a notorious interrogation and detention center 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 provides a sobering insight into Cambodia’s turbulent history. Photographs and preserved artifacts offer a powerful reminder of this period. Although the visit can be emotional, it provides essential historical understanding. Afterward, continue to The Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung). The market gained its name in the 1980s when many foreign residents in Cambodia were Russians. While less architecturally impressive than Central Market, it offers a wide variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, silks, clothing, and local products. Return to the hotel for a short rest before heading out for a relaxing boat cruise along the Mekong River to enjoy the sunset views of Phnom Penh. • 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, visit The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two of the most magnificent landmarks in Phnom Penh and fine examples of traditional Khmer architecture. Originally constructed in 1866 during the French colonial period, the Royal Palace remains the official residence of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. The neighboring Silver Pagoda is renowned for its floor, which is covered with 5,329 solid silver tiles, giving the temple its name. Inside, the pagoda houses many national treasures, including gold and jeweled 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, the burial site of a former king Norodom. Continue to Psar Thmei (Central Market), an iconic Art Deco landmark of Phnom Penh. Its impressive domed structure is resembles a Babylonian ziggurat , one of the largest in Asia. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore the bustling market where locals sell a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit The National Museum of Cambodia, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Khmer art and sculpture, spanning over a thousand years of history. The museum is housed in a beautiful terracotta building of traditional design (built between 1917 and 1920) and features a peaceful courtyard garden. After the tour, transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport for your departure flight. Services Included: • Transportation: Private vehicle with driver • Guide: English-speaking guide • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch