Classic Cambodia



Cambodia promises a roller coaster of emotions and experiences to both the leisure and intrepid traveler. Your heart will race at Angkor Wat, one of the world's greatest achievements, only to haltingly derail when faced with the impact of humankind's darkest moments. How else can one explain the unthinkable splendor of the 9th- to 13th-century Khmer temples, the tropical islands with barely a beach hut in sight and the untold adventures lurking in northern forests? Cambodia has a vibrant culture, charming people and amazing sights!

Day 1. Arrival in Siem Reap. After you arrive in Cambodia, you will be met by our professional guide at Siem Reap International airport and transferred you to your hotel. This afternoon, you will visit Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world. It is unlike all the other Khmer temples in that it faces west, and is inspired by 12th Century Hinduism. Conceived by Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat took an estimated 30 years to build. Intricate bas-reliefs surround Angkor Wat on four sides and each tells a story. Enjoy the sunset at Angkor Wat then proceed back to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure. 

Day 2. Siem Reap. This morning, you drive to visit the monumental magnificence of Angkor Thom - last capital of the Khmers, with its Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, Phimeanakas, Preah Paliley and the stunning Bayon temple. This 12th century masterpiece lies at the very center of Angkor Thom and is an archaeological wonder of symmetry and grandeur. This afternoon, you will continue your exploration of the Angkor Temples at Ta Prohm, the temple that has been left largely in its natural state since its "re-discovery" by French explorers. After that, visit Preah Khan "The Sacred Sword", an extensive monastic complex covering over 56 hectares built by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching complex. Return to your hotel and overnight stay 

Day 3. Siem Reap. This morning, you will visit Banteay Srei; the citadel of women - a tiny, enchanting temple, which is one of the jewels in this remarkable city. Built of red sandstone in the tenth century and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the carved male and female figures in the niches are exquisitely executed in both style and proportion. Continue to Visit Banteay Samre Temple on the way back to town. This afternoon, you drive to Ton Le Sap Lake, the largest fresh water lake in South East Asia, is the lifeblood of the Cambodian fishing industry Hopping on board a small shaded vessel and moving between the floating homes and small fish farms you will experience close up, daily lake life. The balance of the day is at leisure to relax or visit the Night Market. 

Day 4: Siem Reap Kampong Thom-Phnom Penh. This morning you will depart from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by private vehicle. You will drive through the beautiful countryside, passing over and alongside ancient laterite bridges through the town of Kampong K'dei. King Jayavarman VII who built the Angkor temple in 12th century built this bridge. Later, you will continue on to visit Sambor Prei Kuk temples dating back to the 7th century. Continue to Phnom Penh, upon arrival transfer directly to your hotel for check in. The balance of the day is at your leisure. 

Day 5: Phnom Penh. This morning, you will visit the Royal Palace, which was built in 1866 by King Norodom. The Palace is actually a number of structures within a pagoda-style compound. The treasures are solid gold Buddha encrusted with 9, 584 diamonds and weighing 90 kilos small 17th century emerald and baccarat crystal Buddha. Next visit the National Museum, which houses Khmer art especially, sculptures, from different periods of Cambodian history, 19th century dance costumes, royal barges and palanquins. Enjoy shopping at the Russian Market this afternoon. You will then visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school. In the Pol Pot time, they took this school as a prison for detentions and torture of prisoners. Return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening in Phnom Penh. 

Day 6: Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville. Transfer from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville by private car. Upon arrival in Sihanoukville, you will be transferred directly to your hotel for check in. The balance of you day is at your leisure. 

Day 7: Sihanoukville. Full day free at your leisure in Sihanoukville.

Day 8: Sihanoukville. Full day free at your leisure in Sihanoukville to enjoy the beach or quaint town.

Day 9: Sihanoukville-Phnom Penh Departure. Transfer from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by private vehicle by overland to take your onward flight

*****All itineraries are subject to change without notice.




Cambodia Country Facts

Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos.

Population: 13,363,421 (July 2004 est.)

Capital: Phnom Penh

Time: GMT +7

Language: Khmer (official) 95%, French, English.

Ethnic Groups: Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%.

Religion: Theravada Buddhist 95%, other 5%.

Currency: Riel

Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50 Hz

Business Hours:

Shops: Early morning to late evening.

Business: 0730-1130 and 1400-1700 Monday-Friday

Country Code: 855 - Phnom Penh 23

Credit Cards: Some hotels and restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap accept Visa and MasterCard.

Photography: There are restrictions at airports, ports, and harbors. It is courteous to ask permission first before taking photographs of people.

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