Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a fascinating tour. Our first stop is Wat Phnom, a significant landmark that lends its name to the city of Phnom Penh. Standing tall at an elevation of 27 meters above sea level, it holds the distinction of being the highest point in the area. As the city gradually developed around it, the settlement came to be known as Phnom Penh, meaning "the hill of Penh." This site serves as the central point of the city, offering captivating views.
Next, we will visit Wat Unalom, a Buddhist Monastery that serves as the headquarters for one of Cambodia's most esteemed Buddhist patriarchs. Alongside the pagoda, you will find a post-Angkorean stupa, adding to the historical significance of this spiritual sanctuary.
Our tour continues with a visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, which was once a high school but transformed into an interrogation prison known as S-21 during the Khmer Rouge era. Today, it stands as a solemn testament to the atrocities committed during that dark period in Cambodian history. Walking through the narrow corridors and former classrooms of this haunting site will immerse you in Cambodia's turbulent past. The museum provides an opportunity to learn about the sufferings endured by thousands of innocent Cambodian people who were tortured on its grounds. You will witness the documentation of victims' stories and encounter displays of torture devices, including the poignant black and white photographs captured during the prisoners' time at the prison. While the experience may be somber, it is highly recommended as it offers profound insights into the cruel methods of control employed by the Khmer Rouge regime.
For lunch, we will dine at a local restaurant called Khmer Sorin, where you can savor the flavors of traditional Khmer cuisine.
In the afternoon, we will explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two splendid examples of Khmer architecture found in the capital. The Royal Palace, constructed in 1866 by the French for King Norodom, has been a residence for kings throughout history, with the exception of the period when the radical Khmer Rouge party held power in 1975. Within the palace grounds, you will discover the Silver Pagoda, named for its stunning floor adorned with 5,329 silver tiles. This opulent site is truly a sight to behold.
Our final visit of the day will be to the National Museum, where an impressive collection of Khmer art and sculptures from various periods of Cambodian history are housed. This museum offers a comprehensive insight into the rich cultural heritage of the country.
For dinner, you will have the freedom to choose from a variety of dining options at your own leisure.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
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