Angkor Wat, an extensive temple complex located in Southeast Asia's Cambodia, stands as a globally acclaimed and notable archaeological marvel, attaining UNESCO World Heritage status.
Renowned for its magnificent architecture, historical significance, and cultural importance, this vast complex was originally built during the 12th century by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire as a Hindu sanctuary dedicated to Vishnu.
In the morning, your private professional guide will take you to explore the "Great City" of Angkor Thom. This unforgettable experience includes a visit to the renowned Bayon Temple, the Phimeanakas Temple within the Royal Palace enclosure, the Baphuon Temple, as well as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on an afternoon visit to the most famous and magnificent temple of all, Angkor Wat.
This architectural masterpiece, constructed in the 12th century, covers an area of about 210 hectares and boasts numerous galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards, and ponds full of water. Admire the intricate low-reliefs depicting the Ramayana Story and day-to-day life during the time of Angkor's construction.
As the afternoon draws to a close, witness the breathtaking sunset over the temples and take in the spectacular views over Angkor Wat.
Enjoy a self-service dinner.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
After a satisfying breakfast, embark on a temple-hopping adventure, visiting a selection of awe-inspiring sites. Begin with a trip to the Royal City of Preah Khan, where impressive sculptures and carvings await. Next, head to the small circular island housing Neak Pean, followed by visits to Ta Som, East Mebon, and Preah Rup.
Relish a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your afternoon exploration. Discover the Thommanon temple, Ta Keo, one of Angkor's great mountain temples, and Ta Prohm, which boasts a fascinating jungle setting. Other noteworthy stops include Banteay Kdei, Srah Srang, a Royal bathing place, and Prasat Kravan with its unique brick sculptures.
Conclude your day with a visit to Les Chantiers Ecole, a handicraft center located in the heart of Siem Reap. Founded in 1992, this organization aims to revive the ancient Khmer art of stone and wood carving, as well as silk weaving, by providing young people with the opportunity to learn these crafts.
Savor a self-service dinner to cap off an unforgettable day.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
After a delightful breakfast, we will set out to explore the enchanting Banteay Srei. This temple, constructed in the 10th century, is renowned for its intricate carvings in pink sandstone, which cover every available space and are truly one-of-a-kind.
Next, we will travel by car to a small chain of hills, and after an hour's journey, we will reach a spot near Kbal Spien. From here, we will continue our journey on foot, following a white sand path that leads into the jungle. This pleasant walk takes us through the beautiful forest, but please note that there are a few narrow and steep passages along the way.
After approximately 40 minutes of walking, we will hear the sound of a waterfall. At first glance, this place may not seem particularly remarkable, but we will soon discover that the riverbed and rocks around us are covered in carvings of the gods of the Brahma religion, dating back to the 11th century. This is the "Thousand Lingas River", where water flows over sculptures of Vishnu, Lakshmi, Hanuman, Rama, and numerous Lingas, which were carved in stone in the past to sanctify the water and express gratitude to the gods. The sound of a small waterfall beckons us to follow the river further through the small gorge, using bamboo stairs to pass a few steep passages until we finally reach the beautiful waterfall.
Enjoy a pick-nick lunch at the foot of the hill, or opt for a local restaurant for your meal.
Next, we will visit Banteay Samre, a temple renowned for its elaborate architecture and exceptional carvings. We will also have the chance to visit a local village and discover the daily life of the people here. Finally, we will explore the Baray Oriental sites, built by Rajendravarman, including Banteay Kdey, Pré Rup, Preasat Khleang, and Mébon Oriental.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
Following breakfast, embark on an exciting adventure to explore the outskirts of Siem Reap and reach the Tonle Sap Lake. Upon arrival, board a boat and cruise through the stunning Tonle Sap, taking in the unique way of life on the lake as you pass by floating fishing villages that boast their own schools, shops, hospitals, and even crocodile farms.
The lake is home to a diverse range of rare and endangered water birds and is renowned for its remarkable water flow that changes direction twice a year. As the seasons shift, the lake expands and shrinks dramatically. During the height of the wet season, the lake can span over 7,400 square miles (12,000 square kilometers) and provides half of Cambodia's fish supply.
On your return journey to Siem Reap, take the scenic back roads into town and catch a glimpse of daily rural activities, such as rice planting and harvesting, duck farming, and the creation of the popular yet pungent fish paste. Make a stop at a local Buddhist temple to chat with the villagers and try some of the delicious local snacks.
Please note that it is highly recommended to plan your visit during the water high season, which runs from October to March, for an optimal experience.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight at hotel in Siem Reap.
Get Your Guide To The Angkor Temple Complex In Siem Reap
After enjoying a fulfilling breakfast, you have the remainder of the morning at your leisure before your scheduled transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
We sincerely hope that your visit to Siem Reap has been a joyous and memorable experience, filled with wonderful moments and treasured memories. May your journey back home be safe and comfortable.
Meals on your own.
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