CAMBODIA
Palaces of Angkor 
4 DAYS

Massive stone monuments, wide majestic causeways, imposing gateways and towers in a wonderful jungle setting… This is the incomparable Khmer temple complex of Angkor. You will explore the magnificent Angkor Wat and enchanting Banteay Srei, enjoy a boat trip in a traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap Lake, admire the ancient art of Khmer workmanship and enjoy the exhilarating walk amongst the temples of the ancient Hariharalaya.

Day 1.    Siem Reap

Morning arrival at Siem Reap Airport.  Transfer to your hotel (rooms may not be ready until the afternoon).  Siem Reap is the nearest town to the incomparable Khmer temple complex of Angkor. From the 9^th to 15^th Century, Angkor was both the power base of a mighty military and political force, and the heart of a rich and sophisticated civilization. We will see massive stone monuments, wide majestic causeways, imposing gateways and towers – all in a wonderful jungle setting.

This morning we will visit the “Great City” of Angkor Thom, which was probably more opulent than most European cities in the late 12^th Century.  Visits include the famous Bayon Temple, Phimeanakas Temple within the Royal Palace enclosure, Baphuon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Our afternoon is dedicated to a visit of the most famous temple - magnificent Angkor Wat. This architectural masterpiece was constructed in the 12^th century and covers an area of about 210 hectares.  We will enjoy exploring the many galleries with columns, libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple.  Intricately carved bas‑reliefs extend the length of the outer walls and corridors, depicting mythological scenes and day-to-day life at the time of Angkor's construction. 

Day 2.    Siem Reap

This morning we will visit a selection of temples, including the Royal City of Preah Khan which features fabulous carved stone lanterns and impressive sculptures, Neak Pean – a shrine built on a small circular island, Ta Som, East Mebon with attractive decorations on false doors and lintels, Preah Rup with great views from the top terrace.

This afternoon we will continue our temple visits, including Thommanon Takeo - one of Angkor’s great temple mountains, Ta Prohm - a favorite amongst visitors because it has become part of the jungle, Banteay Kdei with its very attractive carvings, Srah Srang - a Royal bathing place, Prasat Kravan with unique brick sculptures, and Bakheng Temple perched on top of a natural hill with spectacular views over Angkor Wat.  Please note that the steep climb is richly rewarded by the views – sometimes elephants can be hired (optional) to carry you up. Dinner and classical dance show at Apsara Theatre, Angkor Village (optional, subject to availability). 

Day 3.    Siem Reap

This morning we will drive beyond the Angkor complex to visit another favorite amongst visitors temple – the enchanting Banteay Srei. It appears that the temple was designed to leave no space undecorated, and the fine carvings in pink sandstone are quite unique.  Our second visit will be to Banteay Samre – featuring elaborate architecture and exceptional carvings. Time permitting, visit a local village. 

This afternoon we will take a break from visiting temples and enjoy a boat ride, in a traditional wooden boat, on the Tonle Sap.  This is the largest permanent fresh-water lake in South East Asia. It flows into Tonle Sap River, joining the Mekong in Phnom Penh.  We will see a “floating village” – boats have been converted to look like houses and the “villages” move from place to place following water levels (please note that this trip may be impossible in May/June).  Time permitting, visit a Crocodile Farm (optional).

Day 4.    Siem Reap

This morning we will visit the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya, which flourished in the late 9^th and early 10^th centuries.  These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to as the Roluos group.  The three Roluos temples are Bakong temple mountain with wonderful carvings on the false doors and lintels, the funerary temple of Preah Ko, and Lolei Temple with the Roluos group’s most exquisite carvings and inscriptions. 

This afternoon we will visit Les Chantiers Ecole, a handicraft center located in the center of Siem Reap. Les Chantiers Ecole was founded in 1992 and its aim is to revive the ancient art of Khmer workmanship. In co-operation with the Minister of Education this organization gives young people the opportunity to learn the art of stone and wood carving, silk weaving methods and polychromy technique. We will be able to visit the workshops where the students improve their skills and at the end of the visit see the finished products at the shop where they are for sale. Afternoon transfer to Siem Reap airport and departure.

SUMMARY

Inclusions: All meals, entrance fees, guides, transportation

Start and Finish: Bangkok

Accommodation: Comfortable accommodation with private facilities throughout

Trip Grade: Easy  

Dates: As Extension to Thailand OR daily all year

Cost: US$ 825 (Bangkok - Siem Reap return airfare not included)

Note: Please note that all itineraries and prices are subject to change.

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