Detailed itinerary
A short trip that showcases the best
of Cambodia. Prepare for a unique adventure packed full of ancient sights and
breathtaking beauty as you journey from the reconstructed capital, Phnom Penh,
still contains vestiges of the French colonial era in its historic architecture
to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor in Siem Riep that has astounded
archaeologists since its re-discovery and subsequent recovery from the jungles,
150 years ago. This trip gets you acquainted with all the main sights and leaves
you with plenty of time to delve a bit deeper on your own.
itinerary disclaimer
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. It may
differ slightly to the one in reality. Occasionally our
itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past
travellers, comments and our own research. Please note that our
brochure is usually released by the end of each year. If you
have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have
been some changes to improve the itinerary. It is very important
that you print a final copy of your Trip Dossier to review a
couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes
that affect your plans
DETAIL ITINERARY
Day 1 Phnom Penh arrival
You are met on arrival at Phnompenh Airport and transferred to
your hotel. Rest of your day is free at leisure, there is much
for you to discover on your own, how about scooting off on
cyclos for a tour around the city, pay a visit to the terracotta
red National Museum which offers a charming setting for a
comprehensive collection of Khmer artifacts, visit the nearby
Royal Palace, on the banks of the mighty Mekong river. Inside
the Palace walls you will be treated to the Throne Hall, the
Chan Chaya Pavilion, and the King’s residential quarters.
In central
Phnom Penh, you can't miss the beautiful Silver Pagoda. Part of
the Royal Palace complex, this stunning temple gains its name
from the 5000 silver tiles covering the floor. A visit to the
National Museum is also worthwhile. Housed in a beautiful
traditional building, it contains many outstanding examples of
Khmer craftsmanship.
There's also the ancient Wat Phnom, set atop the only hill in
the city, which is a haven of peace, away from the noisy streets
of the capital. If you're in the mood for shopping, stop in at
the art deco-designed Psar Thmei (Central Market) which is a
great place for browsing, or travel out to Psar Tuol Tom Pong
(the Russian Market) for the best range of local souvenirs.
Meal inclusions: None
Overnight: Castle hotel (3 star)
Day 2 Phnom Penh sightseeing
A full day city tour
introduces you to the sights of Phnom Penh, a city that lies
near the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap Rivers. This
is a chance for your to learn about the dark side of Cambodia -
its more recent turbulent and harrowing history. Initially you
visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S21),
ironically a former school, located in a quiet Phnom Penh
suburb, this was the infamous Khmer Rouge prison / torture
centre. Once you have gained an initial insight of the brutality
of the Khmer Rouge regime you will be driven 15km from Phnom
Penh to visit the 'Killing Fields'. This is where Toul Sleng
prisoners were forcibly marched and then executed; it is now a
memorial site located in a beautiful tranquil setting.
On the way back, stop over at the handicraft shop, spa and
vocational training restaurant. This place was created in 1996
by Pour un Sourire d’ Enfant (PSE) to rescue Cambodian children.
We will enjoy lunch here.
Afternoon visit Central Market (Phsar Thom Thmei), the
distinctive art-deco styling of this market makes it stand out
among the architecture of Phnom Penh, where you can shop for
souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, silver products...
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch
Overnight: Castle hotel (3 star)
Day 3 Siem Riep
This morning you are
transferred to airport for a flight to Siem Riep. This city is
our base for visiting the world-famous temples of the ancient
city of Angkor, home to the powerful Khmer Empire that held sway
from 802 AD to 1350 AD. is one of the wonders of the
archeological world. Rediscovered at the end of the last century
by French explorers, this vast ruined city is becoming one of
the most popular sites in Southeast Asia. Initially you will
explore the Small Circuit. This tour includes the huge pyramid
of Takeo, and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm, made famous by the
Hollywood blockbuster ‘Tomb Raider’. You continue to visit Sras
Srang, known as the King's bathing pond, and Banteay Kdei,
before exploring Prasat Kravan, an elegant brick temple. After
lunch you explore the impressive Royal City of Angkor Thom,
where you will find the Bayon, a temple famed for its many
gigantic carved faces smiling beguilingly down at you. You will
also visit other important sites in this immense walled city,
including the pyramid of Baphuon, Phimeanakas, and the royal
viewing stands known as the Terrace of the Elephants and the
Terrace of the Leper King. If you have the time your guide will
take you to an excellent spot for watching a mesmerising Angkor
Wat sunset...
Meal inclusions: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight: Steung Siem Reap Hotel (3 star)
Day 4 Siem Riep sightseeing
This morning, we
drive to Kbal Spean. The journey allows you to experience the
beautiful Cambodian countryside as you pass through small
typical villages. We walk 45 minutes through the forest to the
top of the hill to reach Kbal Spean, the "Thousand Linga River."
Discover the 10th-12th century sculptures chiseled into the
rocky riverbed, the Royal Bath and the waterfall. Continue to
the enchanting temple of the Banteay Srei or ‘Fortress of the
Women’, Banteay Srei is an elaborately decorated temple,
embellished with floral motifs and scenes from the Ramayana, all
carved from pink sandstone. It is said the carvings must have
been done by women as the detail is too fine for the hands of a
man
After lunch we return to Siem Reap in the afternoon and continue
with Ox cart to the Khmer Village and enjoy view of the rice
field and a lots of palm trees with great fresh air. We board on
boat in Tonle Sap Lake, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia, one of the
largest in Asia. You will see the traditional floating village
of Chong Khneas and witness the residents going about their
daily life - it is quite a sight seeing a whole bamboo village
complete with homes, gas stations, schools, hair dressers, and
even karaoke bars floating on a lake. As you are on the lake you
will have the opportunity to watch a beautiful sunset...
Meal inclusions: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight: Steung Siem Reap Hotel (3 star)
Day 5 Departure
Today is at your leisure in Siem Riep City. You are free for more
exploration before transfer to airport for the flight home.
Extra nights can be added in Siem Riep.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast
General Notes:
• Tailormade Vietnam Holidays reserves the right to alter or revise the prices
and the itinerary when circumstances beyond the company's control deem it
necessary.
• Accommodation in hotels is subject to availability. If the
listed hotels are fully booked, alternate accommodation will be offered at the
same level.
• If there are any requests regarding special meals, dietary
requirements, early check in, late check out, adjoining room and so on, please
inform the company when booking. Such requests are subject to confirmation and
availability.
Days
1-2 Phnom Penh
Days
3-5 Siem Riep / Angkor Wat
