Cambodia's Ancient & Modern Capitals

ITINERARY DETAILS

day 1Arrive in Siem Reap where you will be met by your expert ABOUTAsia guide and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy your first taste of Angkor with a visit to Banteay Kdei temple followed by sunset drinks on the moat of Angkor Thom, a world away from the tourist crowds.

day 2A single, magical day at the temples following our well researched crowd avoidance itinerary, including Ta Prohm of ‘Tomb Raider’ fame, Angkor Thom: Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Preah Palilay, Phimeanakas, Baphuon, and the Bayon with its captivating stone faces. During your tour enjoy a wonderful tuk tuk breakfast in the secluded forest temple of Ta Nei. (B)

day 3Take a private boat onto the Tonle Sap lake, the richest freshwater fishing ground in the world, to visit one of the authentic stilted villages (either Kompong Kleang or Kompong Phluk depending on water levels). A picnic lunch is included. In the afternoon head into the countryside to jungle-clad Beng Mealea temple which, in a much collapsed state, retains a very atmospheric feel. (B, L)

day 4Motor through the darkness of pre-dawn to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat as we guide you to the best photo vantage points. Explore the temple in the hours immediately after sunrise when the temple is at its quietest. This afternoon take a journey of discovery by boat, ox-cart and on foot to visit villages little changed since the days of Jayavarman VII. End the day with a cocktail at ABOUTAsia’s country villa overlooking the paddy fields with the option of adding on dinner. (B)

day 5Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia´s bustling capital and once called the ‘Pearl of Asia’. This afternoon we endeavour to provide some insights into Cambodia´s recent tragic history under the Khmer Rouge with visits to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng (S-21) Prison. (B)

day 6Weaving through Phnom Penh’s colourful streets, explore some of our favourite hidden gems by traditional transportation method: the cyclo. In the afternoon take in the shimmering spires of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. (B)

day 7Private transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule it may be possible to visit the city’s markets. (B)

Why not discover more of Cambodia with an extension to the sun-kissed south coast, or delve into the depths of the jungle and remote, little-visited provinces.