Stories of Siem Reap

Siem Reap

Join your private guide for a full day of temple touring. The Angkor Archeological Park is visually, architecturally, and artistically breathtaking and one of the most important archaeological sites in Asia. The park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. You could spend weeks exploring the ruins, but on this day tour you will have a chance to see all the highlights. 

You will start to visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom where you can take a quietly optional 1km walk along the wall to a hidden temple. Then visit the temples of Bayon, Baphoun, Terrace of Elephants, The Leper King, and Preah Khan. Take a break with a local lunch located within the park grounds. 

After lunch, you will visit the fabulous jungle temple of Ta Phrom; the late afternoon is set aside for a visit to the main temple, Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is one of mankind's greatest achievements and the intricate carvings at the temple of Angkor Wat demonstrate the skill of the Khmer builders. It was constructed in the early 12th, then - two centuries later - was mysteriously abandoned by the Khmer civilization. Now Angkor Wat is the main reason tourists visit Cambodia. Finish the tour with an unforgettable sunset on the quiet east side of Angkor Wat or at Pre Rup Temple.

Return to the hotel and overnight. Meals: B/L

Note: When visiting temples or other religious sites in Cambodia, visitors are advised to follow dress code consisting of long trousers or a skirt that covers the knees as well as covered shoulders. Skirts, short shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing are culturally insensitive and not allowed.

Siem Reap

After breakfast, take a journey through the stunning countryside for a visit to the mysterious waterfall at Phnom Kulen. Phnom Kulen is an isolated chain of small mountain plateaus lying south of the Dângrêk Mountains and appears as a long silhouette on the horizon. Geologically, Phnom Kulen was formed of sandstone and it was important as a quarry in Angkorian times. Kulen is now a protected area and as of 1992 has acquired World Heritage status from UNESCO. 

Phnom Kulem is widely regarded as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. The site is known for its carvings representing fertility and its waters hold special significance to the people of Cambodia. Just a few inches under the surface of the water, over 1000 carvings of Yoni and Linga are etched into the sandstone riverbed. The waters are regarded as holy, given the sacred carvings which also include a stone representation of the Hindu god Vishnu lying on his serpent Ananta, with his wife Lakshmi at his feet. The river then ends with a beautiful waterfall. We will also visit the Terrace of Sachh Kum Ling, covered by lava for hundreds of years. After a cool refreshing swim in the waterfall, enjoy a local Khmer lunch. 

On the return to Siem Reap, take a scenic drive to Banteay Srei, loosely translated as "Citadel of Women." It houses some of the finest and best-preserved examples of classical Khmer bas-relief. The temple's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction, and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance. 

Overnight. Meals: B/L