Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, Independence Monument & Diamond Island

Royal Palace - The Royal Palace complex is the residence of the Cambodian royal family and a national symbol. The journey begins in the stunning royal gardens, adorned with tropical plants and shining spires. Visitors enter the Throne Hall, the venue for royal receptions and the coronation of the Cambodian king. The tour continues past the Napoleon III Pavilion, an iron structure gifted by the French emperor in the 19th century. The Silver Pagoda, named for its 5,000 silver tiles each weighing 1kg, houses some of the nation’s most treasured artifacts, including a life-size gold Buddha adorned with 9,584 diamonds, the largest being 25 carats.

Wat Phnom - Wat Phnom is a city symbol, situated on one of the rare hills in this otherwise flat capital. The first pagoda was constructed in 1373 to house Buddha statues found in the Mekong by a woman named Penh, giving the city its name, Phnom Penh or Hill of Penh. Locals visit the shrine to seek blessings for love, life, employment, and exams, making it a lively place.

Independence Monument - Built in 1958 and inaugurated in 1962 during the Sangkum Reastr regime, the Independence Monument honors those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s welfare. Its serene atmosphere makes it a popular destination.

Diamond Island Park - Diamond Island, a satellite city in Phnom Penh located on the Mekong and Bassac rivers, was a swamp until 2000. It is now being developed as a residential and commercial area and may become a separate Phnom Penh municipality. The “Elysée” neighborhood is styled after Paris.

Toul Sleng, Killing Field and Central Market

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum - Once a high school, Tuol Sleng was transformed by the Khmer Rouge into a center for interrogation, torture, and death. Now a museum, it serves as a reminder of Cambodia’s tragic past. Of the 17,000 people who entered, only seven survived. Visiting is not for everyone, but it is crucial for understanding Cambodia’s history and progress.

Choeung Ek Genocidal Center - The journey continues to the Killing Fields of Choeng Ek, where prisoners from Tuol Sleng were taken. Once a Chinese cemetery, it became an extermination camp for political prisoners. The remains of 8,985 people were exhumed and are preserved in a memorial stupa. Despite its history, it is a peaceful place for reflection on Cambodia’s past.

Central Market - The tour proceeds to the impressive Central Market, a city landmark completed by the French in 1937. Known as Psar Thmei or New Market, its well-ventilated dome is a design marvel. The market offers a wide array of goods, but visitors should be cautious of overpricing, known locally as ‘shaving your head.’

Phnom Penh-Homestay Kompung Thom

Sambor Prei Kuk - After breakfast at the hotel, the journey continues to Kompong Thom province, the second largest in Cambodia at 13,814 km2. Known for its historical and cultural sites, it features pre-Angkorian temples. Stops include a spider market and a large town market. Depending on arrival time, visitors may check into a homestay or visit Sambor Prei Kuk, the most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments in Cambodia. Overnight in a homestay.

Sambo Preykuk Temples - Sambor Prei Kuk is renowned for its pre-Angkorian monuments, offering a rich historical and cultural exploration.

Home Stay to Siem Reap

Spean Praptos - After breakfast, the trip to Siem Reap continues, taking about three hours. Upon arrival, luggage is stored at the hotel. Stops include Kampung Kdey Bridge, Bamboo Sticky Rice, and Khmer Noodle. A short city tour of Siem Reap includes Pub Street, the Old Market, and the Night Market. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Siem Reap-Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Taprohm Temples

Angkor Wat - This architectural masterpiece, built in the 12th century over 30 years, represents the pinnacle of Khmer civilization. Covering 81 hectares, it is one of the largest religious monuments ever constructed. Angkor Wat, the largest Hindu temple globally, features prominently on Cambodia’s flag.

Angkor Thom - The laterite wall, standing eight meters high and measuring 3x3km, protects many treasures within, surrounded by a still-flooded moat. Entry is through the South Gate, leading to the Bayon temple with its 216 enigmatic faces. The guide will highlight the best photography angles and explain the intricate carvings. The tour continues to Baphuon, with its long causeway and giant Reclining Buddha, restored in 2011 after a 37-year disruption. Phimeanakas offers a treetop view for those who climb its steep steps. The exploration concludes at the Terrace of the Elephants and the picturesque Preah Palilay.

Ta Prohm Temple - Ta Prohm gained fame from the movie Tomb Raider. Today, it is a must-visit for its unique blend of Spung tree roots and ancient stones. A photographer’s paradise, it offers countless opportunities for memorable shots.

Banteay Srey, Banteay Samre, Preh Khan and Sunset at Pre Rup temple

Banteay Srei - Known for its exquisite carvings in pink sandstone, Banteay Srei is a compact 10th-century structure distinct from other Angkorian temples.

Banteay Samre - Often overlooked, Banteay Samre is a larger temple that looks stunning in the late afternoon light.

Neak Pean - Neak Pean, located in the center of the Northern Baray, is an island temple best viewed in the wet season. The wooden causeway leading to it is surrounded by water, creating a ghostly scene.

Preah Khan - Preah Khan features spectacular trees and roots overtaking ancient structures, rivaling Ta Prohm. The temple’s delicate carvings and unique two-story construction, a rarity in Khmer architecture, are highlights. The guide will assist in navigating the grounds.

Pre Rup - The day concludes with a sunset at Pre Rup temple, built in 967 AD and dedicated to Shiva. Constructed of bricks, it offers a stunning view.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Rolous Group, Floating Village and Handicraft Center

Angkor Wat - Witness the silhouette of the largest religious monument as dawn breaks, a breathtaking sight worth the early rise. The classic view by the lotus pond or a unique vantage point offers stunning photo opportunities. Return to the hotel for breakfast afterward.

Roluos Temples - Post-breakfast, visit the late 9th-century Hindu temples Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko, collectively known as the Rolous group, located 15km west of Siem Reap. Explore the early Angkor capital with the guide highlighting key sites, including the pyramid-like Bakong.

Kompong Phluk - Kompong Phluk is an authentic stilted village on Tonle Sap Lake’s edge, where Khmer, Vietnamese, and Cham people coexist with the lake’s changing water levels. Most households own boats and motorbikes, as roads become waterways during the monsoon. The Flooded Forest, accessible by boat in the wet season, is a major attraction.

Artisans Angkor - To lift spirits, visit the Artisans d’Angkor workshop, where skilled artists create beautiful lacquer, stone carvings, and silver plating. This visit highlights Cambodia’s positive progress. If souvenirs aren’t found here, the Old Market offers more options. Use bartering skills to secure memorable Siem Reap keepsakes.

• Private Tour Guide
• One Night at homestay
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Private Transportation
• Pure Drinking Water
• Travel Insurance

• Meals & Drinks
• Admission fees
• Admission fees
• Admission fees
• Admission fees
• Admission fees
• Entrance fees
• Admission fees

This is an extensively exploratory trip that exceeds expectations in Cambodia. This journey offers in-depth insights into the history, culture, civilization, and daily lives of the Cambodian people at each location. The dark era of Khmer Rouge history will be explained by the tour guide during visits to Toul Sleng and the Killing Fields. The life of the royal family and the French colonial regime are highlighted at the Royal Palace and National Museum.

Experiencing the standard living of local people in the countryside through a homestay is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Additionally, there is a wealth of information on temples from the Pre-Angkorian to Angkorian Period at the Sambo Preykuk Group. Furthermore, Siem Reap was the heart of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 14th century, with many grand structures standing and awaiting travelers from all over the world.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.