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Day 1: Arrival - Siem Reap - Angkor Temples
On arrival at Siem Riep Airport, you are met by our guide and transferred to hotel. The tranquil Siem Reap Town is our base for visiting the world famous temples of the ancient city Angkor, which was the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from 802 AD to 1350 AD. Upon leaving Siem Reap Town we set off on a short drive to the archeological area and spend our time to visit the most striking structures. They are the South Gate of Angkor Thom which is famous for its series of colossal human faces carved in stone, the impressive Bayon Temple, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King and the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat. We stroll around this massive monument, exploring the many galleries with columns , libraries, pavilions, courtyards and ponds full of water reflecting the towering temple. O/N in Siem Reap.
Day 2: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples
The jungle covered temple of Ta Prohm is an incredible sight. There are enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers which embrace themselves in the stone foundations of this structure giving the impression of man's creation being reclaimed by the powerful forces of nature. We explore the well known Ta Prohm and some nearby temples including Banteay Kdei, Sra Srong, Ta Keo, Thommanon and Chau Say Tevado. They almost belong to the small circuit according to the archaeologists’ division. Upon leaving this area we visit various famous temples of the grand circuit such as Preah Khan, Kravan, Neak Pean, Krol Ko, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup. We round off our exciting day with a walk up to Phnom Bakheng Hill to admire the spectacular sunset over these sandstone monuments. O/N in Siem Reap.(B)
Day 3: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples - Banteay Srei
Heading out of town we drive beyond the Angkor Complex through the Preah Dark village to the intricately carved and well preserved Banteay Srei Temple. We stroll around this beautiful landmark which was designed to leave no space undecorated. The roads begin to deteriorate but it is still fascinating to drive past the rolling mountain scenery towards Kbal Spean. This interesting site locally named the river of 1000 Lingars, has been largely reclaimed by the jungle; however it invovles a walk to catch a view over its riverbed carvings. The next stop is Banteay Samre which is adorned with striking relief depicting the scenes of Vishunu and Krishna legends. Today we also have a chance to explore the ancient Khmer civilization site of Hariharalaya which flourished in the late 9th and earlier 10th centuries. These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to the Rolous group. O/N in Siem Reap. (B)
Day 4: Siem Reap - Phnom Penh
The following destination of our trip will be Phnom Penh via a half day boat trip along the Tonle Sap River. This river journey takes anything from four to six hour depending on season. No matter how long it will be, it is still an unforgettable experience as we can have close contact with local passengers and see the picturesque scenery changing all along the way. On arrival in Phnom Penh you are greeted by our guide and transferred to hotel. An afternoon city tour acquaints us with some major sights of Phnom Penh. The private quarters of the Royal Palace are now home to the royal family and are therefore very close to the public. At the northern area of the palace grounds is Silver Pagoda, the most sacred temple in the country. We visit both structures as well as the National Museum for an appreciation of the splendour of Khmer history. Afterwards we climb up a small hill to visit the legendary Wat Phnom and catch a fantastic view over the surrounding areas. O/N in Phnom Penh. (B)
Day 5: Phnom Penh - Departure
Today we continue our exploration of Phnom Penh. The painful bloody rule of the Khmer Rouge still can be seen at the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek. We visit these infamous sites in an afternoon tour before strolling around one of the city’s lively open markets, Psar Toul Tom Pong, all called the “ Russian Market”. This bustling trading center is full of local handicrafts and artifacts. The ends after your transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for departure. (B)
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