In order to truly understand the real Cambodia, one must visit one of the great archeological sites in the world; the spiritual heart and identity of the Khmer people: the Angkor complex. Had any of the main temples, especially Angkor Wat been built anywhere else they would be as famous or as visited as the Taj Mahal, the Parthenon, the Coliseum, or the Pyramids of Egypt. Angkor is without doubt one of the most breathtaking architectural masterpieces left standing in the world today. Without witnessing them at first hand it is impossible to gauge the enormity of task faced by the builders of the time and the fact they are so complete after all this time is further testament to the advanced construction techniques employed more than a millennium ago. Everything is built on a massive scale and one can only imagine the awe felt by ancient visitors as the civilization was at its peak. It is estimated that over one million people lived there making it the largest metropolis in its time. Witness the two hand-dug reservoirs that served the civilization’s rice growing agriculture: The Eastern Baray measures 7km by 1.8km and the Western Baray a staggering 8km by 2.3 km.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival Phnom Penh (by air)
Arrival at Phnom Penh International airport, meet and transfer to the downtown for hotel check-in. After refreshment, take a half day city tour includes the National Museum, Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom. Dinner and overnight in Phnom Penh (-/-/D).
Day 02: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (by air & road)
Transfer to the airport for morning flight to Siem Reap. Pick-up and tour starts with a visit to the Rolous Group including Preah Ko Bakong, Lo Lei and Angkor Wat. The day concludes with a climb to the mountain temple of Phnom Bakheng for a view of the spectacular panoramic sunset over Angkor Thom. Overnight in Siem Reap (B/-/D).
Day 03: Angkor Ruins (road)
Early morning sunrise view at Angkor Wat. Continue Angkor tour visiting the South Gate of Angkor Thom and Bayon, Baphoun, Elephant Terraces, Leper King Terrace, and the Royal Palace area. Afternoon tour to Sra Srang, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, Chau Say Tevoda and Thammanon. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B/L/D).
Day 04: Departure (by air)
After breakfast, free for shopping until transfer to the airport for onward flight (B/-/-).
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