CAMBODIA
Set against the magnificent ruins and history of Angkor, see a country come alive once again by local experiences that will captivate and charm you.
INTRODUCTION
Journey to Cambodia and discover one of the great wonders of the world at Angkor, the single biggest religious monument on our planet. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, this 12th-century temple city complex stretches 85 km in one direction and 50km in the other. Over 500 temples, many still in the grip of impenetrable jungle, reveal an advanced culture to rival any other of the era.
But there is more to Cambodia than just Angkor. A southern coastline flaunting stunning beaches, scenic cruises along the Mekong and voyages onto Asia’s largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap, add several other dimensions to the Kampuchean experience. Emerging as one of Asia’s more compelling capitals, Phnom Penh has transformed itself to gracefully blend a riverfront location with remaining colonial structures and a deeply fascinating history.Visitors to Cambodia will experience a growing arts and craft scene and a nation proud of its Angkor Dynasty heritage. The French left a charming architectural legacy that the Khmer Rouge miraculously did not destroy and Cambodia has many beautiful natural spots as well as interesting cultural sites and sights, both religious and secular. Like most Southeast Asian people, the Cambodians are unassuming, modest and extremely welcoming and these attributes make them good hosts.
But there is more to Cambodia than just Angkor. A southern coastline flaunting stunning beaches, scenic cruises along the Mekong and voyages onto Asia’s largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap, add several other dimensions to the Kampuchean experience. Emerging as one of Asia’s more compelling capitals, Phnom Penh has transformed itself to gracefully blend a riverfront location with remaining colonial structures and a deeply fascinating history.Visitors to Cambodia will experience a growing arts and craft scene and a nation proud of its Angkor Dynasty heritage. The French left a charming architectural legacy that the Khmer Rouge miraculously did not destroy and Cambodia has many beautiful natural spots as well as interesting cultural sites and sights, both religious and secular. Like most Southeast Asian people, the Cambodians are unassuming, modest and extremely welcoming and these attributes make them good hosts.
FIVE HIGHLIGHTS
1 Watch the magic of sunrise as it lights up Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is Cambodia's most iconic and enduring image - the centerpiece of the vast temple complex that draws millions of visitors from around the world. Explore its walkways, admire its intricate carvings, and climb its steep, dramatic towers. View the temple at sunrise after entering it from its little-accessed eastern side for a truly unique and memorable experience.
2 Be moved and entertained by Phare Circus, Cambodia's answer to Cirque du Soleil. This is so much more than a conventional circus, with an emphasis on performance art and a subtle yet striking social message behind each production. Open since 2013, the Circus is a unique form of entertainment that should be considered unmissable when staying in Siem Reap. Several generations of performers have gone on to perform in international shows around the world. These performers have deeply moving personal stories of abuse and hardship, making their talents a triumph against the odds. An inspiring night out for adults and children alike.
3 Stumble-upon true mystery in the River of a Thousand Lingas deep in the tropical forested hills of Kbal Spean. Lingas have been elaborately carved into the riverbed, thus sanctifying the entire river course that leads down to the barrages of Angkor. There are several images of Hindu deities carved into the rocks that dot the area, many of which display their secrets, during the dry season, when the river levels drop.
4 Relive stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata at the exquisitely carved 10th century citadel of Banteay Srei. Considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei is cut from stone of a pinkish hue and includes some of the finest stone carving anywhere on earth. It is thankfully one of the smallest sites at Angkor, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in stature.The Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, is wonderfully well preserved and many of its carvings are three-dimensional.
5 Embrace your inner Indiana Jones. Without doubt, the most atmospheric ruin at Angkor is Ta Prohm. Its appeal lies in the fact that, unlike the other monuments of Angkor, it has been swallowed by the jungle, and looks very much the way most of the monuments of Angkor appeared when European explorers first stumbled upon them. The temple is cloaked in dappled shadow, its crumbling towers and walls locked in the slow muscular embrace of vast root systems of ficus trees.
2 Be moved and entertained by Phare Circus, Cambodia's answer to Cirque du Soleil. This is so much more than a conventional circus, with an emphasis on performance art and a subtle yet striking social message behind each production. Open since 2013, the Circus is a unique form of entertainment that should be considered unmissable when staying in Siem Reap. Several generations of performers have gone on to perform in international shows around the world. These performers have deeply moving personal stories of abuse and hardship, making their talents a triumph against the odds. An inspiring night out for adults and children alike.
3 Stumble-upon true mystery in the River of a Thousand Lingas deep in the tropical forested hills of Kbal Spean. Lingas have been elaborately carved into the riverbed, thus sanctifying the entire river course that leads down to the barrages of Angkor. There are several images of Hindu deities carved into the rocks that dot the area, many of which display their secrets, during the dry season, when the river levels drop.
4 Relive stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata at the exquisitely carved 10th century citadel of Banteay Srei. Considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei is cut from stone of a pinkish hue and includes some of the finest stone carving anywhere on earth. It is thankfully one of the smallest sites at Angkor, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in stature.The Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, is wonderfully well preserved and many of its carvings are three-dimensional.
5 Embrace your inner Indiana Jones. Without doubt, the most atmospheric ruin at Angkor is Ta Prohm. Its appeal lies in the fact that, unlike the other monuments of Angkor, it has been swallowed by the jungle, and looks very much the way most of the monuments of Angkor appeared when European explorers first stumbled upon them. The temple is cloaked in dappled shadow, its crumbling towers and walls locked in the slow muscular embrace of vast root systems of ficus trees.
WHEN TO GO. WHERE TO GO.
Cambodia is warm year-round with temperatures rarely dipping below 68°F (20°C), whenever you go. Seasons are broken into wet and dry season. Wet season, from May to October, is usually marked by a brief downpour in the afternoon. This rarely affects travel plans and still includes many hours of bright sunshine, and is known locally as green season as the countryside springs to life. Travel in the dry season, from November to March, is marked by hot dry days.
Siem Reap
Dry season temperatures, from November to April, range from a 68°F (20°C) minimum to highs in the 80s (high 20s), with maximums reaching 95°F (35°C) in March. Rainfall is minimal so roads can be a little dusty, while the leafy areas around the temples are easier to traverse. This is a busy time of year to travel, so some sites and temples can be crowded.
April and May are hot and it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach above 100°F (38°C). The green season from May to October is the best time for seeing full moats around the temples of Angkor, dramatic skies and verdant rice-paddies. Minimum temperatures are around 75°F (24°C) and maximums start to drop from May and stay around 90°F (32°C) for the rest of the season. Rain is tropical with refreshing afternoon downpours.
Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital is warm year-round with tropical rains from May to October, and hotter, drier days from November to April. In the green season from May to October, temperatures range from lows of 71°F (22°C) to highs of 93°F (34°C) in May. From November to April lows rise to 77°F (25°C) with highs around the low 90s (low to mid 30s), and rainfall peaks during September and October. The best time to go is November to February when temperatures and rainfall are lowest.
Siem Reap
Dry season temperatures, from November to April, range from a 68°F (20°C) minimum to highs in the 80s (high 20s), with maximums reaching 95°F (35°C) in March. Rainfall is minimal so roads can be a little dusty, while the leafy areas around the temples are easier to traverse. This is a busy time of year to travel, so some sites and temples can be crowded.
April and May are hot and it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach above 100°F (38°C). The green season from May to October is the best time for seeing full moats around the temples of Angkor, dramatic skies and verdant rice-paddies. Minimum temperatures are around 75°F (24°C) and maximums start to drop from May and stay around 90°F (32°C) for the rest of the season. Rain is tropical with refreshing afternoon downpours.
Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital is warm year-round with tropical rains from May to October, and hotter, drier days from November to April. In the green season from May to October, temperatures range from lows of 71°F (22°C) to highs of 93°F (34°C) in May. From November to April lows rise to 77°F (25°C) with highs around the low 90s (low to mid 30s), and rainfall peaks during September and October. The best time to go is November to February when temperatures and rainfall are lowest.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
TRIP | CLASSIC ANGKOR
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Siem Reap (4)
Uncover the mysteries of the ancient civilizations of Angkor led by academic experts as you wander through the stunning ruins of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm and Bayon. These are some of the iconic memories that you will capture for posterity. But dig deeper, and you will see that it's the people of Cambodia, their warmth and their smiles, their courage and their generosity, that really makes a Cambodia holiday a rewarding experience. These connections will be made at the beautiful hotels you stay in, the cars you are driven in, the artisans you meet, the performers you witness, and when you find that time to step out and walk on a quiet street in Siem Reap. Whether it is hiking through the jungle to find thousands of lingas, watching a contemporary circus performance or riding a bicycle through back roads in the countryside, this is your classical Cambodia experience for the discerning traveller.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
July - March IDEAL FOR
Couples & families BASICS
4-nights; road-based PRICES START FROM
On Request |
The quintessential Angkor holiday - visit iconic temples led by academic experts, hike to sacred sites hidden in the mountains, explore delicious (and sometimes bizarre) culinary traditions, and experience local cultural arts and craft that will both inspire and entertain.
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ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE INTO SIEM REAP | INTRODUCTION TO ANGKOR
Upon arrival at Siem Reap, you will be welcomed by our local English speaking representative, who will transfer you to your hotel. Rest and relax for a few hours.
In the afternoon, begin your explorations with a visit to the Angkor National Museum, a good introduction to the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor. After a short presentation film, visitors enter a series of exhibition spaces that include touch-screen video, commentary and the chance to experience a panoramic sunrise at Angkor Wat. While lacking in sculpture displays, it nevertheless is a very useful experience for first-time visitors, putting the story of Angkor and the Khmer empire in context before exploring the actual temples.
In the evening, you are met at your hotel for pre-dinner drinks (not included), where an academic expert will share his experiences of working and researching in Siem Reap, uncovering the real mysteries of Angkor - its rise and fall, and how technology played a role in its archaeology.
In the afternoon, begin your explorations with a visit to the Angkor National Museum, a good introduction to the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor. After a short presentation film, visitors enter a series of exhibition spaces that include touch-screen video, commentary and the chance to experience a panoramic sunrise at Angkor Wat. While lacking in sculpture displays, it nevertheless is a very useful experience for first-time visitors, putting the story of Angkor and the Khmer empire in context before exploring the actual temples.
In the evening, you are met at your hotel for pre-dinner drinks (not included), where an academic expert will share his experiences of working and researching in Siem Reap, uncovering the real mysteries of Angkor - its rise and fall, and how technology played a role in its archaeology.
DAY 2: SUNRISE AT ANGKOR WAT | MARKETS & ARTISANS | VESPA FOOD TOUR
Early morning at 0500 hrs, you will be transferred to the world famous Angkor Wat for a sunrise visit of the temple. Your tour is led by an academic expert or by an expert English-speaking guide.
Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, it is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people. Return back to your hotel for rest and relaxation until lunch.
In the afternoon explore the Old Market for souvenirs or Psa Leu for a more local shopping experience. Visit the Artisans D´Angkor workshop and Theam's House to see how local handicrafts are made.
Later in the evening, go on an exciting after dark foodie tour on a Vespa. There are few cooler ways to get around Asia's cities than on a Vespa. And the iconic Italian scooters are the perfect conduit to this evening foodie tour of buzzing Siem Reap. Steering clear of the city's tourist traps, the journey takes you to a selection of local favorites including grill stations, Khmer-style restaurants and the home of rice wine producing family.
Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, it is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people. Return back to your hotel for rest and relaxation until lunch.
In the afternoon explore the Old Market for souvenirs or Psa Leu for a more local shopping experience. Visit the Artisans D´Angkor workshop and Theam's House to see how local handicrafts are made.
Later in the evening, go on an exciting after dark foodie tour on a Vespa. There are few cooler ways to get around Asia's cities than on a Vespa. And the iconic Italian scooters are the perfect conduit to this evening foodie tour of buzzing Siem Reap. Steering clear of the city's tourist traps, the journey takes you to a selection of local favorites including grill stations, Khmer-style restaurants and the home of rice wine producing family.
DAY 3: ANGKOR THOM, BAYON & TA PROHM | EVENING AT THE PHARE CIRCUS
After breakfast, visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is surrounded by an 8 m high wall drawing a perfect square. Enter the city through the ancient South Gate, an impressive stone gate carved with Elephants and four giant faces. From here, continue to Bayon Temple in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King are also must-visits as they are both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.
Angkor is full of magical highlights; visit another one after lunch - Ta Prohm temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes Ta Prohm one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples.
After the visit, return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon where you will have some free time to rest or enjoy a spa treatment.
This evening attend a performance of ‘Phare, the Cambodian Circus’. Starting at 8pm, professional artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) will perform an inspiring show suitable for people of all ages. Set up in Battambang in 1994 by young returnee Cambodians from the refugee camps who learned about using art as a means of coping with trauma, PPS has played an influential role in promoting and developing Khmer culture over the years after the Khmer Rouge genocide. The hour long show mixes traditional and modern theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling and contortion performed in a story about Cambodian lives and society.
Return to your hotel after the performance for a late dinner.
Angkor is full of magical highlights; visit another one after lunch - Ta Prohm temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. This makes Ta Prohm one of the most picturesque and memorable of the Angkor temples.
After the visit, return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon where you will have some free time to rest or enjoy a spa treatment.
This evening attend a performance of ‘Phare, the Cambodian Circus’. Starting at 8pm, professional artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) will perform an inspiring show suitable for people of all ages. Set up in Battambang in 1994 by young returnee Cambodians from the refugee camps who learned about using art as a means of coping with trauma, PPS has played an influential role in promoting and developing Khmer culture over the years after the Khmer Rouge genocide. The hour long show mixes traditional and modern theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling and contortion performed in a story about Cambodian lives and society.
Return to your hotel after the performance for a late dinner.
DAY 4: DAY TREK TO KBAL SPEAN & BANTEAY SREI | SURPRISE PICNIC LUNCH
This morning, drive to Kbal Spean, one of the earliest Hindu pilgrimage sites in Cambodia. A moderate 1.5 km trek through dense jungle will arrive at the “River of 1000 Lingas”. Carved into the very riverbed are images from Hindu scripture and small stone lingas used for religious purposes.
After the visit, settle in for an exclusive surprise lunch before continuing on to Banteay Srei, the “gem” of the Angkor area. Also known as the “Citadel of the Women,” this landmark remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia, displaying fine examples of classical Khmer art and remarkable bas-reliefs. Its pink sandstone is also found nowhere else in Angkor.
After the visit, return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon.
In the evening, head out to Pub Street and its surroundings to visit some of our favourite bar and club picks and get a feel of the local expat and Cambodian life.
After the visit, settle in for an exclusive surprise lunch before continuing on to Banteay Srei, the “gem” of the Angkor area. Also known as the “Citadel of the Women,” this landmark remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia, displaying fine examples of classical Khmer art and remarkable bas-reliefs. Its pink sandstone is also found nowhere else in Angkor.
After the visit, return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon.
In the evening, head out to Pub Street and its surroundings to visit some of our favourite bar and club picks and get a feel of the local expat and Cambodian life.
DAY 5: DEPART SIEM REAP
Breakfast at your hotel and relax until you are transferred to Siem Reap airport to board your flight home.
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