Day 1
SIEM REAP ARRIVAL
Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide at the airport. Proceed to hotel for check-in.
Please note that hotel check in time is from 1400. Early check in is subject to hotel availability and with extra fee.
Short freshen up and prepare for the first destination. Take the private boat and reach to Kampong Pluk, it’s about 20 Km locates on the Southeast of Siem Reap Town. Over 3000 inhabitants are real Khmers, their households made of wood and bamboo built on stilts of about 6m to 7m high. During dry season when the lake is low and lack of water those buildings look like the skyscrapers. At this time of the year many of villagers move out onto the lake and build a provisional stilted house. In wet season while the water level rises up again, the dwellers move back to their permanent houses on the flood plain, the stilts now hidden under the water. People made a living by catching fishes produce as well as smelly fish paste, fermented fish, smoked fish, dried fish, dried prawn etc. Upon arrival this village we will explore the above activities and we can have a chat with children at private English class, then stop at Buddhist Island to see Buddha paintings.
In the afternoon, visit Artisans d’Angkor. Artisans d’Angkor was established in 1992 in order to support Cambodian arts and crafts, and to help young people find work in their local villages by continuing the practice of traditional arts. Among the workshops available for visit are wood and stone carving, wood and stone lacquering, gilding, and silk processing.
After that, explore Psah Chas (Old Market) also commonly spelt as Phsar Chas, Psar Chas or Psar Chaa, is a market in the city of Siem Reap in northern Cambodia. Not to be confused with the similarly named Psah Chas in Phnom Penh that is geared toward locals, this open air market in the south of the city caters to locals and tourists alike. The market is popular with tourists in the city and sells souvenirs, including T-shirts, silverware, silk, wood and stone carvings, Buddhas, and other items. It is also known for its variety of Cambodian cuisine, and has a number of food stalls which sell a variety of rices, dried fish and pork sausages, vegetables and fruits, and a Cambodian specialty Prahok, a type of fermented fish paste. Some stalls sell baguettes and spiced frogs, which is believed to be a relic of French colonialism in the area. Other stalls cook up various Khmer soups and red chili slices and peanuts.
Buffet Dinner with Apsara Show.
Early rest for the next day Sunrise tour at Angkor Wat. Tour guide will arrange breakfast In box for the next day Sunrise tour.
Day 2
SIEM REAP, Angkor Wat Sunrise, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Phrom
Your tour guide will pick you up at the hotel lobby early morning for the Angkor Wat Sunrise. Your tour guide arrange and remind hotel for the breakfast in box. Proceed to Angkor Wat for the sunrise, experience the break of day as the sun rises from behind the temple’s five towers in a spectacle of red and golden hues. Your tour guide will explain the meaning of the sun in relation to the temple’s architecture.
Breakfast in box in Srah Srang, meaning “Royal Bath” is a baray or reservoir at Angkor, located south of the East Baray and east of Banteay Kdei. It is a popular site for viewing the sunrise. It is cruciform, flanked by nāga balustrades which end with the upright head of a serpent, mounted by a garuda with its wings unfurled. The steps that lead down to the water are flanked by two guardian lions.
Then you will visit the famous Angkor Wat. 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.
Visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom. A short stop at South Gate. Angkor Thom was 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. On each side of the entrance path a row of 54 gods or demons is holding the sacred Naga snake.
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. Baphuon Temple, Phimean Akas Temple, Elephants Terrace & Leper King Terrace, Royal Palace, Woman and Man Pond) are also must-visits as they are both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.
In the afternoon, proceed to visit Ta-Prom Temple ~ built in the Bayon style largely in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. It has been left in much the same condition in which it was found: the photogenic and atmospheric combination massive fig and silk cotton trees grow from the towers and corridors, offering some of the best ‘tree-in temple’.
Preah Khan or “Royal Sword”, built in 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. It was the center of a substantial organization, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. The temple is flat in design, with a basic plan of successive rectangular galleries around a Buddhist sanctuary complicated by Hindu satellite temples and numerous later additions. It has been left largely unrestored, with numerous trees and other vegetation growing among the ruins.
Neak Pean “the entwined serpents” an artificial island with a Hindu temple on a circular island in Jayatataka Baray. Some historians believe that Neak Pean represents Anavatapta. a mythical lake in the Himalayas whose waters are thought to cure all illness.
Eastern Mebon, a 10th century temple, built during the reign of King Rajendravarman, it stands on what was an artificial island at the center of the now dry East Baray reservoir. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and honors the parents of the king. The sculpture is varied and exceptional, including two-meter-high free-standing stone elephants at corners of the first and second tiers. Religious scenes include the god Indra atop his three-headed elephant Airavata, and Shiva on his mount, the sacred bull Nandi.
Pre Rup, a Hindu temple built as the state temple of Khmer king Rajendravarman and dedicated in 961 or early 962. It is a temple mountain of combined brick, laterite and sandstone construction. The temple’s name is a comparatively modern one meaning “turn the body”. This reflects the common belief among Cambodians that funerals were conducted at the temple, with the ashes of the body being ritually rotated in different directions as the service progressed.
Note: During the visit of the Bakan Tower of Angkor Wat Temple Visitors are required to wear proper attire, covering shoulders and knees (no short, miniskirt or short trousers). Children under twelve years old are not allowed to climb up this tower. It will be closed on the Buddhist Sabath Days, the Buddhist religious days (four days a month).
Day 3
Siem Reap Departure, Kampong Thom (Naga Bridge, Sambor Prei Kuk, Prasat Andet)
After breakfast, prepare for check out and meet your guide and car at the lobby. Get ready for your land travel to the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh. Located at the east of Angkor temple and along the way to Phnom Penh there are many attractions site that we will visit. First, the Naga bridge built in 12th century, it is still well preserved.
Continue to the largest stone carving village in the center of Cambodia, Kampong Thom province.
Lunch on local restaurant, then proceed to Prasat Andet, an ancient 7th century brick temple located on the grounds of a contemporary monastery and pagoda atop a large and high mound which is surrounded by a moat. Several statues here including a Harihara statue.
Next, Sambor Prei Kuk, archaeological site of Ancient Ishanapura, “the temple in the lush forest” capital of the Chenla Empire that flourished over much of Southeast Asia in the late 6th and early 7th centuries AD. The buildings of Sambor Prei Kuk are characteristic of the pre-Angkorean period with a simple external plan. The principal material is brick, but sandstone is also used for certain structures. Architectural features include numerous prasats, octagonal towers, shiva lingams and yonis, ponds and reservoirs, and lion sculptures. Sambor Prei Kuk is located amidst mature sub-tropical forests with limited undergrowth. It is divided into three main groups, Prasat Sambor, Prasat Yeah Puon and Prasat Boraim. Each group has a square layout surrounded by a brick wall. The structures of the overall archaeological area were constructed at variable times: the southern and north groups (7th century) by Isanavarman I, who is considered a possible founder of the city and the central group.
Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, straight to your hotel for check in and take a short rest, your guide will pick you up for dinner. Before the dinner take as short tour at Independence Monument, King’s Father statue.
The Independence Monument, also known as “Vimean Ekareach,” is a beautiful landmark in the heart of Phnom Penh that commemorates Cambodia’s independence from French rule.
The monument was built in 1958 and features a mix of traditional Khmer and modern architecture, with a central tower that’s surrounded by lotus petals and five smaller towers that represent the five towers of Angkor Wat.
The monument is illuminated with colored lights at night, making it a popular place for visitors to take photographs and enjoy the views of the city.
the King’s Father Statue, also known as the “Monument to Preah Norodom Sihanouk,” is a beautiful bronze statue located in the heart of Phnom Penh. The statue was built in 2004 to commemorate King Norodom Sihanouk, who was the former king of Cambodia and is considered the “Father of the Nation” for his efforts to secure independence from French rule and his advocacy for peace and development in Cambodia.
Day 4
Phnom Penh, Killing Fields, Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, Royal Palace, Sunset Boat Cruise
Breakfast in the hotel. Your guide will pick you up at 8am and brief you about the whole day tour. Then go to the Independent Monument where you can stop to capture some photos, this monument was built in 1958 to memorialized Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953. It is in the form of a lotus-shaped stupa, of the style seen at the temple at Banteay Srei and other Khmer historical sites.
Choeung Ek known as the Killing fields is the site of a former orchard and mass graves of victim of the Khmer rouge, killed between 1975 and 1979 about 17 kilometers south of Phnom Penh city. This grave containing 8, 895 bodies were discovered after the fall of the Khmer Rouge. Today, Choeung Ek is a memorial marked by a Buddhist stupa, this stupa has acrylic glass sides and is filled with over 5,000 human skulls.
Toul Sleng meaning “Hill of the Poisonous Tree” is a museum describes the Cambodian Genocide. This site is a former secondary school which was used as Security Prison 21 (S-21) by the Khmer rouge regime from 1975 until its fall in 1979. Estimated 20,000 people were imprisoned at Toul Sleng, the buildings were enclosed in electrified barbed wire, the classroom converted into tiny prison and torture chambers and all windows were covered with iron bars and barbed wire to prevent escapes and suicides. At any one time, the prison held between 1, 000 and 1,500 prisoners. They were repeatedly tortured and coerced into naming family members and close associates, who were in turn arrested, tortured and killed.
Today, the buildings at Toul Sleng are preserve, with some rooms still appearing just as they were when the Khmer Rouge were driven out in 1979. The regime kept extensive records, including thousands of photographs.
The Royal palace was constructed between 1866 and 1870, after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. The complex is divided by walls into four main compounds, the Silver Pagoda, the Khemarin Palace, the Throne Hall and the Inner court.
Sunset Boat Cruise. Evening, we head to Phnom Penh’s Riverside where get on board with a welcome cocktail while the boat cruise is slowly gliding along Mekong & Tonle Sap, watch the sunset fading at horizon, immerse yourself with golden color of Phnom Penh skyline. Disembark around 6.20pm and return hotel.
Day 5
Phnom Penh Departure, Hochiminh Arrival, City Tour Cruise (SIC Tour – Joined group tour)
Breakfast at the hotel. Prepare for your hotel check out, and get ready for next destination Hochiminh, Vietnam. Your guide will transfer you to airport for Departure.
Meet and greet with your driver at the airport, you will be send to your hotel for check-in. Get ready for the city tour and cruise.
The Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City, a stunning blend of French colonial architecture and Asian elegance, stands as a cultural landmark in the bustling metropolis. With its ornate façade and grand interior, it serves as a vibrant venue for ballet, opera, and symphonic performances. This architectural gem not only showcases the city’s rich history but also epitomizes the artistic spirit of modern Vietnam.
You will visit as well City Hall, Central Post Office, and the bustling Walking Street. You’ll also visit the War Museum and make a stop at the Independence Palace for a photo opportunity. Later, you’ll head to Bach Dang Wharf and board a boat to cruise along the Saigon River. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the city, including the marina, tourist areas, Vinhomes apartment complex, and the iconic Landmark 81 Building. After the tour, you’ll have the evening free to explore the city at your own leisure.
Day 6
Hochiminh, Mekong Delta, My Tho – Ben Tre (SIC – Joined Group Tour)
Breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and driver at the hotel lobby and get a short briefing for the whole day tour.
Embark on a captivating journey through the Southern region of Vietnam, where scenic beauty unfolds around every turn. As you drive past lush green paddy rice fields, vibrant pineapple plantations, and charming small hamlets, allowing you to immerse yourself in the picturesque rural landscape. After approximately two hours on the road, you’ll arrive in My Tho and set sail on an exhilarating local motorboat excursion.
Your adventure begins as you cruise the serene waters of the Mekong Delta, discovering the enchanting Dragon Island, Unicorn Island, Turtle Island, and Phoenix Island. On Unicorn Island, you’ll explore a delightful beekeeping farm, where the sweet aroma of honey fills the air, and you can savor samples of pure honey and honey wine.
Continue your motorboat journey to the tranquil Ben Tre province, where you’ll glide through mangrove-lined waterways on a serene rowing boat, surrounded by towering coconut trees that sway gently in the breeze. Afterward, transfer to a cozy smaller motorboat, meandering along lush green canals that evoke the essence of rural Vietnamese life.
Indulge your taste buds with a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties that showcase the rich flavors of the Mekong. Your experience continues in an orchard garden on Unicorn Island, where you can sample a variety of luscious tropical fruits while listening to soulful traditional Southern music.
As your day draws to a close, you’ll return to My Tho by local boat and travel back to Ho Chi Minh City by bus, with an estimated arrival time of 5:30 PM. If time permits, a delightful stop at the stunning Vinh Trang Pagoda will provide a serene conclusion to your unforgettable journey through the heart of the Mekong Delta.
Day 7
Hochiminh, Cu Chi Tunnel (SIC – Joined Group Tour)
Start your adventure with a delightful breakfast at your hotel before our tour guide picks you up at 8 AM for an unforgettable visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a captivating introduction and an insightful video showcasing the remarkable construction of these tunnels and the resilience of the people who survived in such challenging wartime conditions.
As you delve into the fascinating network of tunnels, you’ll discover cleverly crafted living spaces including kitchens, bedrooms, and necessary martial facilities like weapons factories and field hospitals—all designed to sustain life underground. Navigate through hidden trap doors and intricate traps, remnants of a time when security was paramount.
After your exploration, indulge in a unique treat of traditional tea and cassava, the guerilla’s sustenance during the war. Enjoy a well-deserved break, and for the adventurous, don’t miss the chance to experience the thrill of real gun shooting.
As the day winds down, we’ll head back to Saigon for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Your tour will conclude between 2:30 and 3 PM, leaving you with the afternoon free to relax and reflect on the extraordinary stories of bravery and survival you’ve encountered.
Day 8
Hochiminh Departure
After a delightful breakfast, take advantage of your free time to unwind or explore the vibrant local shops for some unique souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere before we whisk you away to the airport. Your journey concludes here, but the memories you’ve created will linger long after the tour ends!
