7 days Cambodia Adventure

Day 1: Siem Reap

We rise at dawn to embark on our journey to the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. This 12th-century temple, a symbol of Khmer pride and strength, captivates with its perfect blend of symbolism and symmetry. As we explore the intricate bas-reliefs that stretch for nearly a kilometer, we unravel tales of Hindu mythology and the glories of the Khmer empire. Ascending to the upper levels of the sanctuary, we experience the steep final steps leading to the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, where spirituality and symmetry converge in an awe-inspiring manner.

In the afternoon, we venture into the immense walled city of Angkor Thom, an architectural masterpiece by King Jayavarman VII. The staggering scale of the city leaves us in awe as we approach its gates. The causeway adorned with a captivating bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk sets the stage for our exploration. We begin at the Terrace of the Leper King, originally thought to represent a leprous ruler but now believed to depict Yama, the god of death. Continuing along the Terrace of Elephants, once a grand viewing gallery, we reach the resplendent Baphuon Temple, meticulously restored and open to visitors.

Our ultimate highlight is the enchanting Bayon Temple, located at the center of Angkor Thom. Its iconic 54 towers, crowned with the serene faces of Avalokiteshvara, exude both power and compassion. We unravel the mysteries of the bas-reliefs, portraying ancient battles and snapshots of everyday life during the Angkor period, before embarking on a climb upward. The night is spent in a hotel. (Breakfast is included)

Day 2: Siem Reap - Battambang

After breakfast, enjoy a free morning in Siem Reap. If Angkor is calling you back, consider getting up early to catch the sunrise. Later, you'll travel to Battambang, Cambodia's second-largest city. Battambang (pronounced Battambong) is a charming riverside town known for its French elegance, Khmer people, and beautifully preserved architecture.

Our first stop is at Ta Brak village, where we will stroll through the picturesque countryside village. Along the way, we will stop to meet the local community and observe whatever seasonal activities are happening, such as rice planting, weaving thatch roofs, planting or harvesting vegetable crops, and making fish traps.

Next, we will continue our rural Cambodia tour with a visit to Tonle Sap Lake. We will drive past expansive rice fields and through local villages where rice and fish can often be seen drying alongside the road. Then, we will board a private wooden vessel for a boat trip along a canal leading to Tonle Sap Lake.

As we float along the canal, we will see houses on either side; depending on the time of our visit, the houses will either have immediate access to the water or stand perched on stilts high above the ground due to the annual rising and receding waters of Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest lake. We will see floating houses that move with the annual ebb and flow of the lake’s waters.

After the boat trip, we journey to the township of Battambang. Upon arrival, we take a leisurely walk to get acquainted with the town. Afterward, enjoy some free time. This evening, consider taking a stroll along the riverfront, where locals often practice yoga and folk dancing, and watch the sunset. We will spend the night in a hotel. (Breakfast and lunch are included)

Day 3: Battambang

Today, we'll venture on a bike tour to explore the countryside and learn about rural life. For those interested, there's also the option of joining a cooking class to try your hand at Khmer cuisine. Alternatively, you can visit the hilltop Wat Banan temple, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Sang Ke River. We'll return to spend the night at the same hotel. (Breakfast and lunch are included)