Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, Independence Monument & Diamond Island

Royal Palace - The Royal Palace complex is the residence of the Cambodian royal family and a national symbol. We start in the stunning royal gardens, adorned with tropical plants and shining spires. We enter the Throne Hall, where royal receptions are held and the Cambodian king’s coronation took place. Next, we see the Napoleon III Pavilion, an iron structure gifted by the French emperor in the 19th century. We proceed to the Silver Pagoda, named for its 5000 silver tiles, each weighing 1kg. Inside, you’ll find some of the nation’s most treasured items, including a life-size gold Buddha encrusted with 9584 diamonds, the largest being 25 carats.

Wat Phnom - Wat Phnom is a city symbol, located on one of the few hills in this otherwise flat capital. The first pagoda was built in 1373 to house Buddha statues found in the Mekong by a woman named Penh, giving the city its name, Phnom Penh or Hill of Penh. Locals visit the shrine to pray for luck in love, life, employment, and exams, making it a lively place.

Independence Monument - Built in 1958 and inaugurated in 1962 during the Sangkum Reastr regime, the Independence Monument commemorates those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Its cool, serene atmosphere makes it a popular destination.

Diamond Island Park - Diamond Island, a satellite city in Phnom Penh on the Mekong and Bassac rivers, was a swamp until 2000. It is now being developed as a residential and commercial area and may become a separate Phnom Penh municipality. The neighborhood “Elysée” is styled after Paris.

Toul Sleng, Killing Field and Central Market

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum - Tuol Sleng, once a high school, was turned into a center for interrogation, torture, and death by the Khmer Rouge. Now a museum, it serves as a grim reminder of Cambodia’s past atrocities. 17,000 people passed through its gates, with only seven survivors. It’s a harrowing experience but crucial for understanding Cambodia’s history and progress.

Choeung Ek Genocidal Center - We then visit the Killing Fields of Choeng Ek, where prisoners from Tuol Sleng were taken. Once a Chinese cemetery, it became an extermination camp for political prisoners. The remains of 8985 people were exhumed from mass graves and are kept in a memorial stupa. Despite its tragic history, it is a peaceful place for reflection.

Central Market - We visit the impressive Central Market, a city landmark completed by the French in 1937. Known as Psar Thmei or New Market, its huge, well-ventilated dome houses a variety of goods. Be cautious when buying, as the market is known for overcharging.

Phnom Penh-Homestay Kompung Thom

Sambor Prei Kuk - After breakfast, we leave Phnom Penh for Kompong Thom province, the second largest in Cambodia. Known for its pre-Angkorian temples, we will make stops for restrooms, a spider market, and a big market in town. Depending on our arrival time, we may check into our homestay first or visit Sambor Prei Kuk, the most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments in Cambodia. Overnight in a homestay.

Home Stay to Siem Reap

Spean Praptos - After breakfast, we continue to Siem Reap, a 3-hour journey. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel to store luggage. On the way, we stop to visit Kampung Kdey Bridge, Bamboo Sticky Rice, and Khmer Noodle. In Siem Reap, we take a short city tour to Pub Street, Old Market, and Night Market. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Siem Reap-Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Taprohm Temples

Angkor Wat - This architectural masterpiece, built in the 12th century over 30 years, represents the height of Khmer civilization. Covering 81 hectares, it is one of the largest religious monuments ever built. Angkor Wat, the world’s largest Hindu temple, is featured on Cambodia’s flag.

Angkor Thom - The laterite wall of Angkor Thom stands eight meters high and encloses a 3x3km area, protected by a still-flooded moat. Enter through the South Gate to find the Bayon temple with its 216 enigmatic faces. Your guide will point out the best photography spots and explain the intricate carvings. Continue to Baphuon, with its long causeway and giant Reclining Buddha, and Phimeanakas, offering a treetop view. End your exploration at the Terrace of the Elephants and the picturesque Preah Palilay.

Ta Prohm Temple - Ta Prohm gained fame from the movie Tomb Raider. The temple is known for the intricate relationship between the roots of Spung trees and ancient stones. It’s a photographer’s paradise.

Banteay Srey, Banteay Samre, Preh Khan and Sunset at Pre Rup temple

Banteay Srei - Known for its delicate carvings in pink sandstone, this late 10th-century temple is compact and unique among Angkorian temples.

Banteay Samre - A larger, often overlooked temple that looks stunning in the late afternoon light.

Neak Pean - Located in the center of the Northern Baray, this temple is an island, most impressive in the wet season. The long wooden causeway leading to it is surrounded by water, creating a ghostly scene.

Preah Khan - Another temple with spectacular trees and roots overtaking the structures. It features the only two-story construction in Angkor, standing on high columns. Your guide will help you navigate the temple grounds.

Pre Rup - Watch the sunset at Pre Rup, a temple built in 967 AD and dedicated to Shiva. It is constructed of bricks.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Rolous Group, Floating Village and Handicraft Center

Angkor Wat - Witness the silhouette of the world’s largest religious monument as the first rays of dawn appear. This sight is worth the early start. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast.

Roluos Temples - Visit the late 9th-century Hindu temples Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko, known as the Rolous group. Explore the early capital of Angkor, with the pyramid-like Bakong being the most impressive.

Kompong Phluk - An authentic stilted village on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, where Khmer, Vietnamese, and Cham people live in harmony with the lake’s changing water levels. The Flooded Forest is a major attraction.

Artisans Angkor - Visit the Artisans d’Angkor workshop to see skilled artists creating lacquer, stone carvings, and silver plating. This visit highlights Cambodia’s positive progress. If you don’t find souvenirs here, try the Old Market.

• Private Tour Guide
• One Night at a Homestay
• Dinner Included
• Breakfast Included
• Complimentary Pure Drinking Water
• Private Transportation
• Travel Insurance

• Tickets for Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, Killing Field, Toul Sleng, Temples, boat fee )
• Meals & Drinks