6-DAY CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT TOUR OF SIEM REAP

Overview:

This 6-day Cultural and Community Enrichment Tour of Siem Reap offers a unique blend of historical exploration and hands-on community engagement. The itinerary includes visits to iconic Angkor temples, immersive experiences with local artisans, and participation in transformative community projects such as the Siem Reap Food Bank and the Happy Meal Program with Love Light Cambodia. Through this tour, you'll gain insights into the culture, history, and sustainable practices of Cambodia, while directly contributing to the well-being of its communities.

 Purpose:

The program is designed to:

• This tour helps travelers gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s ancient history, unique cultural heritage, and contemporary challenges. By exploring Angkor's temples and local villages, you'll appreciate the grandeur of the Khmer civilization and the resilience of its people.
• Support projects that promote environmental sustainability, food security, and community empowerment. You’ll be part of initiatives that tackle pressing issues like food insecurity and pollution, all while learning about sustainable practices.
• Preserving traditional Cambodian arts and crafts, empowering local artisans, and providing support for community-driven development projects.

How You’ll Make an Impact:

• Supporting Local Communities: Through the Siem Reap Food Bank and its sustainable farming initiatives, you'll directly contribute to improving nutrition and addressing food insecurity in local communities.
• Providing Nutritious Meals: By participating in the Happy Meal Program with Love Light Cambodia, you’ll be directly involved in providing healthy meals to vulnerable children, helping to improve their health and well-being.
• Promoting Fair Trade: Visits to Silk Farm and Artisans Angkor support the preservation of traditional crafts. By purchasing handmade goods and learning about the artisans’ work, you’re helping ensure fair wages and sustainable livelihoods for local craftspeople.
• Environmental Sustainability: By engaging with programs like the Rice for Plastic initiative, you’ll help raise awareness about plastic waste reduction and support environmental conservation efforts in Cambodia.

Day 1: ARRIVE INTO SIEM REAP

Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your Touring directly.

SIEM REAP FOOD BANK (SFB) PROJECTS & KAMPONG KHLEANG FLOATING VILLAGE TOUR

Discover the inspiring work of the Siem Reap Food Bank (SFB) and its innovative community projects on this enriching tour. Visit the SFB Green House and Cricket Farm, where sustainable farming practices are empowering local communities to grow organic produce and create alternative sources of protein. Learn about the efforts being made to tackle food insecurity and improve nutrition through environmentally conscious initiatives.

Next, enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local family house, where you will experience the true flavors of Cambodia, with dishes prepared from the organic produce of the Green House Project. This meal reflects the importance of sustainable agriculture and the role of local farmers in promoting healthy living.

Continue your journey with a scenic boat ride through Kampong Khleang, one of the largest floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. Here, you will learn about the Rice for Plastic program, which supports environmental sustainability by exchanging plastic waste for rice, helping to reduce pollution while addressing food security challenges for local families.

*Note: This tour is subject to available depend on your flight arrival only.

Meals: Lunch

Day 2: SIEM REAP FULL DAY TEMPLES EXPLORATION

Morning: Explore the renowned Angkor Wat, the most famous temple on the Angkor plain. Spanning 81 hectares, this temple complex is as expansive as Beijing's Imperial Palace. Its iconic five towers are featu red on the Cambodian flag, and the 12th-century marvel is celebrated by art historians as a quintessential example of classical Khmer art and architecture. The five towers of Angkor Wat symbolize the five peaks of Mount Meru, the surrounding wall represents the mountains at the world's edge, and the moat encircling the temple symbolizes the ocean beyond.

Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Cambodian lunch at a local restaurant near Srah Srong, where you can savor freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients. Experience the authentic flavors of Cambodia in a peaceful and inviting setting. A perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy local cuisine while surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Afternoon Tour: We begin our exploration at Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire, highlighted by the remarkable Bayon temple. While it may initially appear as an amorphous mass of stone, a closer look reveals its iconic towers adorned with the enigmatic faces of King Jayavarman VII. We’ll then proceed to the Terrace of the Elephants, a grand platform where the King welcomed his triumphant army, and the Terrace of the Leper King, known for its intricate carvings that line a narrow passageway leading to the Baphuon complex.

Our journey continues to the enchanting Ta Prohm, often regarded as Angkor’s most stunning temple. Here, the massive roots of fig trees intertwine with the temple’s ancient stone blocks, creating a haunting yet captivating atmosphere that evokes the feeling of a ‘forgotten city.’

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: RURAL VILLAGE ACTIVITIES AND VISIT BANTEAY SREI, BANTEAY SAMRE TEMPLES

Morning: Leave from Hotel to Preak Dak Village about 17 km from from Siem Reap Town to visit the Family of Uncle's Chea the Third Generation how to make fresh rice noodles and taste the real taste of Our Food and culture in the Famous Preak Dak Village then continues to Visit Mrs. Khun Family to learning how to waving from palm leaf for souvenir then we go other places in the village to visit Uncle's An Family to see him cooking sticky rice in bamboo and tasting then walk to the rice filed at the back of his house then come back to take a rest for have fresh coconut or soft drink and local beer all client can have questions to to Uncle An for his life as a farmer in the village then go other Family of Uncle's Lo to visit him how to make Sugar palm and we also have presentation about palm tree with his life for over 30 years for sugar palm making. The end of the Program.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at local restaurant before visiting the temples.

Afternoon: We’ll explore Banteay Srei, known as "the Woman's Citadel." This charming temple, one of the treasures of the Angkor region, is crafted from red sandstone and dates back to the 10th century. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, its intricately carved male and female figures are masterpieces of artistry, showcasing remarkable style and proportion. Often described as “a fairy palace in the heart of an immense and mysterious forest” by H.W. Ponder, Banteay Srei is renowned for its Indian influence, making it a unique gem among the temples of Angkor.

Please note: Visitors to Banteay Srei are required to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it remains a sacred site (no shorts, miniskirts, or short trousers allowed).

Next, we will visit Banteay Samre, a Hindu temple built in the early 12th century under the reigns of Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II. Named after the ancient Samré people of Indochina, this temple shares architectural elements with Banteay Srei and is constructed from similar materials.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening with sunset cocktails at Sras Srong, as you unwind with stunning views. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing cold towel. The evening features a delightful selection of snacks and canapés, including deep-fried spring rolls, fresh spring rolls, chicken skewers, and fried shrimp. For your drink selection, enjoy a free-flowing hour of soft drinks, beer, and wine. This is the perfect way to end the day, with great flavors, drinks, and the beauty of the setting sun.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Sunset cocktails

Day 4: HAPPY MEAL PROGRAM WITH LOVE LIGHT CAMBODIA

Morning: Join us for an enriching experience with the Happy Meal Program, organized in partnership with Love Light Cambodia. This program is dedicated to providing nutritious meals to underserved communities, particularly children in need. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, helping prepare and distribute healthy meals while learning about the challenges faced by local families.

This initiative supports Love Light Cambodia’s mission to improve the well-being of vulnerable communities through nutrition, education, and community outreach. By participating in this program, you’ll not only contribute to the health and happiness of local children but also experience the warmth and hospitality of Cambodia’s communities.

Afternoon: Free time at leisure in the afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: HALF-DAY TOUR TO SILK FARM, SENTUER ANGKOR, AND ARTISANS ANGKOR

Morning: Experience the art of traditional Cambodian craftsmanship on this enriching half-day tour. Begin your journey at the Silk Farm, where you’ll explore the fascinating process of silk production. From the cultivation of silkworms to the weaving of vibrant textiles, this visit offers a hands-on look into an age-old industry that supports local artisans and promotes sustainable practices.

Next, head to Sentuer Angkor, a unique destination showcasing the rich heritage of Cambodian textiles. Learn about the techniques used to create beautiful, handwoven fabrics that reflect the cultural traditions of the Angkor region.

The final stop is Artisans Angkor, a renowned social enterprise that supports the preservation of Cambodian arts. Here, you’ll tour workshops where local artisans craft intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, silk products, and more. Discover how this initiative empowers artisans, preserves cultural traditions, and promotes sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

Afternoon: Free time at leisure in the afternoon.

Evening: DINNER SHOW AT ANGKOR VILLAGE

Indulge in an extraordinary evening of culture, cuisine, and entertainment at the renowned Dinner Show at Angkor Village in Siem Reap. This immersive experience transports you into the heart of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage through a captivating performance that sh  owcases traditional Khmer dance, music, and theatrical storytelling.

As you enjoy a delectable dinner, featuring an array of authentic Cambodian dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you’ll be  mesmerized by the stunning performances on stage. The show highlights classical Khmer dance, dramatic reenactments, and vibrant music, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s ancient traditions and historical narratives.

Set in an elegant, beautifully designed venue that combines traditional Khmer architecture with modern comforts, the Dinner Show at Angkor Village promises an unforgettable evening. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, this experience provides a unique opportunity to enjoy Cambodia’s cultural heritage while savoring exquisite local flavors in a memorable setting.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: DEPARTURE TRANSFER TO SIEM REAP AIRPORT

You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Siem Reap Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

SERVICES INCLUDED

• Accommodation at selected hotel with daily breakfast included
• All transportation by private air conditioned vehicle for all included sightseeing
• Services of local English speaking guides (Except day free at leisure without transportation and guide as mentioned)
• All entrance fees to sites
• Water & cool towels on vehicle during tour

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

• Visa for Cambodia (Visa issued on arrival for most nationalities, USD30/pax (tourist visa), please bring 1 passport photo).
• Airport fast track services
• Any surcharge/extra fees for visit of the Angkor Historical site imposed by the Apsara Authorities in Siem Reap which are subject to change without prior notice
• Meals are not mentioned
• International flights to/from Cambodia
• Optional Tour.
• Camera/video entrance fees if applicable
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips for the guide, etc)
• Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above