8-DAY CAMBODIAN HERITAGE AND HIDDEN GEMS

Overview:

This 7-day cultural and scenic tour of Cambodia takes you through the heart of the country, offering a unique blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and picturesque landscapes. Starting in Siem Reap, the journey covers iconic temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, and includes visits to rural villages, traditional crafts, and the renowned Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus in Battambang. You’ll experience the floating villages of Kampong Chhnang, before finishing the journey with a scenic transfer to Phnom Penh. This tour highlights Cambodia's rich cultural heritage, the resilience of its people, and the beauty of its rural landscapes.

 Purpose:

The program is designed to:

• Showcase Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, with iconic temple visits and insights into local life.
• To offer a cultural and educational experience that combines historical exploration with modern social impact.
• Focus on responsible travel by supporting local initiatives related to sustainable farming, environmental programs, and Khmer heritage preservation.

How You’ll Make an Impact:

• Supporting Local Communities: By visiting local villages in Battambang and Kampong Chhnang, you'll directly engage with rural communities. Your participation in activities like learning about traditional crafts (rice paper making, bamboo sticky rice, etc.) and supporting sustainable farming projects (like the Siem Reap Food Bank) contributes to these communities' economic development and sustainability.
• Promoting Cambodian Arts and Culture: Your attendance at the Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus in Battambang supports a non-profit organization that empowers young Cambodians through art. The circus itself is a platform for social change, helping disadvantaged youth gain skills in performing arts while promoting Cambodian culture and storytelling.
• Environmental Awareness: Through activities like the "Rice for Plastic" initiative in Kampong Khleang, you'll learn about local efforts to reduce plastic waste and improve food security. By participating in these environmentally conscious projects, you're supporting sustainable practices that aim to protect Cambodia’s natural resources and improve the lives of local communities.
• Conservation and Preservation of Heritage: The tour of the Angkor temples and other historical sites promotes awareness of Cambodia's rich heritage. By visiting and learning about these temples, you help fund their conservation and ensure they remain intact for future generations.

Day 1: ARRIVE INTO SIEM REAP

Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and a brief orientation of the city.

Evening: Enjoy welcome dinner at local restaurant.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: ANGKOR WAT SUNRISE AND SIEM REAP FULL DAY TEMPLES EXPLORATION

Early Morning: Start your day bright and early with a 4:45 AM departure to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat. This early morning excursion is an essential part of any Siem Reap visit, offering a serene and unique experience as the cool dawn light gently illuminates the temple.

Then 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.

After visiting temple, start your day with a refreshing sunrise breakfast at Sras Srong, a serene location to enjoy a peaceful morning. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a cool towel to freshen up. The breakfast includes a variety of options such as orange, pineapple, or apple juice, followed by a hearty selection of dishes. For a local touch, savor a traditional Khmer pancake, accompanied by soft drinks and fresh juice to complete your delightful breakfast experience.

After breakfast, return back to your hotel for relaxing.

Lunch: For a taste of local culture, enjoy lunch in Siem Reap town, offering delicious local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. The meal, paired with the warmth of Cambodian hospitality, provides the perfect respite before continuing your temple exploration.

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.’

*Optional tour in the evening – Supplementary charge

OPTION 1: PHARE CIRCUS: A NIGHT OF CAMBODIAN ART AND CULTURE

Join us tonight at 19:30 for an unforgettable evening at Phare Ponleu Selpak, a remarkable circus performance that blends captivating storytelling, acrobatics, and traditional Cambodian art. Founded in 1986 in the Site 2 Refugee Camp on the Thai border, Phare Ponleu Selpak, meaning "the brightness of art," was born out of a vision to help young refugees heal from the trauma of war through creative expression.

The organization aims to support community development and provide social and educational assistance to children, particularly those affected by the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime. By reviving Khmer culture, which was nearly lost during this dark period, they focus on rehabilitating street children, orphans, and children in high-risk situations, along with their families.

Sit back and enjoy an hour-long performance that will immerse you in the heart of Cambodian culture, all while supporting a noble cause. Your attendance not only promises an evening of breathtaking acrobatics and theatrical brilliance, but also contributes to the uplifting work of Phare Ponleu Selpak.

OPTION 2: SIEM REAP AFTER DARK BY VESPA: A NIGHTTIME CULINARY ADVENTURE

Experience the vibrant nightlife and diverse dining culture of Siem Reap on this exhilarating Vespa tour, combining the best of high-end and authentic local experiences. Your journey begins with cocktails at one of the town's chicest venues, setting the tone for an evening of unforgettable flavors and sights.

Hop on our jazzy modern Vespas as we zip through the lively streets of Siem Reap, immersing you in the city's rich culinary scene. From bustling street markets and food stalls to exotic fruits and fried delicacies, this tour offers a full spectrum of Khmer cuisine. Savor everything from high-end fusion drinks to classic Khmer dishes while embracing the energy of the local atmosphere. Along the way, enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the lively markets, street vendors, and local fairgrounds that embody the vibrant spirit of Cambodia.

With stops at a stylish cocktail bar, an evening local market, a night street market, a fun fair, a local restaurant, and a funky Khmer bar, this tour offers a perfect mix of food, fun, and culture. All food and drinks are included, so come hungry and ready for an exciting, 4-hour adventure through Siem Reap's after-dark delights.

Pick-up is at 6:00 PM, with the tour lasting around 4 hours and returning at 10:00 PM.

OPTION 3: 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 showcases 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, Lunch

Day 3: SIEM REAP FOOD BANK (SFB) PROJECTS & KAMPONG KHLEANG FLOATING VILLAGE TOUR AND BANTEAY SREI TEMPLE, BANTEAY SAMRE TEMPLES

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.

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.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: TRANSPORT FROM SIEM REAP TO BATTAMBANG BY ROAD

This morning, your guide will pick you up at your hotel then transfer by road from Siem Reap to Battambang, it will take between 3 to 4 hours. Your journey will be passing through the Cambodian countryside, traditional villages, and rice fields. You will get a glimpse into rural Cambodian life, with picturesque landscapes along the way.

Arrive into Battambang then transfer to your hotel.

Free time at leisure in the afternoon.

EVENING: PHARE CIRCUS IN BATTAMBANG

The Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus in Battambang is a highly acclaimed cultural performance that combines the art of circus with Cambodian storytelling, creating a unique and engaging experience for both locals and visitors. Phare Ponleu Selpak is a non-profit organization founded in 1994 by a group of former refugees who were inspired to use the arts to create positive change. The organization provides art education and social programs for disadvantaged youth in Cambodia. One of its most famous projects is the Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus, a mesmerizing live performance that showcases the talents of young Cambodian artists, particularly in circus arts, acrobatics, theater, and music.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: LOCAL LIVELIHOOD HALF DAY BIKE TOUR IN BATTAMBANG

At 8:00am With our local student guide, you will spend your day exploring the beautiful countryside around Battambang by bicycle. Visit with Cambodian families who produce traditional products (such as rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice) made in the same way they have been for generations. You will learn first-hand about everyday life in rural communities which make up over 70% of Cambodia’s population.

Learn from local families about how they make traditional products such as rice paper, dried banana, bamboo sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine. Taste and experience the pleasures of these products fresh off the fire. Spend some relaxing time in a traditional Khmer house enjoying seasonal fruits and coconut water. Finish your morning tour by visiting a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge.

The ride is about 22km. It departs at 7:30am and returns around 12pm. The ride is suitable for all fitness levels.

LATE AFTERNOON PHNOM BANON – BAMBOO TRAIN

Afternoon, you will be transferred to Phnom Banon, which has five sandstone towers perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. Continue to visit where the local rice wine is made and get a taste as you go. Before sunset, try taking a ride on the Bamboo Train - it's a fantastic way to chill and get a great view of the setting sun in the countryside.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Jaan Bay Restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: TRANSFER FROM BATTAMBANG TO KAMPONG CHNANG

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel then transfer to Kampong Chnang. The road transfer from Battambang to Kampong Chhnang offers a scenic and tranquil journey through Cambodia's rural landscapes, providing travelers with an authentic glimpse into the everyday life of Cambodian communities. The route follows National Road 5, which is the primary highway connecting these two provinces. This journey is ideal for those who want to explore the countryside and take in the sights of rural Cambodia.

Arrive into Kampong Chnang, we will transfer you to your accommodation Farmhouse Smiling Gecko.

Farmhouse Smiling Gecko: Discover the heart of Cambodia at Farmhouse Resort and Spa, an award-winning retreat committed to making a difference. As a proud NGO project, we reinvest our profits into supporting the education of Cambodia’s future leaders. By staying with us, you enjoy luxurious facilities while contributing to the growth and empowerment of the local community. Together, we believe in a brighter future for Cambodia.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Kampong Chnang

Relax at leisure for the day or take part in any one of a number of activities the hotel has to offer (own account).

Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: TRANSFER TO PHNOM PENH AIRPORT

After breakfast, meet your guide at the hotel and then transfer to Phnom Penh 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