22 tour day trips in Seam Riep for clients to choose.

*** OPTION 01 - ANGKOR WAT AND ANGKOR THOM

Start the day with a transfer to Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own before continuing to Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of Khmer Empire with its centre piece; the Bayon temple. As you approach, you will notice the enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Late afternoon, visit Artisans d’Angkor, an organization focusing on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft skills. Ancient techniques are still practiced here such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding and silk painting. Bid farewell to the artisans and return to your hotel.

*** OPTION 02 - TEMPLES GRAND CIRCUIT

Start the day with a transfer to Preah Kahn Temple. This massive temple is located on the Grand Circuit and is generally not as crowded as others in the Angkor complex so you should have this magnificent structure to appreciate in relative peace. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, it is said that it once housed over 100.000 officials and servants. Continue to Neak Pean, an artificial island with a Buddhist temple on it. It is believed it functioned as a hospital during King Jayavarman VII’s reign. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own until you transfer in the mid afternoon to Ta Prohm.  This beautiful temple is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. You will finish the day with a visit to Sras Srang, which is the former Royal bathing pool of the Khmer Kings and is now a body of water that measures 700 by 350 meters. Enjoy the sunset from the west terrace and return to Siem Reap for a free evening.

***OPTION 03 - ANGKOR THOM AND TA PROHM

Head to the ancient Royal city of Angkor Thom with its centre piece, the Bayon temple. At first glance, it may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals towers with enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army. Attached is the Terrace of the Leper King which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own before continuing to Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. In the late afternoon, visit Artisans d’Angkor, an organization focusing on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft skills. Ancient techniques are still practiced here such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding and silk painting. Bid farewell to the artisans and return to your hotel.

***OPTION 04 - MUSEUM, ANGKOR THOM AND TA PROHM

After breakfast, visit the Angkor National Museum, which is home to a comprehensive collection of Cambodian artifacts showcasing the origins of Khmer art, culture, and architecture. Afterwards, drive to the ancient royal city of Khmer Empire with its centre piece; the Bayon temple. As you approach, you will notice the enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Return to Siem Reap to rest and enjoy lunch on your own before continuing with a visit to the picturesque temple of Ta Prohm, a jungle-clad temple overgrown with fig trees.  The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling.

***OPTION 05 - TA PROHM AND ANGKOR WAT

Transfer by private vehicle to the Angkor complex. Start the day with a visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is one of Angkor’s most impressive structures and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting and exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘lost city’ feeling. In the afternoon, visit some of the most well preserved carvings in the region at Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most impressive temples constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries and the largest Hindu structure in the world. The temple is home to hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology. Stroll around the massive hallways to discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Return to one of the grass terraces in front of the five massive towers of Angkor Wat to watch the sunset before transferring back to your hotel.

***OPTION 06 - ANGKOR WAT AND BANTEAY SREI

Start the day with a transfer to Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own. In the afternoon, visit the jewel of Khmer art, Banteay Srei temple, located one hour from Siem Reap. This red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings in an amazing state of preservation. Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.

***OPTION 07 - ANGKOR THOM AND BANTEAY SREI

Start the day with a transfer to visit the ancient Royal city of Angkor Thom with its centre piece, the Bayon temple. At first glance, it may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals towers with enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army. Attached is the Terrace of the Leper King which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Head back to Siem Reap to rest and to enjoy lunch on your own. In the afternoon, visit the jewel of Khmer art, Banteay Srei temple, located one hour from Siem Reap. This red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings in an amazing state of preservation. Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.

***OPTION 08 - TA PROHM AND BANTEAY SREI

The day is started with a visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm. This temple is considered to be Angkor’s most beautiful structure and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged itself over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. Return to Siem Reap and visit L’Artisans d’Angkor, an organization focusing on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft skills. Here you can discover traditional Cambodian handicraft skills and observe the artisans at work. Enjoy a rest and depart in the afternoon for the jewel of Khmer art, Banteay Srei temple. Translating to “The Citadel of the Women”, this red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings and in an amazing state of preservation. Much of the Angkor civilization can be learned here by studying the remarkable carvings.

 
***OPTION 09 - ROULOUS AND PREAH KHAN

The ruins of Roulous are among the oldest Khmer monuments in the area, dating back to the 9th century reign of Indravarman I. Three key Hindu structures remain, Lolei, Bakong and Preah Ko, which were part of the city of Hariharalaya. From here, continue south to the village of Roulous, which lent its name to the ruins and engage in a short hike. Connect more closely with local life while your guide explains the customs and traditions of the Khmer society. Return to Siem Reap to rest and continue in the afternoon with a visit to Preah Khan. Originally a Buddhist monastery and school, this temple was dedicated to Jayavarman VII s father. After discovery, the temple was mainly left as it was found without renovation. Left out of most itineraries, the temple is one of the most enjoyable to explore within the Angkor Complex. It still is home to elaborate carvings and a stunning library with round columns. Continue to Sras Srang in the late afternoon and admire the sunset before returning to Siem Reap.

***OPTION 10 - ANGKOR THOM WITH TUK TUK AND ANGKOR WAT

Start exploring the stunning temples today by tuk-tuk. Visit the Royal city and former capital of the Khmer Empire; Angkor Thom which consists of several temples. Enter the city through the impressive South Gate and drive towards the Bayon temple. At first glance the temple may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals enigmatic faces looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King viewed the victorious return of his army. After, visit the Terrace of the Leper King with detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon. In the afternoon, visit some of the wonders of the modern world, Angkor Wat. It was constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries and is the largest Hindu structure in the world. The temple is home to hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology. Stroll around the massive hallways to discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Return to one of the grass terraces in front of the five massive towers of Angkor Wat to watch the sunset before transferring back to your hotel.

***OPTION 11 - TA PROHM, PREAH KHAN AND BANTEAY SREI

Start the day with a visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged itself over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. The temple was built by King Jayavarman VII to commemorate his mother. Continue to Preah Kahn temple, situated on the Grand Circuit and often neglected by tourists, allowing you to take in the secluded atmosphere. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII to commemorate his father, it is said that it once housed over 100,000 officials and servants. Return to Siem Reap for your own lunch and some time to relax before continuing in the afternoon with a visit to the jewel of Khmer art, Banteay Srei temple. This red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings in an amazing state of preservation. Much of the Angkor civilization can be learned here by studying the remarkable carvings. Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.

***OPTION 12 - KOH KER BY ROAD

Situated a 2.5 hour drive, north-east of Angkor Wat, Koh Ker was built between the 8th and 10th centuries. Koh Ker functioned briefly as the capital of the Khmer Empire between 928 and 944 A.D. when King Jayavarman IV moved the capital there from Angkor. Few people venture out to this impressive temple site as it is tucked away deep into the jungle and was largely inaccessible until 2007. Nowadays a road has been built and the mines have been cleared by the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and the temples are slowly coming back to life again. Start the day with a visit to the CMAC centre and receive a briefing from a member of its demining team to learn more about their activities. Continue with a two hour drive to the temple site that passes through picturesque rural areas. Upon arrival at the temple site you will enjoy a picnic lunch. After lunch, start exploring the 30 meter high pyramid-shaped temple, which is reminiscent of the pyramids in Egypt. Climb to the top of the temple and admire a sweeping view over the surrounding plains. Return to Siem Reap in the afternoon. (Road conditions to Koh Ker may vary according to the season and can be bumpy in the wet season)

*** OPTION 13 - BANTEAY SREI AND BENG MEALEA

Depart this morning on a pleasant drive of about 1.5 hours through the Cambodian countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style by King Suyavarman II in the early 12th century. It preceded and may have served as a prototype for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. Enjoy a simple lunch in a traditional Cambodian wooden house. Then head to Banteay Srei temple. This red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. They provide an excellent into the Angkor civilization and their beliefs. It was built in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god - Shiva. (It is advisable to wear sturdy, walking shoes with a decent grip)

Please note that Lunch is at Bong Thom Cambodian traditional wooden house (on the way from Beng Melea to Banteay Srei)

***OPTION 14 - PHNOM KULEN

Located 40km north of Angkor Wat, the Phnom Kulen mountain range provides Siem Reap with water and dominates the skyline of the flat plains surrounding it. Although the highest peak of the mountain range lies at only 487m, Phnom Kulen has much to offer visitors. The Cambodian people regard the site as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. King Jayavarman II claimed independence from Java there in 802 A.D. Travel in the morning by car through the countryside to Phnom Kulen and start the rather steep climb up by car. On top of the mountain you will visit a modern style pagoda that offers stunning views over the Angkor area. Visit the eight meter tall statue of a reclining Buddha and wash your hands at the Linga statue to purify your mind and body. Continue to visit the River of One Thousand Lingas and the magnificent waterfall close to it. Take a refreshing swim in the stream and pool of the waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch served in a natural setting. If time allows, take a stroll around the area with your guide and venture off the beaten track to take in the impressive forest and scenery. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon.

*** OPTION 15 - KOH KER AND BENG MEALEA

Depart for a full day trip to Koh Ker and Beng Mealea both located in the beautiful rural hinterlands of Siem Reap. Travel off-the-beaten track for 2.5 hours before arriving at Koh Ker, the former capital of the Khmer Empire between 928 and 944 A.D. The style of the Koh Ker temple is different from any other temple in Cambodia and has more of a resemblance to the ancient pyramids of Egypt. Partially overgrown by the forest and inhabited only by birds, this temple and its surroundings are an exceptional experience. Enjoy a simple picnic lunch near the temple and continue to visit other ancient structures in the peaceful area. As you head back to Siem Reap, visit the spectacular ruins of Beng Mealea, which was constructed by King Suryavarman II (1113-1150). It preceded and may have served as a prototype of sorts for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. After your visit, drive 1.5 hours back to your hotel. (Road conditions to Koh Ker may vary according to the season and can be bumpy in the wet season)

*** OPTION 16 - PHNOM KULEN AND BANTEAY SREI

A 1.5 hour drive north of Siem Reap will bring you to Phnom Kulen, which provides Siem Reap with water and dominates the skyline of the flat plains surrounding it. Although the highest peak of the mountain range lies at only 487m, Phnom Kulen has much to offer visitors. The Cambodian people regard the site as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. Visit the eight meter tall statue of a reclining Buddha and wash your hands at the Linga statue to purify your mind and body. Continue to visit the River of One Thousand Lingas and the magnificent waterfall close to it. Take a refreshing dip in the stream and pool of the waterfall before returning to Siem Reap. On the way back, enjoy lunch in the garden of a local restaurant near Kbal Spean. Afterwards, visit the jewel of the Khmer art, Banteay Srei temple. Its red sand-stone walls are decorated with elaborate carvings in an amazing state of preservation. The final stop of the day is at the small but intriguing Landmine Museum of Mr. Aki Ra. Since Cambodia’s freedom from war, Mr. Aki Ra has dedicated himself to help the Cambodian people by clearing the mines which have been left behind. Any form of donation is appreciated in order to help him continue his work. (It is advised to wear sturdy shoes when visiting Phnom Kulen).

*** OPTION 17 - WAT BO KRUM VILLAGE AND ANGKOR SILK FARM

In the morning, drive about 45 minutes out of Siem Reap and stop en route to visit Wat Bo Krum village on the banks of the Siem Reap River. Wander around this typical Khmer village and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Visit the local children at the village school. (No visits possible between July and August due to local holidays). Donations are always welcome and you may want to bring some notebooks, pens, clothes, or rice to hand over to the school or village pagoda. Continue to the lake where you will board a rustic boat for a one hour boat trip over the Tonle Sap Lake. Observe a different way of life on the lake while passing by floating schools, markets, and gas stations. Visit a typical floating house to learn more about life on the water. Head back to Siem Reap for lunch on your own. Later in the afternoon visit the Angkor Silk Farm. This extensive and well documented foundation gives an excellent insight into how silk is traditionally processed in Cambodia. The farm supports vulnerable women to make a living for their families. Return to Siem Reap for a free evening.

*** OPTION 18 - ROULOUS GROUP AND KAMPONG KHLEANG

Start the day with a transfer to the 9th century temple ruins of Roulous, which are amongst the oldest Khmer monuments in the area and date back to the reign of Indravarman I. Three key Hindu structures remain, Lolei, Bakong and Preah Ko. Continue your journey to the floating village of Kampong Khleang, one of the largest settlements on the Tonle Sap lake. Living on water is an art the Khmer people have mastered over the course of time. Board a local boat and visit a floating house where a catered lunch is set up for you. Observe the local customs and talk with your hosts about the differences they face living on the water. Continue after lunch exploring the small island, which is home to a bustling market, a pagoda, a school and a health centre before returning to Siem Reap.

*** OPTION 19 - BENG MEALEA AND KAMPONG KHLEANG

Located 65km from Siem Reap, it is a pleasant 1.5 hour drive through the Cambodian countryside to reach the sprawling jungle temple of Beng Mealea. Constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style by King Suyavarman II in the early 12th century, Beng Mealea preceded and may have served as a prototype for Angkor Wat. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. Continue with a one hour drive to the floating village of Kampong Khleang, one of the largest settlements on the Tonle Sap Lake. Living on water is an art the Khmer people have mastered over the course of time. Board a local boat and visit a floating house where a catered lunch is set up for you. Observe the local customs and talk with your hosts about the differences they face living on the water. Continue after lunch exploring the small island, which is home to a bustling market, a pagoda, a school and a health centre before returning to Siem Reap.(It is advisable to wear sturdy, walking shoes with a decent grip)

*** OPTION 20 - ME CHHREY FLOATING VILLAGE AND ANGKOR SILK FARM

Depart Siem Reap over back roads and immediately find yourself surrounded by rural life. Enjoy the sights of children walking and cycling to school, farmers transporting their goods to the market and people working in the endless paddy fields that surround Siem Reap. The 25km ride leads over small unpaved roads and passes several pagoda s and villages where a stop can be made to get a real taste of Cambodia by talking to the villagers and monks or tasting some of the local snacks. Continue and arrive in the mid morning at Me Chhrtey floating village. Me Chhrey is a real floating community and left untouched by mass tourism. Board a local boat and set off for a different kind of exploration. Visit the floating home of a local family before returning to the port and driving by private vehicle back towards Siem Reap. On the way visit the Angkor Silk farm and learn more about the processing of Silk in Cambodia. Lunch is served at the farm after which a transfer by car will bring you back to the hotel.

*** OPTION 21 - KAMPONG PHLUCK

Today you will start with a short drive to the Roulous temple group which are among the oldest Khmer monuments in the area, dating back to the 9th century reign of Indravarman I and part of the former city of Hariharalaya. Explore these peaceful temples and soak up the local atmosphere away from the crowds before you continue to Kampong Phluck, located a short drive away. Kampong Phluck is a permanent settlement on the Tonle Sap Lake with a small land based village attached to it. Its remarkable mangrove forest is unique in the Siem Reap area. You will board a local boat and cruise the waterways observing the authentic and diverse lifestyle of the local floating community. Disembark at a traditional house on stilts where a catered lunch is set up for you. Admire the simple, yet fascinating lifestyle and interact with your host to learn more about living on the water. Return to Siem Reap by private transport. (Suggested visit period is between September and early February).

*** OPTION 22 - PREAK TOAL

Prek Toal is located on the northwest corner of the great Tonle Sap Lake – often referred to by many specialists as a natural wonder of the world as it expands nearly five times its normal size during the wet season. This morning you will board a private boat and cross the entire width of the lake. Transfer first to Chhong Kneas floating village and tour the village before setting off to admire the “floating mangrove forests”. Upon arrival at the bird sanctuary, witness large flocks of different birds as far as the eye can see. Prek Toal is Southeast Asia’s single most important breeding ground for globally threatened large water birds. Upon arrival you will join local biodiversity expert and enjoy a guided trip around the village and bird sanctuary. A picnic lunch is served at a local house on the lake. There is a possibility to visit the local floating school or community centre and take a look into the daily lives of Prek Toal’s children. If you have any study items to donate, please feel free to bring these on your trip and hand them over to the school or centre. Return to Siem Reap late afternoon. (Suggested visit period is between September and early February to see the most bird life but sill interesting year round).

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