Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh
Arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport and hotel check-in. Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda to admire Khmer architecture. Explore the National Museum for a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich history. Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Mekong River with views of Phnom Penh’s skyline.
Day 2: Phnom Penh – Historical Immersion
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) to understand Cambodia’s tragic history. Explore the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a sobering but vital historical site. Walk through the bustling Russian Market for souvenirs and local snacks.
Day 3: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Transfer to Siem Reap (via a short flight or scenic drive). Check in to the hotel and relax. Visit the Angkor National Museum to learn about the history of the Angkor temples and Khmer culture. Explore Siem Reap’s vibrant Old Market and Pub Street for dinner.
Day 4: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom
Start the day with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Cambodian temples. Continue to Angkor Thom, exploring the Bayon Temple with its enigmatic stone faces and the Terrace of the Elephants. Visit Ta Prohm, the atmospheric “jungle temple” made famous by the Tomb Raider movie.
Day 5: Banteay Srei and More Temples
Travel to Banteay Srei, renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. Visit Preah Khan, a sprawling temple complex with beautiful tree-covered ruins. Enjoy a relaxing evening back in Siem Reap or optional spa treatments.
Day 6: Tonle Sap Lake and Local Life
Take a boat trip to Tonle Sap Lake and explore Kampong Phluk or another floating village to experience traditional life on the water. Return to Siem Reap for leisure time, with options to shop for souvenirs, enjoy a Khmer cooking class, or visit Artisans Angkor to see traditional crafts being made.
Day 7: Departure from Siem Reap
Spend your morning at leisure, perhaps enjoying a final visit to local markets or temples. Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure.