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Kindom of Wonder. Cambodia boasts a rich culture with its many ancient temples and impressive natural scenery of clean beaches, mighty rivers and remote forests. The temples in Siem Reap are a magnet for visitors to Cambodia, and for good reason. While Angkor Wat is the largest and most popular, guests can easily spend a week exploring the hundreds of other ancient structures. On the other hand, Phnom Penh is a bustling and interesting city overshadowed by Angkor. It contrasts the temples with fine colonial architecture, artifacts and history of its own. With roads improving, so much more of this country is opening up to visitors who wish to take the time to discover Cambodia beyond the temples.
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Cambodia
Buddhist monk in the Angkor Wat Complex
My favourite country I’ve spent over 12 years working in Asia, from Cambodia to Vietnam to Thailand & Laos. I’ve returned to my favourite country, Cambodia, in 2016 as the general manager of this country. Cambodia has so much more to offer than just the Angkor temples. My favourite place to visit is Battambang, a lovely and original old town with galleries presenting the work of young Khmer artists. For a nature retreat, I prefer visiting Koh Kong with its abundance of wildlife with eco-friendly lodges and home-stays. Nataly Wanhoff Cambodia Country Manager
Quick Information
KHMER
LANGUAGE (Chinese, Vietnamese and some French are spoken)
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US DOLLAR (USD) CURRENCY
1 EUR = 1.15 USD 1 CNY = 0.14 USD 1 RUB = 0.2 USD (1 USD = 4,000 KHR)
PHNOM PENH CAPITAL
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INTRODUCTION
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Past & Present The history of Cambodia began with the establishment of Funan. This gave way to the powerful Angkor Empire and its impressive kingdom, as we know it today. However, in 1431, Angkor was invaded and eventually, completely ravaged. The entire population and wealth of a once proud civilization was abandoned and covered by tropical forest. As war started to escalate in 20th century Vietnam, Cambodia became deeply involved, fighting mainly against the Khmer Rouge. Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge invaded and proceeded to implement a brutal ‘reign of terror’ on Cambodia’s population. In 1979, The People’s Republic of Kampuchea, supported by Vietnamese, liberated the capital. Today, the Kingdom of Cambodia is a peaceful place to visit, while the authoritarian Cambodian People’s Party remains in government.
Khmer woman dressed in traditional clothing
DO’S
Culture
Ask for permission before taking photographs
Approximately 90% of people in Cambodia are
Dress and behave modestly, especially inside of temples Greet others by bowing the head slightly with hands together Take your shoes off and leave them outside of a Cambodian’s home
members of the Khmer people. The Khmer people have lived in the Greater Region since around the 2nd century BC. Roughly 95% of
Touch Cambodian’s heads or the Buddha statue
the entire population is Buddhist (Theravada), Buddhism was reinstated as the national religion in 1989 after a ban on religious activity in 1975.
DONT’S
the remainder are either Muslim or Christian.
Women should not touch male monks or hand them anything Public display of affection should be kept to a minimum Don’t use your feet to point at someone www.focus.asia 5
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WHEN TO GO
Seasons Cambodia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two distinct seasons in Cambodia. The dry season runs from December through April, bringing sunny, dry weather in January and February. The rains come when the winds shift into the southwest monsoon from May to November, with the most precipitation in the months of September and October.
DECEMBER - APRIL
MAY - NOVEMBER
Avg. High 31°C / 89°F Avg. Low 23°C / 73°F Avg. Precipitation 45mm Tourism Higher
Avg. High 30°C / 95°F Avg. Low 25°C / 77°F Avg. Precipitation 300mm Tourism Lower
WARM & DRY
Holidays
WARM & GREEN
2019-2020
January 1st
May 22nd
October 23rd
International New Year’s Day
Royal Plowing Ceremony
Peace Agreement Day
January 7th
June 1st
October 29th
Victory over Genocide Day
Children’s Day
King Coronation Day
February 19th
June 18th
November 11th
Meak Bochea Day
King Mother’s Day
Independence Day
September 24th
November 12-13th
Constitutional Day
Water Festival Holiday
September 27-30th
December 10th
Ancestor’s Day
International Human Rights Day
April 14-16th Khmer New Year
May 13-15th King’s Birthday
May 18th Visak Bochea Day
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October 15th Commemoration Day
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WHEN TO GO
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Events & Festivals FEBRUARY
Meak Bochea Day
Cambodia
Meak Bochea is celebrated during the full month of the third lunar month. In the evening, people flock to temples to listen to preachings and walk around the temple three times with flowers, incense and a candle. Each round represents one of the ideas of Buddhism – Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
APRIL
Khmer New Year
Cambodia
It is the largest celebrations in Cambodia, marking the start of the rainy season. Many Cambodians return to their home provinces to spend time with their family to carry out traditional rituals. Expect some water throwing, but nothing like Songkran in neighbouring Thailand. Many local businesses also shut their doors during this time.
MAY
Royal Plowing Ceremony
Phnom Penh
This ancient royal rite marks the beginning to the rice season, and is a way to determine the size of the harvest ahead. The ceremony can sometimes be held outside the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, where the King or a selected representative till a plot of land with a plough pulled by two oxen. What the oxen decide to eat determines the prediction for the coming year.
NOVEMBER
Water Festival (Boat Racing)
Phnom Penh
Not to be confused with Khmer New Year, the Water Festival sees the majority of the country descend on Phnom Penh to watch the three days of boat racing that takes place on the Tonle Sap River. The festival marks the reversal of flow between the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers – an anomaly unique to Cambodia and features fun festivities.
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LOCAL CUISINE
Taste of Khmer Khmer cuisine draws similarities to Thai food, but with fewer spices involved. Popular dishes include fish, soup and salad, almost always incorporating Cambodia’s favourite flavours of coriander, lemongrass and mint. There is also a plethora of sweet dishes. Common ingredients used in Cambodian cuisine include nuts, bananas, coconut, durian, jackfruit, longan fruit, lychee, pineapple and rambutan fruit, to name a
Tasting tray of Cambodian food
few. Fresh seafood is plentiful in Sihanoukville, Kep and Kampot. Food stalls are also common in Phnom Penh and can usually be found in
Khmer Noodles
and around the Central Market. In major cities a
Nom banh chok is a typical breakfast food
wide range of culinary fare is on offer including Chinese, Thai, French, Korean, Japanese, Indian, Vietnamese and Middle Eastern.
consisting of noodles pounded out of rice, topped with a fish-based green curry gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric root and kaffir lime. Fresh mint leaves, bean sprouts, green beans, banana flower, cucumbers and other
Khmer Red Curry
greens are heaped on top.
Khmer red curry is coconut-milk-based but without the overpowering chilli of neighbouring Thailand. It features beef, chicken or fish, eggplant, green beans, potatoes, fresh coconut milk, lemongrass and ‘kroeung.’ It is also usually served with bread, a remnant of the French influence on Cambodia.
Fish Amok Khmer Noodles
Fish Amok Fish amok consists a fish mousse with fresh coconut milk and ‘kroeung,’ a curry paste made from lemongrass, turmeric root, garlic, shallots, galangal and fingerroot, or Chinese ginger. The use ‘slok ngor,’ a local herb, makes this dish unique to the region.
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ANGKOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
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Siem Reap Literally meaning the “Defeat of Siam,” Siem reap is the most prosperous region of contemporary Cambodia. Its close proximity to the Angkor Wat temple complex has turned the city into one of the world’s premier travel destinations. More than one million travellers visit Siem Reap every year to explore over a thousand years of Khmer heritage
That Luang Stupa in Vientiane
constructed near Tonle Sap Lake, the foundation of the economic power of the ancient Cambodian empire.
Cutting flowers in front of the Angkor Wat Temple
Bas relief on Angkor temples
Angkor Park The Angkor Archaeological Park, an UNESCO World Heritag Site, is the spiritual heart and identity of the Khmer people. It encompasses dozens of temple ruins including Bayon, Banteay Srey and legendary Angkor Wat. Its magnificent architecture reveals the Khmer’s strong belief in Hinduism and Buddhism. The fact the structures at Angkor are so complete after all this time is a further testament to the advanced construction techniques employed more than a millennium ago.
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DESTINATIONS
Phnom Penh Phnom Penh is the commercial, political and cultural hub of Cambodia, and is home to over one million of the country’s estimated 11 million people. The city offers several cultural and historical attractions including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. This modern capital is a vibrant, bustling city nestled majestically on the banks of the confluence of two mighty rivers: The Mekong and The Tonle Sap. There are still many old French colonial
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh
buildings found in the town that add to its historical ambiance.
Battambang Cambodia’s second largest city, Battambang is an elegant riverside town, home to some of the best preserved colonial architecture in the country. The peaceful city makes a great base for visiting nearby temples and villages. It’s
Independence monument in Phnom Penh
also an artist hub with many charming galleries in the small old city area.
Wat Ek Phnom in Battambang
Kep Kep is a province-level town famous for its sunsets and delicious seafood. It used to be a former colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908. Currently, Kep has a variety of tourist attractions such as mountains, an evergreen tropical forest, mangroves, islands, breezy sea air, coral reefs, and beaches.
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DESTINATIONS
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Kampot Kampot is a quaint riverside town only 5km (3 miles) from the sea and serves as the very popular seaside resort of Kep. Once a fashionable haunt of the French elite, it has stunning offshore islands and a beautiful bay. Former King Sihanouk owned one of these islands and would often use it for vacations. Kampot is also renowned for the quality of its fruits (durian, coconut, mango), its sea salt and
Old building with shops in Kampot City
the famous Kampot Pepper.
Kratie Located on the east bank of the Mekong River, Kratie attracts a fair share of visitors, many of whom wish to catch a glimpse of the last few Irrawaddy dolphins left in Cambodia. Kratie offers an authentic rural ambience, and therefore serves as the perfect place to spend a peaceful night or two. It is a nice relief from some of the country’s more bustling areas. Sunset along the river in Kratie
Boat in Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s most popular beach town for foreigners and locals alike. It can be visited all year round for the cool breezes and clear blue skies. Sihanoukville has plenty of beaches, seafood restaurants, bars, temples, casino hotels and more. Local fisherman will happily take visitors to any one of the nearby islands perfect for snorkelling, diving and fishing.
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SIEM REAP
3 DAYS
Temples of Angkor Discover one of the ancient ‘Wonders of the World’ — the Temples of Angkor and its fascinating history. DAY 2 Siem Reap In the morning, enjoy an excursion to Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre Temple. Other stops will include the Landmine Museum and a Sugar Palm production. Continue our temple tour with visits to
Eastern
Mebon, Pre Rup, Prasat Kravan and Takeo temple. In the afternoon, explore the highlight of your trip – The famous Angkor Wat, considered one of the world’s ancient wonders, the epicentre of the Khmer Aerial view of Angkor Wat Complex
DAY 1 Siem Reap Greetings on arrival and transfer to hotel. In the afternoon discover Angkor Thom “The Great City.” Explore the last great capital of the Khmer Empire, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing some of the city’s most important monuments built
Civilization and the heart and soul of Cambodia. Feel as if you have stepped into another realm as you enter the temple with its imposing moats, intricately carved outer walls, and rising towers with symbolic lotus-bud carvings.
TIP
Enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Circus Show. It’s Cambodia’s answer to Cirque du Soleil and considered unmissable!
under the empire of King Jayavarman VII. See stone structures of carved faces depicting Gods and Demons
DAY 3 Departure
lined up along the causeway of the entrance of the Southern Gate. Within the centre of citadel, see the
For our final day, discover the Roluos Group of
iconic Temple of Bayon with its standing towers and
Monuments of the ancient Hariharalaya, the first
gigantic stone faces. Follow with visits to the Terrace
significant capital of the Khmer Empire. See all 3
of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of
major monuments of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei
Prasat Suor Prat.
Temples. Transfer to airport for departure.
See other impressive temples within, such as the Baphuon, Phimeanakas, North and South Khleang. Get a chance to watch the sun sets slowly over Angkor.
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SIEM REAP
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PREAH VIHEAR KAMPON THOM
3 DAYS
UNESCO World Heritage Explore beyond Siem Reap and discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a beautiful countryside setting. dramatically situated of all Angkorian monuments designed to represent Mt Meru and dedicated to Hindu deity of Shiva.
DAY 2 Thom
Preah Vihear - Sambor Prei Kuk - Kampong
After breakfast, drive along scenic country roads towards Kampong Thom to visit the site of Sambor Prei Kuk a group of pre-Angkorian monuments, a complex consisting of more than a hundred temples built from solid bricks, laterites and sandstones huddled cosily in a forest. Continue to the picturesque town of Kampong Thom situated on the banks of Stung Saen River.
Preah Vihear Temple
DAY 1 Siem Reap - Anlong Veng - Preah Vihear Start our journey on road North of Siem Reap stopping by first at the small district town of Anlong Veng. Notably known as the former stronghold of the notorious Khmer Rouge leaders and the final hideout and ultimate resting place of the infamous Pol Pot. Check-in at your hotel upon arrival in Preah Vihear. Continue with a drive to Preah Vihear Temple. Sprawling along a cliff top with breathtaking views of lowland Cambodia. Perhaps a temple that is most
Monks walking in rural countryside
DAY 3 Kampong Thom - Siem Reap Departure Drive along a scenic road to either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to continue your Cambodia trip or for departure.
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5 DAYS
SIEM REAP
Angkor by tuk-tuk & 2-wheels Ditch the modern transportation and discover the ‘Gateway’ to the ancient Khmer Empire with a Tuk Tuk for an authentic Cambodian experience. DAY 2 Angkor Wat Escape the busy roads and well worn tourist trails and instead, cycle the small track and minor roads to see a unique side of the Angkor Temples and its surrounding sights. Cross a vast moat, onto broad causeways lined up with naga balustrades and ascend through to see galleries and courtyards with intricately sculpted stone walls. Continue to explore Angkor Thom and see within important monuments such as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper Kings. See the ruins of Baphuon, Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas before continuing to the mysterious Bayon Temple. Lastly, see Ta Prohm, left in its natural state shrouded in dense jungle with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined
with walls, roof and terraces
creating an astonishing merger of nature and manmade architecture.
Monks entering an Angkor Temple
DAY 1 Siem Reap Prepare for a thrilling experience as you navigate along the roads of Siem Reap at the back of a tuk tuk also known as ‘Remork’. Get a sense of a buzzing city and feel the breeze of the open air in this unique transportation for a truly authentic Cambodian experience. Visit the Angkor National Museum where you will see preserved remnants of important sculptures from various Angkor temples.
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Houses afloat on Tonle Sap
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ROUNDTRIPS DAY 3 Angkor Wat & Tonle Sap Pick up by Tuk Tuk to start our full day Cycling Tour around Angkor and Tonle Sap Lake.
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of obtrusive signs and renovations. Able explorers can clamber through rubble-filled corridors
with
crumbling stone blocks acting as stairs to chambers, libraries and courtyards. See nature reclaiming their
Cycle through luscious paddy fields to reach the
dominance with fully-grown trees and gigantic roots
Rolous Group of temples with stops at the Bakong
wending through moss covered walls, offering an
temple and Prasat Preah Ko. We will continue to the
ultimate Indiana Jones experience.
dock to take a wooden boat ride over Tonle Sap Lake to visit Kompong Pluk Village. Cruise down narrow waterways, see houses built on stilts and get greeted with the most welcoming of smiles from the locals as you witness the day to day life of this unique floating village. Visit a local Wat before returning to Siem Reap by road. The evening is free for your own leisure.
DAY 4 Siem Reap Delve deeper into ancient history and really ‘scramble’ around the ruins of Beng Mealea Temple, covering large acres of jungle terrain, untouched and largely devoid
Proceed to Banteay Srei and admire its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings . On the way back to Siem Reap, visit Banteay Samre and the Cambodia Landmine Museum.
DAY 5 Departure Free for leisure or relaxation until departure flight to next destination.
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5 DAYS
Highlights of Cambodia
PHNOM PENH
From the Angkor Temples in Siem Reap to the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh — see all of the most popular sights in Cambodia in just five days. of citadel, see the iconic Temple of Bayon with its standing towers and gigantic stone faces followed by visits to the Terrace of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. See other temples within, such as the Baphuon, Phimeanakas, North and South Khleang End the day at Ta Prohm temple, left in its natural state shrouded in dense jungle with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined with walls, roof and terraces creating an astonishing merger of nature and Statues in Angkor
DAY 1 Siem Reap Greetings on arrival and transfer to hotel. Welcome to Siem Reap! The rest of the day is free for leisure or relaxation.
man-made architecture.
TIP
Enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Circus Show. It’s Cambodia’s answer to Cirque du Soleil and considered unmissable!
CONTINUED
DAY 2 Siem Reap Discover the Roluos Group of Monuments of the ancient Hariharalaya, the first significant capital of the Khmer Empire. See all three major monuments of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei Temple. We will continue with a visit to Angkor Thom “The Great City” and one of the jewels of Cambodia. Explore the last great capital of the Khmer Empire, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing
Downtown Siem Reap
some of the city’s most important monuments built under the empire of King Jayavarman VII. See stone structures of carved faces depicting Gods and Demons lined up along the causeway of the entrance of the Southern Gate. Within the centre
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DAY 3 Kampong Thom - Siem Reap Departure Today enjoy an excursion to Banteay Srei and admire its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings. We then head back to Siem Reap continuing to see other fascinating temples with stops at Banteay Samre, Eastern Mebon, Pre-Rup, Prasat Kravan and Takeo. In the afternoon, explore the highlight of your trip – The famous Angkor Wat. Considered one of the world’s ancient wonders, the epicentre of the Khmer
Relief work on Banteay Srei
Civilization and the heart and soul of Cambodia. Step into another realm as you enter the temple set in a dense jungle with its imposing moats, intricately carved outer walls, avenues lined with ‘naga’ balustrades, temples made of laterites and rising towers with symbolic lotus-bud carvings. Watch the spectacular sunset over angkor as we end our day.
DAY 4 Siem Reap - Phnom Penh Transfer to airport for a fight to Phnom Penh. Get greeted by your tour guide and begin sightseeing through Cambodia’s bustling capital. Enjoy a full day city tour visiting main attractions such as the National Museum, Silver Pagoda, a tour at the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom Pagoda. Later in the day, learn about Cambodia’s recent tragic past with a visit to Choeung Ek Mass Graves and the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. A former high school turned security prison and largest centre of detention and torture, now converted as a museum, dedicated to the victims of the crimes of the Khmer Group.
TIP
Get a chance for some last minute souvenir shopping at the Art Deco-era Central Market and/or Russian Market.
DAY 5 Phnom Penh Departure Transfer to airport for departure.
Phnom Penh Market
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KAMPONG THOM
STUNG TRENG
RATANAKIRI MONDULKIRI
7 DAYS
Deep into Eastern Cambodia
KRATIE
PHNOM PENH
Enjoy Rural Cambodia in its natural beauty and immerse yourself with nature, wildlife and rich heritage of the locals. of Hang Khou Ban. In here visit some Ethnic Lao villagers famous for making the delicious
Krolan
‘sticky rice in bamboo’. Watch them as they cook popular travel snacks packaged in a bamboo stick, a must taste for everyone! Kayak back to town on time to watch a spectacular sunset.
Angkorian style statues
DAY 1 Siem Reap - Kampong Thom Start our journey overland departing from Siem Reap. Drive along scenic country roads towards Kampong Thom to visit Sambor Prei Kuk a complex of preAngkorian monuments
consisting of more than
a hundred temples built from solid bricks, laterite and sandstones huddled cosily in a forest. Arrive in Kampong Thom for the night.
Ratanakiri Countryside
DAY 3 Stung Treng - Ratanakiri Early morning departure to Banlung, the capital province of Ratanakiri. On our way, stop to admire the
DAY 2 Kampong Thom - Stung Treng Continue our journey on road to Stung Treng, a province still an ‘insider’s tip’ for visitors. Arrive in the afternoon. Enjoy a half day tour Cycling and Kayaking along the Sekong River. Start with a visit to the “Noodle Village” followed by a visit to the Mekong Blue Project a weaving centre run by Stung Treng Women’s Development Centre. Cross the Sekong river by a Kayak to visit the village
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Okatchagn and Okatieng Waterfalls. We continue our drive through scenic roads until we reach Banlung in the afternoon. Continue with a visit to the Airavata Khmer Elephant Foundation Camp for an educational elephant experience that is ethical in all aspects (3.5 hours). Meet the rescued elephants with their Mahouts and get the chance to walk beside them in their natural forest habitat. Return back to Banlung to end an adventurous day.
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DAY 4 Ratanakiri - Mondulkiri Visit charming villages on the outskirts of Banlung. Reach the village of Kopork by a wooden boat and see an impressive cemetery. Opportunities to stop at nearby villages to get a glance of the village daily life. After we depart from Banlung to our next destination, Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri’s capital province).
Busra Waterfall
DAY 6 Mondulkiri - Kratie In the morning continue our trip to Kratie, a small riverside town with a rich legacy of French-colonial architecture, most popular for spotting the Irrawaddy Dolphins. Travel directly to the small village of Kampi for some dolphin spotting as we board a local boat to cruise the swirling Mekong River. Enjoy a scenic countryside view of lush villages surrounded by A Khmer woman dressed up
palms and banana trees on the way to the hilltop of
DAY 5 Mondulkiri (Elephant Camp)
Phnom Sambok Temple. Return back to Kratie.
Today get a chance to interact with gentle giants, in an
DAY 7 Kratie - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh
elephant sanctuary camp. Enjoy a day ‘walking with the herd’ in their natural jungle environment through
Depart from Kratie overland to Siem Reap or Phnom
the stunning Mondulkiri countryside. With the help
Penh where this tour ends.
of the Bunong villagers, this camp is a sanctuary which rescues and treats domestic elephants which suffered from abuse. We then continue with a visit to Bousra Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Mondulkiri. On the way, visit a coffee and pepper plantation before we end our day. (Note: This is a strictly no-riding camp.)
Skyline of Phnom Penh
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ROUNDTRIPS PREAH VIHEAR SIEM REAP
STUNG TRENG
RATANAKIRI
KRATIE
8 DAYS
Nature & Heritage
PHNOM PENH
Step off the beaten track and discover rural Cambodia with elephants (non-riding), waterfalls, coffee plantations, weaving centres and more. to Mondulkiri. Arrive in Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri’s capital province) village for the night.
DAY 3 Elephant Interactions For an original elephant experience that is ethical in all aspects, enjoy a day walking with elephants in their natural jungle environment through the Mondulkiri countryside. With the help of the Bunong villagers, this camp is a sanctuary which rescues and Irrawaddy Dolphin in the river
DAY 1 Siem Reap or Phnom Penh - Kratie
treats domestic elephants which suffered from abuse. After, return back to Sen Monorom to end the day. (Note: This is a strictly no-riding camp.)
Depart from either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh for transfer to Kratie, a small riverside town with a rich legacy of French-colonial architecture, most popular for spotting the Irrawaddy Dolphins. Travel directly to the small village of Kampi for some dolphin spotting as we board a local boat to cruise the swirling Mekong River. Enjoy a scenic countryside view of lush villages surrounded by palms and banana trees on the way to the hilltop of Phnom Sambok Temple.
DAY 2 Kratie - Mondulkiri Hop on a boat to visit the island opposite Kratie and enjoy a slice of peaceful rural Cambodian life in Koh Trong. Explore picture-perfect villages belonging to the Khmer Ethnic Group on a leisurely (9 km) loop around the island by a Horse Cart ride. Take a boat ride back to Kratie where we will continue our journey
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A happy elephant
DAY 4 Mondulkiri - Ratanakiri Visit Bousra Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Mondulkiri. On the way, visit a coffee and pepper plantation. Continue our journey by land to Banlung
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Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Phnom Penh
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
Siem Reap
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province of Ratanakiri and arrive in the afternoon.
TIP
Don’t forget your swimwear and take a refreshing dip at the Bousra Waterfall.
DAY 5 Ratanakiri & Elephant Interactions Get a chance to visit local villages in stunning rural countryside first by hopping on a small wooden boat along the Tonle San River to Kopirk village. See an
back to town in time to watch a spectacular sunset.
DAY 7 Stung Treng - Preah Vihear Continue our journey off the main road into a more scenic route of winding roads along villages and rice fields towards Cambodia-Lao border. Visit Preah Nimith Waterfall one of Cambodia’s largest waterfall. Continue on the main Road to Preah Vihear.
impressive ethnic cemetery and visit other villages nearby to get a glance of local life. Continue back to Banlung. In the afternoon, head south to visit the Airvata Khmer Elephant Foundation (3.5 hours) and on the way see Katieng & Kachang Waterfalls. Learn about the elephants and their mahouts before you get the chance to walk beside them in their natural forest habitat. Return back to Banlung to end an adventurous day.
Entrance to Stung Treng
DAY 8 Preah Vihear - Siem Reap (Departure) Drive towards the Cambodian-Thai border to Preah Vihear. Ride a 4-wheel truck to the Preah Vihear Temple, perched dramatically atop of the Dangrek Mountains. The friendly giant elephants
DAY 6 Ratanakiri - Stung Treng Continue on on road to the small province in Cambodia’s most northern border with Laos, Stung
Continue driving to our last destination, Beng Mealea temple. See nature reclaiming the area with fullygrown trees and gigantic roots wending through moss covered walls. Transfer to Siem Reap.
Treng. A province still an ‘insider’s tip’ for visitors. Enjoy a half day Cycling along quiet dirt roads as you visit the “Noodle Village”, The Mekong Blue Project, a weaving centre and cafe. Aftwards get to Kayak along Sekong River and visit an island ashore of Hang Khou Ban. Visit some Ethnic Lao villagers famous for producing sticky rice. Kayak
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SCAN ME NOW!
STAY & REFLECT EAT & DRINK MEET & GREET SPA & SWEAT #68. St. 136( 15) Phsar Kandal 1. Phnom Penh +855 23 961 888
booking@sunandmoonhotel.com
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PRUM
9 DAYS
Across Cambodia: Thailand-Laos
SIEM REAP
PREAH VIHEAR
VUEN KHAM STUNG TRENG
BATTAMBANG
Get to see the real side of Cambodian rural life and adventure through scenic landscapes, charming villages and historic monuments. DAY 3 Battambang - Siem Reap Travel North towards the province of Banteay Meanchey, where we will visit the remote temple of Banteay Chhmar. It is known for its unspoilt jungle setting and beautifully rendered bas-reliefs depicting the war between the Khmer and Champa Kingdoms. Discover inside gigantic stone carvings and ruins including the Lokesvara statue and the Hall of Dancers. We explore the outer complex until the outer gate of Ta Prohm. Our final stop before we continue to Siem Reap is a Mount Banan in Battambang
DAY 1 Prum Border - Battambang
village where Soirés du Mekong Silk Centre is located, a silk-weaving school created to help locals improve their livelihoods.
Greetings on arrival and meet your tour guide. Transfer to Battambang where the rest of the day is free to explore this quiet and picturesque riverside town.
DAY 2 Battambang by Tuk-Tuk Drive through the countryside and visit local villages to learn how local Khmer delicacies are cooked such as fish paste (Prahoc) and sticky rice in bamboo (Grolan). Visit Wat Ek Temple and (if time permits) Wat Somrong Knong, a memorial place for the Khmer Rouge victims. Later, see Phnom Banan another Angkorian struture on top of a small mountain with panoramic views of
Silk weaving in Siem Reap
the province. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.
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DAY 4 Siem Reap
DAY 7 Siem Reap - Preah Vihear
Ascend the Kulen Mountain on today’s trekking trip,
Continue our journey to the jungle temple of Beng
located on the outskirts of Siem Reap. Hike through
Mealea. See nature reclaiming their dominance with
rural villages, caves and rivers and walk amongst the
fully-grown trees and gigantic roots wending through
forest’s wildlife.
moss covered walls. Transfer to Preah Vihear. In the
Descend the mountain for today’s finalé, The Temple of Banteay Srei “The Fortress of the Women.” Admire its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings. Return to Siem Reap.
afternoon, visit Preah Vihear Temple, which is along a cliff top with breathtaking views of lowland Cambodia. It is designed to represent Mt. Meru and dedicated to Hindu deity of Shiva.
DAY 8 Preah Vihear - Siem Reap Continue our trip on road to Stung Treng in the afternoon. Enjoy a half day tour Cycling and Kayaking along the Sekong River. Visit the “Noodle Village” and the Mekong Blue Project - a weaving centre run by Stung Treng Women’s Development Centre. Cross the Sekong river by a Kayak to see the village of Hang Khou Ban. In here visit some Ethnic Lao villagers Banteay Srei frieze carvings
DAY 5-6 Siem Reap Enjoy a two day tour of Siem Reap and discover
famous for making the delicious Krolan ‘Sticky rice in bamboo’. Watch them as they cook popular travel snacks packaged in a bamboo stick. Kayak back to town on time to watch a spectacular sunset.
Cambodia’s priced jewels and rich culture. With visits to the “Great City” of Angkor Thom from the entrance of the Southern Gate. Within, see the iconic Temple of Bayon, Terrace of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. See other temples within, such as the Baphuon, Phimeanakas and North and South Khleang. Be mesmerised with a spectacular sunset over Angkor Wat. The following day, attend a cooking class hosted in the home of a Khmer family in a picturesque local village. A trip to Siem is not complete without a visit to the
Preah Khan Kampong Svay
Great Tonle Sap Lake. Take a boat trip to visit the
DAY 9 Stung Treng - Dong Kralor - Vuen Kham Border
village of Kampong Khleang, with houes on stilts in this ‘water-world’ community.
Enjoy locally prepared breakfast before heading to Cambodia-Laos Border for departure or transfer.
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SIEM REAP TONLE SAP
11 DAYS
BATTAMBANG
Different side of Cambodia
PHNOM PENH
Aside from the ancient temples and ruins, experience the other side of Cambodia that only a handful of people get to see! Continue riding to Angkor Thom, “The Great City.” Explore the last great capital of the Khmer Empire, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing some of the city’s most important monuments such as
the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace
of the Leper Kings. Visit the ruins of Baphuon, Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas. Continue to the mysterious Bayon Temple, set in the centre of the citadel with standing towers and gigantic stone faces. End the day at Ta Prohm temple, left in its natural Pailin, Cambodia
DAY 1 Siem Reap Greetings on arrival and transfer to hotel. After check-
state shrouded in a dense jungle with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined with walls, roof and terraces creating an astonishing merger of nature and man-made architecture.
in, discover the Roluos Group of Monuments of the ancient Hariharalaya, one of the earliest significant capital of the Khmer Empire. See all three major monuments of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei Temple before we end today’s tour.
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Enjoy a cultural performance by the Cambodian Circus Show. It’s Cambodia’s answer to Cirque du Soleil and considered unmissable!
DAY 2 Angkor Wat by bicycle Escape the well-worn tourist trails and instead cycle the small track and minor roads to see a unique side of the Angkor Temples. Explore first the crowning jewel of Khmer architecture, Angkor Wat. Cross a vast moat, onto broad causeways lined up with naga balustrades as you enter the grounds. Ascend through a series of galleries and courtyards with intricately sculpted stone walls as you enter the main buildings.
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Boat full of vegetables in Tonle Sap
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DAY 3 Siem Reap - Kbal Spean - Banteay Srei - Landmine Museum
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
By Jeep we journey north to Kbal Spean also knowns as the ‘River of a Thousand Lingas.’ Enjoy a trek deep in the jungle and climb steadily on the way seeing intricately carved riverbed sculptures, thousands of lingas (sculptures of Hindu Gods and creatures) and a scenic waterfall. After, we will proceed to Banteay Srei “The Fortress of the Women”. Admire its well preserved red sandstone architecture with intricate frieze carvings before we head to Cambodia’s Landmine Museum.
Take a exhilarating 20min helicopter ride over Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap lake!
DAY 5 Siem Reap - Banteay Chhmar
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
Travel North towards the province of Banteay Meanchey. Here we will visit the remote temple of Banteay Chhmar. Renowned for its unspoilt jungle setting and beautifully rendered bas-reliefs depicting the war between the Khmer and Champa Kingdoms. Discover inside gigantic stone carvings and ruins including the Lokesvara statue and the Hall of Dancers. Explore the outer complex until we reach the Join an “After Dark” Vespa tour of Siem Reap — perfect for food lovers looking to discover a taste of Khmer cuisine.
outer gate of Ta Prohm. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional and laid back ox cart ride and enjoy the breeze and scenery of the
DAY 4 Siem Reap - Tonle Sap
countryside. Visit a village where Soirés du Mekong
Embark on a boat trip to one of the largest and less visited villages on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Khleang. Enjoy a unique experience seeing the floating
Silk Centre is located, a silk-weaving school created to help locals improve their livelihoods. End the day with a welcoming homestay at a local family home.
village and houses built on stilts existing in this great lake. Hop on-board a traditional wooden boat and gain an insight into the daily life of the locals.
DAY 6 Banteay Chhmar - Battambang Enjoy breakfast prepared by your homestay family. Walk around the quiet streets to visit Banteay Chhmar’s local market before we continue to Battambang. On our way we will stop by the Banteay Torp Temple and get a chance to explore village activities. Arrive in Battambang where the rest of the afternoon is free for you own leisure.
CONTINUED People living on Tonle Sap
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DAY 7 Battambang Village Tour
DAY 9 Phnom Penh
Embrace your sense of adventure with an authentic
Discover the vibrant city of Phnom Penh, situated
and sustainable bicycle tour in the Cambodian
at the confluence of the Mekong, the Bassac and the
countryside. Learn how the locals make traditional
great Tonle Sap Lake. Enjoy a full day city tour visiting
products such as rice paper, dried banana, bamboo
main attractions such as the National Museum, the
sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine. Taste and
iconic Royal Palace and within seeing the Throne
experience the pleasures of these products fresh off
Hall, Temple of Emerald Buddha, Stupas, a royal
the fire. Spend some relaxing time in a traditional
dining hall, the Chan Chhaya Pavilion and lastly, the
Khmer house enjoying seasonal fruits and coconut
impressive Silver Pagoda.
water. Finish your morning tour by visiting a memorial site for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. In the afternoon enjoy a mild hike and see atop the Temple of Phnom Banan. On our way back visit a Cambodian Vineyard, the country’s
Understand Cambodia’s recent tragic past with a visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was turned into a large detention centre.
one and only
producers of wine. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh
DAY 10 Phnom Penh Visit the ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek in the morning. Gain an insight into the history of a country once torn apart by war, political instability and mass genocide. Angkor-era temples
DAY 8 Battambang - Phnom Penh We continue our tour south to the capital city, Phnom Penh. Enjoy rural countryside scenery as we get off the main road to visit Kompong Luong Floating Village. Explore the largest floating community on the Tonle Sap Lake by boat still remaining untouched by mass tourism. Afterwards, continue our drive to visit Oudong, an old Khmer Empire Capital. Arrive an Phnom Penh.
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Today, Choeung Ek is a respectful tribute to those who suffered so greatly at the hands of the Khmer Rouge Board a boat in the afternoon to the island, Koh Dach, where silk weaving is practiced. Walk through vegetable farms and fruit orchards before returning back to the city.
DAY 11 Departure Free at leisure until departure flight or continue to your next destination.
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ROUNDTRIPS SIEM REAP
14 DAYS
BATTAMBANG
Pearls of Cambodia
KOH RONG
PHNOM PENH
Discover Cambodia’s proud jewels as well as a unique floating community and retreat in Nature and Culture. at the back of a tuk-tuk. Fist visit Angkor Thom, a monumental city with formidable walls enclosing some of the city’s most important monuments. See stone structures of carved faces depicting Gods and Demons lined up along the causeway of the entrance of the Southern Gate. Within the centre of citadel, see the iconic Temple of Bayon with its standing towers and gigantic stone faces followed by visits to the Terrace of Elephants, Leper King Terrace, and the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. See other temples within, Traditional Khmer performance
DAY 1 Siem Reap Greetings on arrival and transfer to hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free for your own leisure.
such as the Baphuon, Phimeanakas and North and South Khleang. Continue to the Ta Prohm temple, left in its natural state shrouded in a dense jungle with gigantic roots, branches and leaves intertwined with walls, roof and terraces. End with a visit to Angkor Wat, the epicentre of the Khmer Civilization and the heart and soul of
DAY 2 Siem Reap - Rolous - Banteay Srei Start our temple adventure with the Roluos Group of
Cambodia. Watch the spectacular sunset over Angkor Wat to end the day.
Monuments. See all three major structures of Bakong, Preah Ko and Lolei Temple. Afterwards see the Temple of Banteay Srei “The Fortress of the Women” with its well-preserved red sandstone architecture and intricate frieze carvings. Continue to Banteay Samre Temple, followed by several other temples such as the Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup and Prasat Kravan.
DAY 3 Siem Reap - Angkor Wat Start the day navigating along the roads of Siem Reap
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Monks exploring Angkor Temples
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DAY 5 Siem Reap - Kampong Khleang Head to the countryside to cycle along red dirt roads through rural villages and to a local fish market. After a short break, hop on a boat trip to one of the largest villages on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Khleang. Enjoy a unique experience seeing the floating village and houses built on stilts. Gain an insight into the daily life of the locals, share a traditional Khmer lunch, and visit a pagoda where you can observe monks go about their daily routines. Angkor temples in Siem Reap
DAY 4 Siem Reap - Beng Mealea
DAY 6 Siem Reap - Battambang
Travel by jeep in the jungle temple of Beng Mealea.
Continue our trip to northwards to Battambang.
See nature reclaiming their dominance with fullygrown trees and gigantic roots wending through moss covered walls. We continue with a visit to Koh Ker, a remote temple most famous for its 7-tiered pyramid consisting of ancient sanctuaries buried underneath green forest.
On the way we will visit Banteay Chhmar Temple surrounded by unspoilt jungle, remote and perhaps the least understood of all Angkor temples. The site is renowned for its beautifully rendered bas-reliefs.
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DAY 7 Battambang Drive out into the countryside to a remote village to learn how to make traditional products such as rice paper, dried banana, bamboo sticky rice, fish paste and rice wine. 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. In the afternoon enjoy a mild hike and see atop the Temple of Phnom Banan. On our way back visit a Cambodian Vineyard, the country’s
Bustling streets of Phnom Penh
one and only
producers of wine. Finally, stop at Phnom Sampeaou where the infamous ‘Killing Caves’ are located. Stay until sunset to witness bats fly out of the caves.
DAY 8 Battambang - Phnom Penh
DAY 11-13 Phnom Penh - Koh Kong Continue on road to Koh Kong. As we arrive, we proceed immediately to Ta Tai where we will stay at at a luxurious eco-friendly resort located amidst lush jungle settings, waterfalls and crystal clear rivers. Adventure outdoors and enjoy nature with a trip to
Continue our trip to Phnom Penh via the provinces
Ta Tai Waterfall, a large rocky cascade located amidst
of Pursat and Kampong Chhnang. Along the way
lush jungle settings. Reach the waterfall either by a
stopping by local villages known for producing pottery
slow boat or by road. Relax and enjoy in this 3 day
and silversmith products all around Cambodia. Arrive
nature retreat with plenty of leisure activities on-site
in Phnom Penh in the afternoon where ther rest of the
and outside of the resort.
evening is free at your leisure.
DAY 9-10 Phnom Penh Discover the vibrant city of Phnom Penh. Enjoy a full day city tour visiting main attractions such as Wat Phnom, the National Museum, the iconic Royal Palace that houses the Throne Hall, Temple of Emerald Buddha, Stupas, a royal dining hall, the Chan Chhaya Pavilion and lastly, the impressive Silver Pagoda. Cruise the Mekong River on a one hour boat ride. The following day, understand Cambodia’s recent tragic past with a visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek. Today both are peaceful places and respectful tributes to those who suffered so greatly at the hands of the
Ta Tai River in Koh Kong
DAY 14 Koh Kong - Phnom Penh Departure Transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for departure flight.
Khmer Rouge. For a unique experience, explore the city with a cyclo tour to Phsar Thmey (Central Market) and The Art Decor building.
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4 DAYS
Sihanoukville Extension
SIHANOUKVILLE
Extend your trip from Phnom Penh to the pearly white beaches of Sihanoukville, with plenty of activities and sights to discover. DAY 1-3 Sihanoukville
BOKOR NATIONAL PARK
Arrival in Sihanoukville and transfer to your accomodation. Sihanoukville is known for its pristine white sand beaches surrounded with remote islands all in a laid back atmosphere, enjoy an unforgettable beach retreat in this paradise. You are free to enjoy your days for your own leisure. There are plenty of activities and half-day tours to enjoy in this area such as: •
Sihanoukville City Tour
•
Ream National Park
•
Bokor National Park
•
Kirirom National Park
•
Koh Rong island trip by catamaran
•
Buggy tours
•
Scuba diving
Bokor National Park is known for its cool climate and stunning view over the Gulf of Thailand and Phu Quoc Island. At the Bokor plateau you will see remains of the French colonial era, a Catholic Church, a former French Casino Hotel and more.
KOH RONG ISLAND
SIHANOUKVILLE CITY TOUR
Take a trip to the pristine island Koh Rong Samloem by cataraman and swim in the coral bay. There may be possibility for snorkeling (incl. your mask and snorkel)!
An ideal introduction to Sihanoukville! See the Buddhist Pagoda, the Orthodox and Catholic Church, and the exotic Snake House. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the the elite Classic Complex and more!
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DAY 4 Sihanoukville Departure Free leisure in the morning before departure.
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