4 DAYS TEMPLES OF ANGKOR EXPLORATION

The best temples at Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia

A perfect add-on to any Southeast Asia trip, explore the Angkor Temple complex with an expert local guide. Built over a period of 400 years by a number of different rulers and covering an area of more than 400 sq km, the temple complex of Angkor was only rediscovered 150 years ago. This magnificent site holds incredible structures and sculptures from the Khmer Empire and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. With its beautiful gardens, stone carvings, and endless photo opportunities, a visit to this magical and mysterious UNESCO World Heritage site will remain with you forever.

Overview

There is no doubt that the region of Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. For more than 500 years it was the centre of the Khmer empire and still today it is the spiritual heart of Cambodia. That the national flag has the main temple Angkor Wat in its design speaks volumes.

The whole area stretches out over 400 square kilometres and has more than a thousand temples (in various states of disrepair). Preservation and restoration have become a priority at Angkor and it was only in 2004 that the site was removed from the ‘in danger’ section of UNESCO’s World Heritage List. But, as with many sites of this notoriety, the threat to its conservation is now coming from booming tourist numbers. There are now more than two million visitors to the Angkor site each year.

Tour Program

Day 1: Siem Reap

Arrive in Siem Reap at any time. Arrival transfer included. There are no planned activities so feel free to explore or rest up for the excitement ahead.

Days 2–3: Siem Reap

Spend 2 days exploring the ruins of the Angkor Wat temple complex with a local expert guide. Over the course of 2 days, visit some of the highlights of this ancient capital, including the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm, which is a temple in the jungle known as the 'Tomb Raider' temple.

Wake early to watch the sun rise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple. Visit the enigmatic faces of Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, and tour Ta Prohm (aka the "Tomb Raider" temple), which is slowly being swallowed by the jungle.

Enjoy a stellar performance by Phare, a unique and socially conscious circus that injects Cambodian culture and history into its inspiring shows. See acrobatics, contortion, and aerial arts melded with theatre, modern dance, and more. Take in stories of war, relationships, and discrimination, inspired by the real-life experiences of Phare’s creators and performers.

A neighbourhood unto itself, Siem Reap’s night market is lively with shoppers exploring more than 240 hut shops selling souvenirs, artwork, and clothing. Opt for a Dr. Fish massage—small fish nibbling dead skin off your feet—or a visit to the tropical Brick House Bar.

Day 4: Siem Reap

Depart Siem Reap at any time. Meals included: Breakfast