4 Days Discover Temples and Floating Village

Day 1: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

• Early Morning: Sunrise at Angkor Wat: Your day begins early with a stunning sunrise over Angkor Wat. The temple’s silhouette against the vibrant sky is unforgettable. Arrive before dawn to secure the best spot for photos and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the temple as the sun rises.

• Angkor Wat: Explore the world’s largest religious monument, known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and expansive galleries. Don’t miss the iconic reflection pool in front of the temple, perfect for capturing the temple’s beauty.

• Bayon Temple: Head to Bayon, located within the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Famous for its massive stone faces carved into the towers, this temple offers a surreal experience. Wander through the maze of corridors and discover hidden nooks and fascinating bas-reliefs.

• Baphuon Temple: Visit the pyramid-shaped Baphuon, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and temples, offering a beautiful vantage point.

• Royal Palace Area: Explore the Royal Palace area within Angkor Thom, including the Phimeanakas temple and the Terrace of the Elephants, adorned with intricate elephant carvings. The Terrace of the Leper King is another highlight, with its mysterious statue and intriguing bas-reliefs.

• Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Cambodian meal at one of the nearby restaurants or food stalls around the Angkor Wat complex.

• Ta Prohm: After lunch, head to Ta Prohm, the famous “Tomb Raider” temple. Known for its intertwining tree roots and overgrown ruins, it’s one of the most photogenic and atmospheric temples in Angkor.

Day 2: The Grand Tour

• Pre Rup: Start your day with Pre Rup, a Hindu temple with stunning views. Its reddish tones, especially during sunrise or sunset, create a captivating atmosphere. Explore the temple and enjoy the surrounding vistas from the top.

• East Mebon: Visit East Mebon, another 10th-century temple located on an artificial island within the Jayatataka Baray. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, it features impressive stone carvings and towering guardian Dvarapalas at the entrance.

• Ta Som: Continue to Ta Som, a small Buddhist temple built by King Jayavarman VII. Surrounded by a moat and enveloped by fig trees, this peaceful spot was once a hospital, with pools believed to have healing powers.

• Neak Poan: Explore Neak Poan, an artificial island with a circular Hindu temple representing the mythical healing lake, Anavatapta, from the Himalayas. The temple is encircled by four tranquil pools, adding to its serene atmosphere.

• Preah Khan: End your day at Preah Khan, another grand temple built by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. This massive complex was once home to a vast community of officials and servants. Wander through its labyrinthine galleries and appreciate the harmonious blend of Buddhist and Hindu elements.

• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Cambodian lunch at a nearby food stall or restaurant.

• Banteay Srei: Finish the day by visiting Banteay Srei, a temple renowned for its delicate pink sandstone carvings. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, its intricate and detailed carvings make it one of the most beautiful temples in Angkor.

Day 3: Phnom Kulen and Floating Village

• Phnom Kulen Waterfall: Start your day with a trip to Phnom Kulen, also known as Kulen Mountain, about 48 kilometers from Siem Reap. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by car or van. The mountain is famous for its waterfalls, where you can swim and enjoy the refreshing natural pools. Don’t forget to bring swimwear!

• Lunch: After enjoying the waterfalls, relax with a local lunch at one of the nearby eateries, surrounded by nature.

• Floating Village: Conclude your day with a visit to a floating village on Tonlé Sap Lake. Experience the unique lifestyle of locals who live on the water, with floating houses, schools, and markets. A boat tour will take you up close to these floating communities, providing insights into the local culture and traditions.

Day 4: Koh Ker and Beng Mealea

• Koh Ker: Embark on a journey to the remote archaeological site of Koh Ker, about 120 kilometers from Siem Reap. Briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire under Kings Jayavarman IV and Harshavarman II (928–944 AD), Koh Ker is home to several impressive temples, including the towering Prasat Thom.

• Beng Mealea: After exploring Koh Ker, head to Beng Mealea, located 40 kilometers east of Angkor. This temple, surrounded by a large moat, closely resembles Angkor Wat in its architectural style. Carvings depicting both Hindu and Buddhist motifs make it a fascinating and peaceful spot for exploration.

This 4-day itinerary offers an enriching experience that blends iconic temples, natural wonders, and cultural insights, giving you a comprehensive tour of Cambodia’s ancient and vibrant history.