Early Morning – Sunrise at Angkor Wat
At 04:30 AM, your licensed English-speaking tour guide and private driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby. Begin your unforgettable day at Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most iconic temple and the largest religious monument in the world. Arrive in time to witness a spectacular sunrise behind its five lotus-shaped towers, casting golden light over the reflective pools, a truly magical moment.
Morning – Angkor Wat Exploration & Breakfast
After sunrise, continue your guided tour of Angkor Wat, admiring its intricate bas-reliefs and masterful Khmer architecture. Your guide will share stories and symbolism hidden within the temple’s carvings. Then return to your hotel for a relaxed breakfast and short rest.
Mid-Morning – Ancient City of Angkor Thom
Rejoin your guide to explore the grand walled city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Enter through the impressive South Gate, lined with mythological figures representing the Churning of the Ocean of Milk.
Highlights inside Angkor Thom include:
- Bayon Temple: Famous for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 enigmatic stone faces.
- Baphuon Temple: A mountain temple with stunning panoramic views.
- Phimeanakas & Royal Palace area: Phimeanakas is an ancient 10th century Hindu temple located in Angkor Thom. It's quite a popular temple on the tourist trail, and for good reason.
- Terrace of the Elephants: A grand viewing platform used for royal ceremonies.
- Terrace of the Leper King: Decorated with intricate carvings and historical mystery.
Noon – Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple)
Venture into the atmospheric Ta Prohm Temple, embraced by massive tree roots. Left partially unrestored to highlight the power of nature, this jungle-clad temple became world-famous after appearing in the movie Tomb Raider. Your guide will walk you through its haunting yet beautiful corridors.
Lunch Break: Enjoy lunch at a local Cambodian restaurant near the temples, where you can taste traditional Khmer dishes and relax before your final temple visits.
Afternoon – Banteay Kdei & Sras Srang
In the afternoon, explore Banteay Kdei, a serene Buddhist monastery built in the late 12th century. Just across the road lies Sras Srang, also known as the "Royal Bath" a vast reservoir used by the Khmer elite, perfect for photos and a moment of calm.
Return to Hotel: After a day rich in discovery, return to your hotel in Siem Reap for a well-deserved rest. Overnight in Siem Reap