Siem Reap Essential Tours

Welcome to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is a sleepy backwater serving as a gateway to the ancient capital of Angkor. It is hard to believe that at its peak in the 12th century, this was one of the most advanced civilizations in the world and home to more than 1 million inhabitants. Meets our guide upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, transfers to hotel in Siem Reap (60km, with 1-hour driving) for check-in. Dinner at the local restaurant

Services included:

Transportation: Private vehicle and driver 

Guide: English Speaking Guide

Meals: Welcome dinner (a choice of local food or Indian food)

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today you will start with a short drive to the Roulous temple group. The ruins of Roulous are among the oldest Khmer monuments in the area, dating back to the 9th-century reign of King Indravarman I. Witness the evolution of these magnificent temples from the early days of the Khmer empire up to its peak with the Angkor temples in the 13th century. There are three key Hindu structures that remain at Roulous; Lolei, Bakong, and Preah Ko, which were all part of the ancient city of Hariharalaya. We will visit only Preah Koh temple (Nandi, bull vahana (“mount”) of the Hindu god Shiva) and because we will save time to continue to visit Banteay Srei temple, the only major temple that was not built by a monarch. It was constructed in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god – Shiva. Banteay Srei translates to “Citadel of the Women” and is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. Return to the town for lunch

Afternoon, we visitAngkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Return to the hotel for refreshing and dinner at the local restaurant

Services included:

Transportation: Private vehicle and driver 

Guide: English Speaking Guide

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Our guide and driver at the hotel, meets and transfers to visit Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire with its centerpiece; the Bayon temple. As you approach, you will notice the enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking in every direction. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army, and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passageway that leads to the Baphuon complex. And continue to visit the picturesque Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. Return to the town for lunch in the local restaurant

Afternoon visit the temples in Grand Circus, Preah Khan, Neak Pean and East Mebon Temple. The East Mebon is a 10th Century temple at Angkor, Cambodia. Built during the reign of King Rajendravarman, it stands on what was an artificial island at the center of the now dry East Baray reservoir. The East Mebon was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and honors the parents of the king. Return to the hotel for refreshing and dinner at the local restaurant

Services included:

Transportation: Private vehicle and driver 

Guide: English Speaking Guide

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner 

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel.

We will drive to the southern part of Siem Reap to embark on a short cruise at Chong Kneas, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia’s biggest natural water body. The experience is wonderful as we pass by floating houses, crocodile farm, schools, friendly children in small boats and fishermen at work. Return to the city and visit the handicraft centre of Artisans D’ Angkor. Founded in 1992, this organization creates job opportunities for young people from the rural areas while reviving traditional Khmer craftsmanship. Ancient techniques are still practiced here such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding and silk painting. Lunch at the local restaurant

Afternoon, if the time permit, we visit the old market. Siem Reap Old Market is one of the first Siem Reap attractions one should visit to find souvenirs and traditional Khmer goods. It is set in a great location right in the heart of town and is the main shopping spot for locals and tourists alike, and the hub of Siem Reap activity. Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for departure (60km, with 1-hour driving).

Services included:

Transportation: Private vehicle and driver 

Guide: English Speaking Guide

Meals: Breakfast, lunch