Beyond Ancient Treasures

Day1: Sambor Prei Kuk “a UNESCO World Heritage Site”- Kampong Kdei Ancient Bridge

8:00 AM- Depart from Siem Reap to Sambor Prei Kuk. Sambor Prei Kuk a sprawling archaeological site, dating back to the 7th century, the pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom, established by King Isanavarman I as central royal sanctuary and capital, known as “Isanapura”.  In 2017, Sambor Prei Kuk was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine towering brick temples, once bustling with religious fervor, standing now as silent sentinels, adorned with intricate carvings that speak of ancient beliefs and lost civilizations.   More than just impressive ruins, Sambor Prei Kuk offers a unique glimpse into the roots of Khmer culture.

9:00 AM– explore Kampong Kdei Ancient Bridge. The Kampong Kdei Bridge was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. It is a significant historical and cultural landmark in Cambodia, and it is a testament to the engineering skills of the Khmer Empire, and it is a reminder of the rich history of the country. The bridge is a popular tourist destination, and it is a great place to learn about the Khmer Empire and Cambodian culture.

9:30 AM– Move onto Sambor Prei Kuk.

Noon– Have lunch at Sambor community restaurant

1:00 PM- Explore the three main complexes – Preah Sambor, Preah Tor, and Preah Yeay Poun – each with its distinctive character and captivating stories. Marvel at the octagonal towers, a unique feature not found at Angkor, and lose yourself in the serenity of Prasat Chrey, a small temple almost consumed by a giant tree, symbolizing the harmonious interaction between nature and faith.

4:00 PM- Head to Homestay, Check in, dinner, and overnight.

Day2: Preah Khan Kampong Svay Temple Group

7:00 AM- depart from Kampong Thom to Preah Khan Kampong Svay. The Preah Khan of Kampong Svay (also known as Bakan) is a hidden gem offering a glimpse into Khmer history. The temple group was constructed primarily between the 11th and 13th centuries, with major contributions from kings Suryavarman I, Suryavaraman II, and Jayavaraman VII. Archeologists believed it to be a Mahayana Buddhist temple complex dedicated to the concept of a pure land. They also served as a crucial waypoint (“temple d’etape”) on the ancient eastbound highway network of the Angkor Empire, connecting Angkor Thom to other significant temples. Recent discoveries suggest the complex also played a role in the region’s iron mining, smelting, and

production activities.

9:30 AM- Start to discover the first temple of this group is Preah Damrei temple.

10:00 AM- explore Prasat Mebon of Preah Khan

11:00 AM-Move onto the next temple, Prasat Preah Chaktomuk

11:30  AM-Continue to your next journey, Prasat Preah Stoeng

At Noon:

1:30 PM-Discover the vast complex of Preah Khan Kampong Svay.

3:30 PM-Depart from Preah Khan Kampong Svay to Sra-aem.

6:30 PM- Arrive Sra-aem, and check in Hotel.

Day3: Preah Vihear Temple-Koh Ker Temple Group

7:00 AM- Depart from Hotel to Preah Vihear temple.

7:30 AM- Arrive at the Preah Vihear Ticket Selling Office.

8:00 AM- Explore the Preah Vihear temple complex. It is spread out over a large area spent your time to walk on a long walkway, see an architectural elegance, intricate carving, motifs, Hindu mythical depicting, culminating at the central sanctuary with panoramic views, and taking a fresh breath. The views from Preah Vihear are truly spectacular, so be sure to take some time to soak them in. Once you will feel that you are on the aerial palace where the god lives.

10:00 AM- Descent down to the ticket Selling Office,

10:30 AM- Head toward to Koh Ker Group. It is a city shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Once a powerful capital in the 10th century, Koh Ker reigned before Angkor Wat rose to prominence. Today, its majestic yet weathered monuments await your exploration, each whispering tales of forgotten battles, ambitious kings, and an empire shrouded in time.

1:00 PM- Lunch

2:00 PM- explore the temple in Koh Ker Group:

Prasat Pram is a captivating temple hidden amongst strangler fig trees. Built in the early 10th century and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Prasat Neang Khmao is a fascinating ancient temple, and it holds its own unique charm and historical significance. Prasat Krahom, adorned with exquisite lintels depicting mythical scenes. Prasat Thom, Ascend the seven tiers of this colossal pyramid, a unique blend of Khmer and Mayan influences, and gaze upon the sprawling jungle canopy, imagining the city teeming with life centuries ago.

Prasat Ling is one of many that were constructed during this period in Koh Ker, which was the capital of the Khmer Empire at the time. Prasat Ling is a simple, single-towered temple with a square floor plan and contains the large linga “The phallic Symbol”. There are not just a few of these temples, many temples you could explore within this ancient city.

5:00 PM- After a full day of exploration, we return to Siem Reap.

7:00 PM- Arrive Siem Reap.

Day4: Banteay Srei -Banteay Samre-Pre Rup- Kampong Phluk Community of “Tonle Sap Lake”

6:30 AM- Head to Banteay Srei temple.

7:30 AM- explore Banteay Srei “Citadel of Women” which is a modern name for this temple, but based on the inscription this temple was originally called Tribhuvanamahesvara. The special charm of this temple lies in its remarkable state of preservation, small size, and excellence of intricate decoration. The unanimous opinion amongst French archeologists who worked at Angkor is that Banteay Srei is a precious gem and jewelry in Khmer art.

9:00 AM- Explore Prasat Banteay Samre. It was constructed in the 12th century for dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. No inscription has been found for this temple, but the style of most of the architecture is similar to Angkor Wat.

10:00 AM- Head back to Hotel.

2:00 PM- Head to Kampong Phluk Community of “Tonle Sap Lake”

2:45 PM- Take a private traditional long-tail boat and embark on a cruise onto the Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. It’s more than just a massive freshwater lake (the largest in the region!), it’s a pulsating ecosystem and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve rich in biodiversity and is home to several floating villages that are deeply intertwined with Cambodian life. There are several floating communities including Kompong Phluk, Kampong Khleang, Mechrey, Chong Khneas, etc. Upon you reach the open lake; you pass the Kampong Phluk Community “a cluster of three villages of stilted houses built within the floodplain of the Great Lake Tonle Sap. The village comprises approximately 3000 inhabitants; you will get a firsthand experience of life on the water, observing stilted houses, schools, markets, police boxes, a church, a Buddhist monastery built on an artificial island, floating restaurants, etc. Interact with locals and learn about their fishing practices and adaptation to the changing water levels. Stop at the Floating port, and Take a paddle boat rowing through the Flooded Mangrove Forest. As you paddle through the tranquil waters, you’ll be surrounded by the verdant mangrove trees, their intricate root systems forming a labyrinthine underwater world. The silence will be broken only by the gentle lapping of water and the calls of birds. After paddling the boat through the mangrove forest your next journey is viewing the sunset. Viewing the sunset from a boat allows you to experience the lake from a different perspective. You can observe the floating villages bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, creating a picturesque scene. Capturing the beauty of the sunset with your camera or simply etching it in your memory will ensure this experience stays with you long after your trip.

5:30 PM-Depart from Kampong Phluk to Siem Reap.

Day5: Angkor Wat sunrise-Ta Prohm-Banteay Kdei-Srah Srang-Angkor thom Complex.

4:30 AM- Depart to Angkor Wat temple whisking you through the sleepy Siem Reap streets, past slumbering cafes and shuttered shops. Reaching the Angkor Wat grounds, let’s begin your day before dawn, to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of this ancient temple. Witness the temple’s silhouette transform from a majestic outline to a glowing masterpiece bathed in golden light.

7:15 AM- Head toward Ta Prohm temple, while you can enjoy your breakfast box on your private car.

7:30 AM- Start to explore the North Gate of Ta Prohm, then walk to the main temple, and explore it more. Ta Prohm “Ancestor Brahma” is one of the large temples built in the late 12th century by King Jayavaraman VII for dedicating to his mother. It is renowned for its art, architecture, intricate carving, and complicated plan. This temple is also famous for its dramatic trees growing out of the ruins, creating a mystical, Be sure to see the iconic overgrown trees, then take your time to capture the photogenic spots and soak in the atmosphere.

8:30 AM- Move to explore the nearby temple “Banteay Kdei”. Banteay Kdei, meaning “Citadel of Monks’ Cells,” offers a serene escape within the bustling Angkor Archaeological Park. Built at the end of the 12th century under King Jayavarman VII, it exudes a unique charm distinct from its more famous neighbors.

9:30 AM– Head back to the Hotel.

2:00 PM- Pick up, and head to the East Gate of Angkor Thom.

2:30 PM- Explore the East Gate of Angkor Thom, the grand capital of the Khmer Empire at its peak. Imagine this 9 km² walled city bustling with life in the 12th century. The towering gates, enigmatic sculptures, and grand avenues whisper tales of the past. Then we will walk on and along the city wall towards the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom.

3:15 PM- Head to the next journey, Preah Palilay temple. Upon reaching Preah Palilay we will walk past Tep Pranam Buddhist monastery, where you will see people get the Water-Blessing by Buddhist Monk. Then, continue to Prasat Preah Palilay, which offers a serene escape from the grandeur of its more famous neighbors. Though small, this Buddhist sanctuary holds its unique charm.

4:00 PM- Explore the Centre of Angkor Thom City “Prasat Bayon” a state temple adorned with hundreds of serene, enigmatic faces peering out from its towers. Each face, believed to represent the compassionate king Jayavarman VII, embodies the spirit of the Khmer Empire – powerful yet benevolent. Beyond the Bayon, explore architectural wonders, bas-reliefs depicting the Khmer history and daily life, Apsara the celestial dancers who perform for the god, etc.

5: 00 PM- Move onto the South Gate of Angkor Thom, then view the sunset at the moat of this capital city. After sunset we head back to the Hotel.