An Insider’s Angkor

Day 3: Visit Kulen National Park & Elephant Sanctuary

Today, we take a journey to Phnom Kulen, one of Cambodia’s most sacred mountains, with deeply revered pagodas and ruins on its high plateau, which overlooks the plains below. There are quite a few steps up, but you’ll be able to pause to catch your breath and take in the excellent views. Having paid your respects at the Preach Ang Chup Pagoda, step into the jungle of Phnom Kulen National Path, on an old hunting trail that winds through the vine-covered trees until it reaches the River of 1000 Lingas, an array of unique riverbed carvings, and nearby Preah Ang Thom, a huge stone Buddha carved into the top of a rock, set in a bustling but atmospheric temple complex.

After exploring this national park, we will head to the Elephant Sanctuary, where you will spend time learning about elephants as you follow them through their natural habitat, observing their relationships and behaviors. After all the crawling, you will appreciate a local lunch in the forest.

Day 4: Visit Banteay Samre & Banteay Srei Temple

This morning, we drive to the remote temple of Banteay Samre, built by Kings Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II in the early part of the 12th century. This Hindu temple was built in the same style as Angkor Wat Temple. Your expert guide will decipher the myriad of stories behind the bas-relief carvings and give you insight into life during the height of the Khmer Empire.

Later, we deviate from the beaten path to visit the intricately carved and well-preserved Banteay Srei – the detailed reliefs on this smaller sandstone structure are considered the finest and most skillfully crafted in Cambodia. This red sandstone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings, which have been preserved remarkably well.

Day 5: Tour to Rouluos Temples & Floating Village

Today, we travel back in time to one of the earliest capitals in the Angkor area, Hariharalaya, now known as the Rouluos group temple. There are three key Hindu structures that remain: Lolei, Bakong, and Preah Ko temple, which were all part of the ancient city of Hariharalaya. You will walk approximately 3 km as you explore these peaceful ruins, meeting villagers along the way.

Then, we head to Kampong Pluk and, aboard your private boat, visit a floating village, built entirely on stilts in the Tonle Sap, the lake at Cambodia’s centre. See the little school, Buddhist temple, and shops before puttering off to a floating fishing village and a flooded forest, where – if water levels are high enough – you can pass amongst the branches by boat. The voyage will finish around mid-afternoon, leaving the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 6: Explore Siem Reap Countryside & Culinary Tour

Today, we explore rural villages and learn about the daily lives of the local people. You will be a world away from Siem Reap – it’s a perfect opportunity to get “off the beaten track” and gain a better understanding of Cambodian rural life, along with insight into traditional Khmer culture, something few visitors are lucky enough to experience.

Afterward, we ventured into the wonders of Cambodian cuisine by going to a village cooking class. Prepare to visit local markets, village life, and landmarks while whipping up delicious dishes. Cook with a private chef in their countryside kitchen, whilst learning the story behind Cambodia’s cuisine.

Day 7: Angkor Wat Sunrise & Tour Concludes

Today, rising at the crack of dawn, taking a deep breath, and getting ready to experience the once-in-a lifetime experience when you can see the most beautiful sunrise at Angkor Wat. Enjoy the stunning views and learn how the rising sun brings the temples to life. Then head down to explore the ancient temple at its most atmospheric, bathed in the warm glow of the morning sun. We’ll head into the inner sanctum of Angkor Wat to admire the carvings and architecture of the temple.

After having lunch, your guide will take you to the airport. Please arrange your departure flights any time from 15:00 onwards in order to fit in with our itinerary departure.