Tour
Overview
This
unforgettable journey explores Cambodia from bustling cities to remote
highlands, ancient temples, wildlife encounters, and tropical beaches. Starting
in Phnom Penh, travel through Kampong Cham, the wild landscapes of Mondulkiri,
river life in Kratie and Stung Treng, ancient Khmer capitals, Angkor’s iconic
temples, rural Battambang, colonial Kampot & Kep, and finish relaxing by
the sea in Sihanoukville.This tour is perfect for travelers seeking culture, nature,
history, and authentic local experiences.
Tour Highlights
• Phnom Penh city & Khmer history
• Countryside & Mekong River life in
Kampong Cham
• Ethical elephant experience in Mondulkiri
• Irrawaddy dolphins in Kratie
• 4,000 Islands region & waterfalls in
Stung Treng
• Remote jungle temples: Koh Ker & Beng
Mealea
• Angkor Wat sunrise & Small Circuit
• Sacred Phnom Kulen National Park
• Floating village on Tonle Sap Lake
• Battambang countryside & bamboo train
• Pepper farms, salt fields & seaside Kep
• Relax and end the tour in Sihanoukville
beach town
Day
1: Phnom Penh – Arrival
• Airport pickup
• Transfer to hotel
• Free time or evening walk along the Mekong
River
Day
2: Phnom Penh City Tour
Royal
Palace & Silver Pagoda
Start
the day with a visit to the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of
Cambodia. This beautiful complex showcases classic Khmer architecture, golden
roofs, and peaceful gardens. Inside the palace grounds is the Silver Pagoda,
named after its floor made of more than 5,000 silver tiles. Here you will see
sacred Buddha statues, including a life-size gold Buddha decorated with
thousands of diamonds.
National
Museum of Khmer Art
Continue
to the National Museum, located near the Royal Palace. This museum houses the
world’s finest collection of Khmer art, including sculptures from the Angkor
period (6th–13th centuries). The traditional red terracotta building and
tranquil courtyard provide a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s rich history,
culture, and religious traditions.
Wat
Phnom (Founding Place of the City)
Next,
visit Wat Phnom, the symbolic heart of Phnom Penh. Situated on a small hill,
this Buddhist temple marks the legendary founding place of the city. According
to legend, Lady Penh discovered sacred Buddha statues here in the 14th century.
Climb the steps to enjoy views of the city and observe locals praying for good
luck and success.
Tuol
Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)
In
the afternoon, visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was
turned into a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979). This powerful
and emotional site displays photographs, documents, and preserved rooms that
tell the tragic story of Cambodia’s recent past. It offers an important insight
into the country’s history and resilience.
Central
Market or Russian Market (Local Shopping)
After
the historical visits, enjoy free time for shopping at either Central Market or
Russian Market.
• Central Market
(Phsar Thmei) is famous for its unique Art Deco architecture and wide variety
of souvenirs, jewelry, clothes, and local snacks.
• Russian Market
(Phsar Toul Tom Poung) is popular for handicrafts, silk products, souvenirs,
and casual clothing.
Overnight
in Phnom Penh
Day
3: Phnom Penh →
Kampong Cham
Drive from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham (Mekong
River Route)
After
breakfast, depart Phnom Penh and travel northeast toward Kampong Cham. The
drive takes about 2.5–3 hours and follows the scenic Mekong River, offering
views of riverside villages, rice fields, fishing boats, and daily rural life.
Along the way, your driver can stop for photos, local snacks, or short village
walks.
Overnight
in Kampong Cham
Day
4 :Visit Wat Nokor Bachey
After
breakfast, depart for a cultural and scenic exploration around Kampong Cham and
visit Wat Nokor, a unique and historically important site dating back to the
11th century (Angkorian period).
• The ancient sandstone temple is built inside
a modern Buddhist pagoda, symbolizing the harmony between old Khmer beliefs and
present-day Buddhism.
• Explore detailed carvings, old brick walls,
and peaceful monastic surroundings.
Bamboo
Bridge to Koh Paen Island (Seasonal)
Continue
to the famous Bamboo Bridge, a remarkable hand-built bridge connecting the
mainland to Koh Paen Island.
• The bridge is rebuilt every dry season using
bamboo and removed during the rainy season when the Mekong rises.
• Walk across the bridge and enjoy panoramic
river views.
• Visit Koh Paen village to experience
traditional island life, stilt houses, farming, and friendly
Day
5 : Kampong Cham →
Mondulkiri
Scenic Drive from Kampong Cham to Mondulkiri
After
breakfast, depart Kampong Cham and travel east toward Mondulkiri Province,
Cambodia’s most mountainous and least populated region. The journey takes
approximately 5–6 hours, passing through changing landscapes—from lowland farms
to rolling hills and forested highlands. Along the way, enjoy fresh air, scenic
viewpoints, and occasional stops for photos and refreshments.
Evening in Sen Monorom
Arrive
in Sen Monorom, the capital town of Mondulkiri, in the late afternoon or early
evening.
• Check in to your hotel or eco-lodge.
• Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the town,
visiting local markets, or dining at restaurants overlooking the hills.
• Cool temperatures and misty air make
evenings here especially pleasant.
Overnight
stay in Mondulkiri.
Rest
and prepare for the next day’s activities, such as waterfalls, nature walks, or
elephant experiences in the surrounding forests.cal communities.
Day
6: Mondulkiri – Elephant Experience
Ethical
Elephant Experience (No Riding)
After
breakfast, travel to an ethical elephant sanctuary in Mondulkiri that focuses
on conservation, rescue, and animal welfare.
• Meet elephants that were previously used for
logging or tourism.
• Learn about their individual stories,
behavior, and daily routines.
• This experience follows strict no-riding,
no-performing principles, ensuring the elephants live naturally and stress-free.
Walk
with Elephants in the Forest
Accompanied
by local guides and mahouts, enjoy a peaceful forest walk alongside the
elephants.
• Observe elephants as they roam freely,
forage for food, and interact naturally with each other.
• Learn about their diet, communication, and
role in forest ecosystems.
• This slow-paced walk allows for respectful
observation and memorable photography without disturbing the animals.
Day
7: Visit Bousra Waterfall
After
breakfast, Visite Bousra Waterfall,
Mondulkiri’s largest and most impressive waterfall.
• Walk to viewpoints overlooking the
multi-tiered cascade.
• During the rainy season, the waterfall is
especially powerful; in the dry season, access to the base may be possible.
• Time for relaxation, photos, and enjoying
the cool highland atmosphere.
Learn About Indigenous Bunong Culture
Gain
insight into the culture of the Bunong (Phnong) people, the indigenous
inhabitants of Mondulkiri.
• Learn about traditional farming, spiritual
beliefs, and forest-based lifestyles.
• Discover how elephants have historically
played an important role in Bunong culture and ceremonies.
• Opportunity to support community-based
tourism initiatives.
Overnight in Mondulkiri
Return
to Sen Monorom in the late afternoon.
• Evening at leisure: relax at your hotel or
eco-lodge, enjoy cool mountain air, or dine at a scenic viewpoint restaurant.
• Overnight stay in Mondulkiri.
Day
8: Mondulkiri →
Kratie
Drive
Through Rural Cambodia
After
breakfast, depart Mondulkiri and begin the journey southwest toward Kratie, a
peaceful town along the Mekong River.
• The drive takes approximately 5–6 hours,
passing through remote villages, rice fields, small rivers, and rolling
countryside.
•
Overnight stay in Kratie
Day
9 : Mekong River Viewpoints
As
you approach Kratie, visit scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mekong River, one
of Southeast Asia’s largest rivers.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the river winding
through the countryside.
• Learn about the Mekong’s importance for
transportation, fishing, and local culture.
• A great opportunity to see traditional
fishing villages and stilt houses from above.
Sunset Irrawaddy Dolphin Watching
Late
afternoon, take a boat ride along the Mekong River to spot the rare Irrawaddy
dolphins, one of the few freshwater dolphin species in the world.
• Observe these gentle dolphins as they
surface to breathe, often in small pods.
• Guides provide information about
conservation efforts and the unique ecology of the Mekong in this region.
• Enjoy the sunset over the river, creating
perfect photo opportunities and a serene, memorable experience.
Overnight in Kratie
Return
to your hotel in Kratie for the evening.
• Evening at leisure: stroll along the
riverfront, visit local markets, or relax at your hotel with views of the
Mekong.
• Overnight stay in Kratie, a calm provincial
town ideal for experiencing riverside charm and Cambodian village life.
Day
10 : Kratie → Stung Treng
Drive
North Along the Mekong River
After
breakfast, depart Kratie and drive north toward Stung Treng, following the
scenic Mekong River.
• The drive takes approximately 4–5 hours
through lush countryside, small villages, and riverside landscapes.
• Along the way, enjoy the peaceful rural
scenery, including rice paddies, fishermen at work, and stilted houses along
riverbanks.
• Occasional stops allow for photos and
interaction with local communities, providing insight into daily Cambodian village
life.
Explore
Local Markets
Arrive
in Stung Treng and visit the central market or smaller local markets nearby.
• Observe the wide variety of fresh produce,
fish from the Mekong, traditional crafts, and daily essentials.
• This is a great opportunity to interact with
local vendors, learn about regional food, and taste local snacks or fruits.
• Markets in Stung Treng offer a vivid glimpse
of authentic life away from tourist hubs . Overnight in Stung
Treng
Day
11 Visit Waterfalls Near the 4,000 Islands Area (Seasonal)
After
breakfast, explore waterfalls located in the northern Mekong river region near
the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) area, if accessible and in season.
• The waterfalls here are usually smaller
cascades but beautifully scenic, surrounded by tropical forest and wildlife.
• Ideal for photos, short walks, and enjoying
the natural beauty of Cambodia’s northern riverside landscapes.
• Note: Waterfalls may vary depending on the
season and water level; in dry season some falls may be less impressive.
Overnight in Stung Treng
Day
12 : Stung Treng →
Siem Reap–Koh Ker & Beng Mealea
Early Departure to Koh Ker (Former Khmer
Capital)
• Depart Stung Treng early in the morning
(around 6:00–7:00 AM) to maximize time for sightseeing.
• Drive southwest through the Cambodian
countryside toward Koh Ker, the 9th-century Khmer capital, which was briefly
the royal capital during the reign of King Jayavarman IV.
• Along the route, enjoy rural scenery, small
villages, and glimpses of Mekong tributaries, capturing the essence of
off-the-beaten-path Cambodia.
Visit
Prasat Thom – Pyramid Temple
• Arrive at Koh Ker Archaeological Complex and
explore Prasat Thom, the central pyramid-shaped temple.
• Highlights:
• The temple rises seven tiers, symbolizing
Mount Meru from Hindu cosmology.
• Examine intricate carvings, lintels, and
ancient stone blocks reflecting Khmer architecture.
• Learn about Koh Ker’s short-lived role as
the Khmer capital and its strategic importance in the 10th century.
• Take time to walk around the ruins, climb
portions of the pyramid for panoramic views, and appreciate the remote jungle
setting.
Continue to Beng Mealea – Jungle Temple
• Depart Koh Ker for Beng Mealea,
approximately 1 hour away.
• Beng Mealea is an overgrown jungle temple,
larger and less restored than Angkor Wat, giving it a mysterious and
atmospheric feel.
• Highlights:
• Explore massive collapsed stone walls and
corridors entwined with tree roots.
• Discover hidden passageways, small shrines,
and intricate carvings, partially preserved under moss and vines.
• Enjoy the sense of adventure walking through
a temple largely reclaimed by nature.
• Optional: Photography opportunities and
short walks along the jungle paths.
Day
13 :Siem Reap – Sunrise & Angkor Small Circuit
Early
Morning Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Depart
the hotel very early in the morning to experience the magical sunrise at Angkor
Wat. Watch as the sun slowly rises behind the iconic towers, reflecting in the
lotus ponds and creating unforgettable photo opportunities. After sunrise,
enjoy a short break for coffee or breakfast near the temple area.
Explore
Angkor Wat Temple Complex
After
sunrise, explore the Angkor Wat temple complex in detail. Built in the early
12th century, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Walk
through its grand galleries, central sanctuary, and impressive bas-reliefs
depicting scenes from Hindu epics and Khmer history. Learn about the temple’s
architectural brilliance and spiritual significance.
Angkor
Thom – South Gate
Continue
to Angkor Thom, the ancient walled city and former capital of the Khmer Empire.
Enter through the monumental South Gate, lined with stone statues of gods and
demons holding a naga (serpent). This dramatic entrance sets the stage for the
temples within the city.
Bayon
Temple (Smiling Faces)
Visit
the Bayon Temple, famous for its many serene stone faces carved on towering
pillars. Built in the late 12th century, Bayon is known for its detailed
bas-reliefs showing everyday life, battles, and celebrations of the Angkor era.
The mysterious smiling faces make this one of the most memorable temples in
Angkor.
Baphuon
& Elephant Terrace
Proceed
to Baphuon, an 11th-century temple mountain that offers a short climb and views
over the Angkor Thom area. Nearby, visit the Elephant Terrace, once used by
kings for public ceremonies and royal processions. The terrace is decorated
with detailed elephant carvings and ancient stone reliefs.
Ta
Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple)
In
the afternoon, explore Ta Prohm, one of Angkor’s most atmospheric temples. Left
largely in its natural state, massive tree roots grow over and through the
temple ruins, creating a dramatic scene. Ta Prohm became famous after appearing
in the movie Tomb Raider and remains a favorite for photography.
Return
to Hotel & Rest
After
a full day of temple exploration, return to your hotel in the afternoon. Free
time to relax, swim, or enjoy a massage after the early start.
Overnight
in Siem Reap
Day
14 : Kulen National Park
Drive
to Phnom Kulen National Park
After
breakfast, depart Siem Reap for a scenic drive (approximately 1–1.5 hours) to
Phnom Kulen National Park. This sacred mountain is considered the birthplace of
the Angkor Empire and is an important pilgrimage site for Cambodians. The drive
passes through rural villages and forested landscapes before reaching the park
entrance.
River
of 1,000 Lingas
Begin
the visit at the River of 1,000 Lingas, a shallow riverbed carved with
thousands of ancient Shiva lingas and symbolic designs dating back to the 9th
century. The carvings bless the water as it flows downstream toward Angkor.
Visitors can walk along the river and observe these unique underwater carvings
during the dry season.
Reclining
Buddha at Preah Ang Thom
Continue
to Preah Ang Thom, home to a large reclining Buddha carved directly into a
sandstone rock. This sacred site is an active place of worship where locals
come to pray and make offerings. Climb the stairs to the platform and enjoy
peaceful views of the surrounding forest.
Kulen
Waterfall (Swimming Possible – Seasonal)
Visit
the Kulen Waterfall, one of the most beautiful natural attractions near Siem
Reap. Depending on the season, enjoy time to relax, take photos, or swim in the
refreshing natural pools beneath the falls. The waterfall is especially
impressive during the rainy season.
Return
to Siem Reap in the Afternoon
In
the afternoon, depart Phnom Kulen National Park and return to Siem Reap. Enjoy
the scenic drive back after a day of nature, culture, and history.
Overnight
in Siem Reap
Arrive
back at the hotel and enjoy free time in the evening. Overnight stay in Siem
Reap.
Day
15 : Siem Reap →
Battambang
After
breakfast, depart Siem Reap for Battambang on a scenic drive through Cambodia’s
beautiful countryside. Along the way, enjoy views of vast rice fields, palm
trees, and traditional wooden houses that reflect daily rural life.
We
make short stops to visit local villages, where you can see farmers at work,
interact with friendly locals, and learn about traditional activities such as
rice farming and small handicrafts. This is a great opportunity to take photos
and experience authentic Cambodia beyond the main tourist routes.
Arrive
in Battambang in the late afternoon. After hotel check-in, enjoy a relaxed
evening in town—stroll along the riverside, explore the local market, or have
dinner at a charming restaurant by the Sangker River. Overnight in Battambang.
Day
16 : Battambang City & Countryside Tour
Bamboo
Train Ride through the Countryside
Begin
the day with a ride on Battambang’s famous Bamboo Train (Norry). Travel along
old railway tracks on a simple bamboo platform powered by a small engine. The
ride passes through peaceful countryside, rice fields, and small villages,
offering a fun and unique local experience and a great introduction to rural
life in Battambang.
Visit
Local Villages & Rice Paper Making
Continue
with visits to nearby local villages where you can observe traditional daily
life. Stop at family-run workshops to see how rice paper is made by hand, from
soaking and grinding the rice to drying the thin sheets in the sun. You may
also see other home industries such as rice wine or dried banana production, depending
on the village.
Phnom
Banon or Phnom Sampov
In
the afternoon, visit either Phnom Banon or Phnom Sampov:
• Phnom Banon
is an Angkor-era hilltop temple with well-preserved ruins and scenic views. A
climb of about 350 steps leads to the summit, rewarding visitors with panoramic
countryside landscapes.
• Phnom Sampov
is known for its dramatic limestone hill, Buddhist shrines, and tragic history.
Here you can visit the Killing Caves, where many victims lost their lives
during the Khmer Rouge period, making this an important historical and
reflective site.
Evening
Bat Cave Experience
In
the late afternoon, remain at Phnom Sampov to witness the unforgettable bat
cave experience. At sunset, thousands to millions of bats stream out of the
cave in a continuous flow across the sky as they head out to feed. This natural
phenomenon lasts around 30–45 minutes and is one of Battambang’s most
impressive sights.
Overnight
in Battambang
Return
to Battambang town in the evening. Enjoy free time to relax or dine at local
restaurants. Overnight stay in Battambang.
Day
17 : Battambang →
Kampot
After
breakfast, depart Battambang for a scenic drive south toward Kampot. The
journey passes through peaceful countryside, rice fields, traditional villages,
and small provincial towns, offering a glimpse of everyday Cambodian life along
the way. Several short stops can be made for refreshments, local markets, or
photos.
Upon
arrival in Kampot in the late afternoon, check in to your hotel and take time
to relax.
Day
18 : Kampot & Kep
Discover
the highlights of southern Cambodia with a full day exploring Kampot and Kep.
From world-famous pepper plantations to coastal scenery and local seafood
markets, this day blends culture, countryside, and seaside charm.
After
breakfast, begin the day with a visit to a traditional Kampot pepper
plantation, where you will learn about the cultivation and processing of Cambodia’s
most famous spice, known worldwide for its quality and flavor.
Continue
to the salt fields around Kampot, an iconic landscape where sea water is
traditionally evaporated to produce natural salt. Learn about local production
methods and enjoy photo opportunities, especially during the dry season.
In
the afternoon, drive to Kep, a quiet seaside town once popular during the
colonial era. Enjoy free time by the sea before visiting the lively Kep Crab
Market, famous for its fresh blue crabs cooked with Kampot pepper. You may
choose to have lunch or snacks at one of the seaside restaurants.
Return
to Kampot or stay overnight in Kep, depending on your preference.
Day
19 : Bokor National Park
Explore
the cool mountain air and historic sites of Bokor National Park, offering
panoramic views, waterfalls, and fascinating colonial-era landmarks.
After
breakfast, drive up to Bokor National Park, located in the Elephant Mountains.
Along the way, enjoy scenic views over the coastline and countryside.
•
Bokor Hill Station (French colonial ruins)
• Old Catholic Church
• Wat Sampov Pram
• Popokvil Waterfall (seasonal)
After
exploring the park, descend back to Kampot or Kep in the afternoon.
Overnight
in Kampot
After
breakfast, depart Kampot for a comfortable transfer to Sihanoukville,
Cambodia’s main coastal gateway. Enjoy the drive through southern countryside
and coastal landscapes, with optional short stops along the way for
refreshments or photos.
Upon
arrival in Sihanoukville, you will be dropped off at your hotel or at the pier
for onward travel to the islands such as Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem.
This
marks the end of our services. Thank you for traveling with us, and we wish you
a wonderful stay by the sea or a pleasant onward journey.
