Panorama of Cambodia – 10 Days

GENERAL INFORMATION

Duration: 10 days/9 nights
Start/End: Phnom Penh/ Phnom Penh
Tour Route: Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap – Kep City – Phnom Penh
Tour Type: Natural and Landscape, History and Culture
Tour Categories: Cambodia local tours
Tour Customizable: Definitely! (Let us know all your specific requirements in inquiry form)
Guides: Local Tour Guides (English and Other Languages upon your Request)
Transportation: Private first-class air-conditioned vehicles
Accommodation: Well-equipped rooms with full services

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day 01: Phnom Penh Arrival
Day 02: Phnom Penh City Tour
Day 03: Phnom Penh – Battambang
Day 04: Battambang – Phnom Sampeau
Day 05: Battambang – Siem Reap – Angkor Temples
Day 06: Ta Phrohm – Angkor Wat – Banteay Srei
Day 07: Tonle Sap Lake
Day 08: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh – Kep City
Day 09: Kep City Excursion
Day 10: Phnom Penh Departure

FULL ITINERARY

Day 01: Phnom Penh Arrival (L, D)

Upon landing in Phnom Penh, you'll receive a warm welcome from your tour guide. You'll then proceed to check-in at your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely morning to relax and observe the hustle and bustle of the Cambodian capital.

In the afternoon, explore some of Phnom Penh's renowned landmarks via tuk-tuk, a popular mode of transport in the city and throughout Cambodia. Your first stop will be Wat Ounalom, a significant temple in Phnom Penh and the center of Cambodian Buddhism. Known for its unique architectural complex, this sacred site draws pilgrims nationwide and is a key attraction for tourists visiting Cambodia. Afterwards, you'll visit the National Museum and the Royal Palace.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 02: Phnom Penh City Tour (B, L, D)

On your second day in Phnom Penh, you'll delve into the tragic history of Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime with visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Death Field. These sites offer profound insights into Cambodia's darkest period and leave lasting impressions.

In the late afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Sisowath Quay. Known as the new Western town in Phnom Penh (contrasting with the old Boeng Kak Lake Western town), Sisowath Quay buzzes with vibrant restaurants, cafes, and bars, creating an energetic atmosphere. It's also a prime spot to witness boat races during Cambodia's New Year celebrations.

Day 03: Phnom Penh – Battambang (B, D)

Located 293 km northwest of Phnom Penh, Battambang is Cambodia's second-largest city, renowned for its picturesque setting along the river and well-preserved French colonial architecture. As you journey to this city, you'll be captivated by the romantic scenery along the banks of Cambodia's famous Tonle Sap Lake.

Along the way, you'll visit two of Cambodia's most beautiful cities. First, Oudong, situated approximately 40 km northwest of Phnom Penh, was once a royal capital until 1866, when King Norodom relocated to the modern capital, Phnom Penh. Next, you'll stop in Kompong Chhnang, known for its pottery workshops and skilled craftsmen, where you can experience the local artisan work before continuing your journey to Battambang.

Day 04: Battambang – Phnom Sampeau (B, L, D)

Upon arriving in Battambang, visitors will be enchanted by the serene beauty of small villages, lush rice paddies, and thriving farms, offering a perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

In the morning, explore Ek Phnom Temple, an 11th-century Angkorian ruin constructed during the reign of King Suryavarman I. The temple features towers set within a spacious courtyard adorned with beautiful stone carvings. The journey from Battambang to Ek Phnom passes through picturesque villages. After lunch, continue your excursion to Phnom Banan, a mountain temple also dating back to the 11th century Angkorian era. It boasts five towers and offers stunning views amidst a peaceful ambiance.

Conclude your day with a visit to Sampeou Temple, situated atop a mountain with ascending steps. This temple complex includes several caves, some of which were used as execution sites during the Khmer Rouge regime, leaving behind poignant reminders of history. Enjoy the panoramic views and engage in conversations with monks about the legendary Neang Rumsay Sok. Overnight accommodation will be at your hotel.

Day 05: Battambang – Siem Reap – Angkor Temples (B, L)

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Siem Reap – Angkor, starting with a visit to Angkor Thom. Situated within the Angkor Wat complex, Angkor Thom stands as a mysterious and majestic site that captivates numerous visitors to Cambodia. As the last great capital of the Angkor Empire, Angkor Thom is revered for its ancient beauty and holds immense cultural significance for the Cambodian people. Explore iconic sites within Angkor Thom including the Terrace of the Elephants, the Leper King, and the Royal Palace, before returning to Siem Reap.

Day 06: Ta Prohm – Angkor Wat – Banteay Srei (B)

This morning, start your day with a visit to Ta Prohm, located east of the Angkor Archaeological Site and easily accessible from Siem Reap City. You can choose to explore the temple by renting a bike, taking a tuk-tuk, or joining an open tour with a private shuttle. Admission to Ta Prohm is included in the ticket for the entire Angkor Archaeological Site. Known for its stunning scenery with fig trees and ancient roots enveloping the temple walls, Ta Prohm is often likened to a scene from a fairy-tale novel. It gained fame as a filming location for the movie "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" in 2001, adding to its allure. After marveling at Ta Prohm, continue your journey to the temple of Banteay Srei. End your day with a visit to the pyramid-shaped Pre Rup temple to witness a breathtaking sunset before returning to Siem Reap.

Day 07: Tonle Sap Lake (B)

When booking a Cambodia tour package, many are drawn to the country's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap, recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 1997. The lake's Khmer name means "great freshwater" and it's a popular destination for tourists to experience local culture and observe daily life. Sunset boat trips on the lake offer serene views, capturing the peaceful essence of this remarkable place.

Day 08: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh – Kep City (B)

Today, you'll depart from Siem Reap to return to the capital, Phnom Penh, before continuing your journey to Kep, a scenic coastal city known for its beautiful resorts.

Day 09: Kep City Excursion(B, L)

You have a leisurely day planned for your excursion in Kep today. Unlike the bustling cities of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, Kep offers tranquility, simplicity, and a blend of preserved French architecture. You can relax on Kep Beach, known for its gentle waves, clear blue waters, and smooth white sands, all set against a backdrop of serene mountains and charming houses. Kep is renowned for its pristine beaches and delectable seafood, particularly its famous crabs, which are iconic to the city. Don't miss the chance to visit and savor seafood at the Kep Crab Market, a delightful experience during your tour of Kep by the sea in Cambodia.

Many visitors to Kep make sure to visit Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island. This island is just a 30-minute boat ride from Kep, offering clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and tall coconut palms that create a peaceful atmosphere. Koh Tonsay is ideal for snorkeling to see coral reefs and colorful fish.

Besides swimming and enjoying seafood, visitors to Kep can also engage in various activities. These include exploring Kep National Park, visiting the Kep Oceanarium, taking photos with the White Lady Statue, and exploring the Banteay Srei Butterfly Farm, home to hundreds of diverse butterfly species.

Day 10: Phnom Penh Departure (B)

Enjoy your final morning in Kep before returning to Phnom Penh for your departure from Cambodia. We trust that your Cambodia tour has created unforgettable memories for you. Safe travels!

See you again on the next trips with Indochina Tours!

Inclusions

• Experienced English speaking guide
• Private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
• Accommodation in double/twin sharing rooms with daily breakfast
• Other meals as mentioned in the itinerary
• Boat excursion
• Bottled drinking water for sightseeing

Exclusions

• International/domestic airfares & tax
• Visa fees
• Travel Insurance. (We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance from home)
• Personal expenditure (telephone, laundry, shopping and so on…)
• Tips for guide, driver, porters and project cost
• Beverage and alcoholic drinks
• Any other services not clearly mentioned on itinerary and trip inclusive portion