Highlights
Get a taste of fascinating Cambodia on this five days tour. Explore Cambodia’s capital and its major landmarks including the fascinating Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. Visit the sobering and poignant Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a startling glimpse into the country’s tragic history. Explore the stunning Angkor temples complex and Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Sail on the beautiful Tonlé Sap Lake, get insights into the vibrant daily life of the locals. Experience all the enrichment and excitement that Cambodia has to offer with a journey to its most iconic spots.
Details
Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival
Welcome to Phnom Penh - the capital of Cambodia. Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by our local guide and transferred to your hotel for a short rest. This afternoon discover the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh.
Start with a visit to the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks. Set on the bank of Tonlé Sap River, the palace began to be built in 1886 after King Norodom relocated the royal capital to Phnom Penh and was completed before World War I. Up until today the palace is the primary residence of the King of Cambodia. Next, visit the close-by Silver Pagoda (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). This extraordinary structure is named for its floor, which is covered by 5,000 silver tiles each weighing 1 kilogram. The pagoda houses an extraordinary collection of Buddhas in gold, silver, crystal, and bronze.
Continue to the National Museum of Cambodia, just north of the Royal Place. Built in traditional Khmer style, the museum is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Over 5,000 pieces are on display, constituting the repository of the Kingdom's cultural wealth.
If time permits, walk up the small hillside to Wat Phnom, serving as a religious sanctuary for prayers and offerings since 1373.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 2: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap (B/L)
Breakfast in hotel. This morning visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is the memorial site of the S-21 interrogation and detention center of the Khmer Rouge regime. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, it preserves a tragic period in history with the aim to encourage visitors to be messengers of peace.
Continue to the Toul Tompoung Market (Russian Market). The market became popular among the Russian expats during the 1980s, hence the name. Now it is the most popular market among tourists and expats and probably the best place to pick up souvenirs.
After lunch in local restaurant, transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for a short fight to Siem Reap. On arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
Breakfast in hotel. Spend full day exploring the most fabled temples in the Small Circuit of Angkor Archaeological Park.
This morning explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII in late 12th century. Angkor Thom is an almost square city surrounded by a stonewall, 8m high and 12 kilometers long, with five entrance gates (two in the east wall). Each gate is carved with three giant faces and is flanked by 54 gods on the left and 54 demons on the right of its causeway.
Continue to the Bayon Temple, the centerpiece of Angkor Thom complex. The structure encompasses 54 towers that are decorated with 216 smiling stone faces. Next proceed to the Baphuon Temple nearby. The 11th century pyramid–style temple was probably among the most impressive of the Angkor temples in its day. Climb steep stairs to the upper terrace of the temple and enjoy great views from there. Follow by a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both known for their intricate bas-reliefs.
After lunch, have a short break before heading to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The architectural masterpiece was built in the 12th century, took 30 years to complete and represents the Khmer civilization at it grandest. Crowned by five towers, with elaborate bas-reliefs and a profusion of statues, Angkor Wat is enthralling. The temple is the national symbol of Cambodia and proudly appears on the country’s flag.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 4: Temples of Angkor (B/L)
Breakfast in hotel. Spend full day of adventure to the most beautiful temples in Grand Circuit of Angkor Archaeological Park.
Visit to one of the most picturesque Angkor temples, Ta Prohm. Built in the mid 12th to early 13th centuries during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Ta Prohm is unique in that it remains largely overgrown by jungle. Continue to another temple built during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan. While Ta Prohm was built to honour the king’s mother, Preah Khan was built for his father. Preah Khan is less visited and more unrestored, and therefore offers more of a “Tomb Raider” experience.
If time permits, visit the temples of Banteay Kdei and Takeo nearby. Both are peaceful and quite in contrast to other famous temples. Built by King Jayavarman VII, Banteay Kdei means “A Citadel of Chambers”. This photogenic temple is actually made up of a fascinating maze of chambers. Takeo is the first temple built entirely in sandstone during the reign of King Jayavarman V (968 - 1001). As one of the tallest monuments of Angkor, its five sanctuaries are placed on top of a 22-meter high stepped pyramid, offering good views of the surrounding area.
This afternoon travel to the countryside to see the hidden gem of the Angkor Archaeological Park, the beautiful temple of Banteay Srey. Banteay Srey is unique in that it is constructed of pink sandstone, which is seen nowhere else in the park. This small temple is noted for its truly remarkable fine bas-reliefs. Because of its remote location, the temple is often passed over by visitors but is probably the best-preserved monument of the entire Angkor complex.
On the way back to Siem Reap, visit the charming temple of Ta Som (if time permits). It was built in the Bayon style and has been well restored. One of the most prominent features of this temple is the huge strangler fig tree, which has engulfed the eastern gate, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Our last stop today is Pre Rup temple. Climb up to the top level of this ancient temple and enjoy sunset over the temples and the jungle.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
After breakfast, drive past expansive rice fields and through local villages to the Tonlé Sap Lake. Take a relaxing boat trip along a canal that lead to the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Visit a floating fishing village and observe the vibrant daily life of the locals.
Our last visit today is the Angkor Silk Farm, where you can witness the entire process of silk creation from the breeding process and life cycle of the silkworm to the spinning of the silk, the dying process and the creation of beautiful silk weavings on wooden hand looms.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant then transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Special Rates
Please contact us for the best rates.
HOTELS TO BE USED
SIEM REAP
Super Saver: Treasure Oasis Hotel/ Superior OR Angkor Holiday Hotel/ Superior
Standard: Saem Siem Reap Hotel/ Deluxe
Superior: Tara Angkor Hotel/ Superior
Deluxe: Victoria Angkor Resort/ Superior
PHNOM PENH
Super Saver: Le Grand Palais Boutique Hotel/ Superior
Standard: Double Leaf Boutique/ Superior
Superior: Sun & Moon, Urban Hotel/ Deluxe
Deluxe: Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence/ Deluxe
Hotels are subject to availability. In case any above hotel is not available, another similar hotel will be used.
Services included
+ Hotel accommodation in half-twin/double shared room with daily breakfast
+ Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
+ English speaking local guide (for other languages supplements apply)
+ Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air conditioned vehicle unless stated otherwise
+ Entrance fees for mentioned visits
+ Boat trip to Tonle Sap Lake
+ Taxes and service charges
Services not included
+ International and domestic flights
+ Visa fees, travel insurances
+ Meals other than mentioned above
+ Early check-in or late check-out fees
+ Camera/video entrance fees (if any)
+ Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips etc)
+ Additional transfer required due to emergency situation
+ Peak season surcharge and compulsory gala dinner on 24 Dec and 31 Dec
+ Guide and driver tips: USD8/pax/day
+ Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above
Terms & Conditions
CHILDREN POLICY
Child under 2, without extra bed: Free of charge
Child 2 - 11, without extra bed: 75% of adult rate
Child 2 - 11, with extra bed: 90% of adult rate
Child 12 and above: To be charged as adult
A maximum of two children under 12 can share room with two adults. The second child is required to book extra bed. Some hotels might restrict one child per room. We will inform you at the time of booking.
PAYMENT
Booking is made more than 30 days prior to cruise date: A 50% deposit of total value is required upon confirmation. The balance must be paid at least 30 days prior to cruise date.
Booking is made less than 30 days prior to cruise date: 100% of total value is required upon confirmation.
Payment method: by bank transfer or by credit card. Client/remitting party must cover their own bank charges. Credit card payment incurs a merchant service fee of 2% for Visa, Mastercard and 3% for American Express, in addition to the total amount payable.
Booking will be cancelled if payments are not received on due date(s).
CANCELLATION/AMENDEMENT
Cancellations or amendments must be informed in writing. E-mail cancellation or booking amendments are only effective once re-confirmed by FantaSea Travel. We strongly recommend to advice passenger to purchase travel insurance to cover cancellation cost if any. We do not cover any costs related to passengers’ travelling risk. Should you have to cancel or amend, the following terms will apply:
More than 30 days: 10% of total value
From 15 to 30 days: 25% of total value
From 8 to 14 days: 50% of total value
Within 7 days or no show: 100% of total value
Certain special offers may be non-refundable/non-amendable. These will be advised to you at the time of booking. Refund can take up to 45 days after cancellation date.
COVID-19 POLICY
For all new bookings made from 1 January 2021, we grant free cancellation up to 7 days prior to arrival (thereafter 100% charge) if the reason for cancellation is related to COVID-19 such as the following:
+ Guests suspected or confirmed to carry the virus
+ Guests being denied to board an airplane
+ Border closures in Vietnam, in a neighboring country for tour bookings or in the guests’ country of residence
+ Quarantine obligation
+ New lockdown
In such circumstances, FantaSea Travel will allow you to change the dates of your tour or offer you a credit for another tour. This policy is only valid if the ability to travel is beyond the control of the guest. Guests are required to provide reasonable documentation confirming that their inability to travel is due to COVID-19 related matters. The final decision to waive cancellation charges lies entirely with FantaSea Travel at all times.
For cancellations or booking modifications due to reasons not related to COVID-19 our standard policies as stipulated in this offer apply.
