Cambodia · Archaeology

4-Day Cambodia Tour with Angkor Wat Sunrise and Phnom Kulen

4 Days Round trip from Krong Siem Reap Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world
02 Explore Bayon Temple and its serene stone faces rising from 37 towers
03 Visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Centre to learn about Cambodia's turbulent past
04 Discover the Valley of 1000 Lingas and its ancient religious carvings
05 Swim beneath the spectacular waterfall at Phnom Kulen National Park
06 Experience the floating villages and rural communities of Tonle Sap Lake

Embark on a captivating 4-day journey through Cambodia, beginning with a warm welcome in Siem Reap before exploring Phnom Kulen, the Cambodia Landmine Museum, the Valley of 1000 Lingas, and the floating communities of Tonle Sap Lake. Witness the unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat and discover the remarkable architecture and history of Bayon, Ta Prohm, Angkor Thom, and the Terrace of the Elephants. With comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and carefully planned visits throughout, this tour offers a rich introduction to Cambodia's culture, history, and natural beauty.

Experiencing the sunrise over Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is a bucket-list favourite among travellers.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Luxury

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen

Languages Cambodian, English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Welcome in Siem Reap

You'll arrive at Siem Reap's International Airport.
We'll know exactly when your flight is due and will meet you upon arrival.
We're easy to spot with our EXPLORE CAMBODIA welcome sign and matching tops.
We will quickly transfer you from the airport to your hotel, where you will be greeted with a welcome drink and helped to check into your room. You'll then have a great chance to relax after a long flight.
Your welcome pack will also include some exciting places to see or visit close to your hotel, either on foot or a short tuk-tuk journey away.

Day 02

Phnom Kulen, Landmine Museum and Tonle Sap

After enjoying a restful night's sleep in a comfortable bed and a delicious breakfast, you'll begin your tour by meeting your Siem Reap guide, who will accompany you for the next three days.
Our guides are selected for their extensive local knowledge, excellent communication skills, and, most importantly, their pride and passion for their country.
Our minibuses are designed for comfort, offering spacious seating, air conditioning, and a steady supply of bottled water and cold towels to ensure your journeys are as pleasant as possible.
Today's itinerary includes an opportunity to swim at Phnom Kulen, so we recommend bringing swimwear. The hotel can provide you with a towel. For your convenience, there are changing rooms available at the waterfall. These require a small fee of 2000 riel (£0.40/$0.50).
The Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Centre, situated within Angkor National Park close to the Banteay Srey Temple complex, presents a unique exhibition of landmines and other ordnance from Cambodia's turbulent past, emphasising the crucial role of mine clearance in the country.
The Valley of 1000 Lingas, located near the Siem Reap River in Cambodia, is an ancient archaeological site steeped in religious significance. The Valley of 1000 Lingas offers a unique glimpse into ancient Khmer civilisation's religious practices and artistic expressions.
Phnom Kulen National Park is home to one of Cambodia's largest and most spectacular waterfalls. It offers a secluded, cove-like atmosphere, encircled by towering trees and massive rocks. The waterfall cascades over two tiers into a serene pool, perfect for swimming. The park is also steeped in ancient history, housing a reclining Buddha statue amidst its verdant grounds.
On the way to the park, we have planned a couple of stops. First, visit a local village to see the preparation of their locally renowned steamed rice and coconut-filled muffins. Another stop includes a secret location that provides a stunning backdrop for photographs, showcasing the breathtaking scenery that awaits you.
The Floating Villages on the Shores of Tonle Sap Lake:
- June - February: If your visit falls between June and February, we'll have the opportunity to embark on a boat trip among the fascinating homes perched on the shores of Lake Tonle Sap. Witness the unique lifestyle of families living in tall stilt houses amidst lush forests, vibrant rice fields, and lotus blooms. The floating villages, with their rural boat communities, offer an unmissable experience. Enjoy lunch at a floating restaurant and explore the floating markets to purchase local goods.
- March-May: From March to May, the lake essentially dries up, but the experience of visiting these rural communities remains enchanting. We'll meet locals, immerse ourselves in their way of life, and enjoy local desserts in their village, offering a glimpse into the resilience and beauty of Cambodia's rural heartlands.

Day 03

Sunrise at Angkor Wat and Temples of Angkor

Experiencing the sunrise over Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is a bucket-list favourite among travellers. The early start is unquestionably worth it, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should not be missed.
Angkor Wat is a revered Buddhist temple and the crown jewel of the Angkor Archaeological Park. It serves as the gateway to the ruins of Angkor. This temple is a national icon and a source of immense pride for Cambodia, even featuring prominently on the national flag.
Your guide, well versed in the temple's history, can enhance your visit significantly.
The Terrace of the Elephants is an integral part of the walled city of Angkor Thom, located within the Angkor Archaeological Park. The Khmer King Jayavarman VII used this elevated platform to observe grand ceremonies, public events, or parades of his victorious armies.
Bayon Temple, a remarkable Khmer temple within Angkor Thom, stands out as the sole Buddhist shrine in a region predominantly featuring Hindu temples. At the heart of the ancient capital, Bayon is renowned for its distinctive large stone faces, smiling serenely from 37 towers on all four sides of the temple.
Ta Prohm, famously known as the 'Tomb Raider Temple' due to its feature in the Tomb Raider film, is among the most celebrated temples in Siem Reap. This temple has been preserved in the same condition as it was discovered, enveloped by dense jungle, evoking the sensation of stumbling upon a lost world.
Angkor Thom is accessible through five gates, with the Victory Gate situated to the northeast. This gate, second in usage only to the main entrance, led to the Royal Plaza and served as the return path for soldiers after their triumphs. Comparable to Beijing's Desheng Gate and Paris' Arc de Triomphe, the Victory Gate offers visitors a glimpse of distinctive sculptures.

Day 04

Departure from Cambodia

As your Cambodian adventure draws to a close, it's time to transfer back to Phnom Penh International Airport for your journey home.
While all good things must end, we are confident you're leaving with unforgettable memories of Cambodia, its rich culture, and its welcoming people.
We hope your journey home is comfortable, and we look forward to possibly welcoming you back to Cambodia in the future.