8-Nights Classic Cambodia: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh & Kep from $2,135

Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap

Transfer: Siem Reap Angkor International Airportto Siem Reap - Wat Bo Road Area

Hotel: Borei Angkor Resort & Spa (4 Star Rating)

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa is well situated in the centre of Siem Reap, the town which is close to the Angkor Wat sites. It is only a 15 minute drive to the nearest site. Although not a large hotel, it is an attractive establishment located in a tropical garden. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, bar and lounge, coffee shop and restaurant.

Start with a visit to Ta Prohm, a jungle-clad temple left largely untouched since its rediscovery. Wander through its atmospheric corridors, where massive tree roots weave through the ruins, creating one of Angkor's most striking and photogenic sights. The fusion of nature and architecture offers a glimpse into how the temples once appeared when first found. Continue to Preah Khan, "The Sacred Sword," an extensive 56-hectare monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII as a monastery and teaching center. Now part of the World Monuments Fund’s prime Asian conservation projects, it combines careful restoration with its mysterious, original charm.

In the afternoon, drive to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake and the lifeblood of millions of locals. Board a private longtail traditional boat to explore a floating village, observing how Khmers and Vietnamese live and work together.

After the boat tour, return to Siem Reap and if time allows, stop to visit Artisans d'Angkor, a development project teaching young adults traditional crafts such as stone carving, woodwork, and lacquer application - a heartwarming reminder that Cambodia's progress can coexist with its rich heritage.

This afternoon, visit Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Built in the 12th century, it features soaring towers, remarkable symmetry, and extensive carvings that stretch across its galleries. Highlights include the detailed bas-reliefs, which tell stories from Hindu mythology, including the

famous Churning of the Sea of Milk. Still an active place of worship, it remains beautifully preserved and stands as a powerful symbol of Cambodia's heritage. Enjoy the sunset at the end of the tour.

This morning you will depart from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by National Road No. 6. Stands of tree line the road just south of town and then into the countryside, passing over and alongside ancient laterite bridges. You'll traverse over the bridge of Kompong Kdei, built by King Surjavarman who was also noted for building Angkor temple in the 12th century. After that, you will continue to visit Sambor Prei Kuk with temples dating back to the beginning of the 7th century. Continue to Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your hotel to check in.

Hotel: The Pavilion Phnom Penh (4 Star Rating)

Located just steps from the Royal Palace and Wat Botum (Royal Pagoda), The Pavilion Phnom Penh features four period buildings, including what is believed to have been Queen Kossamak's private residence. Amidst lush, vibrant greenery, the place exudes a timeless tranquility. Two large swimming pools and private plunge pools enhance the oasis-like ambiance. Each of the 36 suites and rooms is uniquely characterized, all reflecting the Pavilion's signature style.

Depart early this morning to visit the Royal Palace, built in 1866 by King Norodom. The Palace is made up of a number of structures within a pagoda-style compound, one of which is the Silver Pagoda. The Silver Pagoda takes its name from over 5000 silver tiles and the building itself holds a number of national treasures. The most notable treasures are perhaps the life-sized gold Maitreya Buddha, decorated with 9584 diamonds and weighing 90 kg and also the small 17th century Emerald Buddha, made from baccarat crystal.

Continue on to the National Museum, a Khmer temple-inspired building that houses the world's largest collection of Khmer art sculptures, ceramics and bronzes from different periods of Cambodia's history. Over 5000 objects are on display including Angkorian era statues, lingas and other artifacts, most notably the legendary statue of the "Leper King". Though the emphasis is on Angkorian artifacts, there is also a good collection of pieces from later periods, including a special exhibition of post-Angkorian Buddha figures.

Finish the morning with a local shopping experience at Toul Tom Pong Market (also known as the Russian Market) where you can find silk, silver and countless souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant (included) and in the afternoon visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and Cheung Ek. During the Pol Pot regime, Toul Sleng, formerly a high school, was converted to a detention centre known as S21. After interrogation and often torture, prisoners were transferred to the "Killing Fields" where they were often tortured again and brutally killed. Visit Cheung Ek, it was a Chinese Cemetery before it became the Khmer Rouge's best known Killing Field.

The remains of almost 9,000 bodies have been excavated from mass graves in this area. Today Cheung Ek is a Memorial site for Cambodians and visitors from all over the world to pay their respects for the lives that were lost. A memorial stupa has been erected and displays over 5,000 human skulls, bones and clothes of the victims. During the Khmer Rouge years, thousands of Cambodians were tortured and imprisoned in detention centres around the country; the visit is a profoundly moving but also depressing experience.

Transfer: Phnom Penh - Street 240 to Kep

Hotel: Veranda Natural Resort (4 Star Rating)

Welcome to Veranda Natural Resort. Come and experience the perfect blend of luxury, nature, and relaxation. The resort is located in the heart of paradise, offering bungalows, suites, private villas, a secret restaurant & bar, bakery, spa, garden pool with bar, infinity pool with bar and breakfast buffet.

Transfer: Kep to Phnom Penh - Street 240