Angkor Highlights – Heritage & Sites

(3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS)

Places to visit: Siem Reap & Angkor.

Description

This is a shorter tour to visit the main and most interesting sites of the Angkor area. As well as introducing you to the small and grand circuit of Angkor, including the monumental inner royal city of Angkor Thom and sublime Angkor Wat temple complex, it also covers Banteay Srei and Phnom Bakhaeng. This journey is perfect for those individuals or families who wish to discover the majesty of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has become one of the world’s must-see ancient wonders.

Highlights

• Discover the stunning temples of Angkor, including stately Angkor Thom and intricate Banteay Srei
• Experience first-hand the mysterious tree-engulfed monuments of Ta Prohm
• See the film locations used in the Hollywood blockbuster – Tomb Raider
• Gaze in wonder at the giant stone faces of Bayon state temple
• Treat yourself to a refreshing and relaxing time at an oriental spa

Program

Day 1: Angkor & Siem Reap

Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to the hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to Banteay Srei, which dates back to 967 AD. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is famed for the intricate friezes carved into its red sandstone walls. On the way back, we will visit Banteay Samre, which was built during Suryarvaman II’s rule in the middle of the 12th century. Next on the itinerary are three impressive temples from the 10th century – Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup and Prasat Kravan. Explore the intricate and ingenious designs. The first day concludes with panoramic views of the sunset and Angkor Wat from temple mountain Phnom Bakhaeng (900 AD). This is followed by your first night’s stay in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Angkor & Siem Reap

After breakfast, we begin the second day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Angkor Thom or ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181-1220. At the southern gate of Angkor Thom, you will marvel at the imposing 23-metre high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, which featured in the Tomb Raider movie. These astonishing carvings inspire awe and wonder in the beholder. At the centre of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, which we will also visit. This temple-mountain, built at the end of the 12th century, is adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. This tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King and the 12 identical towers of Prasat Suor Prat.

Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas, North Khleang and South Khleang. In the afternoon we will begin our explorations of magnificent Angkor Wat, built under Suryavarman II, and the Ta Prohm complex, which dates back to Jayavarman VII’s reign (1181-1220). We then head to Siem Reap for your second night’s stay.

Day 3: Angkor & Siem Reap

On the third and final day, we will spend the morning visiting other important temples of Jayavarman VII: Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Prom. This will be followed by transfer to the airport and your return flight.