DAY-1:

_{Small Circuit Tour Itinerary}

_MORNING:

5:00 AM – Sunrise at Angkor Wat Start your day early to witness the beautiful sunrise at Angkor Wat, the largest and most iconic temple. The view of the temple’s reflection on the moat during sunrise is a magical experience. Spend 2–3 hours exploring the intricate bas-reliefs, galleries, and towers of Angkor Wat.

_{– Visit Angkor Thom:} Enter the grand city of Angkor Thom via the South Gate. The gate is flanked by statues of gods and demons.

_{– Explore Bayon Temple, known for its 54 towers and over 200 smiling stone faces.} Walk through the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

_{LATE MORNING:}

Visit the nearby Baphuon, a three-tiered temple mountain, which was once one of the largest temples in the city.

_{– Phimeanakas & the Royal Palace} Stroll through the former royal enclosure and visit the small pyramid temple of Phimeanakas.

_{LUNCH BREAK:}

12:00 PM – Take a break for lunch. There are many local restaurants or food stalls around Angkor Thom. Enjoy some traditional Khmer food like amok (a coconut-based curry) or lok lak (stir-fried beef).

_AFTERNOON:

_{Ta Prohm (The Tomb Raider Temple)} Head to Ta Prohm, famous for being overrun by jungle and used as a filming location for “Tomb Raider.” The large trees and vines growing out of the temple walls create a mystical and photogenic atmosphere.

_{– Banteay Kdei v}isit Banteay Kdei, a quiet Buddhist monastic complex with fewer crowds. It has beautiful, intricate carvings and is a peaceful place to explore.

_{– Srah Srang (Royal Baths)} End your day with a visit to Srah Srang, the royal bathing pool located in front of Banteay Kdei. This serene spot is perfect for a quiet reflection or a scenic sunset if you prefer a less crowded spot than Angkor Wat.

LUNCH BREAK:

Stop for a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant nearby. Take in the scenic surroundings and sample some traditional Cambodian dishes.

* After exploring, begin your return journey to Siem Reap: You’ll drive through charming villages, rice paddies and local make and sell palm sugar,  offering opportunities to stop for photos or shop for local crafts or see more attractions such as:

– Landmine Museum: Landmine Museum, a deeply moving site founded by former child soldier Aki Ra. The museum provides insight into Cambodia’s landmine crisis and the efforts toward landmine removal.

Highlights: Explore exhibits detailing Cambodia’s tragic history with landmines and hear stories of resilience from those affected.

– Banteay Srei Butterfly Center: Visit the enchanting Banteay Srei Butterfly Center, home to hundreds of native Cambodian butterflies. The open-air enclosure offers a peaceful environment to observe these beautiful creatures.

Highlights: Walk through the lush garden and see a variety of butterflies up close while learning about butterfly conservation efforts in Cambodia.

– Palm Market: On the way back to Siem Reap, stop at the vibrant Palm Market. This local market is famous for palm products, snacks, and handicrafts.

Highlights: Sample palm sugar candies, see how palm fruit is processed, and pick up a few souvenirs.

– Cambodia Shooting Range: Cambodia Shooting Range: Experience a thrilling stop at the Cambodia Shooting Range, where you can learn about and safely handle a range of firearms under strict supervision. This facility allows visitors to engage in a unique activity, with options to fire weapons in a controlled environment, giving a perspective on Cambodia’s historical and military backdrop.

– Return to Siem Reap: Head back to Siem Reap after a full day of exploration, with an estimated arrival around 5:00 PM. Drop-off at your hotel or desired location. End of Tour.