Asia
phnom penh and
angkor wat
trip highligh­­­ts
Phnom Penh with its bustling markets and Royal Palace
Angkor Wat
Exploring the surrounding temples in the Angkor complex
Viewing the Cambodian landscape
Trip Duration6 days
GradeDiscovery and Cruising
ActivitiesAdventure Touring
Summary6 day trip, 5 nights hotel
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat trip.
At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten
track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of
coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness
regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that
our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for
the enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
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Trip Code: PAW
why travel with World Expeditions?
Our vehicles and guides are the best available and to ensure the
smooth operation of all trips, our partners in Cambodia continually work
with us to improve our itineraries to ensure we are taking the ‘paths
less travelled’. We pride ourselves on being creative with our small
group itineraries, reducing risk and ensuring that our adventures have
a minimal impact on the environments and cultures that we come in
contact with.
phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
trip dates
Departs daily year round
important notes
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2017. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Phnom Penh:£675
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Single Supplement:
£100
Single Traveller Surcharge:
£460
These short extensions usually operate for a minimum
of 2 passengers travelling together, however most can
be done if you are travelling alone (Single Traveller
Surcharge). If there are two or more people travelling
together who cannot or prefer not to share rooms a
single supplement cost will be added to your invoice.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
the trip
A visit to Cambodia is a truly unique and rewarding experience. There is a rich and proud
culture and impressive natural scenery and the spirit and warmth of the people make this an
exceptional destination to visit. The highlights of this fascinating country are visited on this
short journey of discovery. In the capital, Phnom Penh, with its wide boulevards and idyllic
waterfront location at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers, we explore the
cultural and historical highlights of the city. We visit the Royal Palace, the bustling Russian
markets and the powerful Genocide Museum. From Phnom Penh we make our way up river
to Siem Reap, near to Angkor Wat, the spiritual heart of Cambodia. The symmetrically perfect
Angkor Wat, is just one of a collection of elaborate individual temple sites that are spread
over an area of 200 square kms, nominating them as one of the richest in the archaeological
world. Our visit of this fascinating site provides a fitting conclusion to a unique insight into this
special country of South East Asia.
at a glance
DAY 1ARRIVE PHNOM PENH
DAY 2IN PHNOM PENH
DAY 3DRIVE TO SIEM REAP (8 HOURS)
DAY 4AT ANGKOR COMPLEX
DAY 5AT ANGKOR COMPLEX
DAY 6SIEM REAP, TRIP CONCLUDES
what’s included
5 breakfasts
airport transfers on day 1 & day 6
expert bilingual guide
comfortable hotels on twinshare basis
private air conditioned vehicles
sightseeing as listed in itinerary
site entry fees
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
DAY 1Arrive Phnom Penh
You will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to the group hotel, centrally located in the
heart of Phnom Penh, the present-day capital of Cambodia. The city suffered much during the long
war years and the subsequent abandonment from the Khmer Rouge but today its wide, riverside
boulevards are bustling with activity. Phnom Penh never became a thoroughly colonial city but it
has a unique blend taken from Asian and French traditions. The story of the capital of Cambodia
dates back to an event in the year 1327. It is said that a rich widow named Don Penh found a tree
with five Buddha’s in it. She thus founded a pagoda Wat Phnom Don Penh, the monastery on the
Hill of Lady Penh. In 1434 the city founded years earlier by King Ponhea Yat was completed and in
1866 became the capital. Today Phnom Penh is a bustling city built at the confluence of the Mekong
and Tonle Sap rivers. The city is reminiscent of its French colonial days reflected in the evocative
European architecture.
meals: NIL
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Cambodia
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
Journeys of Discovery
*Ask our staff for more information.
DAY 2In Phnom Penh
Scale the steps up this small hill to see Wat Phnom Temple, the birthplace of Phnom Penh. Continue
to the famous Royal Palace, built in 1866 under the French protectorate and King Norodom. The
adjoining Silver Pagoda, built in 1962, is famous for its lavish decorations, silver paved floor and
several Buddha statues made from precious metals & stones. Wander the National Museum, a
treasure chest of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artefacts.
In the afternoon there will be visits to the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide – an intense experience
and sobering reminder of the recent and very horrific history of Cambodia. This will be followed by a
visit to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek located about 10 km outside of the city. Time will also be set
aside for personal exploration. We will spend the rest of day shopping at the Toul Tompong Market
(Russian Market) where you will feel a bustling daily life of local people with Cambodia’s special
character through local specialties, their houses, their faces, palaces and buildings of Khmer &
colonial style architecture.
Overnight in Phnom Penh
Note: To see the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, visitors are required to wear
appropriated clothes. Guests wearing short pans (above knee level) and sleeveless tops are not
permitted.
meals: B
DAY 3Drive to Siem Reap (8 hours)
We have an early breakfast at the hotel before we depart for Siem Reap. Today, you follow the road
to Kompong Thom, a picturesque town on the banks of the Stung Sen River through the countryside,
farming fields, rubber plantations and typical Khmer Villages in Kamchar Leur and Kampong Thmor.
Next we visit Sambor Prei Kuk, a pre-Angkorian temple complex. Most temples in the complex were
built of brick between the years 615 and 650. Sambor Prei Kuk served as the capital before the
Angkor period, under the Chenla Kingdom. From here we continue to Siem Reap.
Overnight in Siem Reap
meals: B
DAY 4At Angkor Complex
Wake up early, have breakfast at the hotel and head out with your cameras for a day filled with
amazing sights and experiences. Explore the amazing temple complex and spend most of the
day in what this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom, surrounded
by an 8m high wall. Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign
of Jayavarman VII. Continue to Bayon Temple in the exact centre of the city. This 12th century
masterpiece is a study in grandeur, its exterior gallery walls featuring extensive, superb bas-reliefs,
particularly the East and South Galleries. You also visit the Ta Prohm Temple, unlike most other
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
Angkor temples, has been left just it was when rediscovered: a photogenic and atmospheric maze of
trees growing out of temple ruins amidst jungle surroundings, making it one of Angkor’s most popular
temples with visitors.
Further explore Angkor Wat, easily the most famous and best-preserved of all temples within the
Angkor complex. It is a massive three-tiered structure crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65
meters from ground level. The centrepiece of any visit to the temples around Siem Reap, Angkor offers
many iconic sights for amazing pictures.
The trip to Pre Rup Temple will reward you with a spectacular sunset over the Angkor Archaeological
Park and its surroundings.
Overnight in Siem Reap
Note: Appropriate attire when visiting temples in Angkor Wat is long pants (covering the knee) and
shirts that cover shoulders. Skirts, small shorts, tank tops, and other items of revealing clothing are
not allowed within temple grounds. Visitors can and are frequently turned away from temples when
wearing revealing clothing.
meals: B
DAY 5At Angkor Complex
This morning, you will visit Kbal Spean, literally meaning the head of the river, you can visit both the
waterfall and the river carvings. This is one of the ‘rivers of 1000 lingas’, with lingas stands chiselled
into the riverbed. The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity was the first nature conservation
and endangered wildlife rescue and breeding centre in Cambodia. On your tour you will see a variety
of animals and learn firsthand about efforts to save Cambodia’s wildlife. With a valid temple pass you
can also take the opportunity to see the waterfall and riverbed carvings at Kbal Spean. Banteay Srey,
the citadel of the women, displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. Banteay Srei is
built largely of red sandstone, an ideal medium for the elaborate decorative wall carvings which are
still observable today. The buildings themselves, unusual among Angkor era structures, are miniature
in scale.
Stop at a Pradak Village noodle shop and sample Num Banh Chok somlor kari, a delicious rice noodle
soup served with peanut sauce, various pickles, and your choice of herbs. Evening is free at your
leisure to explore Siem Reap night market and enjoy lively Street bar area.
Overnight in Siem Reap
meals: B
DAY 6Siem Reap, trip concludes
As it is departure day there are no activities planned. Depending on your flight arrangements there may
be time for some last minute shopping before being transferred to the airport.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
important note
These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede
any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The
itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement
weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control.
places of interest
Angkor
Angkor Wat, one of the great wonders of the world, is not one temple but an expanse covering
several square miles near Siem Reap, containing the remains of an early civilisation as well
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
as many temples. Angkor was an early Cambodian civilisation that flourished and prospered
from about 800 to 1400 AD. The majority of the temples were built between the 6th and 13th
Centuries. Many of the temples are in excellent condition, however a large amount, are in poor
repair and in need of extensive restoration. The surrounding forest has grown into and destroyed
several of these magnificent works of art. Cambodian Kings of this period built many cities near
Siem Reap and from Angkor the Khmer empire ruled over a vast territory that extended from the
tip of what is now southern Vietnam northward to Yunnan in China, and from Vietnam westward
to the Bay of Bengal. In the 9th Century, the royal palace of the Khmer had been built on a
mountain named Phnom Kulen. Later the capital was moved to what is now known as Angkor
Thom. In its heyday it is believed that it was home to a population exceeding 1 million, making it
the largest populated city of the time. Many temples were built in Angkor Thom. These temples
rank as some of the most artistic architectural wonders of the world. On the walls of these
temples, there are sacred scenes of Cambodian life and mythology. So far, there is no satisfying
reason why there was a dramatic decline of the Angkor Empire. In the centre of Angkor Thom is
the Bayon. It has numerous towers, each with four faces looking into the directions of the four
winds. Nearby there are two large areas that were once lakes and were used to store water for
drinking and irrigation. Each covers an area of 17 square kms. Today, only the western lake still
carries water, although only about half the original size. The temple of Angkor Wat is probably
the finest monument in Cambodia. It covers an area of about 2.6 square kilometres and it is the
largest religious temple in the world. It was built in the 1100’s to honour the Hindu god Vishnu.
Angkor Wat later became the tomb of the Cambodian King who ordered its construction. The
features found in and around the site of Angkor Wat are too numerous to list but it is guaranteed
that your first sightings will leave you feeling completely overwhelmed!
suggested extensions
Laos Highlights
Highlights of Vietnam
Mekong Waterways
country information
Once one of the great empires of South East Asia, Cambodia now occupies only a small portion
of its previous area. The Angkor period of Cambodian history lasted approximately from AD
802 to AD 1431 and represents the greatest period of Khmer architectural, artistic and cultural
achievement. Bombed during the war in Vietnam, Cambodia was soon after ruled by the Khmer
Rouge led by Pol Pot. This period of was extremely violent and resulted in many Cambodians
fleeing to Western countries via border camps established in Thailand. In 1992 the United
Nations assisted Cambodia in conducting democratic elections. Cambodia is emerging from
these recent horrors and there is now a real hope that a new chapter has begun in its road to
recovery. There is a rich and proud culture and impressive natural scenery and the spirit and
warmth of the people make this an exceptional destination to visit.
climate
In Cambodia the monsoons determine rainfall and temperature patterns in Cambodia. The
northwest monsoon blows from October to April and ushers in the dry season. The temperature
is generally hot, although there are transitional periods, with the best time to visit the area
between November and January, before it gets extremely hot. The mean temperature between
November and January is approximately 28 degrees, and between February and June 33
degrees and humidity is high.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
accommodation on the trip
Hotels: in cities and large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are
generally well located, atmospheric and reliable and where we have seen a good track record
with traveller satisfaction over many years.
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and
personal items such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Any optional tours, and entrance fees and permits during free time
Tips and gratuities
Expenditure of a personal nature such as drinks, souvenirs and laundry
International airfares and departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
trip grading
Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to
keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete
before undertaking the trip will be to good effect. The climate in Cambodia is hot and humidity is
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
always high so being able to walk in the heat will also enhance your Angkor Wat experience. The
climate in Cambodia is hot and humidity is always high so being able to walk in the heat will also
enhance your Angkor Wat experience.
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise
the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural
Australian National Travel Industry’s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible
Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all
World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received
your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and
developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are
sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure
it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise.
If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your
consultant or travel agent.
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
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phnom penh and
angkor wat
An insight into the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia
including the World Heritage temples of Angkor Wat
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
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