Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection
The Earliest Civilization Discovery
The Earliest Civilization Discovery
Take a fascinating day trip from Phnom Penh to Takeo Province, the oldest and most historically
rich of all 22 Cambodian provinces, dating back to the periods of Anachak Phnom and Chenla.
Discover the 6th century history of the temples of Phnom Da, and travel even further back in time
to visit the Angkor Borei which dates back to the 1st century A.D.
ITINERARY
• Day 1 − A day trip to Takeo &Phnom Da
This morning you are picked up from your hotel in Phnom Penh and transferred by road to Takeo Province. Upon arrival
in Takeo Township, transfer to a speedboat for a journey along the Prek Chik Takeo (Takeo Canal). Arrive at the Phnom
Da temple, where you can see fine examples of early Khmer architecture and art made near the very beginning of Khmer
civilization. These artifacts are important because they inspired and influenced the rest of the Angkor civilization.
On your return trip, stop to visit Angkor Borei, the ancient capital of the Khmer Kingdom during the 1st century AD. Enjoy
a boxed lunch which is served on site, and then continue on your return journey to Takeo. Upon arrival later this
afternoon, you are driven back to your hotel in Phnom Penh.
DESTINATION INFORMATION
• Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the largest, most populous and capital city of Cambodia. It is also the capital of the Phnom Penh
municipality. Once known as the "Pearl of Asia" in the 1920s, Phnom Penh, along with Siem Reap, is a significant
global and domestic tourist destination for Cambodia. Phnom Penh is known for its traditional Khmer and French
influenced architecture. Phnom Penh is the wealthiest and most populous city in Cambodia. It is also the
commercial, political and cultural hub of Cambodia and is home to more than one million of Cambodia's population
of over 13 million.
• Takeo
Takeo town is an easygoing place that possesses a fair amount of natural and manmade beauty. The natural beauty
is in the Scenic River and lake area that faces a pleasant town parkway. The low−lying area seems to include much
of the surrounding province area, which is probably why a kingdom that once had its heart here was referred to as
Water Chenla. The man−made beauty mostly comes from a series of canals and waterways that were cut through
the surrounding countryside, many a very long time ago, connecting towns, villages, rivers and Vietnam. Nearby
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Angkor Borei town (connected by water to Takeo town) may have been the heart of the Funan Empire, which is
called the "Cradle of Khmer Civilization" by Cambodians.
Price Chart
All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person
Your package includes:
• Private land transportation in air−conditioned car, van or bus
• Boat ride as per the itinerary
• Sightseeing with English speaking guide
• Admission fees to the sightseeing destinations
• Boxed lunch as per the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water throughout the tour
Your package excludes:
• Domestic or international airfare
• Travel Insurance or visa fees
• Unspecified meals or beverages
• Any hotel accommodation
• Personal expenses or gratuities
• Optional visits besides the program above and others not mentioned
• A surcharge applies for tour dates on Christmas Eve (24 Dec) and New Year's Eve (31 Dec). Please contact
Palace Tours for details.
HOTELS AND RESORTS
SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS
Khmer Heritage Experience
Immerse yourself in the culture of the Khmer as you travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, visiting marvelous temple
sites and major collections of early Khmer artifacts. Discover the rich heritage of Siem Reap and its ancient stone
temples which date back to the glorious Angkor era. Rediscover the oft−overlooked Khmer works of art which predated
and inspired the Great Angkor civilization. The capital city of Phnom Penh, once renowned and referred to as "Paris of
the Orient" during the 1960s, still retains as much charm and attraction for visitors today. Colorful monasteries, traditional
Khmer buildings, monuments, French colonial architecture and many other places of interest are included in this itinerary.
Highlights of Cambodia
This wonderful 10−day itinerary is designed to bring you to the major destinations in Cambodia starting from Siem Reap,
home to the world−famous ancient stone temples of Angkor, the world heritage site of Angkor Archeological Park and the
fascinating floating and fishing villages in Tonle Sap Lake. Next, fly to the capital city of Phnom Penh, where ten
thousand Khmer artifacts of antiquity are on display and where you will find the warm Khmer people are ready to
welcome your visit. Your tour nears its end in Sihanoukville, where you have three days to relax and rejvenate on the
pristine beaches.
The Great Khmer Cultural Journey
This tour is hand−crafted to suit any visitor who intends to thoroughly cover the Khmer historic sites and understand more
about this rich civilization. Begin your trip with a visit to the richest fish−producing body of fresh water in the world, the
Tonle Sap Great Lake. Here you can see fascinating life on the water of fishing and floating villages (where cows "graze"
atop rafts) and a water fowl sanctuary. Then commence your wonderful temple tours with a visit to the former Khmer
capital of Angkor (9−15th century AD) where the seventh Wonder of the Ancient World stands today.
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Your journey continues to Sambor Prey Kuk or Isanpura where hundreds of clay−brick temples were built for the place
that stood as the Khmer capital during the 6−7th centuries AD. From there, travel to Kratie, home of the rare Irrawaddy
dolphin. Your next stop is Phnom Penh, where the Khmer people established their current capital almost 600 years ago
on the conjunction of upper Mekong, lower Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers that is called the Chaktomouk (four
faces) River. An interesting fact about the Tonle Sap River is that it is the only river in the world whose current reverses
twice every year. Your tour culminates in Takeo Province where many ancient sites and temples which pre−date Angkor
are among the highlights, some dating from the 1st century AD.
Discover the Secrets of Angkor
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and beauty of Cambodia as Palace Tours takes you on this marvelous two−week
circular journey from Phnom Penh, renowned as the "Paris of the Orient." Experience the best sightseeing and history
that Cambodia has to offer as you discover the local way of life in several villages around Phnom Penh and the 7th
century group of temples in Kampong Thom. Journey onwards to Siem Reap's world−famous ancient stone Angkor
temples, and then to the floating villages of Tonle Sap Great Lake and further to the ancient temples in the Takeo
province. Visit the crab market of Kep, explore the 6th century temple in the cave of Phnom Chhgnok in Kampot and
unwind on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville as you near the end of your exotic journey.
The Heart of Cambodia
Join Palace Tours on this unique 16−day adventure through the heart of Cambodia! Rediscover the glory and prosperity
of the ancient Khmer civilization as you visit temples, monuments and more. Begin your journey in Siem Reap and
explore its many temples including the magnificent Angkor Wat and the jungle temple of Ta Prohm. Continue on to the
Tonle Sap Great Lake to discover its floating villages and wildlife sanctuary. Observe the culture and traditional customs
of the many hill tribes as you travel through Kampong Cham, Kampong Thom and Ratanakiri. You can also find many
beautiful forests, semiprecious stones and waterfalls in this unspoiled land. Sail peacefully along the Mekong River as
you learn about the dolphins near Kratie and end your river cruise at the capital city of Phnom Penh where the warm
Khmer people are ready to welcome your visit. Travel onwards to fruit orchards in Kampot, the bustling crab market in
Kep, and unwind as your journey nears its end on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville.
Beauty of Mysterious Kingdoms
Open your heart! Open your mind! Let generous hospitality of Laos and Cambodia replenish your soul as you traverse
the beautiful landscapes of these historically−rich lands on this exciting 10−day journey. Your trip begins in Cambodia's
capital of Phnom Penh, whose colonial architecture and riverside location creates an atmosphere of tranquility. Next,
travel overland through the picturesque Cambodian countryside to Siem Reap, the home of the remarkable temples of
Angkor. Sail along the Mekong River to visit the unforgettable floating and fishing villages of the Tonle Sap Lake, and
then visit the great Angkor Wat Temple which is considered the largest and greatest stone−structure temple in the world,
as it took more than 30 years to construct.
From Siem Reap, board your flight to Vientiane, the capital of Laos and Asia's largest village. Continue on to Luang
Prabang, which once was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lane Xang, as you discover the mysterious Plain of Jars.
Scattered throughout many areas in a small town in Laos, these gigantic stone jars weigh several tons each and date
back to the prehistoric age, yet their purpose is still unknown. Your journey to Laos would not be complete without visits
to some of the Hmong hill tribe villages to experience their way of life before you head back to Luang Prabang to explore
the ancient temples.
Cambodia, Laos &Vietnam World Heritage Tour
Explore the heritage of all three of France's former colonies in Indochina; Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, in just 12 days!
Start in Laos, the Land of a Million Elephants, to get acquainted with the renowned ancient city of Luang Prabang and the
capital, Vientiane. Next, board your flight to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, for a warm welcome and a brief
journey to several places of great historical importance. Explore ancient Khmer temples and monuments in Siem Reap,
the cradle of South−East Asia's civilization. Continue onwards to Ho Chi Minh City, the commercial heart of Vietnam,
known to the world as a city on two wheels; a reference to its streets crowded with bicycles and motorbikes.
TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's
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Language
Khmer is the official language. English and French are popular second languages.
Climate
The climate can generally be described as tropical. As the country is affected by monsoons, it is hot and humid with an
average temperature around 27°C (80°F). There are two distinct seasons: the Rainy Season and the Dry Season.
However, the Dry Season is divided into two sub−seasons, cool and hot. These seasons are:
The Rainy season: From June until October 27−35°C (80−95°F)
The Dry season (Cool): From November until February 17−27°C (63−80°F)
The Dry season (Hot): From March until May 29−38°C (84−100°F)
Currency
The local currency is the Riel, although the US Dollar is widely accepted throughout the country and in all major markets.
In recent years the rate of exchange has been floating around USD1= 4,000 Riels. Some popular Riel denominations
include: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 notes.
Visa & Visa Fees
For most visitors to the kingdom, visas are obtainable upon arrival at both Phnom Penh (Pochentong) and Siem Reap
International Airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. At land crossings from Thailand, visas are available at Poipet and
Cham Yeam (Koh Kong province). From Vietnam arrival visas can be obtained at the Bavet border check−point (VN: Moc
Bai). Visitors who enter at Ka−Om Samnor border check−point (VN: Chao Doc) or other check−points will need to have
already obtained their visas prior to their arrival through a Cambodian Embassy or Consulate overseas.
The border crossing from Laos is also possible through Voeun Kham border checkpoint, but travelers are advised to
obtain their Visas prior to arrival at the border.
Please note that other border crossings not mentioned above are not classified as international checkpoints therefore we
suggest you that confirmation should be secured before you commence your trip. Various Visa extension options are also
available.
Requirements:
Two Passport Photographs
One completed application form
Visa Fee: US$20 for tourist Visas & US$25 for business Visas. The fee is payable only in cash.
Business Hours (local time is GMT plus 7 hours)
Most business offices are open from 08:00 until 12:00 and from 13:00 until 17:00, Monday through Friday. Banks
generally operate from 08:00 until 15:00.
Most private companies work on Saturday, while government offices are closed.
Electricity
220 volts.
Hospitals
There are still many state−owned hospitals, where qualified doctors work. There are also a number of private clinics
available in the major cities and most of these maintain international standards.
Public Transportation
Van and car rental is recommended for touring in the city and the outskirts. A few city buses are available on the certain
roads but these may be only suitable for local people. Cyclos (pollution−free, human−powered Tricycles) and motorbike
taxis are plentiful, inexpensive and readily available. These are ubiquitous within the cities. Automobile taxis are also
available but not nearly as plentiful.
There are numerous public air−conditioned buses which help smooth your journey to most of Cambodia's provinces at a
very reasonable price.
Health Requirements
Vaccination is not required before entry into Cambodia, but we suggest that you check in advance with your doctor or the
Foreign Travel Department of your government, as some countries recommend that their citizens obtain certain
vaccinations before embarking on overseas trips.
Telecommunications
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There are three international gateways in operation which provide international telephone access dialing 001, 007 & 008
followed by the country code and the phone number. As result Cambodia is no longer isolated from the outside world.
There are four cellular phone service providers offering convenient communication via the GSM system, therefore most of
the city inhabitants carry a mobile phone. Phone IDD and facsimile are also available.
E−mail and Internet
It is easy and cheap to access the Internet and e−mail in Cambodia, as there are a plenty of Internet Cafes and many of
these are open until late at night. Currently the charge is between 1−3 U.S. dollars per hour.
How to get to Cambodia
Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are still considered the major gateways for easy entry and exit to and from Cambodia. Both
are international gateways. Border crossing by land is available from neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, including two
major checkpoints from Thailand Poipet and Chamyeam, the province of Serey Sorphon and Koh Kong provinces
respectively. One popular gateway from Vietnam is through Bavet. From Laos, the check−point is called Voeun Kham.
Besides these major border checkpoints, there are still others that are also open as official international entry/exit points
from neighboring countries, but were still not very popular with tourists at the time of this writing. We suggest those who
intend to cross border at these new checkpoints to contact us in advance to make sure your trip runs as smoothly as
possible.
Airport Tax
International Departure Tax US$25 per person
Domestic Departure Tax US$6 per person
Children under 12 are tax exempt.
For both Phnom Penh (Pochentong) and Siem Reap International airports and other domestic departures.
Flight Information
The airlines that are currently operating to/from Cambodia are:
Asiana Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Dragonair, Eva Air, Korean Air, Lao Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, SilkAir, Southern China
Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines.
There are also low−cost airlines operating to/from Cambodia as well. They are Air Asia and Jetstars.
Domestic carriers are: Angkor Airways, Siem Reap Airways and PMTair.
Palace Tours Contact Information
IndiaTours.com is a brand of Palace Tours, a leader in tours to India, Spain and South Africa.
If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the below
methods:
On the Web:
www.indiatours.com or www.palacetours.com
By e−mail:
[email protected]
By phone:
India Desk :
1−800−724−5120
1−877−GO−INDIA (877−464−6342)
USA:
Princeton, NJ: 609−683−5018
New York, NY: 212−920−2543
Houston, TX: 832−446−2709
International:
United Kingdom: 800−8456−201
Hong Kong: (852) 30518159
South Africa : (+27)11−46133299
Australia: 1800−156−671
New Zealand: 0800−442−510
By FAX:
1−609−683−9772
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By postal mail:
Palace Tours Ltd.
20 Wall Street
Princeton, New Jersey 08540
USA
DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE
Please call ahead for hours and appointments!
By Car:
From Princeton area:
Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office
complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.
From points North:
Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signs
for "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5
miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately
4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.
Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will pass
through a traffic circle follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn left
onto Wall Street.
From points South:
Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138
West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North toward
Trenton. Follow directions below.
Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge
onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on
Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn
right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.
By train:
Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors can
take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about
5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure to
purchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.
Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).
By bus:
Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line).
From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.
For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office.
Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.
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