TYPOLOGIES

Culture Tour

DIFFICULTY

MIN. AGE

Tour Overview:

This is the ultimate expedition for the true explorer. Venturing far beyond the classic tourist track, this grand overland loop traces the sweeping curves of the mighty Mekong River, climbs into the cool, forested highlands of Cambodia’s wild northeast, and journeys across the rugged northern frontier before culminating at the ancient cradle of the Khmer Empire. It is a masterpiece itinerary blending colonial history, rare wildlife, indigenous cultures, dramatic landscapes, and forgotten jungle temples.

Itinerary in brief :

Day Destination Meals Cities
Day 1 Welcome to Cambodia Phnom Penh
Day 2 Phnom Penh’s Past & Present B Phnom Penh
Day 3 Phnom Penh – Kampong Cham – Kratie B/D Kratie
Day 4 Dolphin Watching – Mondulkiri B Mondulkiri
Day 5 Elephant trekking & Putang Village B/L Mondulkiri
Day 6 Mondulkiri – Ratanakiri B Ratanakiri
Day 7 Explore Indigenous Lifestyle B Ratanakiri
Day 8 Ratanakiri – Stung Treng B Stung Treng
Day 9 Stung Treng – Preah Vihear B Preah Vihear
Day 10 Preah Vihear – Siem Reap B/D Siem Reap
Day 11 Phnom Kulen Adventure B/L Siem Reap
Day 12 Angkor Biking Tour B/L Siem Reap
Day 13 Cooking Class & Floating Village & Quadbike B/L Siem Reap
Day 14 Goodbye Cambodia B Siem Reap

* B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Itinerary in details:

Upon arrival at Phnom Penh Int’s Airport, process immigration procedure (visa on arrival is available or obtain in advance via www.evisa.gov.kh), Cambodia E-Arrival Card - https://arrival.gov.kh, clients can apply online or on arrival), then get your luggage and walk straight to the Exit Gate where our driver is waiting. After self-introduced, you’ll transfer to hotel in the city (check in is 2pm). Time to fresh-up and relax at hotel.

 

Recommend activities: Walking or use Tuk Tuk to Night market and enjoy local exotic food.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Breakfast at hotel, visit to The Tuol Sleng Prison Museum and the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek are not to be missed. A visit to these sights provides a deep insight into the painful bloody rule of the Khmer Rouge. Visit to the Royal Palace compound build in 1866 by the Predecessors of King Norodom, is the most conspicuous feature and also one of impressive colorful Khmer-style Palaces. Nearside the Royal Palace is Silver Pagoda (The Emerald Buddha temple), display plenty of Buddha Statues that were decorated and made by diamond, emerald, gold and silver.

We keep moving and walking to visit nearby, Ounalom Pagoda, situated in the Corner Sothearos, lies in front of the Tonle Sap River. It is one of the most significant pagodas featuring Cambodian Buddhism in comprises of the country's religious establishment, here also where the top monk of the nation resides. In the earlier years, this pagoda served as the library of the Buddhist Institute.

Next, we head to visit Wat Phnom “Mountain Pagoda” is a Buddhist temple that symbolizes the name of Phnom Penh, located on the hill. According to legend, the first pagoda on this site was erected in 1372 to house four statues of Buddha deposited here by the waters of the Mekong River and discovered by Lady Penh. Wat Phnom is the most popular place for local people come to play healthy spot or praying for their good luck as well as admire the sundown.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

After breakfast, depart for Kampong Cham, a vibrant riverside town known for its French colonial architecture and lively markets.

We may choose to stop at Skoun, also known as ‘Spider vile’ due to the deep-fried tarantula that is the local delicacy, are you adventurous enough to try one?

Visit Wat Nokor also called Nokor Bachey Pagoda is an 11th century Mahayana Buddhist shrine made of sandstone and laterite with a large reclining Buddha and numerous alcoves containing Buddha images. Next is Phnom Pros ("Man Hill") and Phnom Srei ("Woman Hill").

We continue to Koh Pen Bamboo Bridge. In the dry season, you can reach this island on the Mekong River by an unusual bamboo bridge. Unbelievably this elaborate bridge is rebuilt every year in the dry season after it’s been washed away by the wet season rains. Despite being made from bamboo, the bridge is very strong, and can even support the weight of cars and trucks.

Continue to Kratie, a sleepy Mekong port and gateway to an encounter with the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin that inhabit the upper reaches of the Mekong in Cambodia.

Arrive in Krate, take local ferry to small island Koh Trong where we stay with local family for 1 night.

If you like, we get on our bikes and do a tour of about 9 km. around the island heading north. We passed numerous typical Khmer houses on wooden supports. Let's not lose sight of traditional roof decorations. The numbers at the top indicate the year the house was built. The narrow paths here are perfectly designed for cycling, providing shade, and bringing us closer to the daily life of Koh Trong. Although some villagers may seem a little shy, the crowds of children and some older people will always give us their best smiles and give us the warmest welcome to their island with a hello.

Overnight at homestay in Kratie.

After local breakfast, farewell our host and take ferry back to Kratie, where we walk through the central Market of Kratie where you will see the local trades and see some of the old colonial building which remain from the French colony. Before we leave Kratie, we might visit local rice whiskey production.

Visit the famous 100 pillars pagoda and learn its fascinating history as a place of pilgrimage for residents of Kratie.

We continue to Kampi, one of the many deep pools where the rare river dolphins gather to feed. We board a local boat and cruise out into the mighty Mekong for a chance encounter with these gentle creatures.

Afterwards, we leave behind the sleepy town of Kratie and travel southeast towards the small junction town of Snuol, our gateway to the wilds of Mondulkiri, a province known for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and indigenous Bunong people.

Check into an eco-lodge nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Overnight in Mondulkiri.

After breakfast we drive to the city of Senmonorom, in Mondulkiri, to reach the community of PUTANG.

Meeting with the Ethnic Bunong trekking guide.

From the village you walk (3 km outward and 2 km back, approximately) for the elephant trekking.

Around 10.30am we will go to see the elephants in the forest to give them fodder, fruits, take photos, learn how mahouts tame these fabulous elephants.

Around 12:00 we will relax at the waterfalls or near the stream for lunch (local food cooked on site): mountain rice, bamboo soup and roast chicken, fish, drinks, local fruit.

After lunch break at 1.15am we will meet the elephants in the jungle and take them to bathe in the river and we can join in bathing with them.

After bathing with elephants, we go directly to the ethnic village which has switched from the local agriculture called recycling agriculture of the Bunong ethnic people.

We will arrive at Bunong village around 3.10pm and walk around the village to visit the people of Bunong Ethnicity. the elderly, to learn about culture, religion, and their daily life.

At the end of the day (around 4:00 pm), return to the lodge.

Overnight in Mondulkiri.

After breakfast, we leave Sen Monorom and head east towards the double drop waterfall of Bou Sraa, one of the most famous in Cambodia. Along the way, we may stop at local coffee grower (Unique product in the province).

Afterwards, we leave behind the wilds of Mondulkiri and hit the road towards the red earth of Ratanakiri, a province known for its lush rainforests, wildlife sanctuaries, and ethnic minority communities. Along the way, there is lush jungle hugging the road and locals claim to see tigers on this stretch whereas some parts of the jungle are giving way to clusters of pine trees and rolling grasslands. The scenery is unique for Cambodia and dotted with traditional indigenous hill tribe villages.

We arrive to Ban Lung town of Ratanakiri and check into a comfortable eco-lodge. Later in the afternoon, we enjoy the refreshing waters of the beautiful crater lake of Yeak Loam, set amid a pocket of lush jungle.

Overnight in Ratanakiri.

After breakfast, we travel to Kachon where we’ll take a scenic boat ride for about on Sesan river to a remote village of Kaoh Piek. It is home to a traditional Kachoch burial ground complete with carved effigies of the deceased. Family groups are buried side by side and elaborate ceremonies held after a period of mourning. There are wooden men and women statues standing in front the tombs to guard and likeness of elephant tusks and beautiful decorated tombs. You will also take a walk through the village, visit school. You will learn about the animist belief of Kachoch hill tribe from your local guide in the area.

Overnight in Ratanakiri.

We leave behind Ratanakiri and travel towards Stung Treng, a province bordering the Mekong and boasting breath-taking natural landscapes, check in at your lodge.

Afternoon, we will start our paddling tours to explore most beautiful part of the Mekong. Stung Treng, nestled along the mighty Mekong River and surrounded by verdant landscapes, offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable kayaking adventure. Kayaking offers a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty. It's a chance to connect with the mighty Mekong River, explore hidden wonders, and experience the thrill of adventure while being mindful of the environment.

 

Seasonality: The best time for kayaking in Stung Treng is during the dry season (November to April) when the water levels are lower, and currents are calmer.

Overnight in Stung Treng.

We continue to Preah Vihear, our journey through jungle and local village. This good track literate hills along the northern border of the country. Some beautiful scenery along this route yet unpublished and very wild.

We drive up to the hill (by 4 X 4) to visit an amazing Khmer temple Preah Vihear, which sits at the top of the Dangrek Mountains. Preah Vihear is known as the Temple Mountain, which was built at the beginning of the 10th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva.

Overnight in Preah Vihear.

Travel off-the-beaten track to Koh Ker, the former capital of the Khmer Empire between 928 and 944 A.D. Enjoy a simple packed or local lunch near the temple and continue to visit other ancient structures in the peaceful area. The remote archaeological site in northern away from Siem Reap and the ancient site of Angkor. It is a very jungle filled region that is sparsely populated.

On the way to Siem Reap, make a stop to visit the sprawling jungle temple of Beng Mealea., Hindu temple, but there are some carvings depicting Buddhist motifs. Its primary material is sandstone and it is largely unrestored, with trees and thick brush thriving amidst its towers and courtyards and many of its stones lying in great heaps. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way.

Later in the afternoon, we continue to Banteay Srei Village for our local homestay experience. We meet the host family and settle into our temporary home before enjoying a local dinner.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After waking early in local village, we take a short village walk to learn about local life and agriculture or start with an early morning visit to Banteay Srei to beat the crowds and then enjoy quiet moment at ancient temple. We will participate in another course on Buddhism with a local Buddhist leader accompanied which will focus on the life of Buddha, history of Buddhism and different Buddhist schools in Southeast Asia.

Depart for Phnom Kulen National Park, considered the holiest mountain in Cambodia. Arrive at Kulen Mountain near the Preah Ang Thom Pagoda. First on the agenda is a wander around the mountain-top pagoda which is home to relics, statues, and a large reclining Buddha.

Meet your Motordup (motorbike) driver who will take you for the next few hours up the mountain. The first stop is at Poeng Tbal, where a riverbed reveals a well-preserved stone with details of Shiva and Vishnu and the rock carvings of Ganesh and sages. A short trip leads to one of Cambodia's most important sites: a small pedestal that sits on top of three step pyramids called Prasat Rong Chen. Head through more paths to a modern temple with colorful statues and a panoramic view. Enjoy a simple picnic lunch in the temple dining room. Continue after a short break to a bat cave that, with the help of torches, you can enter for a few hundred meters and see a modern sanctuary. Both the cave and the temple attract many pilgrims to the area. A short distance away is Srah Damrei (or Elephant Pond). Head back to the starting point with a few more stone carvings to see at Damrei Khrap (Kneeling Elephant). The Motordup adventure ends at Preah Ang Thom.

Two more stops are made before your return, the first is a short visit to see the Thousand Lingas River, hundreds of Lingas carvings can be seen in a section of the river. After visiting the Kulen waterfall, where you can take a refreshing bath. Continue to Siem Reap town and accommodation.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we begin our Biking tours to Angkor offer a unique and enriching way to explore the sprawling temple complex, allowing you to cover more ground than walking and getting a closer look at the magnificent ruins than possible from a bus. Imagine cycling through the serene countryside, past traditional villages, and rice paddies, before arriving at The West Gate, unlike the more elaborate South Gate (the most used entrance), is less crowded and offers a more peaceful introduction to Angkor Thom. You'll approach the gate along a causeway, potentially lined with local vendors selling souvenirs and refreshments.

 

Cycle along the wide laterite roads within Angkor Thom, passing by other significant sites like the Terrace of the Elephants or the Phimeanakas temple. Your guide might share interesting facts and stories about these architectural marvels. Reaching Bayon Temple: As you approach Bayon Temple, its towering central tower with hundreds of serene smiling faces comes into view. Prepare to be awestruck by the scale and artistry of this iconic landmark. Park your bikes and delve into the mysteries of Bayon. Climb the stairs to the upper terraces, marvel at the intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Khmer mythology, and of course, capture unforgettable photos of the enigmatic smiling faces. Your guide can provide valuable insights into the history and symbolism of Bayon, enriching your understanding.

 

Leaving Bayon behind, you'll embark on a scenic cycle through the Angkor complex, potentially encountering other temples and enjoying the lush surroundings. As you arrive at Ta Prohm, prepare to be captivated by the unique sight of this temple engulfed by the jungle. Witness the majestic trees intertwined with the ancient ruins, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Explore Ta Prohm at your own pace, marvelling at the way nature has reclaimed this temple. Imagine the lives and stories entwined within these ancient stones.

 

The final leg of your cycle journey takes you towards the majestic Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of the Angkor complex. The sight of its towering central spires emerging from the Cambodian landscape is truly awe-inspiring. Prepare to be overwhelmed by the sheer scale and intricate details of Angkor Wat. Explore the vast courtyards, admire the exquisite bas-reliefs, and climb the central tower for breath-taking panoramic views of the Angkor complex.

 

Enjoy a leisurely cycle back to Siem Reap, reflecting on the incredible temples you've witnessed and the unique experience of exploring Angkor by bike.

 

Overnight in Siem Reap.

This morning, you'll take a short drive into the countryside outside Siem Reap, where you'll visit a local village to learn about traditional food, and growing methods, and try your hand at making a three-course meal in a Cambodian cooking class. Although not as well-known as Thai or Vietnamese food, Khmer cuisine is arguably equally as good, combining fresh seasonal produce with spices to create unique and flavorful dishes.
After meeting your chef, you'll take a walk through the village to meet a local family and see the different vegetables growing and being cultivated. Learn about farming techniques and pick some produce, before making your way back to the cooking school, where you'll get stuck and learn about the history of Khmer cuisine, surrounded by rice paddies and palm trees. Once you have enjoyed the fruits of your labor, return to the city, where the afternoon is free to relax or explore further.

Depart for the Tonlé Sap. You will enjoy a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake. This is the largest permanent fresh-water lake in Southeast Asia and flows into Tonle Sap River, joining the Mekong in Phnom Penh. You will see a fishermen's "floating village" with floating schools, floating police station, etc. It is same as a big village floating on the lake, and the "village" move from place-to-place following water levels and current. You will go to local pagoda, where you should change to clothes you can get wet in as here you will experience the ceremony “SrouchTeok”, which roughly translates into “Water blessing”. A monk will chant in ancient Pali as he splashes water over you, washing away your sins and bad luck so you can start fresh and by being a good person can increase your good luck.

Transfer to Quad Bike office, then our guide will give you a safety driving, instruction how to drive the quad bike, and will make a short training for the beginner to adobe with quad bike before departure. Strikingly beautiful view of the rice fields and villages under the clear blue sky turns gold and yellow at dawn and at dust. The unforgettable and unbeatable view of sunset in the countryside behind the villages is a must.

In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing performance of Phare, the Cambodian Circus, by professional artists from Phare Ponleu Selpak. Originally a project set up in refugee camps to encourage young people to express themselves using art, the Phare Circus has slowly become a worldwide name and is a great success story for responsible tourism. The hour-long show blends together theater, dance, music, juggling, and contortionism.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Transfer to Siem Reap airport for departure to next destination. It’s time to say goodbye, we thank you for traveling with us and warmly welcome you to come again.

Services

What’s include :

TOUR COST INCLUDES:

TOUR COST NOT INCLUDES:

✅ Accommodation: 13-nights with daily breakfast in double / twin shared room

✅ Meals: at local restaurant (Foods only) as mentioned in program (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner)

✅ Private Transportation: Airport transfers & Tours by air con. vehicles as per program.

✅ Private boat trip as mentioned in program.

✅ Entrance fees: Sightseeing and entrance fees as specified as mentioned in program.

✅ Private Tour Guide: Local English-speaking guide during tours as mentioned in program

✅ Join Tour – Elephant Experience

✅ Join Cooking class.

✅ Circus show ticket at Phare (Section B)

✅ Sunset Quad bike (1 person 1 bike)

✅ All government taxes.

✅ 24hours supporting hotline.

✅ Cold water and towel during tours

❌ Cambodia Visa stamp fee – https://www.evisa.gov.kh/

❌ All International air tickets.

❌ Other meal, drink, personal expenses, tip, Travel insurance,

❌ Early check-in & late check-out surcharge.

❌ International bank transfer fees (Banking fee is covered by the sender)

❌ Another thing not mentioned in included

GENERAL NOTICE:

  • Standard check-in time is 14h00 and check-out time is 12h00 at most of the hotels.
  • Arrival/Departure: Above prices are valid only for group of clients travelling together – arrival and departure with the same flight. Arrival/departure by other flight subject to supplement charge.
  • Program is subject to change without notice due to Airlines unexpected changes of schedule or flight unexpected cancellations.
  • There will be no refund or compensation applied due to force major which effect to visit program.
  • We reserve the right to adjust the prices at any time in the event of an increase of the fuel surcharge applied by airlines companies or any other transport companies.
  • Deadline for flight tickets: We will automatically issue flights 5 days after bookings is confirmed by us, please take note and come back to me within 5 days since booking is confirmed if you find clients don’t want to issue it.

 

Consultant/Emergency Contact:

EURASIE Travel “Best for the Best“ – Head office

#AC04, Street 59CW, Borey Sopheak Meangkul, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

info@eurasietravel.com.kh / www.eurasietravel.com.kh

 

Hot lines:

+ Mr. Bonny: (+855) 12 608 108 (WHATSAPP)

    ” Possiamo dire che è stata la luna di miele perfetta. Abbiamo avuto la possibilità di entrare a stretto contatto con la gente locale, di vivere diverse esperienze molto interessanti e di visitare dei posti fantastici. Tutto era organizzato in maniera perfetta grazie anche al validissimo supporto del nostro corrispondente Roberto, che non ci ha mai lasciati soli. Da dietro le quinte ci ha assistito per tutta la durata del nostro magnifico viaggio di nozze, dandoci un valido supporto per qualsiasi cosa. Le guide e i drivers erano sempre puntuali, cordiali, molto disponibili e molto preparati. Difficile dire in una sola frase cosa ci sia piaciuto. In una sola parola: TUTTO. L’organizzazione pre e durante il nostro viaggio è stata ineccepibile. Non possiamo che ringraziare Roberto ed Eurasie per questa meravigliosa esperienza.”

    Erika e Andrea

    Tour Vietnam & Cambogia