4D3N SIEM REAP + Tonle Sap & The Sacred Mountain

➤ After breakfast depart for the Ancient Capital of Angkor Wat which is an architectural masterpiece and the largest religious monument in the world. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century and is the earthly representation of Mount Meru, the Mount Olympus of the Hindu faith, and The Abode of Ancient Gods. Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, Angkor Wat became a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century. The temple is the heart and soul of Cambodia and a source of fierce national pride. Unlike the other Angkor monuments, it was never abandoned to the elements and has been in virtually continuous use since it was built. ➤ After lunch 2 miles from Angkor Wat explore the Great City of Angkor Thom which was the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer Empire. It was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Angkor Thom is not a singular temple, it is the name of one of the Most Impressive Royal Cities of the Angkor Period (9th–15th centuries) and an urban planning marvel. At the height of its power, the Angkor Empire controlled much of modern day mainland Southeast Asia and the center of its kingdom always remained in Angkor—in what is today Siem Reap. ➤ Visit the South Gate, one of the five main gates into ancient Angkor Thom, built in the late 12th-century in Bayon style, this is the most famous and best preserved of the major city gates into the Angkor Thom. ➤ Several centuries before Leonardo DaVinci created the enigmatic smile of his Mona Lisa, hundreds of serene faces displaying equally enigmatic smiles were carved into this famous temple now known as Bayon. This Bayon Temple A temple With many Faces houses 50 towers with over 200 faces. Thereafter next to it vist the Pyramid Temple in Angkor The Baphuon Temple, which is one of the quieter of the main Angkor ruins. ➤ Photo stop at Terrace of Elephant, and Terrace of Leper King before heading to The Temple which was the Set for the Hollywood Movie TOMB RAIDER Ta Prohm Temple. ➤ Continue further to visit The Citadel of Monks, known as Banteay Kdei and A 10th Century Romantic Architecture known as Srah Srong which has all the elements of a romantic setting, with its surrounding greenery, its grand landing stage and sweeping views across the water, reflecting a sunrise or a setting sun. ➤ Last stop at Pre-Rub Temple that consists of a pyramid-shaped and is one of the Most popular Sunset Spots around Angkor. ➤ After dinner, an hour leisure at Pub Street & Night Market. Enjoy the dazzling sight of the abounding cheap goods, exotic food and live bands as you explore every corner of this sparkly district. Pamper yourself with their relaxing therapeutic massage and spa services at a very affordable cost. It’s the perfect place to cool down after an entire day of temple tour under the heat of the sun. ➤ Remark: Buffet dinner with traditional Khmer dance will be arranged should the restaurant be open during your traveling period.

➤ After breakfast proceed to visit Phnom Kulen National Park and discover the Birthplace of the Ancient Khmer Empire. Once referred to as the Mount Mahendraparvata, the Kulen Mountain is the place that marked the origin of the Khmer empire in the 9th century when King Jayavarman II announced independence from Java and declared himself as the 'Chakravartin', meaning universal king. During the construction of the ancient temples, sandstones were brought from this sacred mountain to Angkor. Kulen is considered by Khmers to be the most sacred mountain in Cambodia. See the River of 1000 Lingas with its myriad symbols carved along a riverbed, pay respect to the reclining Buddha on the top of the mountain and enjoy this National Parks refreshing waterfalls. ➤ Depart early to make the most of this adventurous day. Drive through wide open rice fields and scattered villages with traditional houses, before winding up the rocky road to the top of the mountain. It was here that Jayavarman II gave birth to the Khmer Empire in AD 802. Trace the steps of this mighty king on a Walking Tour in this Sacred Mountain. Travel the rugged tracks to discover Riverbeds carved with Sacred Images and Abandoned Temples oozing with History. ➤ Visit the River of a 1000 Lingas. See the moss-covered ancient stone carvings of Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesh, and other Hindu icons. Learn about the early beginnings of the Khmer Empire when Hinduism was the dominant religion. ➤ Ascend to the summit of the hill to Marvel at the Buddhist Pagoda and the large Reclining Buddha statue on the hilltop. From here you will have breathtaking and spectacular views of the surrounding jungle. ➤ Continue to the Waterfalls of this Sacred Mountain, pausing at two beautiful spots for a swim. Relax and reflect on the natural wonders of this place and its rich history. ➤ After lunch at a local restaurant proceed to the Pinkish Sandstone Banteay Srei temple. This place is considered by many to be the Jewel in the Crown of Angkorian Art. Banteay Srei is cut from a stone of a pinkish hue and includes some of the Finest Stone Carving found anywhere on Earth. This Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and is wonderfully well preserved, and many of its carvings are three-dimensional. Banteay Srei which means “Citadel of the Women”, is said to have been built by a woman, as the elaborate carvings are supposedly too fine for the hand of a man. ➤ On the way back, visit the Traditional Palm Sugar Village where palm sugar makers continue to make their product in a traditional way, selling it to both local and international visitors. ➤ Return hotel for freshen up and proceed for dinner. Overnight stay at hotel.

➤ After breakfast free for personal activities. ➤ Thereafter transferred to airport for your onward journey.