Day 1: Siem Reap – Koh Ker (L,D)

Pick up at your hotel, we drive to remote Beng Mealea temple through the typical Khmer countryside (60 km from Siem Reap). There is a lot to see in the drive as it takes you through many lively villages and along kilometers of rice paddies.

Explore the long abandoned temple (11th century), strangled by the jungle. After the visit of Beng Mealea, we then head into the bush to the remote Angkor capital of Koh Ker. The history of Cambodia is riven with dynastic spats and political intrigue and one of the most memorable came in the 10th century when Jayavarman IV (928-942) fell out with his family, stormed off to the northwest and established the rival capital of Koh Ker. Although the capital for just 15 years, Jayavarman IV was determined to legitimise his rule through a prolific building programme that left a legacy of 30 major temples and some gargantuan sculpture that is on display in the National Museum in Phnom Penh.

We visit the vast Prasat Thom, a seven-storey step pyramid, more Mayan than Khmer, with commanding views over the surrounding forest. Nearby is Prasat Krahom or Red Temple, named after the stone from which it is built. There are many more temples in the area, including the five towers of Prasat Ling, each enclosing a giant linga or fertility symbol, the biggest and best found in situ anywhere in Cambodia. We then return to our camp for the night, spending the night in a smart safari tent.

Note: The overall dimensions of the tent are 3m wide x 4m long x 2.5m high. The premium tents include fully appointed hotel-style bathrooms complete with flush toilet, washbasin, and stylish toiletries. The furnishings are all wood, including full-size double bed, tables and chairs, clothes rails, plus an antique brass fan. Service is taken to another level, including bathrobe, slippers and orchids on the bed with turndown service provided. It includes a butler service.

Day 2: Koh Ker – Siem Reap (B)

We rise early to enjoy a sunrise across the temple complex of Koh Ker and explore some of its lesser sites before setting out for the return trip to Siem Reap where we check into our hotel and enjoy some rest and relaxation. It is also possible to combine this short temple safari with a trip to the incredible stilted village of Kompong Khleang on the Tonle Sap Lake or the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen with its sacred River of a Thousand Lingas.

Note :

Although our products on our web are general, we remain at your disposal to tailor made your extensions, and to provide other tour itineraries for sightseeing, special events as unique experience. Be informed we offer Safari Beaches where you will enjoy a comfortable African-style bush camp on the beach offering a romantic and private seaview experience.