Cambodia's forgotten temples

This morning you have a tour of the modern aspects of the city. This includes the Khmer Rouge memorials which give a stark but fascinating insight into Cambodia's recent history. The afternoon is spent exploring the city through its architectural history, including the French Colonial legacy and the New Khmer Architecture of the 50s and 60s.

This morning you get to enjoy a traditional Khmer pastime - eating picnics! Your guide will take you to a popular picnic spot outside of the city, on the banks of the river and you will enjoy this simple pastime in Khmer style. The guide will help you select food from the local vendors.

You head out of the capital today, travelling northwest to Battambang, the sleepy second city of Cambodia. You stop en route at Kompong Chhnang, on the banks of the Tonle Sap Lake.

Spend the day exploring the charming town of Battambang.

You continue on to Siem Reap by road today and on arrival check in to your hotel. You are then free to relax for a few hours before heading out in the evening to witness Cambodia's version of the Cirque Du Soleil. A fantastic local initiative this is not to be missed!

Today you discover the magnificent temples that stood at the heart of the Khmer Empire and still remain an impressive and awe inspiring testament to the power and ingenuity of the Khmer people.

A very early start for what will likely be a highlight of your trip. Experience the magical atmosphere of Ta Prohm temple as it emerges from the pre dawn mists! After breakfast you then head out into the countryside to explore the sleeping giant that is Beng Melea, followed by the small and exquisitely carved Banteay Srei. While in the area you can stop in at the excellent Landmine Museum.

The adventure steps up a level today as you are driven into Kulen National Park, from where independence was declared from the Cham people in the 9th century. Spend the afternoon walking through the jungle and visiting uncharted temple ruins. You camp for the evening in a clearing at the top of the plateau overlooking the park and plains below.

Today you are driven up into the far north of the country, still a Khmer Rouge stronghold in the 90s, and take the incredibly steep road up into the Dangrek Mountain range. You reach Preah Vihear temple, sitting atop a 500 metre high promontory and spend the afternoon exploring. You return down the mountain to a local guest house for the night.

Rise early to make the most of the early morning tranquillity before other tourists arrive and then you will head down to the plains to Preah Khan, a little visited giant of Khmer temples. Camp overnight again in the grounds of the temple.

You will head back to the capital today, taking in the early Khmer period temple complex at Sambor Prei Kuk en route. Check in to the wonderful Raffles for some well earned R&R at the end of the day.

Day at leisure: we suggest you spend the day further exploring the city or simply relax before your flight home. This evening you will be collected from your hotel and taken to the airport in time for your onward flight.