Angkor Equinox

The entrance fee for the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes access to major temples such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and many others, is structured based on the duration of the visit. Here are the current entrance fees as of 2024:

• 1-Day Pass: $37 USD
• 3-Day Pass: $62 USD (valid for any three days within a 10-day period)
• 7-Day Pass: $72 USD (valid for any seven days within a 30-day period)

These passes can be purchased at the main entrance ticket booths located near the entrance to the park. The park opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning sunrises and sunsets

DAY ONE

Begin your day with a tour of Angkor Thom, which includes visits to the Bayon Temple, Baphuon, Terrace of the Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King. Angkor Thom, founded by Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, was one of the largest Khmer cities and remained the capital until the 17th century. Then, visit Ta Prohm, known for its massive tree roots enveloping the temple structures.

After lunch, explore Angkor Wat, the Seventh Wonder of the World. Spend your afternoon marveling at this iconic temple. As the day comes to an end, climb Bakheng Hill to enjoy a spectacular sunset view. Return to Siem Reap for dinner at a local restaurant and stay overnight.

DAY TWO

On the second day, venture into the typical Khmer countryside to visit Banteay Srey, the “Citadel of Women” or “Citadel of Beauty,” noted for its size and intricate decorations. Next, explore Banteay Samre, built in the late 12th century, featuring a central temple with four wings, a hall, and two libraries, all enclosed by two concentric walls and continue your journey to East Mebon Temple and Pre Rup.

Discover the enchanting wonders of ancient Cambodia with the Banteay Srei & Boeng Mealea Tour. This captivating journey takes you through two of the region’s most iconic and visually stunning temples, offering a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the Khmer Empire.

Banteay Srei

Begin your tour with a visit to Banteay Srei, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women” or the “Citadel of Beauty.” This 10th-century temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone construction, which give it a unique and ethereal appearance. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Banteay Srei is celebrated for its exceptionally detailed bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple’s smaller scale allows for an intimate exploration of its exquisite artwork and well-preserved structures.

Boeng Mealea

Next, venture to Boeng Mealea, a hidden gem often described as the “Lost Temple.” This 12th-century temple, enveloped by lush jungle, offers a sense of adventure and mystery. Unlike many other temples in the region, Boeng Mealea has not been extensively restored, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty of an ancient ruin reclaimed by nature. Wander through the sprawling ruins, navigate the maze-like corridors, and marvel at the towering trees intertwining with the stone structures.

Preah Dak village, located in Siem Reap province, is a charming destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Cambodian experiences. This village is not only famous for its rich historical significance near the Angkor temples but also for its vibrant local culture, especially when it comes to food and handicrafts. Here, you can find a variety of souvenirs, delicious local dishes, and traditional desserts, with Num Tnaot (Khmer Palm Cake) being one of the highlights.

Preah Dak: A Perfect Place for Souvenirs and Local Treats
Souvenirs
Preah Dak offers a variety of handmade items and locally produced goods, making it an excellent spot for visitors to pick up authentic Cambodian souvenirs. Handcrafted items like:

Palm sugar products (a specialty of the village),
Traditional woven crafts like baskets and mats,
Local pottery and hand-carved wooden items.
These souvenirs are often made by local artisans, reflecting the village’s cultural heritage and offering a way for tourists to support the local economy.

Local Food and Desserts
Visitors can sample a wide range of local dishes and desserts in Preah Dak, and it’s a great place to experience the authentic flavors of Cambodian rural life.

Num Tnaot (Palm Cake): This is the village’s signature dessert, made from locally sourced palm sugar, rice flour, and coconut milk. The soft, spongy cakes are steamed and wrapped in banana leaves, and their unique sweet flavor is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

Palm Sugar Products: You can also buy pure palm sugar, palm syrup, or palm-based candies, which are often sold as souvenirs and are a perfect reminder of the village’s culinary heritage.

Other Traditional Dishes: In addition to desserts, you can enjoy local Cambodian cuisine like grilled meats, noodle dishes, and fresh tropical fruits. The village is known for preparing meals with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring an authentic dining experience.

A Stop for Tourists
Given its proximity to Siem Reap’s iconic Angkor Wat, Preah Dak is a popular stop for tourists who are exploring the temple complexes. Many tour groups include a stop in the village as part of their itinerary, allowing visitors to witness traditional Cambodian life and cuisine firsthand.

You can also visit the local markets and see villagers at work, making palm sugar, weaving, and preparing delicious traditional desserts like Num Tnaot. It’s a great place for tourists to immerse themselves in Cambodian culture and bring home a little piece of it in the form of food, crafts, or unique palm sugar products.

Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cGbmpM5NU9UWqY9R8

Cambodia, known for its warmth and hospitality, invites visitors to experience its rich cultural heritage with respect and awareness. Before embarking on your journey to this Kingdom of Wonder, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local customs and practices to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit.

When traveling in Cambodia, it is crucial to seek permission before taking photographs of Cambodian people or monks, as this demonstrates respect for their privacy and cultural practices. In places of worship, such as pagodas or temples, it is customary to remove your shoes and dress modestly, covering your upper arms and legs while removing hats. This practice also extends to entering someone’s home, where removing your shoes is a sign of respect. A respectful greeting involves a slight bow with your hands pressed together at the chest, known as the “Sampeah.” If you are invited to dine at a Cambodian family’s home, bringing a small gift, such as fruit, dessert, or flowers, is considered polite. Additionally, when attending a Cambodian wedding, it is customary to bring cash as a wedding gift. At the dining table, if using a toothpick, cover your mouth with one hand to maintain propriety. Business cards should be exchanged with both hands, and they should also be received in the same manner.

Conversely, there are several important DON’Ts to observe while in Cambodia. Do not use your feet to point at someone or touch a Cambodian person’s head, as both actions are considered disrespectful. If you are a guest at a meal, wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Women should avoid touching male monks or handing items directly to them, as this is not permissible. It is also advised to keep public displays of affection to a minimum, as overt displays may be viewed as inappropriate.

In terms of commonsense practices, ensure that you do not litter and contribute to keeping the community clean and safe. Proper disposal of plastic bags is essential to avoid environmental hazards.

When it comes to what to wear, Cambodia’s weather is categorized into the wet season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). For the dry season, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing is recommended due to the hot and humid conditions. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are advisable for outdoor activities like hiking or trekking, and a hat and sunglasses are useful for sun protection. During the rainy season, packing a light rain poncho or a sturdy umbrella is practical, along with a light jacket or cardigan for the cooler months of December and January. When visiting outdoor temples, including Angkor Wat, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable, but shoes and hats should be removed at the entrance. For more formal sites like the Silver Pagoda within the Royal Palace grounds, dress more formally: gentlemen should wear long trousers, and ladies should opt for long trousers or skirts while keeping their shoulders covered.

For your trip, be sure to bring photocopies of your passport and at least two passport-size photographs. Carry cash in denominations of US$1, $10, $20, and $50, and consider packing a folding umbrella or lightweight rain poncho if traveling during the rainy season. Zip lock bags are handy for keeping items fresh and dry. Most importantly, bring an adventurous spirit to fully embrace and enjoy the diverse experiences Cambodia has to offer.