TEMPLE DISCOVERY PACKAGE 2 DAYS TOUR ITINERARY

The eagerly awaited “Smile of Cambodia” event will return to Angkor Wat on October 29-30, as part of the Visit Siem Reap 2024 initiative.

This annual celebration honors Khmer heritage through captivating performances, vibrant exhibitions, and culinary experiences, drawing both local and international visitors. The event aims to reinvigorate post-pandemic tourism while showcasing the country’s cultural wealth.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, with the support of the Khmer Artists Association (KAA) and other key partners, it serves as a homage to Khmer art and culture.

Seth Kimsoeun, advisor to the KAA, explained that this year’s event is spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, which is acting as the primary organizer, producer, and manager, in collaboration with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia [UYFC] in Siem Reap.

The festival promises a spectacular celebration with over 500 artists bringing to life the grandeur of the Angkorian Empire, particularly focusing on the royal deeds of King Jayavarman VII.

Opening with a formal ceremony at 7:30am on October 29, the event will include a full day of traditional Khmer performances, exhibitions, and a majestic parade honoring the past kings of the Khmer Empire, all set against the iconic backdrop of Angkor Wat.

Attendees will be treated to live reenactments depicting key moments from Cambodia’s ancient history, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural legacy.

In addition to the performances, visitors can explore exhibitions showcasing Khmer cuisine, traditional attire, and art. These exhibitions aim to preserve ancient artistic traditions while creating a lively, festive atmosphere. A special feature of the celebration will be the Ting Mong tournament, a traditional puppet performance unique to Cambodia.

A major attraction of the event is the focus on Khmer cuisine. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy a variety of authentic Cambodian dishes, with international guests wearing traditional Khmer attire receiving complimentary food as a gesture of hospitality.

The event will also feature influencers and content creators who will help promote Cambodian heritage on social media, broadening awareness of the country’s rich cultural offerings.

As part of broader efforts to revive tourism in Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat temple, the “Smile of Cambodia” plays a crucial role in promoting cultural tourism.

Seth Kimsoeun noted that the event highlights two major activities: performances by more than 500 artists celebrating the Angkorian Empire, and the “Smile of Cambodia” program, which showcases Khmer arts, food, fashion, and culture, all while creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The event aims to draw international attention to Cambodia’s cultural tourism sites and help boost tourism through the end of 2024 and beyond into 2025.

Running from 9am to 6pm on both days, the event promises an entire day of dynamic cultural experiences against the magnificent backdrop of Angkor Wat.

For visitors, the festivities offer a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Khmer art, culture, and cuisine, while contributing to the revival of Cambodia’s tourism industry.

The event is expected to provide an unforgettable blend of ancient history and modern cultural celebration, all in one exceptional experience.

Best Place to watch Sunset in Siem Reap

Watching the sunset in Siem Reap is a magical experience that beautifully complements the sunrise at Angkor Wat, offering a different perspective of Cambodia’s ancient landscape bathed in golden hues. One of the most popular spots for sunset is Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple that provides panoramic views over the Angkor Archaeological Park. From the top, you can see the silhouette of Angkor Wat in the distance as the sun slowly dips behind the horizon. However, due to its popularity, it’s best to arrive early—ideally by 4:00 PM—as the number of visitors is limited to preserve the site. For a more peaceful and unique sunset experience, Pre Rup Temple is another excellent choice. Known for its reddish stone that glows warmly in the setting sun, Pre Rup offers an elevated view and fewer crowds, making it perfect for a serene end to your day of exploring. Another lesser-known but incredibly atmospheric place is Tonle Sap Lake, where you can enjoy a sunset boat ride along the calm waters while watching the sky reflect off the lake and witnessing the daily life of the floating villages. Whether you choose a historic temple or a tranquil lake, the sunsets in Siem Reap are not just visually stunning but deeply spiritual, offering travelers a moment to pause and reflect on the beauty and history surrounding them.

Tucked away in the heart of Siem Reap, just a short distance from the world-renowned Angkor Wat, lies a hidden gem that is quickly becoming one of Cambodia’s most enchanting attractions: Angkor Wonder Garden. Designed to blend natural beauty with artistic creativity, the garden offers a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a unique destination or a local searching for a weekend escape, Angkor Wonder Garden delivers a magical journey that lingers in the memory long after you’ve left.

Spread across beautifully landscaped grounds, Angkor Wonder Garden is more than just a garden—it’s an immersive world of color, light, and imagination. As you walk through the vibrant pathways, you’ll be greeted by a stunning array of flowers, rare plants, and meticulously designed sculptures that seem to come alive with every step. The garden is divided into themed sections, each offering a unique atmosphere, from fairy-tale-inspired zones and romantic flower tunnels to charming bridges and peaceful lotus ponds. It’s a photographer’s dream and a perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy moments, engagement photos, or even casual family portraits.

One of the most captivating features of Angkor Wonder Garden is its night illumination. When the sun sets, the garden transforms into a dazzling wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights and glowing installations. The pathways light up in vibrant colors, while sculptures and structures are bathed in soft, enchanting hues. This nighttime experience is ideal for couples on a romantic date, families looking for an evening adventure, or travelers wanting to experience a different side of Siem Reap’s attractions.

What sets Angkor Wonder Garden apart from other tourist spots is its ability to provide entertainment, relaxation, and cultural appreciation all in one place. In addition to its natural beauty, the garden occasionally hosts live performances, cultural exhibitions, and seasonal events that celebrate Cambodian heritage and traditions. Local artisans and food vendors are often present, offering authentic cuisine and handmade crafts that reflect the spirit of the region. It’s a destination that supports the local community while giving visitors an immersive cultural experience.

Visitors will also appreciate the garden’s accessibility and family-friendly amenities.

With clean restrooms, shaded seating areas, and helpful staff, the garden is designed to be welcoming and comfortable for everyone.

Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand with a loved one, exploring with curious children, or simply taking a solo moment to reconnect with nature, Angkor Wonder Garden provides the perfect setting.

For those planning a visit, ticket prices are very affordable—Children $3 and Adult $7—making it a budget-friendly attraction for both locals and international travelers. With such reasonable pricing, Angkor Wonder Garden offers great value for a unique and unforgettable experience.

In a city famed for its ancient temples and historical landmarks, Angkor Wonder Garden adds a fresh and contemporary charm to the Siem Reap experience. It is a place where art meets nature, where creativity blossoms alongside tradition, and where every corner holds a new surprise waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the chance to explore this magical destination—Angkor Wonder Garden is not just a place to visit, but a place to feel inspired.