Cambodia
Cambodia
From the mystique of Angkor Wat to Phnom Penh’s leafy French-influenced boulevards, Cambodia’s enduring charisma and exotic allure make this a destination of tantalising adventure.
Nourished by the mighty Mekong River, enriched for centuries by the intricate craftsmanship of long-standing dynasties, Cambodian culture retains a distinct old-world grace. The ‘Lost City’ that's home to Angkor Wat is a wondrous 12th-century temple complex, and an iconic tribute to the creativity and skill of ancient times. Under the gaze of giant god-kings carved into high vestiges, you'll walk through temples covered in jungle creepers that seem intent on seizing back what was once theirs.
Marvel at the water-based economy of Tonlé Sap Lake, where wooden boats laden with the day’s catch ease between floating and stilted villages. Journey through the misty Cardamom Mountains on elephant-back, or luxuriate on the tropical islands of Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. Charismatic capital Phnom Penh, a riverside city undergoing a cultural renaissance presents colourful markets, incense-burning shrines attended by amber-robed monks, atmospheric cafés serving sumptuous Khmer delicacies, and the glistening Royal Palace, all golden spires and brightly-tiled roofs. Outside the city, head for Battambang and seaside Kep, where pastel-coloured colonial buildings of the French protectorate offer timeless charm.
Enjoy exclusive access to the Incredible Angkor Wat complex without the crowds and have Angkor Wat’s premier historian bring the ruins to life. Go further on a cycle ride, following trails to discover the otherworldly temples at Ta Prohm buried in patches of forest. Change your perspective and take a scenic flight, helicopter ride or hot air balloon flight over the temples to get an alternative view of ancient Khmer civilization. Catch sunrise over the complex and watch sunset while feasting at the Khmer Village overlooking the 10th Century royal pool at Sra Srang. Watch a mesmerizing Apsara dance and have a monk bless you. Kayak down the Tonle Sap lake past stilted homes while watching out for flocks of beautiful birds. Spend a day immersing yourself in Phnom Penh with a knowledgeable guide, exploring by cyclo. In the course of which, uncover the sobering sites left by the Khmer Rouge. Elsewhere, enjoy a close-up wildlife encounter in the forest of Ratanakiri that are home to gibbons and elephants or watch out for river dolphins while on a luxury cruise of the Mekong River
Explore Asia's greatest temple complex int he company of an expert historian
Explore Tonlé Sap by kayak or cruise
Take in a mesmerising Apsara performance, Cambodia's traditional dance
Grand city hotels in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap including the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Raffles Hotel Le Royal respectively. Contrast contemporary boutique retreats including the Park Hyatt Siem Reap with beautiful country villas and a private island escape such as Song Saa Private Island. After something a bit more unusual? Try a floating safari village with eco-credentials such as Four Rivers Floating Lodge or ask us about decadent designer riverboats that ply their trade on the Mekong River.
While many choose to visit during the dry-season months between November and April, when the beaches are at their heavenly best, it's equally possible to enjoy Cambodia's temple and city highlights during the wetter months, or 'green season'. True, the coast might not be at its best, but there's the advantage of fewer crowds, and Angkor's lotus ponds are full of water making for some excellent photography opportunities. We suggest that you make the most of your adventure in this part of the world by combining your time in Cambodia with a stay in Thailand, Laos or Vietnam.
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