Banteay Srei: Explore The 10th Century 'Jewel of Khmer Art'
Another temple not to be missed! Banteay Srei is a 10th century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is said to be the finest example of Angkorian art, constructed out of a pink hued stone. Often regarded as the “Jewel of Khmer Art”, Banteay Srei is extremely popular among the tourists and is known for its wonderful preservation of intricate wall carvings depicting apsaras and other mystical entities. Despite being one of the smallest temple sites, it more than makes up for it in grandeur. And get this: there is a school of thought that Banteay Srei (literally ‘Citadel of the Women’) may have been built by women, as the detail is too rich and elegant to have been done by a man.
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Angkor Wat: Take A Private Guided Elephant Tour
Cambodia’s most iconic temple, Angkor Wat is spread over 160 hectares of land, earning it the title of the world’s largest religious monument. A perfect illustration of unrivaled beauty and preservation, Angkor Wat exemplifies the awe-inspiring Khmer brilliance of the 12th century. With intricate carvings on the walls and beguiling details, it is no wonder why it is not only the largest but also one of the finest religious monuments in the world. A true architectural masterpiece, Angkor Wat has also earned a recognition on Cambodia’s national flag and can be best explored by ambling along on a giant, gentle elephant. Request our experts for a private guided tour of this enormous 12th-century UNESCO listed marvel dedicated to Lord Vishnu for you and family, taking you away from the crowds.
Angkor Thom: Visit The Great 12th Century Khmer City
Last and probably the most abiding capital of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom, translated as ‘The Great City’, has been one of the most important archaeological sites of the country, showcasing the fascinating remnants of the bygone empire. This 12th century marvel is home to the magnificent Bayon Temple, which is enclosed by a 8-meter high square wall and encircled by a 100-meter wide moat, that protected the city from invaders. Other key highlights include the Terrace of Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, the Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas, taking this Khmer monumental to a whole new level of grandeur. Angkor Thom is indeed a strong rival to Angkor Wat in sheer size and beauty.
Tonle Sap: Visit A Floating Market And Birdwatcher's Paradise
The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, the Tonle Sap hosts an exceptional degree of biodiversity, earning it a prestigious UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in 1997. Tonle Sap has a population of three million dwelling on its banks, of which approximately 90% are engaged in fishing and agriculture to support their living. This freshwater lake is home to a plethora of marine species, most notably the near-extinct Siamese crocodile and the legendary Mekong Giant Catfish, that is regarded as the largest freshwater fish in the world. Over 100 bird species, such as storks, pelicans, the threatened Bengal Florican, Oriental darter and the grey-headed fish eagle, call Tonle Sap home, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visit during the flood season, when Tonle Sap becomes the largest freshwater lake in Asia and sail past the colorful floating markets, testing your bargaining skills with the happy locals selling everything from fresh produce to local artefacts.
Ta Prohm: Get A Guided Tour Of Cambodia's Ancient Ruins
Ta Prohm, one of the most ancient ruins of Angkor presently stands camouflaged by vast root systems and crumbling towers. Built in the Bayon Temple, largely in the late 12th and 13th centuries, Ta Prohm is a UNESCO Heritage Site that showcases a brilliant atmospheric beauty comprising of hundred year-old trees and shrubs all around. The elegant bas-reliefs of the ruins are cloaked in moss, lichen and creeping plants. A rare inscription at Ta Prohm provides data on its workers, numbered at 80,000, including 2700 officials and 615 dancers. Devoured by sheer wilderness and jungle cover, Ta Prohm is a must visit for travelers with a taste for adventure. Ask our experts for a guided tour of this relic of ancient art, combined with the beauty of raw nature.
Toul Tom Pong: Browse The Eclectic Russian Market of Cambodia
The Russian Market, as it is popularly known among the tourists and expats, is probably the best place in Cambodia to pick up souvenirs. Known to the locals as Phsar Toul Tom Pong, this bustling market is based in the southern part of Phnom Penh town and was quite popular among the Russian expats who settled in the area during the 1980s. The market is composed of narrow steaming alleys, and strolling through this wonderful chaos is itself an experience. Take a tour of the colorfully vibrant and bustling stalls that sell local jewellery, shoes, hard-carved statues, handmade silk carves and colorful lanterns, perfect gifts for everyone back home.
