Through Temples and Time: A Quest Across Cambodia

Experience both the world-renowned ruins and an almost entirely unexplored side of Cambodia on this adrenaline-fuelled quest. From Siem Reap’s sacred temples to Phnom Penh’s legacy of contrasts, venture even further into the lost kingdoms and dense jungles of Southeast Asia, journeying through time to places where ancient and modern history powerfully collide.

When to go
Nov - Mar
 
From Price
£40,200 PP*
(excl international flights)
Ideal Length
10 Nights
 



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Experience Highlights

  • Experience Angor Wat without the crowds, and discover ancient temple complexes unknown to the public, utilising helicopters and private mobile camps for exclusive access.
  • ATVs, e-bikes, expedition boats, kayaks, 4x4s, ziplines and scenic helicopter tours fuel the excitement, while seamlessly transporting you to Cambodia’s most jaw-dropping locations.
  • Key figures lead each carefully curated experience, from geoscientists to film directors, Royal Family members, expert nature guides and genocide survivors.
  • Exceptional luxury accommodation immerses you into each location, perfectly positioning you to experience Cambodia’s traditional artforms, flavourful cuisine and unique customs.

Explore Cambodia’s true depths on this thrilling exploration, where Pelorus brings together exclusive access and hand-picked leading experts to showcase the country in an altogether new light. Gain a new perspective of the country’s complex past and discover its intriguing landscapes as you embark on this high-octane tour of Cambodia.

SIEM REAP’S SITES AND SOUL

Touching down in Siem Reap, soak up the energy of what was once a provincial market town, before setting off on an ATV off-roading adventure through the rural countryside. Explore Angkor Wat by e-bike, taking advantage of hidden paths to experience this archaeological wonder without the crowds. Feel the thrill of cycling along the city walls, riding towards the “Gate of Death” to enter this beguiling site. Visit a Khmer home overlooking the royal bathing pond of Sra Srang, before gaining private access to the upper level of Bayon Temple. Tonight, head to the lively “Pub Street” for a rice wine cocktail-making class with an expert mixologist.

Returning to experience Angkor Wat at sunrise, be blessed by a resident monk to mark your time in this sacred place. Gain an appreciation for the immense restoration efforts as a geoscientist guides you through restricted areas. Tour the APOPO centre, learning about the deadly curse of landmines in Cambodia. Meet the “Hero Rats”, specially trained to sniff out explosives. Spend time in select galleries and artisans’ studios, before ending the day with an exclusive dinner experience, privately set up at Thommanon Temple. Be captivated by professional Apsara dancers and renowned Phare circus performers, dining by lantern-light under the stars.

DISCOVER THE LOST KINGDOM OF KAMPONG SVAY

Immerse into Cambodia’s ancient dynasties as you fly by helicopter deep into the jungle, touching down at the giant temple of Beng Mealea. Soar onward to Preah Khan Kampong Svay, an extremely remote archaeological site and the biggest temple complex constructed during the 12th century. Occupying an impressive footprint, this area is ten times larger than Angkor Wat and twice as big as Angkor Thom. Here, a remote mobile camp has been set up exclusively for you, creating the perfect base from which to explore the ruins with a jungle torch, ‘Indiana Jones-style’, before settling in for the night.

Rise early to survey this immense kingdom, admiring the four-faced Prasat Preah Stung tower, constructed in the style of Bayon, and the delicate “Elephant Temple”, a small pyramid ceremoniously adorned by locals. Here, the layout is unique compared to other sites in Angkor, thought to align with the rising sun during the summer solstice. Walk over the causeway to cross the moat, gazing up at the garuda carvings - powerful half-human, half-eagle protection symbols that guard the immense interior.

WILD ENCOUNTERS IN THE CARDAMOM MOUNTAINS

Continue by helicopter to your luxury tented lodge in the Southern Cardamom Mountain National Park, where a 4x4 ride and an exhilarating 400-metre zipline entry into the camp sets the tone for the days to come. Explore this natural sanctuary, one of the last great wilderness areas in Southeast Asia. Accompany the Wildlife Alliance Rangers on an anti-poaching patrol, deactivating traps and contributing to their vital conservation work. Encounter more than 140 species of butterfly on a guided entomology walk or cruise the river on board an expedition boat.

Rise early for a flatwater kayaking session, birdwatching along winding river routes with not a soul in sight, except for rare encounters with local fishermen. Spend the day exploring the surrounding jungles, trekking alongside your expert nature guide, or set out to conquer forested single tracks on mountain bikes. Explore a nearby Khmer village on two wheels, or up the ante on the Kirirom Reservoir trail, offering a challenging uphill ride and an adrenaline-pumping downhill sprint.

PHNOM PENH: ECHOES OF THE PAST

Fly onward to Phnom Penh, where the contrasts between ancient and recent history are stark. Privately tour the National Museum, home to the world's finest collection of sculptures from the Angkor period. Explore the stunning Royal Palace alongside a member of the Cambodian Royal Family, visiting beautiful gardens, throne halls, pavilions and pagodas for the chance to view some of the country's most cherished treasures. Later, meet with leading film director, Kulikar Sotho, followed by a private screening of her award-winning film, “The Last Reel”, giving a personal perspective of the effects of Cambodia’s harsh political legacy. 

Today, confront the horrific crimes of the Khmer Rouge as you visit Tuol Sleng (S21), an infamous prison and interrogation centre. Meet with a genocide survivor, gaining insight into the true extent of their experience before travelling to the notorious “Killing Fields”. Despite the horrors of the past, it is a peaceful place that allows for deep reflection on the tragic events that engulfed Cambodia and its people. After exploring these two locations, head to a nearby country house for a very special farewell dinner, the perfect place to conclude your extraordinary journey through Cambodia.

Where to Stay

Zannier Phum Baitang

A serene river flows through a lush green jungle, with large rocks scattered along its banks. A tent-like structure with warm lighting is visible near the water, surrounded by dense foliage under a twilight sky.

Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

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