Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm Small-Group Day Tour with Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Pick up you at your hotel and transfer to explore Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument and the supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this 81-hectare complex took 37 years to complete. Walk through its grand outer enclosures and inner galleries to admire the soaring five central towers—iconically featured on the Cambodian national flag—and discover intricate sandstone bas-reliefs detailing epic legends.

Stop at the imposing South Gate of Angkor Thom to photograph the iconic causeway lined with 54 devas (guardian gods) and 54 asuras (demons) holding the sacred Naga serpent. Stand beneath the 23-meter-high stone tower carved with giant serene face sculptures welcoming visitors into the ancient royal city.

Discover Bayon Temple, the state temple built at the exact center of Angkor Thom by King Jayavarman VII. Famous for its 49 towers adorned with over 200 serene, smiling face carvings (representing Avalokiteshvara/Lokeshvara), Bayon also features extraordinary wall bas-reliefs illustrating 12th-century military battles and everyday Cambodian life.

Walk along the elevated sandstone causeway to explore Baphuon, a massive 11th-century temple mountain. Marvel at the giant Reclining Buddha constructed on its western wall—a monumental archaeological jigsaw puzzle successfully restored in 2011 after decades of conservation efforts.

Tucked beneath the shaded jungle canopy inside the former Royal Palace grounds, Phimeanakas is a 10th-century pyramid-style Hindu temple. Those who climb its steep stone steps are rewarded with sweeping views looking out over the surrounding forest treetop canopy.

Walk along the 300-meter-long Terrace of the Elephants, the historic grand viewing platform used by ancient Khmer kings to watch public ceremonies, festivals, and returning victorious armies. Admire the remarkably preserved, life-sized wall carvings of Asian elephants and mahouts.

Located just north of the Elephant Terrace, explore the intricate stone walls of the Terrace of the Leper King. Stroll through its narrow, deeply carved sandstone corridors filled with detailed depictions of underworld deities, royal guardians, and mythical figures.

After a lunch break, step into the enchanting jungle ruins of Ta Prohm. Intentionally left in its natural state much like when early European explorers encountered it in the 19th century, this atmospheric site features giant silk-cotton (spung) and banyan tree roots growing directly over moss-covered stone walls and ancient doorways.

Walk up the the top of Bakheng Hill for an unforgettable experience of sunset. Return to Siem Reap and drop you off at your hotel.