Tonle Sap Lake 10 Day Tour Program
Tonle Sap Lake 10 Day. Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake is not just a body of water, it is the vibrant heart of Khmer culture and history. With its floating villages, ancient temples, and exceptional biodiversity, a ten-day trip around this lake offers an enriching and unforgettable experience. Here is a detailed itinerary for a complete exploration of this fascinating region.
Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap
Your adventure begins in the charming city of Siem Reap, the gateway to Tonle Sap Lake and the interior of Cambodia. After arriving at the airport, take some time to settle into your hotel and rest. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the evening exploring the Siem Reap Night Market, famous for its handicrafts and delicious street snacks.
Day 2: Exploring the Temples of Angkor
No visit to Siem Reap would be complete without an immersion in the legendary temples of Angkor. Spend the entire day discovering Angkor Wat, the Bayon, Ta Prohm and other iconic temples. Hire a local guide to provide fascinating historical insights into these architectural wonders. Remember to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for these sacred sites.
Day 3: Discovering the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve
On the third day, embark on a boat trip on the waters of Tonle Sap Lake. The Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve is a protected site listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. During this cruise, you will be able to observe an impressive diversity of birds, fish and aquatic plants. A naturalist guide will enrich your visit with information about this unique ecosystem.
Day 4: Visit the floating village of Kampong Phluk
The fourth day is dedicated to visiting the floating village of Kampong Phluk, a typical example of stilt dwellings. Here, life is punctuated by the waters of the lake, and you can observe authentic scenes of the daily life of the inhabitants. Notice how the school, the market and even the temple are adapted to aquatic conditions. This is a unique opportunity to discover a living and resilient culture.
Day 5: Exploring Prek Toal, the bird sanctuary
Prek Toal is one of the best destinations for bird watching in Southeast Asia. A specialized guide will accompany you through the marshes and help you spot rare species such as pelicans, herons and cormorants. This day is a real treat for nature and photography lovers.
Day 6: Excursion to Battambang
On the sixth day, you take the road to Battambang, a city rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, visit Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan temples, as well as the French colonial houses that dot the city. Battambang Provincial Museum is also worth a visit for its historical artifacts. End the day with a Phare Ponleu Selpak circus show, a unique cultural experience.
Day 7: Battambang Caves Tour
The morning of the seventh day is reserved for an excursion to the famous Phnom Sampeu Caves, a major historical and religious site. The caves are known for their Buddhist shrines and the tragic “murder caves” dating back to the Khmer Rouge era. In the afternoon, you can visit a local vineyard to taste unique Cambodian wines and learn about winemaking in this tropical region.
Day 8: Return to Siem Reap and visit the museums
After a relaxing morning in Battambang, return to Siem Reap. Once back, spend the afternoon visiting the Angkor National Museum, where interactive exhibits help you learn more about Khmer civilization and the treasures of Angkor. The Siem Reap Handicraft Center is also worth a visit for its local artwork and educational workshops.
Day 9: Immerse yourself in local life at Chong Kneas
On your penultimate day, head to the floating village of Chong Kneas. Unlike Kampong Phluk, Chong Kneas changes dramatically between the dry and rainy seasons. Browse the stalls of the floating market, learn how houses adapt to the changing water levels, and sample local culinary specialties made with fish from the lake.
Day 10: Relax and shop for souvenirs in Siem Reap
The last day of your trip is dedicated to relaxation and souvenir shopping. Take a final stroll through the streets of Siem Reap, shop for handicrafts at the Old Market, and relax at a local spa. If time permits, a bike ride through the surrounding villages will offer picturesque views and a chance to meet authentic locals.
