Get ready to dive into a mesmerizing adventure through time and culture! Angkor, the ancient city of the Khmer Empire, is an absolute haven for photographers, boasting a myriad of breathtaking temples, verdant landscapes, and lively local scenes. If you’re a photography enthusiast keen on capturing the soul of this UNESCO World Heritage site, then a 3-day escapade in Angkor is a must to fully submerge yourself in its magnificence. Come along as we uncover the ultimate itinerary for photography aficionados, ensuring you seize every moment with your camera in hand or your phone poised to capture the magic.
Let’s embark on this exhilarating journey and immortalize the beauty of Angkor through our lenses!
Why 3 Full Days?
You might wonder why 3 days are essential for an Angkor adventure. Well, let me tell you, 3 days is the minimum amount of time to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this incredible place. Anything less and you’ll be left feeling like you missed out on so much. But with a minimum of 3 days, you’ll have the chance to fully appreciate each site, soak in the atmosphere, and really connect with the magic of Siem Reap. Plus, you’ll discover that there’s so much more to this region than just temples. So, get ready to experience the wonders of Angkor and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Day 1: Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Temples
Arrival Day in Siem Reap!
Get ready for an incredible adventure as you land at the newly Siem Reap International Airport (SAI), where the warm Cambodian hospitality will greet you with open arms. The air is filled with anticipation and excitement as you step off the plane, ready to embrace the wonders of this enchanting city.
After a smooth transfer to your hotel (between you and I, we love Babel, Jaya House River Park and Treeline Urban Resort for their practice of responsible and sustainable tourism), take a moment to unwind and pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage at Bodia Spa, where the tranquil ambiance will instantly transport you to a state of bliss. As you settle into your accommodations, why not step out and immerse yourself in the vibrant city life? Stroll through the bustling streets and alleyways, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Siem Reap will captivate your senses. Grab a delightful cup of coffee at Little Red Fox or Sister Srey and soak in the local charm, as you watch the world go by.
Later in the evening, treat your taste buds to an authentic Cambodian meal at Haven, a restaurant that not only serves delicious cuisine but also supports the training of young Cambodians in the hospitality industry. The flavors of traditional Khmer dishes will dance on your palate, leaving you craving for more. Your first day promises to be a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and delicious culinary experiences, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey ahead.
After a first day to discover the charm of Siem Reap and its gastronomy, it is time to get ready to embark on your photography adventure in Angkor! Sweet dreams.
Day 2: Supreme Temples
Our first day of your Photography Adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable day as we embark on a mesmerizing visit to Ta Prohm, a temple nestled in the lush embrace of the jungle. The sight of ancient stone intertwined with colossal roots and vines is truly awe-inspiring. But that’s just the beginning of our adventure! We’ll delve deep into the forest, uncovering hidden gems of Angkorean temples and unvisited monasteries that will leave you speechless.
And just when you think it can’t get any better, the afternoon will bring us to the majestic Angkor Thom, where you’ll marvel at its grandeur and be captivated by the enigmatic smiling faces. This day is filled with endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature and history, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Day 3: Angkor Wat, Market, and Monasteries
Today is going to be an absolutely incredible day as we embark on a journey through the wonders of Siem Reap. First up, we’ll be immersing ourselves in the vibrant and bustling local market, where we’ll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and smells that will ignite our senses and provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs. The hustle and bustle of the market will be an experience like no other, and we’ll have the chance to interact with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions.
But that’s just the beginning! Our next stop is a Buddhist pagoda, where we’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to interact with Buddhist monks and experience the serene and peaceful atmosphere of this sacred place. We’ll learn about the Buddhist way of life and the significance of the various rituals and practices. The tranquility of the pagoda will be a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the market, and we’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
But wait, there’s more! We’ll also be exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, where we’ll be bathed in the golden light that envelops this ancient wonder, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our creative endeavors. The intricate carvings and towering spires of the temples will leave us in awe, and we’ll have the chance to learn about the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
After a day full of excitement and a quick shower, we can only recommend you to spend your evening looking, smiling, laughing and maybe crying at an amazing modern performance done by Phare the Cambodian Circus. This circus is unlike any other, as it blends traditional Cambodian music, painting, dance, and acrobatics with modern storytelling to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience. You’ll be mesmerized by the incredible talent and energy of the performers, and you’ll leave feeling uplifted and inspired.
Day 4: Less Visited Temples and Tonle Sap Lake
Angkor is more than only Temples!
As we embark on the final day of our adventure, we’ll dedicate the morning to uncovering hidden gems among the temples, away from the crowds. This is your chance to capture the quiet beauty and intricate details of these lesser-visited sites, allowing for even a more intimate and personal photographic experience.
In the afternoon, we’ll journey to a village nestled at the edge of the enchanting Tonlé Sap Lake. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to capture the unique lifestyle and daily activities of the locals, creating a visual narrative of their vibrant community. A boat ride out onto the glistening waters of the lake will provide a different perspective for your photography, offering a glimpse into a way of life unlike anywhere else.
Day 5: Bittersweet!
Oh, what a journey it has been! Day 5 marks the bittersweet end of your adventure through the captivating land of Angkor. From the moment you set foot on this ancient wonder, your hearts have been filled with wonder and amazement. The past 3 days and 4 nights with us have been a whirlwind of exploration, taking you through overgrown temples, lively markets, and the serene beauty of Tonlé Sap Lake. Every moment has been a sensory delight, leaving you craving for more. As you bid adieu to this mesmerizing land, you can’t help but feel a tinge of sadness, knowing that there is so much more to discover in Cambodia.
The warm hospitality of the Khmer people and the diverse allure of Siem Reap will forever linger in your memories, beckoning you to return and unravel the treasures that this country holds. Though you may have to part ways for now, you promise yourselves that you will be back for Cambodia, not just for Angkor, as many of our fellow travelers have done. The journey may be ending, but the memories and the desire to return will last a lifetime.
Why not doing it alone then?
We’ve given you a rough idea of the itinerary, but trust me, you won’t want to go it alone. As professional photographers who have called Siem Reap home for over a decade, we have the insider knowledge and language skills to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the secrets and unique experiences that this incredible country has to offer.
From teaching you the basics of camera settings to pushing you to step out of your comfort zone and approach locals for stunning photo opportunities, we are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll see Cambodia through a different lens, quite literally, and discover its intimate charms like nowhere else.
Moreover, we are absolutely thrilled to express our deep love for Cambodia and the incredible Khmer people. Our passion for our work knows no bounds, and we are dedicated to sharing everything we know without holding back.
So, are you ready to embark on this photographic adventure through the heart of Angkor? Pack your camera, charge your batteries, and get ready to capture the timeless beauty and captivating spirit of this extraordinary destination. Let’s make every moment count and create unforgettable photographic memories in the ancient realm of Angkor. Your 3-day Full Angkor Experience journey awaits – let’s capture the magic together!