Overview
This is the 'Asia' you have been dreaming about!
Home to about 1.5 million people, Phnom Penh, has been Cambodia’s capital since French colonization of the country. Located on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River, Phnom Penh was once known as the “Pearl of Asia”, one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina. Together we will spend a full day exploring this charming city which boasts a rich blend of Khmer and colonial architecture.
In the morning, explore Wat Phnom and discover the legend of Lady Penh, the founder of the city, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, two of the most striking buildings in the capital and considered as some of the finest examples of Khmer architecture. You will also visit the National Museum, designed in Khmer style by a French archaeologist and painter in 1917. The museum houses Khmer art and sculptures from different periods of Cambodian history.
We will take a break to enjoy lunch at Friends Restaurant, a leading social enterprise and training restaurant serving up tasty, creative Khmer cuisine. After lunch, you will learn more about the turbulent Khmer Rouge years. First we will visit Tuol Sleng, a high school turned interrogation prison known as S-21 during the Khmer Rouge era and now a genocide museum. We will also visit Cheung Ek, a large memorial commemorating the 17,000 victims who died at Tuol Sleng under the reign of Khmer Rouge leader, Pol Pot, made famous by the movie “The Killing Fields”. While these locations provide somber reminders of the cruelty of the Khmer Rouge regime, these visits will also provide an appreciation of the struggle that Cambodian people have faced and their tremendous courage to move on and rebuild their nation.
- Lunch at Friends Restaurant is included in tour cost. Beverages are available at an additional cost.
- All entrance fees are included in tour cost.
- Tour duration ranges from 6-8 hours pending lunch duration as well as your pace at the various sites.
- The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are open from 8 AM to 10:30 AM and 2 PM to 5 PM, but are subject to closure at short notice in the event of official ceremonies. If the sites are closed, the guide will make changes to the itinerary on the day.
- Modest dress is required. Women must cover their shoulders. If it is hot, we suggest bringing a shawl. Men and women must cover the knees.
- A respectful and humble demeanor is requested when visiting the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields.
- Please note there is surcharge pricing for all National and New Year holidays as well as peak season. You will be notified of any increased costs prior to confirmation. Contact ShoreTrips with any questions.
- Please alert ShoreTrips in advance of any dietary restrictions or food allergies. We will do our best to accommodate.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:00 AM, duration: 7 hours
