Cambodia is easily known for the world famous Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is one of the famous ancient structures you will find in the Angkor compound north of Siem Reap. People go here not just to take photos of the ancient structures, but also to witness the sunrise and the sunset. It is one of the true wonders of the world and a travel experience everyone should have on their bucket list.
Travelling to this part of Cambodia can be a real delight. The Temples of Angkor were built in the 12th century during the reign of Survyavaman II and the reign of Jayavarman VII when it was finished. This complex of temples shows the roots of Cambodian culture with its intricate designs, unique architecture, and inspiring landscape. Whether on vacation or an extended break, make this holy attraction in Cambodia one of your must-see sites.
But while the Temples of Angkor are models of culture and religion, did you know that this was also the shooting place of the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider in 2001 starring Angelina Jolie? For those who haven’t heard of the movie, it’s an action-adventure film that was patterned from a video game where Lara Croft was the main character. Because both the video game and the movie became a huge hit, a lot of people have gone to the Temples of Angkor to see the site where it was filmed. If you’re one of these people, here is a travel itinerary where you will not only see where Tomb Raider was filmed but will also experience a Tomb Raider experience of your own.
Day 1: Visiting the Angkor Temples
For your first day, it would be best to visit the Angkor Temples first to get a feel of the Khmer culture and civilization. You can decide whether you want to stay here in the morning, in the afternoon or whole day. Those who wish to see the sunrise behind Angkor Wat start their travels before 4 am in the morning just to make it in time to see the sun rising. Those who want to see the sunset can go a little later in the day. If you want to tour the whole complex and take your time meditating and strolling around, then the whole day is for you.
Day 2: Adventure Trip
Now for the more adventurous part of the trip. There are a few things you can do around Cambodia that will give you a lot of excitement.
First, you can bike around the royal temples of Hariharalaya. Hariharalaya is known to be a retreat place a few kilometers away from the Angkor Temples. If you’re wondering how you’ll get an adventure here, then you haven’t seen the various activities they offer.
After your fill of exercising, you can go to the Prolung Khmer Pottery center to try out pottery yourself. This place is a center for local women to generate income of their own to help in their family expenses. It’s also a place to develop the skill and learning from fellow women.
Day 3: Reclining Buddha and Waterfall Adventure
On the next day, you can visit the Reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom along the hills of Phnom Kulen. Phnom Kulen is known to be a religious place for both Hindus and Buddhists alike and is a place for pilgrimages. After visiting the Reclining Buddha, you can now walk on foot to the waterfalls where you can swim and relax.
