Venture into Cambodia’s hidden north—from floating villages to sacred mountaintops—and discover a side of the country few ever see.
Far beyond the well-trodden paths of Angkor Wat, where most travelers pause their exploration, lies a side of Cambodia rarely seen — a land where jungle temples slumber, mountaintops whisper age-old legends, and life unfolds as it has for centuries. Our Sacred Stones journey is an immersive five-day, four-night adventure that pulls you deep into the untamed soul of Cambodia. Your story begins on the shores of Tonlé Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and lifeblood to thousands. Here, the village of Kampong Kleang floats — quite literally — with homes perched on towering stilts or drifting gently with the water’s rhythm. Aboard a local boat, glide past narrow waterways and open lagoons, where fishermen cast nets and children wave from wooden porches. Step into a family’s home and share a freshly cooked local meal — a moment of connection that lingers long after the last bite. From here, you’ll journey to Kampong Thom and settle into the tranquil Sambor Village Hotel, tucked among lush gardens. The following morning, step back in time at Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO-listed complex that predates Angkor by centuries. Crumbling towers rise from the jungle floor, their intricate carvings softened by time and tangled vines. With so few others around, the silence feels sacred — like the stones themselves are waiting to speak.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Head north to the mysterious Prasat Preah Khan of Kampong Svay, a forgotten temple city shrouded in forest, then onward to the highlands of Phnom Tbeng. Here, the countryside comes alive: children laughing from stilted homes, buffalo lazing in green fields, and bicycles weaving along red-dirt paths. Spend the night at a serene lodge near the mountain’s base, where the stars shine brighter than you’ve ever seen.
The next morning, rise early for a rewarding climb up sacred Phnom Tbeng. The panoramic views and quiet reverence at the summit offer a deep sense of peace. In the afternoon, press on to Cambodia’s most dramatic temple: Prasat Preah Vihear. Perched high on a cliff at the Thai border, this ancient sanctuary dedicated to Shiva is both majestic and mystical — a true spiritual marvel.
As your journey winds down, two final treasures await. Climb the sacred pyramid of Koh Ker, once a Khmer capital lost to time, then find peace among the fig trees and weathered ruins of Banteay Ampil, a fitting farewell to Cambodia’s sacred north.By late afternoon, you’ll return to Siem Reap — but your soul will still be walking among the sacred stones.
Ready to explore Cambodia’s hidden soul? Join us on our Sacred Stones adventure. Contact us at sales.cambodia@khiri.com to start your journey.