Angkor Guide

Testimonails about Guide

2009-12-18T22:17:00.000-08:00

Karen and Siew Leng & Kol Chhen

We engaged Mr Kol Chhen as our guide and driver for a whole week in Siem Reap in December 2009. There were 4 ladies in our group. Chhen picked us up from the airport and we liked him immediately. He was polite, friendly and was willing to answer any questions we had. Since we were there to take part in the Angkor Wat Half Marathon,

Chhen drove us from the airport to the race pack collection venue, before transferring us to our hotel. He was there early to pick us up to our marathon venue the next morning at 5.30 am. Chhen was always punctual and always had a ready smile on his face. We felt that we could totally rely on Chhen for all the local information on Siem Reap, including where to eat and shop. The next few days, we explored the temples with him and he was very knowledgeable on the history of the temples.

He was a very safe driver and always obliged us by taking many photos for our group, including stopping or slowing down his car so that we can take photos of the countryside. He was also very patient and often helped one of our group members to climb the steep steps at the temples. Chhen was like a friend and we could see his rapport with the locals, especially the kids. The highlight of our trip was the visit to his village. We highly recommend this trip to the village as you will get a chance to experience first hand the life of the villagers.

The villagers were very friendly and the kids were really awesome and so well behaved despite their humble surroundings. They always have a ready smile for the camera. We would advise you to bring along some candies and stationery as a treat for these kids as this will really make them happy. Chhen introduced us to his lovely family and we got a chance to play with the kids, try our hand at harvesting rice and witnessed the most beautiful sunset over the lake. We also took part in the Clean Water Project,

and you can read more on this on Chhen’s website. We often take clean water for granted in our country and we were very humbled to see that so many of the villagers still do not have access to clean water. If you wish to contribute to a worthy cause to help the people in Cambodia, this is a really good project as for only USD180, you can help to provide a pump well for clean water for the villagers. We are already making plans to return to Siem Reap next year and will definitely use Chhen as our guide and driver again. He is one of the few drivers who is also a licensed guide and we highly recommend him to anyone who is visiting Siem Reap. Your Cambodian experience will be much richer with Chhen as your guide. Thank you Chhen, from all of us for being such a wonderful guide and friend. We will be back.

Karen and Siew Leng From Singapore

Clean Water In Siem Reap / Cambodia

2009-11-19T20:32:00.003-08:00

www.cambodianangkortour.com

The Clean Water Project: A Way to Leave a Lasting Impression
There is almost no need so basic as having clean water to drink, but
many Cambodian people do not have access to it. In the countryside,
most people rely on water from rivers and streams, but this water is
often diseased and polluted. Many of the country’s worst health
problems can be traced back to the use of these unclean water sources.
The victims of these diseases are often children, whose parents have
no way to pay for medical care. It is estimated that 60% of rural
residents have no clean water to drink.
The good news is that this problem is easily fixed for individual
families with the installation of a well. A properly installed well
can ensure that the family will have drinking water for many years and
a greater chance of health and prosperity. The cost of making such a
big difference is only 180 USD. When my customers see the beauty of
Angkor Wat and the very difficult lives of the people who live near
it, they often ask how they can help. I want to suggest that paying
for even a single well to be installed can truly change the lives of
those Cambodians who are most in need.
What makes this an extraordinary giving opportunity is that you will
meet the people who receive your well and see firsthand where your
donation is going. Together we will go to the countryside, meet a
rural family, hear their stories, and assist in the installation of
their new well. If you are interested in giving Cambodian people
clean water and a fresh start, please tell me when you book your tour
so I can make the proper arrangements before you arrive. Thank you
for your generosity!

My Services

2009-11-19T20:31:00.003-08:00

Cambodia - Kingdom of Wonder

My Services:

I am a licensed Angkor tour guide who is fluent in English. I have been leading tourists through the Angkor temple sights and explaining to them the rich history of the ancient Khmer Empire for the past seven years.
Becoming a licensed tour guide is a long and expensive process. Only certified guides are allowed to accompany tourists into the temples. If you wish to enjoy a thorough and informed explanation of the history, art, and architecture of ancient Angkor as you explore the Temples step-by-step, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Unlicensed guides are not allowed into the premises with tour groups.
For only US $20 a day I will be your reliable and informed guide to the mysteries of my ancestors' culture and empire.

Hotel and Guest House .
Siem Reap is full of hotels and guesthouses; there is an option for all tastes and budgets. We have lavish, five-star hotels that provide excellent comfort and service as well as cozy, family-run guesthouses where you can stay for just a few dollars a night.

Having worked and lived in Siem Reap for many years, I have built a network of friends and colleagues and can secure for you rooms at prices far below the usual rate. Looking for a hotel with a spa and room service? I know just the place. Prefer simpler comforts and the chance to meet a local Khmer family while they prepare your breakfast? I know the perfect place to find that as well. Let me know you preferences when you email and I will take care of everything.

Transportation:
There are many modes of transportation for your exploration of Angkor. Whether you prefer the comfort of an air-conditioned car, the excitement of a motorbike, or the pleasure of group ride in a motorized tuk-tuk tax, I can find the safest and most comfortable option for you.
Cars start at an additional US $20 for a full day in the Angkor temple complex, all petrol included, for a four seater. Vans with eight to fifteen seats cost US $30. Half-day rentals are available as well. I operate all of the vehicles myself.
Pick-up and deposit to the Siem Reap Airport, Siem Reap bus station, and the Tonle Sap boat landing is free.
Exploring by tuk-tuk is one of the best and most popular ways of exploring the temples.

Each tuk-tuk can carry four passengers and your drive into the jungle will be in the open air, the breeze and the smells of Khmer cooking in roadside stands wafting around you. If the day includes rain, you are covered under the tuk-tuk's canopy,and if the rain becomes a downpour, protective flaps are easily unfurled to create a private carriage for you.
Tuk-tuks cost US $13 per day and covers the entire Angkor complex.

Tourists who want to experience the Khmer motobike, the main mode of transportation in Cambodia's cities,
Can hop on back and listen to me point out the secrets of Ancient Angkor as we whizz down the road. Cambodian motos are very comfortable and the ideal mode of transportation for the solo traveler. Motos cost US $10 per person, per moto.
Helmets are provided free of charge.
I can also arrange transportation to various border crossings, including the Poipet crossing into Thailand and multiple crossings into Vietnam, as well as intra-Cambodian trips to Phnom Penh, Siahnoukville, Battambang, and other popular and less-visited locations
Countryside Tours

I grew up in Siem Reap Province in a village known as Palmtree Village. The vast majority of Cambodians live in small villages just like this one. Exploring the modern opportunities in Siem Reap and the ancient spectacles of the temples are fantastic opportunities, but to fully explore Khmer culture and the struggles that Cambodia continues to face, a trip to the countryside is essential. Cambodia is the poorest country in Southeast Asia and Siem Reap province remains the second poorest province in the country.

There are many villages that I work with that love to receive foreigners for a visit. Travel with me to see water buffalo, stilt houses, and traditional rice cultivation in vibrantly green paddies. The people of the countryside are generous and friendly and life is slow. Traveling to one of these villages brings further interest and income to them. A visit to them is a way for generous individuals to help redress the economic imballance in Cambodian society.
Adventure Temple Tours

Banteay Srei Temple
Half Day Tour.
Banteay Srei temple was built in 967 AD. It is the only temple in the
kingdom built of pink and yellow sandstone, higher quality and harder stone that was later abandoned for the grey and green sandstone used to built later temples like Angkor Wat. This superior stone has ensured that the carvings of Banteay Srei have remained in such fantastic condition, offering a rare opportunity to visitors who explore beyond the immediate temple complex.
Kbal Spean
This place, holy to the ancient Khmer, still shows the sacred lingas and other reliefs carved into the rock riverbed so many centuries ago.

Sunset Tour On Phnom Bakhen
Two hour tour: 4:30-6:30
This temple has 109 tours and offers a spectacular view of the sun setting into the jungle behind Angkor Wat. Elephant rides are available to make the climb.

Elephant Ticket : US$ 20 per person will go up the mountain and US$ 15 for getting down.

Kulen Mountain
Full Day Tour, USD$20 per person

Kulen Mountian is around 60km north of Angkor Wat and one of the holiest places in Cambodia. The waters of the Siem Reap river, so important for the Angkor Empire, flowed from this mountain, and visitors can still see the fertility symbols carved into the riverbed centureis ago to ensure continued prosperity. Holy men study here and ascetic hermits live in ancient pagodas. It was at Kulen that the Devaraja cult was born, turning the human rulers of the Khmer into gods. Pilgrimages are still made to the mountain, and visitors can swim in the clean, cool water and examine the carvings, waves of butterflies swooping past and off into the lush jungle around.
Kulen Mountain is also the sight of the Reclining Buddha monument, a massive statue carved whole out of the mountain top in the 16th Century. During the Indochina War, bombs were dropped all around the Buddha, but none destroyed that statue. It is now a popular place for Khmer to make picnics.
Full Day Tour

Beng Mealea Temple is 60km from Siem Reap at the foot of Kulen Mountain. Built in the 12th Century, many scholars believe it was the model for Angkor Wat. It is just as wonderful of a temple but it is still largely lost in the jungle. The accomodations made for tourists at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom have not been made here, and visitors enjoy a much quieter and adventourous experience.
It's around 75 km away from Siem Reap city and the way from Siem Reap you will see the culture house on the Road both site .
Meng Mealea Ticket US$5 Person.

Koh Ker Temple Group
Full day Tours

The third ancient capital of Khmer Empire was built by King Jayavarman IV in the 10th century
It is located 80km from Kulen Mountain and around 150km away from Siem Reap city. The trip to Koh Ker is beautiful, passing buccolic farms, rice paddies, a rubber farm, and many quiet villages.
Koh Ker Entrance fees : US$10 including Beng Mealea

Preah Vihear Temple
Full Day Tour.
It is situated in Preah Vihear Provice on the top of a mountain with spectacular views of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, and even Thailand.
The temple was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2008.
Entrance fees are USD$5 per person, and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$150

Sambo Prei Kuh
Full day.
This is a very old, and rarely visited, temple located a four hour drvie from Siem Reap. The nearby Kampong Thom City is an excellent place to spend the night if you want to enjoy a leisurely trip. The drive itself is beautiful, a journey along the lush scenery of the Prey Preas River. Villagers in this area specialize in meals that include crickets, spiders, and frogs as well as sticky rice.
The Sambo Prei Kuh temples were the second capital of the Khmer Empire and were built in the 7th Century by King Isanvarman I.
You cannot get to these temples by motorbike. The journey is long and requires a car, as well as a guide experienced in the area. Entrace fees to the temples are USD$5 per person. Transportation and Tour Guide costs USD$130. This is a rare temple experience that only those foreigners willing to step off the beaten.
Preah Khan Kompong Svay
Full day TourThese temples were built in the 12th Century when Preah Khan was the capital of the Angkor Empire. The throne moved back to Angkor in 1181 after King Jayavarman VII defeated the invading Chams.
It's about 170km from Siem Reap city to these temples. The drive is very scenic, winding through farms and poor hamlets of Khmer, many of whom have never travelled outside of their small communities or to a city.
Visitors must travel from Siem Reap by Car.
Entrance fees are USD$5 per person, and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$130..
Banteay ChhmarTemples
Full Day Tour .
These temples were built by King Jayavarman VII in dedication to his son, who died in the war with Champa.
These temples are in Banteay Meanchey province, around 160km from Angkor Wat, and are easily accessed from Battambang and Poi Pet, as well as Siem Reap.
Entrance feesUS$ 5 per son,and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$ 140.
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About Us

2009-11-19T20:31:00.001-08:00

Welcome to My Personal Guide Website,
This is not the website of a large tour company. In Cambodia, there are many, many tour companies and many people who are competing to take tourists to the temples. Cambodia Angkor Tours is different. It is a one man operation.
I worked very hard at different jobs to get to where I am today, and I take care of tourists visiting Cambodia because I love the opportunity and because I want a fulfilling job that can support my family. Visiting Cambodia with Angkor Cambodia Tours is a way for you to enjoy a hands-on and individualized experience. I pride myself on being hardworking and honest.
Since Cambodia Angkor Tours is a reflection of me, let me tell you a little bit about myself.
I grew up farming rice with my parents, five brothers, and two sisters, but I wanted an education. My school was very far away and my parents had no money to send me there. So every day I woke up at five a.m., watered the crops, and rode a bicycle one hour to school. When I returned in the afternoon, I took care of our cows and helped my parents with the farm. I wanted to escape from these jobs.
So when I was twenty I went to live in a Buddhist monastery that is near the high school. The monks gave me food and a place to sleep while I studied and worked as a driver for tourists. After I graduated, I fell in love with one of my closest friends from school, and we married in 2007.
We now have one wonderful son, Sovechea. My siblings did not have the opportunity to go to school, so I visit them often at my family farm.
I have many beautiful nieces and nephews now and I sponsor them so that they too may go to school and build good lives for themselves. I often take many of my guests to my home village to meet my family and experience real Khmer village life. My guests can help us tend the rice paddies and care for the cows and oxen. We have many traditional Khmer musicians in my village, and guests can spend time with them learning traditional Khmer instruments. Village families are large and the children always get excited when foreigners come to visit. Many of my clients have enjoyed an afternoon playing games with our local kids. I hope we can share our culture with you.
Your guide to Cambodia,
Mr. Kol Chhen
All right Reserved www.Cambodinangkortour.com @2009

About Angkor Wat

2009-11-19T20:30:00.008-08:00

he whole Angkor period spans for more than VI centuries, and more precisely from IX till XV century. During this period the Khmer empire reached its maximum splendor as one of the most powerful southeast asian kingdoms. In this period the whole area of Angkor was buit. We can consider Jayavarman II as the man that started everything. He define himself Devaraja (good king) and he established the Khmer empire in 802.
Angkor Wat temples After him, Indravarman, a king considered by many of its time an usurper: we prefer to remember him for starting building the Baray, a complex irrigation system to bring waters in the area of Angkor. He also started to build the Bakong and the Preah Ko temples. His son Yasovarman went further in his father's project: he built the Phnom Bakheng and the Lolei temples, and with him, Angkor become the new capital of the kingdom. These two king further extent the Baray's system too.
Then the capital was moved to Koh Ker for a short period, under the kingdom of Jayavarman IV, an usurper, but after only 14 years Angkor become again the capital under Rajendravarman II. His son, Jayavarman V, was instead a great king, and with him the empire expanded to its maximum extent. Two wonderful temples, as Banteay Srei and Ta Keo were built.
After him, Udayaditavarman II built the pyramid of Baphuon and the western Mebon (we are now at the half of XI century), and here we are really close to the very peak of the Khmer civilization, two great king the left once forever their footstep in the history of this planet and they are Suryavarman II and Jayavarman II. The first king built Bang Melea but it also the one that built Angkor Wat. The second king has built Preach Khan, Ta Phrom and Angkor Thom.
As you will see with your eyes these last temple are traces of a high level civilization, with an exquisite taste for art. An enormous job that involved not only an army of thousands workers doing the hard job, building, moving rock and materials and so on. There was another parallel army of thousands of artists and artisans. Angkor Wat is also them. We will never know their names, or their faces, but what they left us fulfill our hearts with something magic. The walls of Angkor, they also speak about their lives, their customs, their salaries: Angkor was not only a religious place, but a capital crowded with a million people.
All right Reserved www.cambodianangkortour.com @2009

Home Page

2009-11-19T20:30:00.005-08:00

Welcome to My Personal Guide Website,
Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Mr.Kol Chhen. I was born in Kouktnot Village in 1980. Since 2002 I have worked as a driver for Cambodia's visitors and in 2006 became an official Tour Guide accredited by the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism. I worked very hard for this honor.
I am also an excellent English speaker. I love that I have the opportunity to reveal to my guests the out-of-the-way sights, cultural riches, and uniquely Khmer experiences that make my country such a rewarding experience for tourists. I also appreciate the opportunity to meet so many interesting and adventurous people from so many countries. Working with my clients not only helps me support my family, but broadens my own understanding of the world.
I would be honored to assist with trip planning and help guide your stay in Cambodia. You and your family can count on a safe Angkorian adventure with me. I will negotiate your purchases at the temples and local handicraft villages so that you will get the best deal possible.
Your Guide,
Kol Chhen
English Speaking-Tour Guide

Mobile :(+855)12406929
Email:chhenkol@gmail.com

All right Reserved www.cambodianangkortour.com @2009

Ta Keo Province

2009-11-19T20:30:00.003-08:00

Ta Keo province about 70km from Phnom Penh capital of Cambodia .
Ta Keo is one of city us to have many ancient temples from 6th to 8th .
To day this city very good for industry with farmer , ancient temples and zoo ( Ta moa Mountain ).
Ancient temples you can make for a tour per day from capital of Cambodia .
Tonle Bati temple . Angkor Bourei .
when you come to Cambodia do not miss to visit the city so green of farmer and many local peoples they are poorest .
How is get in this city ? you can arrange from departure where are you appearing you or you cating taxi on the way .Bus or Mortor bike any where .
If you still have mystery of this provice please make a choos this tour Guide he will help to explorer this city .

Kompongthom province

2009-11-19T20:29:00.007-08:00

Kampong Thom Province

This province is the center or heart of Cambodia and one of the provinces has a historical site and rich in natural resources. Kampong Thom means a huge or a big Dockyard or quay across the Steung Sen river. The town is at the crossroads of Siem Reap - Angkor and Preah Vihear province & link to Phnom Penh city.

Land Areas : is around 15,061 square Kilometers

Population : is around 576,805 persons

Other Attraction Sites

Sambor Prei Kuk Temple Group

- These historical sites are the former Khmer Empire and Capital city of Cambodia in 6th > the end of 8th century before Angkor Empire period. This place is the best site for tourists to come into Cambodia and want to know about the Ancient Khmer Empire and architecture. There are 140 temples have been found in the forest and other two temples have not yet been found.
Phnom Santuk mountain

This mountain is the popularity for local and foreigner tourists who wish to see the huge Buddha statues on the rock, Buddha foot print and reclining Buddha who was built by King Ponhea Dharma Reachea in 1474 have been maintained until now.
: Andet Temple or Prasat Andet
Andet temple was built by King Jayavarman I around 627 - 707. It is the oldest temple in the Ancient Khmer Empire. It was constructed from laterite or volcanic stone and sandstone.
: Prei Pros Resort

This place is the best one for visitors to take a relaxation and get a good fresh air from a huge space and big lake and row a boat to get lotus flowers and picnic food.etc

: Carving Stone Place or Stone Handicraft

This place is attracted from local or foreigner tourists to see how they carve other sandstone statues and other house furniture from the stone. And to see how they have made silk scarf, shirt and Cambodian Traditional clothes and handbages from the real silk.etc

: Preah Khan Kampong Svay Temple.

-Preah Khan temple of Kampong Svay is one of the temples built in early 13th century of King Jayavarman 7 before Angkor Thom city. Taprohm and Neak Pean temples.etc.

Where to stay and where to eat

Battang Bang Province

2009-11-19T20:29:00.005-08:00

Battambong is the second capital city of Cambodia and it has a lot of colony buildings were constructed in 1863 - 1953 by the French regime. This place is the best fame of rice-production to export to other provinces such as Phnom Penh city and other countries. It has many kinds of ruby or sapphires in Pailin town and the fame of fresh orange fruit. Battambang means the loss of holy club.
Land Areas : is around 11,702 square kilometers
Population : is around 1,036,523 persons
: Baset Temple or Wat Baset

This temple was built in 11th century ( around 1002 AD ) by King Suryavarman I who built the Phimeanakas temple in the center of Angkor Thom ( Former Royal Palace ). This is the Architecture of Khmer in 11th century. and nearby the temple has a big pond 20 x 12 meters = 10 meters depth , it has never dried up.etc

Wat Ek Phnom temple

This temple was built in around 1002 by King Suryavarman I after Takeo temple in the Angkor Areas. This temple is a holy place for local people in the full moon day of Buddhist religion.etc

Prasat Phnom Banan temple

This temple was built in the King Udayadityavarmarn II ( 1050 - 1066 AD ) who built the Baphuon temple in the center of Former Angkor Thom and in 1181 - 1220 AD , the King Jayavarman VII was restored and completion the whole building to become a great Buddhist site. Elevation of Banan mountain is around 400 meters height. This is a very famous temple in the whole Cambodia.
Battambang province has an ancient Khmer temple is around 300 temples or Prasat. I do not include in all those places.
Phnom Sam Pov mountain

This mountain is a natural mountain that was built the monastery on the summit. Elevation is around 100 meters height. This place is crowded by local and foreigners tourists in the Full moon day of Buddhist religion and Khmer Happy New. etc.
Beung Kam Penh Poouy or Kam Penh poouy lake
This is a huge or a big lake was constructed by Pol Pot regime in 1975 - 1979 . They made the dam from Ta Ngen mountain to Kam Penh Pouy mountain to retain the water in rainy season. This place is very popular for local and foreigner tourists to visit it on Saturday and Sunday. This lake is around 1900 meters width by 19 Kms long. It is a clean place and has many small buildings to relax and picnics.
Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
Prek Toal is a big bird sanctuary in Asian countries. All the kinds of the birds have always immigrated from other places or countries to make the nests and lay the eggs or small birds in dry season ( mid October - February in every year.We can go to visit this bird sanctuary by boat trip from Battambang provincial town or Siem Reap town - Angkor. etc Sek Sork Waterfall and Pech Chenda Waterfall

Phnom Penh

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Around and In Phnom Penh city
Phnom Penh city

Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia or Kampuchea who situated on the Southern part of Formerly Angkor Thom City some 320 Kms.

Land Areas : is around 375 square kilometers.

Population : is around 2,009,264 persons

Wat Phnom

Phnom Penh City takes its name from the present Wat Phnom or Hill Temple. Legend has it that in 1372, an old nun named Penh went to fetch the water in the Mekong river and found a dead Koki tree floating down the stream. Inside the hole of that dead Koki tree contained four bronze and one stone Buddha statues in it.

Daun (Grandma) Penh brought the statues ashore and ordered people to pile up earth at northeast of her house and used those Koki trunks to build a temple on that hill to house the five Buddha statues, then named the temple after her as Wat Phnom Daun Penh, which presently known as Wat Phnom, a small hill of 27 meters (89 ft) in height.

ROYAL PALACE
Dmitry and Nadya came from Russia and Sowanna Yun were standing in front of Royal Palace at Phnom Penh city : More Info. : http://tiny-rat.livejournal.com/

Royal palace is the most attraction site of all the visitors who can not miss in Phnom Penh.

Cambodian National Museum

It was built in 1917 and collected all the artifacts from the whole country to keep for safety. It is the best place for visitors before to visit Angkor Areas. A thousand and a thousand statues to install in this museum.

: Kuk Toul Sleng Museum or Toul Sleng Genocidal Museum.

Toul Sleng Museum is the formerly School Children but Pol Pot regime took this place to make the prison in 1975 - 1979. It is the best place for visitors who come to visit Cambodia and need to know about Khmer Rough regime. I think that you have always read a book or Newspaper and listened to Radio but ,if you will come to visit it. You can understand it more than you have done.
Cheung Ek Killing Field or Wat Cheung Ek Killing Field.
The visitors can see a real thing in Cambodia and visit a hundred and hundred communal graves, mass graves that buried the death body and a thousand and thousand skulls and bones in Pol Pot regime was transported innocent people to kill there.

Independence Monument.

This monument was built in 1958 under His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk when a Cambodia got independence from French on 9th November 1953. It is a huge and a long space for visitors to take a picture to keep it as souvenir and to remember in another country to rule another. Please come to see us and more explanation.

Junctional Mekong Rivers or Tonle Chatomuk.
It is the best one for visitors who can take a boat trip to see floating houses, 4 junction rivers, a hill and to see Sunset on the Mekong river, everyday life of people who lived along the Mekong river. You can have Dinner on the boat along the Mekong River and can see other amazing pictures.

Multi - national flags along the Mekong river in front of Royal palace

: Toul Tampong Market or Russian Market
It is a popularity for tourists to buy the wooden statues , sandstone statues, marble statues of Buddha or other Hindu Gods. You can find a real silk in Cambodia and other things are not included.

: Psa Thmei Market or New Market or Central market

It was built in 1935 by French who ruled over Cambodia. You can find everything in Cambodia in this market.But do not forget to bargain the prices.

Siem Reap Province

2009-11-19T19:33:00.005-08:00

www.cambodianangkortour.com

Cambodia-Kingdom of Wonder
Siem Reap province
Located 314 kms north of the capital city Phnom Penh, Siem Reap is one of only four cities in Cambodia. It is the capital of Siem Reap Province,
It is the capital of Siem Reap Province, one of twenty provinces in the country. The name "Siem Reap" means "Siam defeated," and commemorates the Khmer victory over Thai invaders in the 14th Century. The original name was Mohanokor, but the current name enshrines the memory of our national victory.Siem Reap is 10,299 square kms and home to about a million people. The provincial capital, Siem Reap Town,Has about 300,000 residents and serves as a base for tourists visiting the Angkor temples. Siem Reap town is the fourth biggest city in the country, behind Phnom Penh, Battembang, and Kompong Cham. A small river, originating in Kulen Mountain, flows through the town, and hosts the annual boat race and floating ceremonies that end Buddhist Lent.
Siem Reap Province's main sources of income are rice, lotus, beans, sugar cane, palm sugar, crafts, fish, and logging. Siem Reap Town's primary sources of income are tourism,

Real estate, and the construction resulting from that real estate trade. Though the ancient Angkor temples attract almost a million tourists a year, Siem Reap Province remains the second poorest province in the country. Tourism supports only ten percent of the province's one million residents, and the rest are subsistence farmers trying to grow rice in very sandy soil and surviving on fish from Tonle Sap Lake.
The average annual income of Khmer families is $400. The population is 95 percent Buddhist, and the rest are Christians and Muslims.

Siem Reap river is a small river, if we compare to nay river which flows across the provincail capital twon in Cambodia. despite, the Siem Reap river is a small one , but it has water all year round . that is why in the Angkor period, the khmer ancestors had chosen an area located on a mouth of this river to be their capital city .however. to day the modern city of Siem Reap is still located on the mouth of this river as well
The measure of siem reap river is about 150km long from its orgin at phnom Kulen and kbal spean to its end at Tonle sap lake , if we measure with a straight line the result is just only about 80km long . in the Angkor period when its people were so religious Hinduists, they had pretended the siem reap river as Ganges river , and phnom Kulen or kbal Spean its origin as mountain Himalayas we can call Everest
According to Indian people the ganges river is a sacred river from them ,because this holy river flows from the highest mountain in the world and Indians also belive Himalayas were served as a popular place for the Hindu gods came to make meditation and convention.

The khmer in the Angkor period had copied the same idea as they took Phnom kulen and Kbal spean as Mt Himalayas to serve as a place for their hermits to make meditation and even they had cared Lingas and Yonis as a symbol of the residence ( Mt Meru ) of Hidu Good as well.
The Siem Reap river was a sacred river in the Angkor period , because this river got < holy water> which flows on the Lingas,Yonis and other images of the Hindu deities in the river bed at its begining,and as they belive that when water flows passing through the lingas and other sacred images which cared in the river bed , then its water would become the holy water for blessing people, animals. crops and plantation good luck.

Until the year 1993 siem reap river was still got a clean water to drink ,to swim for the people, and an addition, it served a great scenery for the relief sendtiment to those got tension in minds. with a typical water wheels in long the river to enjoy the tourists. At Phum treang village area zone where the angkor conservation Department and the office of the Ecole Francaise Extreme Orient located , they planted golden bamboos on the both sides the river banks as a nice garden as well
But to day Siem Reap river is so polluted , its beauty had died, as the residential living along the river banks throw the rubbish , set up toilets and sewage into its river made its water turn so dirty and addition, some greedy families violated the land over the river banks making Siem Reap river getting smaller and smaller .
From this mishap, the Cambodia government plane to restore Siem Reap river back to its glory, as plan to make a charming garden on the both sides of river bank from Speak Neak of new hotel zone area to old market and continue to Chong Srok of phnom krom but the authority face a big challenge from the residential, as they don.t want move away from the river , although they live illegally on the public spots.

Tonle Sap lake

2009-11-19T19:33:00.003-08:00

Copy www.cambodianangkortour.com
onle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Asia and one of the most important biodiversity sites in the world. At its height, the ancient Angkor Kingdom used its riches to support the largest human population on the planet in its day. Centuries later, the Khmer people still rely on Tonle Sap for food as well as for trade.
During the rainy season, tributary rivers reverse their flow and swell the lake to ten times its dry season size. This is a unique occurence. It does not happen in any other water system in the world.
Life around Tonle Sap Lake is a major source of Cambodian culture. Tourists can enjoy unparalleled access to exotic bird watching, riverboad culture, and Khmer culinary traditions. No trip to Cambodia is complete without a visit to this fantastic natural and cultural treasure.

A Cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake is an opportunity to meet the people who make their living and build their homes on the lake. The fascinating lifestyle here includes subsistence and commercial fishing, crocodile breeding, and handicraft construction for the markets of Siem Reap.

Travel to the Prek Toal Biosphere Bird Sanctuary and Floating Village

Prek Toal is a magnificent floating village and the access point for the Biosphere Bird Sanctuary, the home of many rare and endangered birds including Big Marabouts, pelicans, and storks. The trip from Siem Reap is two hours and we sail through the many floating villages on the lake.
On the way, we stop at the Floating Forest, a long strand of tropical jungle that floods every year, making for a beautiful and sometimes spooky landscape. A picnic lunch is included in this day-long trip.
Full day Tour
Entrance Fees: USD $25 per person

Visit Kompong Phluk:

This half-day trip takes you into the heart of mangrove forests on the margins of the Tonle Sap Lake to the incredible stilt villages of Kompong Phluk and Kompong Khleang.
This trip includes a tour of the Floating Forest as well as a visit to an amazing floating pagoda.You will experience the traditional and peacefull life of the fishing communities here. If water levels are low, we can take a canoe ride deep into the mangrove forests, where few foreigners travel

Shop Siem Reap Town:

At Phsar Chas (Old Market), travelers can catch glimpses of Khmer market life, a foundation of life in Cambodia, as well as see and purchase souvenirs. Most Khmer buy their groceries from market vendors and the intrepid foreigner can experience the sights and smells of life in Cambodian homes. There are also many souvenirs to buy before your trip home.

The Central Market and Siem Reap's multiple night markets are also worth exploring. Handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry is for sale here, and a Khmer guide is very useful in bargaining for the best prices and pointing out hidden treasures that may catch your eye. Many inexpensive and delicious Khmer restaurants are in this area as well, making for an excellent place to spend a few hours.
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About Temples

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Preah Ko Temple
This is the development of Khmer architecture , Divided into stylistic periods ninth century as below :
Date: Ninth century ( c 825- 75 )
King :Jayavarman II ( Reigned 802-50)
Monuments: The Kulen Temple.

Bakhong Temple
Date:Last quarter of the ninth century ( c875-93 )
King: Indravarman I (Reigned 877-89)
Monuments: Preah Ko (879) , Bakong ( 881)
Transitional:Lolei ( 893)

Bakhang Temple
Date:Late ninth century early tenth century (c 893- 925)
King:YasovarmanI ( Reigned 889-900)
Monuments:Bakheng (893) ,Phnom Krom , Phnom Bok
Transitional:Baksei Chamkrong, Prasat Kravan ( 921)

Koh Ker Temples Group
Date:Middle of the tenth century ( c 921-945)
King:Jayavarman IV ( Reigned c921-942
Monuments: The Koh Ker Groups

Pre Rup Temple
Date:Middle of the tenth century (c 974-965)
King:RajendravarmanII( Reigned 944-968)
Monuments: East Mebon (952), Pre Rup (961)
This temples appearing in the lake Baray Tataka

Banteay Srei Temple
Date: Last half of tenth century ( c 967-1000)
King: RajendravarmanII (967) ,
King: JayavarmanV ,
Monuments:Banteay Srei .

Kleang Temple
Date: Last tenth century early eleventh Century(c 965-1010)
King JayavarmanV ( Reigned 968-1001)
Monuments: Ta Keo ( c1000, North and South Kleangs, Phimeanakas (c 970).

Ba Phuon Temple
Date:Middle of eleventh century (c1010-1081)
King:Suryavarman I (Reigned 1002-1051),
King: UdayadiryavarmanII( Reigned 1051-1066),
Monuments:Baphuon, West Mebon.

Angkor Wat Temple
Date: Twelfth century (1100-75)
King:SuryavarmanII (Reigned 1112-1152)
Monuments: Thommonon, Banteay Samre , Beng Mealae, Chau Say Tevoda, Angkor Wat ( 1112-1152).

Bayon Temple
Date: Last quarter of the twelfth and early thirteenth century ( 1177-1230)
King: Jayavarman V II ( Reigned 1181- C 1220 ) .
Bayon The king Jayavarman VII builted for his self.

Ta Prohm Temple
This temples building by the King Jayavarman VII ,
Monuments: Banteay Kdei build for University (1181),Ta Prohm built for his mother(1186), Preah Khan for his father(1191),Ta Som for his sister , Angkor Thom encosure and Gates, Bayon ( c 1200 ) , Royal Terraces, Sras Srang the place for king bathing house, Neak Pean us to be the place hospital for helped Cambodian people in that period .
More information with Kol Chhen an experienced guide, Please come and pick up our services .You will not be disappointed in visiting Cambodia .
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Cambodian Histories

2009-11-19T19:04:00.000-08:00

Cambodia-Kingdom Of Wonder
Cambodian Angkor Tour
A Short Cambodian Histories
FUNAN
The first civilization of Cambodia existed from the 1st to 6th century in a State referred to as Funan.
It was the oldest Indianized state in Southeast Asia, and from this period Cambodia’s first writing language Sanskrit began. Influenced by Indian cultures, Funan accepted Hinduism, which was latter converted to Budddhism. What makes Cambodians different from its neighbors is due to the fact that Cambodians wear scarves, called Kramas, rather than straw hats,

ANGKOR
From 9th to 13th century Angkor period existed. The period began with King Jayavarman II taking the throne in 802. At its peak, Angkor Empire extended from the border of modern day Burma east to the South China Sea and north to Laos of great kings who built famous temples were King Suryavarman II who built the world’s renowned Angkor Wat, whereas King Jayavarman II successfully made agressive construction of most of largest temples of Angkor, particularly Great City known as Angkor Thom. Not only the temples were the success of those Angkor Kings. This enabled rice cultivation for 3 times a year, ealthy empire.
As Angkor period ended, the city moved to Phnom and that Angkor Wat was wPenh , Longvek, then to Oudong and finally to the present day capital of Phnom Penh. The hall of angkor marked the collapse of Cambodia Empire, which resulted in invasion and ransacks by its neighbors including the Thais and Vietnamese from the 15th to 17th centuries. This was mainly to conflict by royal courts. The post Angkor era also brought about a rapid expansion of Theravada Buddhism.

PRESENT DAY

In 1863, Cambodia agreed to protection from France that ruled Cambodia for nearly 90 years. Like other colonial countries, France introduced modern Western government structure, education, courts and architectural styles on its land,thus one can see to day many colonial buildings remain.
In 1945, the Japanese briefly ousted the French protectorate. After the defeat of Japan in World War II, the French returned and ruled until 1953 when Cambodia gained full independence. King Norodom Sihanouk abdicated the throne to his father and led political party to unite the country from 1950 to 1960.

In 1970, Vietnamese war spilled over into Cambodia, and King Norodom Sihanouk was overthrown by General Lon Nol. Lon Nol government was defeated by Khmer Rouges in 1975,Then Cambodia embarked a dark period for more than 3 years. During in the Khmer Rouges time, the country’s entire infrastructure was completely destroyed. No region, no money, no education, no school and so on that the historical wheel turned to year zero. In 1979, the Khmer Rouges was toppled by Vietnamese backed movement.

Then Cambodia embarked a dark period for more than 3 years. During in the Khmer Rouges time, the country’s entire infrastructure was completely destroyed. No region, no money, no education, no school and so on that the historical wheel turned to year zero. In 1979, the Khmer Rouges was toppled by Vietnamese backed movement.
People’s republic of Kampuchea which administered the country against the Khmer Rouges was then ousted to northern jungles.
In 1991, Paris Peace Accords was signed, which then brought United Nations to temporarily administered and organized a free and fair elections in 1993 a here by internationally recognized Cambodia government headed by two prime minister were created. Monarchy has also been reinstated and King Norodom Sihanouk is a lead of State

This was by no means putting an end to Cambodia civil war. In 1997 fighting between ruling political parties took place in the capital of Phnom Penh until cease fire was agreed to and next national elections administered by Cambodians themselves were conducted in May, 1998.

After creation of new coalition government headed by Prime Minister Hun Sen, and with establishment of House of Senates in addition to the lower law making institution the National Assembly, Cambodia has experienced stability in terms of politics and economics. This allows Asean to accept Cambodia as its member. Being part of regional groupings, Cambodia needs to look forward to attracting investments from the region and elsewhere
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About Cambodia

2009-11-19T18:14:00.001-08:00

www.cambodianangkortour.om
GENERAL INFORMATION
For decades off limits to all but the most intrepid tourists, today Southeast Asia’s Cambodia is a popular destination for all kinds of travellers: from independent backpackers who roam far off the beaten track to explore the stunning sugar-palm dotted hinterland to luxury tourists who stay in style and see Cambodia’s main draw card of Angkor Wat between massages and exquisite French meals.

The ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s national treasure. The nearby city of Siem Reap has developed dramatically since the days Angelina Jolie filmed Tomb Raider here and fell in love with the nation. While some lament the discovery of Angkor by the masses, the site is still breathtaking and Siem Reap offers all the comforts one could wish for on any budget.
Kingdom of Cambodia is situated in Southeast Asia, bordered to the North by Thailand and Laos, the East and the South by Vietnam and the West by the Gulf of Thailand. The country is completely based on agriculture in which they collect the harvest during the whole year:

- Long Term Rice in rainy season
- Short Term Rice in dry season where the fields are nearby is the irrigation
canal system. Cambodia has also the farm-land along the both sides of Mekong and Tonle Sap river where they plant corn, potatoes, cabbages, cucumber and many other different kind of vegetables. We plant as well the tree-fruit like banana, mango, jackfruit, sugar-cane, milk-apple, durian, etc…
Besides all above, Tonle Sap Lake is the largest fishy-region in Asia. Kingdom of Cambodia has rubber, teakwood, timber and all kind of best quality wood for furniture
.We have only two distinguished season: the rainy season from May to October, the dry season from November to April with 25 to 35 degrees C. Sometimes reaches 39 degrees under the shade. The best time for a visit to Cambodia is from November to January with only 20 to 30 degrees C.
In the Northeast, the mountainous region with beautiful evergreen landscape where many different ethnic minority living in.

CAMBODIA FACT FILE

Country Name : Kingdom of Cambodia
Motto : Nation-Religion-King
Capital : Phnom Penh
Population : Over 14 million
Land Area : 181,035 km2
Time : GMT+7hours
Religion : 90% Theravada Buddhism
Currency : Riel (US$1=4000R)
Voltage : 220v/50Hz
International Airports : Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
Languages : Khmer, English and French
WORKING HOURS
Hours of operation in Cambodia are somewhat different than in other countries. Cambodians typically take long lunches, and the opening hours for government offices and some business offices are usually from 7.30am to 11.30am, and then from 1.30pm to 5.30pm. If you show up at an office at 1pm for example, you may find no one there.
SIEM REAP: ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
Visas

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SIEM REAP: ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Visas
A Cambodian visa is required for most nationalities. Visas are available on arrival at the Siem Reap International Airport, the Phnom Penh International Airport and most border crossings.

BORDER CROSSING :

Thai - Cambodian border
1. Poi Pet checkpoint
2. O Smach checkpoint
3. Along Veng checkpoint
4. Preah Vihear checkpoint
5. Pailin checkpoint
6. Lem checkpoint
7. Koh Kong checkpoint

Vietnamese - Cambodian border

1. Bavet checkpoint
2. Phnom Den checkpoint
3. Kompong Trach ( Kep province )
4. Koh Trol by boat

Loa - Cambodian border

1. Voeung Kam checkpoint

Airport Departure Tax

Domestic: US$6. International: US$25
Siem Reap Airport
The airport take time around 20 minutes from town. Outside the terminal is a ticket booth for registered taxis into town. Independent taxis and motorcycles wait just outside the airport. Most hotels offer free transportation from the airport but you must notify them in advance of your arrival.

Siem Reap Ferry Dock
The ferry to Siem Reap arrives at Chong Khneas near Phnom Krom, 12km south of Siem Reap. There is always transportation waiting at the dock.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Visa is available upon arrival at all international border checkpoints and visa fee $25 for business and $20 for tourist.
A visa is required for most nationalities. Vaccinations are not required. One Month Tourist Visa is available on arrival at the airport in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap. Tourist visa: US$ 20/ person with 01 (4×6) photo needed. Visa application form will be provided on inbound flights. Visa available at Thai-Cambodian or Vietnamese-Cambodian overland border-crossings. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of your visit.

MONEY AND BANKING

Currency
As with the rest of Cambodia, the Cambodian Riel is the national currency and the US Dollar is the widely used currency in Cambodia. Pay for large expenses using dollars and retain riel for small, one-off purchases like drinks or cigarettes. Currency rates fluctuate but as a guide there are 4000 riel to $1.

Currency Exchanges

Most of the local banks will change currency for you. However, it can pay to use local exchanges as the banks tend to adhere to the rates set by world currency markets. There are currency exchanges all over Siem Reap and many located in the Old Market area. Compare the rates of exchange at individual exchanges to get the best rate.

Sending and Receiving Money

Many of Siem Reap’s Banks have ATMs. It is also possible to withdraw money using a credit card and passport. Different banks have different charges for this service. A common charge is a flat-rate of $5 for withdraws up to $100, and 2% for withdraws over $100.
Western Union has counters in many of the banks. Look for the yellow and black signs outside. Some banks also offer a Money gram service. Again, this is generally advertised outside.

Religion in Cambodia

The religion governed the concept and execution of all Khmer art and architecture is enhanced by an understanding of the religious beliefs of the Khmers. According to belief, when a person died his soul was reincarnated and his spirit became free. The former religious practices, which were adopted in Cambodia at a later date recognized a common belief in rebirth , the idea that one is born again and again in different forms. At the present time, 90% of the Cambodian people are of the Buddhist religion. Hinduism for the most part has gone away. The climate of Cambodia governed by two monsoon the monsoon of dry season and the monsoon of rainy season . The monsoon of dry season has started from November to April . This season ( the dry one ) has its monsoon blows from the sibery (russia) bringing the hot weather and carrying a little rain crossing Cambodia from the north eastern side .
During this period (dry season ) the level of rainfall are only about 100mm . People in Cambodia called the rainfall in the dry season as the little rainy season within the dry season . Which normally happening at the end of February to the beginning of march . The local people also called the rain that falling in the February and march as mango rain . Due to the season of mango begins to give flower and fruits as they believed that in the mango season if it got some rain the mango is much fruitful . Otherwise they could not collect much mango .The rainy season has its monsoon blows from the Indian ocean and bringing heavy rain crossing Cambodia from the southwestern side in may and October. We notice that within this season ( the rain one ) also comprise a little dry season in the rainy season . Which normally happening from the middle of July to the beginning of august.

In the rainy season Cambodia has received the rainwater level in average for about 1000mm Although . Plateau . Mountain and the coastal area received the level of rainwater for about 3000mm more then the areas of the middle valley . The reason for the middle valley receiving the regime of rain water less than the other areas . Because this region (valley areas) located behind the mountain Oral ( cardamom range )
Mountain oral is 1888m high is stuck the monsoon of rains into the middle valley from the southwest . That is why that valley area produce the food for the country economy got less regime of rain . There are high percentage of the humidity during the rainy season .

Which about 90% we also notice that in Cambodia the rain normally comes in the afternoon time between 1pm to 4pm .It is seldom that the rain comes in the early morning .The cool season of Cambodia known as the transitional period between the dry and wet season in November and January . The temperature in this period is between 14C to 25C . The local people also called this season as the harvest season . Sine the rice in the fields that they had transplanted in the wet season are turning to yellow to be ready to collect fruitful . The cool season bring the cool winds from the north pol crossing Cambodia from the northern side.
In the period of the coll season also known as the high season of tourist . Because the weather is fine not hot and not rain that causing European . American or the other have their holiday for being avoid from the snow in very cold weather n their countries . On the other hands . April in the hottest month in Cambodia which its temperature arises to 38C to 45C some time .

And January is coolest month . Which temperature is about 14C to 27C . Summerized . The weather of Cambodia could be in average between 27C to 32C in all year round . But now a day the world is getting problem with global warming by too much polluted of the green house . Then made the world weather in changing to cocern us .

Testimonial

2009-11-19T17:47:00.000-08:00

www.cambodianangkortour.com
Below you will find testimonials from some of my previous clients. I had a marvelous time with all of them, and am grateful for their time and letters of encouragement.
My trip to Cambodia in 2006 was truly amazing, not only because of the beautiful country and its awesome historical temples, but also because of its friendly locals. One in particular stood out -our tour guide, Chhen - who made our whole trip even more memorable. As far as tour guides go, Chhen obviously knew how to get around Angkor Wat.

But what was so great about this man (other than the fact that he can also speak English very well) is that he truly enjoys his job and takes it seriously - and this is dedication that just can’t be faked. Whilst I am sure that leading hundreds of different tourists up and down treacherous, steep temple steps in his course of work could be tedious and boring, Chhen seems to find enthusiasm in every story that he tells of the carvings on the temple walls.
He initiated us in local traditions and culture. He brought our group of five (consisting of my friends and myself) to local hangouts, showed us how the people in Cambodia live, away from the usual tourist traps. He was not only our guide during our five days’ stay there, but our concierge, bodyguard and friend.

If you are going to visit Cambodia to witness one of the wonders of the world - look Chhen up. You’ll be pleasantly surprised that there are more wonders in Angkor Wat than temples, and that is its people.
Claude Goldenberg
Stanford University
School of Education.
485 Lasuen Mall
Stanford. CA 94305.3096
http://Stanford.edu/~claudeg/
Ph#562883 1408

Shannon and Kol Chhen

We met Chhen while looking for a translator to help us interview subjects for stories we were reporting for www.PhnomPenhpost.com He has proven not only to be reliable but also an invaluable guide to many varied aspects of Khmer culture and society.
For an installment of my column, I needed to endeavor to plant rice in the traditional Khmer fashion.But the height of the planting season had not yet begun. I hopped on the back of Chhen’s moto and he drove me out to the part of the West Baray that is still cultivated, where he phoned various contacts and soon had me thigh deep in water, sticking “baby rice” into the muck alongside a group of Khmer teenagers.

When my boyfriend, also a journalist, had to find people who would give candid interviews about the sex trade and women’s health in the country,Chhen took us to local people we would never have found on our own, made them comfortable enough to feel comfortable talking to us, and provided the background cultural knowledge that helped us put everything in perspective so we could write an honest news story. Living here, we have met many people who purport to be tour guides, translators, jacks-of-all-trades who can help a foreigner have a rewarding experience in Siem Reap, but Chhen is the real deal. We know Chhen to be fair, honest, and hard working. He speaks fluent English, enjoys his job and genuinely likes working with foreigners.

Mindy & Kol Chhen

We had the most wonderful time in Cambodia and Mr kol Chhen is the BEST!! Thank you for helping to make our trip perfect!! Regards Mindy & John Edmonds, WA & Email: mindyspicer@gmail.com

Dwight and Nancy Dunlap & Kol Chhen

On our recent visit to Siem Reap, Cambodia, we were fortunate to have
Chhen for our tour guide as we visited the historical sites of Angkor
Wat and the surrounding area.
Exploring this archaeological park can be quite overwhelming as it includes countless sites and covers many square miles. Using Chhen as our guide, we were able to make the most of our time and learn about the history of the area and just enjoy ourselves. His engaging personality, knowledge of the area and its history, and mastery of the English language helped make our trip to Cambodia a very rewarding experience.

Jason Leahey & Kol Chhen

I met Chhen by accident. I needed a tour guide and a friend recommended I call a guide he had used. That guide was unable to help me, but he recommended Chhen, and I am very glad he did.

Chhen enjoys sharing Khmer culture and history, and this is very different from a guide that simply knows the facts. Chhen knows the stories, the history, and the artistic achievements of the temples in a vocabulary that was very welcome to me as a Westerner with no prior knowledge of Angkor and without an arts background. I particularly enjoyed the day Chhen took me to Bantey Srei, where the carvings are outstandingly preserved, and explained the culture and historical perspective behind all those intricate carvings.
And then he took me to a village corner famous for its “Cambodian noodle soup.” Chhen knew the prices Khmer pay for the lunch, and he made sure that we paid only what was fair. He is a good conversationalist too, so I felt very much like I was exploring Angkor with Chhen rather than simply hiring a person to recite facts to me. He took me to his home village, too, and I met his family, which was a great experience. I’d recommend Chhen to anybody without the slightest hesitation.

Lee Foo Hoe, Han Y.C. Jessie Lee & Kol Chhen

We decided to visit Siem Reap, Cambodia in November 2009, and a friend recommended Mr Chhen Kol to us as our English-speaking tour guide
He is a very kind and friendly guide who knows every corner of Siem Reap. Just tell him which places you wish to visit, and he will bring you there.
We would definitely recommend him to our friends and colleagues who are planning to visit this world heritage site.

ciao! Stefania & Matteo with our guide Kol Chhen

Chhen was an excellent guide: friendly, patient, professional.
He unveiled to us the gems of the complex of Ankor Wat with professionalism and sympathy.
But above all, he was a friend who has accompanied us on this adventure: without him on our trip would not be so good. Thanks Chhen, let's stay in touch! a big hug, ciao! Stefania & Matteo

My Services

2009-09-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

Cambodia - Kingdom of Wonder

My Services:

I am a licensed Angkor tour guide who is fluent in English. I have been leading tourists through the Angkor temple sights and explaining to them the rich history of the ancient Khmer Empire for the past seven years.
Becoming a licensed tour guide is a long and expensive process. Only certified guides are allowed to accompany tourists into the temples. If you wish to enjoy a thorough and informed explanation of the history, art, and architecture of ancient Angkor as you explore the Temples step-by-step, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Unlicensed guides are not allowed into the premises with tour groups.
For only US $20 a day I will be your reliable and informed guide to the mysteries of my ancestors' culture and empire.

Hotel and Guest House .
Siem Reap is full of hotels and guesthouses; there is an option for all tastes and budgets. We have lavish, five-star hotels that provide excellent comfort and service as well as cozy, family-run guesthouses where you can stay for just a few dollars a night.

Having worked and lived in Siem Reap for many years, I have built a network of friends and colleagues and can secure for you rooms at prices far below the usual rate. Looking for a hotel with a spa and room service? I know just the place. Prefer simpler comforts and the chance to meet a local Khmer family while they prepare your breakfast? I know the perfect place to find that as well. Let me know you preferences when you email and I will take care of everything.

Transportation:
There are many modes of transportation for your exploration of Angkor. Whether you prefer the comfort of an air-conditioned car, the excitement of a motorbike, or the pleasure of group ride in a motorized tuk-tuk tax, I can find the safest and most comfortable option for you.
Cars start at an additional US $20 for a full day in the Angkor temple complex, all petrol included, for a four seater. Vans with eight to fifteen seats cost US $30. Half-day rentals are available as well. I operate all of the vehicles myself.
Pick-up and deposit to the Siem Reap Airport, Siem Reap bus station, and the Tonle Sap boat landing is free.
Exploring by tuk-tuk is one of the best and most popular ways of exploring the temples.

Each tuk-tuk can carry four passengers and your drive into the jungle will be in the open air, the breeze and the smells of Khmer cooking in roadside stands wafting around you. If the day includes rain, you are covered under the tuk-tuk's canopy,and if the rain becomes a downpour, protective flaps are easily unfurled to create a private carriage for you.
Tuk-tuks cost US $13 per day and covers the entire Angkor complex.

Tourists who want to experience the Khmer motobike, the main mode of transportation in Cambodia's cities,
Can hop on back and listen to me point out the secrets of Ancient Angkor as we whizz down the road. Cambodian motos are very comfortable and the ideal mode of transportation for the solo traveler. Motos cost US $10 per person, per moto.
Helmets are provided free of charge.
I can also arrange transportation to various border crossings, including the Poipet crossing into Thailand and multiple crossings into Vietnam, as well as intra-Cambodian trips to Phnom Penh, Siahnoukville, Battambang, and other popular and less-visited locations

Angkor Tickets
The Archaeological Park is open from 4.30 am to 5.30 pm everyday. Visitors can purchase entrance tickets for :
1. One day pass : US$ 20 per person.
2. Two or Three day pass : US$ 40 per person.
3. One week pass : US$ 60 per person.
Visitors must take a photo to stick on ticket.
Other Entrance Fees Such as :
1. Kulen mountain ticket : US$ 20 per person
2. Beng Mealea temple ticket: US$5 per person
3. Koh Ker temple group ticket : US$10 per person
all the entrance fees are not charged from children under 12 year old.
Countryside Tours

I grew up in Siem Reap Province in a village known as Palmtree Village. The vast majority of Cambodians live in small villages just like this one. Exploring the modern opportunities in Siem Reap and the ancient spectacles of the temples are fantastic opportunities, but to fully explore Khmer culture and the struggles that Cambodia continues to face, a trip to the countryside is essential. Cambodia is the poorest country in Southeast Asia and Siem Reap province remains the second poorest province in the country.

There are many villages that I work with that love to receive foreigners for a visit. Travel with me to see water buffalo, stilt houses, and traditional rice cultivation in vibrantly green paddies. The people of the countryside are generous and friendly and life is slow. Traveling to one of these villages brings further interest and income to them. A visit to them is a way for generous individuals to help redress the economic imballance in Cambodian society.
Adventure Temple Tours

Banteay Srei Temple
Half Day Tour.
Banteay Srei temple was built in 967 AD. It is the only temple in the
kingdom built of pink and yellow sandstone, higher quality and harder stone that was later abandoned for the grey and green sandstone used to built later temples like Angkor Wat. This superior stone has ensured that the carvings of Banteay Srei have remained in such fantastic condition, offering a rare opportunity to visitors who explore beyond the immediate temple complex.
Kbal Spean
This place, holy to the ancient Khmer, still shows the sacred lingas and other reliefs carved into the rock riverbed so many centuries ago.

Sunset Tour On Phnom Bakhen
Two hour tour: 4:30-6:30
This temple has 109 tours and offers a spectacular view of the sun setting into the jungle behind Angkor Wat. Elephant rides are available to make the climb.

Elephant Ticket : US$ 20 per person will go up the mountain and US$ 15 for getting down.

Kulen Mountain
Full Day Tour, USD$20 per person

Kulen Mountian is around 60km north of Angkor Wat and one of the holiest places in Cambodia. The waters of the Siem Reap river, so important for the Angkor Empire, flowed from this mountain, and visitors can still see the fertility symbols carved into the riverbed centureis ago to ensure continued prosperity. Holy men study here and ascetic hermits live in ancient pagodas. It was at Kulen that the Devaraja cult was born, turning the human rulers of the Khmer into gods. Pilgrimages are still made to the mountain, and visitors can swim in the clean, cool water and examine the carvings, waves of butterflies swooping past and off into the lush jungle around.
Kulen Mountain is also the sight of the Reclining Buddha monument, a massive statue carved whole out of the mountain top in the 16th Century. During the Indochina War, bombs were dropped all around the Buddha, but none destroyed that statue. It is now a popular place for Khmer to make picnics.
Full Day Tour

Beng Mealea Temple is 60km from Siem Reap at the foot of Kulen Mountain. Built in the 12th Century, many scholars believe it was the model for Angkor Wat. It is just as wonderful of a temple but it is still largely lost in the jungle. The accomodations made for tourists at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom have not been made here, and visitors enjoy a much quieter and adventourous experience.
It's around 75 km away from Siem Reap city and the way from Siem Reap you will see the culture house on the Road both site .
Meng Mealea Ticket US$5 Person.

Koh Ker Temple Group
Full day Tours

The third ancient capital of Khmer Empire was built by King Jayavarman IV in the 10th century
It is located 80km from Kulen Mountain and around 150km away from Siem Reap city. The trip to Koh Ker is beautiful, passing buccolic farms, rice paddies, a rubber farm, and many quiet villages.
Koh Ker Entrance fees : US$10 including Beng Mealea

Preah Vihear Temple
Full Day Tour.
It is situated in Preah Vihear Provice on the top of a mountain with spectacular views of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, and even Thailand.
The temple was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2008.
Entrance fees are USD$5 per person, and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$150

Sambo Prei Kuh
Full day.
This is a very old, and rarely visited, temple located a four hour drvie from Siem Reap. The nearby Kampong Thom City is an excellent place to spend the night if you want to enjoy a leisurely trip. The drive itself is beautiful, a journey along the lush scenery of the Prey Preas River. Villagers in this area specialize in meals that include crickets, spiders, and frogs as well as sticky rice.
The Sambo Prei Kuh temples were the second capital of the Khmer Empire and were built in the 7th Century by King Isanvarman I.
You cannot get to these temples by motorbike. The journey is long and requires a car, as well as a guide experienced in the area. Entrace fees to the temples are USD$5 per person. Transportation and Tour Guide costs USD$130. This is a rare temple experience that only those foreigners willing to step off the beaten.
Preah Khan Kompong Svay
Full day TourThese temples were built in the 12th Century when Preah Khan was the capital of the Angkor Empire. The throne moved back to Angkor in 1181 after King Jayavarman VII defeated the invading Chams.
It's about 170km from Siem Reap city to these temples. The drive is very scenic, winding through farms and poor hamlets of Khmer, many of whom have never travelled outside of their small communities or to a city.
Visitors must travel from Siem Reap by Car.
Entrance fees are USD$5 per person, and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$130..
Banteay ChhmarTemples
Full Day Tour .
These temples were built by King Jayavarman VII in dedication to his son, who died in the war with Champa.
These temples are in Banteay Meanchey province, around 160km from Angkor Wat, and are easily accessed from Battambang and Poi Pet, as well as Siem Reap.
Entrance feesUS$ 5 per son,and Transportation and Tour Guide is USD$ 140.

Transportation And Tour Guide Services
Full day tour
The south part of Siem Reap town we arrange tour for go to visit Banteay Srie Kbal Spean . Kulen Mountain . and Meng Mealea temple.

Tour guide & Toyota Camary A/C :USD$100.

Tour Guide & Mini Van A/C:USD$120.
Full day Tour
Starting early morning go to visit Sunrise and Angkor Wat having breakfast near Angkor Wat and contiune to visit Banteay Srie , Kbal Spean ,and Kulen Mountian .
Tour Guide & Toyota Camary A/C:USD$90.
Tour Guide& Mini Van A/C :USD$100.
Full day
Adventure Tour go to see countryside Koh Ker Group and Beng Mealea.Tonle Sap lake and floating village.
Tour Guide & Toyota Camary A/C :USD$ 120
Tour Guide &Mini Van A/C :USD$ 130
Full day Tour
Start very early morning enjoy visit local peoples go to make farmer on the road to Kbal Spean ,Kulen Mountian and Beng Mealea and visit sunset at Tonle Sap .
Tour guide & Toyota Camary A/C :USD$ 90 .
Tour Guide& Mini Van A/C : USD$ 100

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