ODDAR MEANCHEY TOUR PACKAGE

3days 2nights tour from Thailand (Code 22012025)

Day 1: Arrival at the Thai-Cambodian Border – Travel to Oddar Meanchey (Jam Srorngarm)

Morning: Take a transportation from Thailand to Oddar Meanchey, crossing the Khmer Border at Jam Srorngarm. As you arrive in Cambodia, you’ll begin to see the vibrant local culture that thrives at the border. Local food vendors and small businesses are abundant, and you can support them by purchasing local snacks or souvenirs.

Afternoon: Head to Prohm Kel Temple, located near Cheung Tien Village in Oddar Meanchey. This ancient temple, part of the Royal Road network, was built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. The architecture offers a glimpse into the ancient Khmer Empire’s sophisticated craftsmanship. Supporting the nearby local vendors, including artisans who sell handmade crafts inspired by local history, allows them to preserve their traditions.

After exploring the temple, enjoy a local lunch at a nearby food stall, where you can savor authentic Khmer dishes while supporting the community. Nearby, you can visit the ancient basins and bridges, such as Spean Toap, Spean Tbong, and Spean Memay, which are part of the ancient Royal Road system. Consider hiring a local guide to provide you with insights into the historical significance of these structures while directly contributing to the local economy. 

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional Khmer dishes such as Amok and Lok Lak. Your meal will support small, family-owned restaurants in the region. Overnight stay at a locally-owned hotel in Oddor Meanchey.

Day 2: Oddar Meanchey – Anglong Veng

Morning: After breakfast, head toward Anlong Veng, crossing the Thai-Cambodian border near Jam. Along the way, take time to stop and interact with the local community. This is a chance to support roadside vendors selling crafts, local produce, and handmade products.

Afternoon: Upon reaching Anlong Veng, visit Ta Mok’s House, the former residence of a prominent Khmer Rouge leader. While exploring the Pol Pot Cremation Site, be mindful of the local history and the region’s significance. You can further support the community by visiting the Anlong Veng Market, where you can buy local food, handmade textiles, and souvenirs. Purchasing from local vendors directly helps the people of Anlong Veng sustain their livelihoods.

Lunch at a local Khmer restaurant: Enjoy traditional dishes like Kuy Tieu (noodle soup) or Kang (Cambodian curry). By choosing locally-owned restaurants, you’ll contribute to the preservation of local food culture.

Enjoy the view from Dangrek Mountain, which not only provides panoramic views of the Thai border but also allows you to connect with the historical Khmer Rouge sites in the area. Consider donating or contributing to local historical preservation projects that aim to educate future generations about this important region.

Evening: End your day with a relaxing dinner at a locally-owned restaurant in Anlong Veng, where you can enjoy fresh local dishes. Overnight stay at a family-run accommodation in Anlong Veng.

Day 3: Departure – Transfer to Jam Srorngarm Border or Continue to Siem Reap

Morning: If you are returning to Thailand, you will be transferred back to the Jam Srorngarm border. If you are continuing your journey to Siem Reap, this is a great opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and support its local economy through sustainable tourism.

Optional: You can continue to Siem Reap (approx. 4–5 hours by car) for the next stage of your journey. Along the way, stop at small villages or local handicraft markets to support rural artisans and purchase unique, locally-made souvenirs.

In Siem Reap, you can visit local artisan workshops, where you can observe traditional weaving, woodwork, and stone carving, and purchase souvenirs directly from the creators. This ensures your spending directly benefits the local community.

Evening arrival in Siem Reap. Check in to your eco-friendly accommodation, where your stay supports sustainable tourism practices, such as water conservation and waste reduction. Enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner at a local restaurant, further contributing to the local economy.

Supporting Local Communities: Tips and Practices

Stay at Locally-Owned Accommodations:

Opt for small, locally-owned guesthouses, eco-lodges, and hotels. These businesses tend to reinvest profits into the community, create jobs, and practice sustainable tourism. You can find such places listed on eco-tourism platforms or ask for recommendations from your guide.

Buy Handmade Crafts: At each market or village, consider buying handmade crafts such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry made by local artisans. These purchases help preserve traditional craftsmanship and provide livelihoods to local families.

Participate in Community-Based Tourism: When visiting villages or historical sites, ask if there are community-based tourism initiatives that offer local guides and experiences. By hiring local guides, you provide them with steady income and help preserve the local culture.

Support Sustainable Farming: When buying food along the way, look for organic and locally-sourced produce. This supports sustainable farming practices and reduces the environmental impact of transportation.

Contribute to Conservation Projects: If possible, consider donating to conservation projects that protect both the cultural and natural heritage of the areas you visit. In regions like Preah Vihear or Anglong Veng, there are often local initiatives focused on protecting the environment, wildlife, and historical sites. By following this itinerary, you will have a meaningful, enriching experience while actively supporting the local communities in Cambodia. Your travel choices can help foster a positive impact, ensuring that tourism benefits both travelers and the people who call Cambodia home. This revised itinerary emphasizes the importance of sustainable, responsible tourism that directly benefits local people and communities while providing an unforgettable travel experience.