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Hotel designer Bill Bensley and Shinta Mani Foundation hospitality students pose together in a garden
Shinta Mani Angkor

Sustainable Luxury in Siem Reap: How Shinta Mani Angkor Supports Khmer Heritage & Community

November 20, 2025

Redefining Responsible Tourism in Cambodia

 

At Shinta Mani Angkor, “luxury” means leaving a legacy. Since 2004, a portion of every stay helps fund the Shinta Mani Foundation’s programs in Siem Reap.

 

Together, we’re proving that a community hotel in Siem Reap can deliver refined hospitality and measurable good: training youth for meaningful careers, expanding access to clean water and healthcare, and helping families launch small businesses.

 

This is responsible tourism in Cambodia in action.

 

Entrance sign for Shinta Mani Angkor hotel in Siem Reap, framed by lush tropical traveler's palms.
Entrance sign for Shinta Mani Angkor hotel in Siem Reap, framed by lush tropical traveler’s palms.

 

Since its beginning, Shinta Mani Angkor has been deeply connected with the Shinta Mani Foundation, and the statistics of impact speak for itself.

 

Impact at a glance:

  • Hospitality school graduates: 358 (with 100% employment) 
  • Water wells built: 1,873 | Water filters distributed: 1,700 
  • Dental/medical treatments delivered: 17,886 
  • Interest-free micro-loans issued: 184 
  • Homes built for vulnerable families: 186 

 

Explore how a single trip can change lives on our Angkor Experiences page.

The Shinta Mani Foundation: Three Pillars of Community Support

 

The Shinta Mani Foundation exists to ensure Siem Reap’s tourism benefits flow back to the Khmer people who make this place extraordinary. Its mission focuses on three pillars that drive lasting change: 

 

  • Education: free, career-led training and English classes for under-resourced youth.
  • Healthcare: basic medical and dental care, plus clean-water initiatives for rural communities.
  • Small-Business Enablement: interest-free micro-loans, tools, and mentoring for family enterprises.

 

Hotel designer Bill Bensley and Shinta Mani Foundation hospitality students pose together in a garden
Hotel designer Bill Bensley and Shinta Mani Foundation hospitality students pose together in a garden

 

A percentage of every room rate at Shinta Mani Angkor directly supports these programs, so every guest becomes part of the story.

 

Learn how your visit contributes on the Shinta Mani Foundation website.

Hospitality School: Training Youth for 100% Job Placement

 

Education is at the heart of the Shinta Mani Foundation, and the free School of Hospitality is its proudest achievement.

 

What the program offers:

  • Free, 10-month training in world-class hotel operations: front office, housekeeping, culinary, barista, and guest relations.
  • English language and life skills that build confidence and independence.
  • Comprehensive support including uniforms, study materials, daily meals, and transport assistance.
  • Infrastructure support for rural students, including housing construction, water well drilling, and toilet installation.

 

A modest family stipend to ensure trainees can complete their studies.

 

Shinta Mani Foundation students in blue uniforms listen intently to an instructor in a classroom
Shinta Mani Foundation students in blue uniforms listen intently to an instructor in a classroom

 

 

What the outcomes look like

 

Since inception, 358 students have graduated from the School of Hospitality, with 100% gaining employment in reputable hotels and restaurants across Cambodia and Southeast Asia. Many alumni return as mentors or supervisors, creating a virtuous cycle of opportunity for the next cohort.

 

“I grew up in Angkor Thom District, Siem Reap. I nearly left school for day labour until I heard about Shinta Mani’s hospitality school. I joined the Culinary Arts program, found a passion for cooking, and received the support I needed from the Shinta Mani Foundation. Today I’m working a three-month casual role at Shinta Mani Hotel and earning a steady income to support my family.” 

 

The culinary student from the Shinta Mani Foundation smiles while prepping vegetables and stirring a large pot.
The culinary student from the Shinta Mani Foundation smiles while prepping vegetables and stirring a large pot.

Building a Healthier Community Beyond the Classroom

 

The reach of the Shinta Mani Foundation extends far beyond the hotel grounds. Its healthcare and clean water initiatives touch thousands of lives across rural Siem Reap.

 

  • Clean water & hygiene: A community well-building program has provided 1,873 wells and 1,700 household water filters, reducing illness, saving time, and improving school attendance for children.
  • Healthcare access: Mobile clinics have delivered over 16,000 dental check-ups and 3,900 basic medical treatments, along with hygiene education that prevents future illness.
  • Safety net support: In times of hardship, the Shinta Mani Foundation sponsored over 1,000 piglets, 10,000 sets of school supplies and has built nearly 200 safe, dignified homes for vulnerable families.

 

Two Khmer women receiving food and nutrition aid provided by the Shinta Mani Foundation.
Two Khmer women receiving food and nutrition aid provided by the Shinta Mani Foundation.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Micro-Loans for Ethical Travel in Cambodia

 

Sustainability also means empowering people to thrive independently. The Shinta Mani Foundation helps local families start small businesses through its interest-free microloan program.

 

By providing resources like bicycles, livestock, and sewing machines, the Foundation encourages self-sufficiency and dignity. Many of these ventures preserve traditional crafts: woodcarving, weaving, and tailoring, which form the heart of Khmer heritage.

 

This dedication keeps ancestral knowledge alive while supporting families with a stable income.

 

Khmer women weave traditional baskets, a craft supported by the Shinta Mani Foundation's micro-loan program.
Khmer women weave traditional baskets, a craft supported by the Shinta Mani Foundation’s micro-loan program.

 

Discover more about our programs on the Shinta Mani Foundation website.

How Guests Support Local Community in Cambodia

 

When you choose Shinta Mani Angkor, you join a movement that makes ethical travel in Cambodia meaningful.

 

  • Stay with Purpose – A portion of every room rate directly funds Shinta Mani Foundation programs.
  • Visit and Learn – Tour the Foundation’s Development Centre and meet trainees and teams shaping community projects.
  • Participate in Community Experiences – Join curated visits with artisans and partners; your presence and purchases matter.
  • Donate or Shop – Contribute to the Foundation’s programs or purchase handmade goods created by graduates and entrepreneurs on the Shinta Mani Foundation website by making a donation.

 

A Shinta Mani Angkor staff member serves welcome drinks to two guests in a sunlit courtyard.
A Shinta Mani Angkor staff member serves welcome drinks to two guests in a sunlit courtyard.

A Call to Conscious Travel

 

Every journey carries the power to shape the world for the better.

 

At Shinta Mani Angkor, your stay is an act of kindness that fuels responsible tourism in Cambodia, supports the Shinta Mani Foundation, and strengthens a proud cultural legacy.

 

A traveler in a yellow dress stands before the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, demonstrating how sustainable travel, culture and leisure can co-exist in Cambodia.
A traveler in a yellow dress stands before the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, demonstrating how sustainable travel, culture and leisure can co-exist in Cambodia.

 

Ready to travel with purpose?

 

Quick Answers for Conscious Travellers

 

How does my stay at Shinta Mani Angkor support the local community?
A percentage of your room rate is directed to the Shinta Mani Foundation to fund education, healthcare, and small-business enablement initiatives in Cambodia.

 

Can guests visit the Foundation’s programs?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to visit the Development Centre and participate in curated community engagement experiences to see the impact firsthand.

 

Where is Shinta Mani Angkor located and how far is it from the temples of Angkor?
The hotel is at the Junction of Oum Khun & 14th Street in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is a short tuk-tuk ride from the ancient temples of Angkor.

 

What kind of experiences does the hotel offer beyond its social-impact work?
Guests can enjoy Khmer-inspired design by architect Bill Bensley, serene tropical gardens, a world-class spa (Khmer Tonics Spa), boutique dining, and curated cultural excursions that are part of our commitment to ethical travel in Cambodia.

 

Is Shinta Mani Angkor environmentally sustainable?
The hotel’s philanthropic model and design ethos reflect its commitment to ethical travel in Cambodia. The resort is often cited as an example of how luxury hospitality can embed social and environmental responsibility.

 

What type of traveller is the hotel suited for?
The hotel welcomes conscientious travellers, cultural enthusiasts, philanthropic families, and corporate groups seeking a stay that leaves a positive impact. It blends luxury with purpose, making it a compelling choice for those interested in travel with substance.

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additional EXPERIENCE

HELICOPTER ADVENTURE

Experience the pinnacle of adventure with a once-in-a-lifetime private helicopter flight above Mustang. From the moment of lift-off, you’ll be treated to the awe-inspiring spectacle of the mountain range unfolding before your eyes, a riveting panorama of some of the world’s tallest peaks, including the iconic Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.

As you venture deeper into the heart of Mustang, the landscape morphs into a mesmerizing blend of arid desert-like terrain, dramatic cliffs, and ancient rock formations — an other-worldly ambience that will transport you to a distant, untouched realm.

Note: Helicopter Adventure is provided at additional cost. Please inquire at booking.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

ARCHERY

Learn the ancient skill of archery and gain mastery over the bow and arrow. Private lessons are available at a nearby archery field from local Nepalese experts whose families have passed down the secrets of the sport through countless generations.

In this exclusive offering, you will discover not only the technical precision required in archery but also its historical significance and the spiritual aspects of the discipline.

Archery also promotes mindfulness and concentration, connecting the body and mind. Our private lessons are tailored to provide individual attention to novices and experienced archers alike.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

HORSEBACK RIDING

Ride a Mustang horse alongside a local and experience the rhythm and lifestyle of the kingdom that shares its name. These compact yet robust ponies, renowned for their strength and gentle demeanor, have been pivotal to the Himalayan way of life for centuries. Before the modern era, these noble steeds were the lifelines of the region, facilitating travel and trade across the challenging terrain.

Our horseback expeditions range from short, leisurely rides to neighboring villages — perfect for beginners — to more adventurous multi-day excursions into the rugged terrain of Upper Mustang.

Designed for experienced riders, these longer itineraries offer an unparalleled insight into the nomadic lifestyle, as old and untamed as the mountains themselves.

additional EXPERIENCE

HIKING & TREKKING

Mustang’s contrasting landscapes encompass arid deserts, snowy peaks, colorful valleys, and mountain forests. Discover them all with our guided treks, an opportunity to explore remote villages, visit Buddhist monasteries, and encounter wildlife such as blue sheep and yaks. Expect awe-inspiring views of the Kali Gandaki River, glittering glaciers, and the majestic Himalayas around every corner. We offer options to suit every adventurer, from short, daily hikes leaving from the resort to multi-day excursions leading all the way up to the Tibetan border.

Kickstart your day with one of our House Hikes, a pre-breakfast, one-hour trek behind the resort. One of these short adventures rewards you with breathtaking vistas of Nilgiri and the iconic Tukuche Peak, all set against a picturesque backdrop of desert terrain, vibrant trees, and roaring rivers.

Another highlight is a visit to nearby Syang Village, where you may find monks doing their morning chants and meditating in the village gompa. As our guest, you will always receive a warm welcome and an opportunity to experience this tranquil spiritual practice firsthand.

ADDITIONAl EXPERIENCE

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Mustang’s contrasting landscapes encompass arid deserts, snowy peaks, colorful valleys, and mountain forests. Discover them all with our guided treks, an opportunity to explore remote villages, visit Buddhist monasteries, and encounter wildlife such as blue sheep and yaks. Expect awe-inspiring views of the Kali Gandaki River, glittering glaciers, and the majestic Himalayas around every corner. We offer options to suit every adventurer, from short, daily hikes leaving from the resort to multi-day excursions leading all the way up to the Tibetan border.

CORE EXPERIENCE

WELLNESS THERAPIES

After experiencing the cultural and scenic adventures of Mustang, a tailor-made wellness regimen will soothe your body and relax your spirit. As part of your all-inclusive experience at Shinta Mani Mustang, you will enjoy a personalized program in our stylish spa overlooking the Nilgiri range. 

The experience begins with a consultation with our local Amchi (Tibetan medicine doctor), Tsewang Gyurme Gurung, the 11th-generation recorded Amchi in his lineage of SoRig practitioners. He will review your overall wellness and prescribe specific treatments, drawing from a wealth of ancestral knowledge.

Our spa facilities offer private treatment rooms for individuals and couples, steam and sauna rooms, and massage and beauty treatments with highly-trained therapists. 

download spa menu

CORE EXPERIENCE

LUBRA, BON BUDDHIST VILLAGE

An extraordinary fusion of nature, culture, and spirituality, Lubra Village is an 800-year-old settlement nestled in the heart of Mustang and one of the last remaining strongholds of the Bon Buddhist tradition, a practice that predates Buddhism. This secluded hamlet, accessible via a picturesque hike along the Panda Khola River gorge, is a testament to the resilience of long-held traditions in the face of time.

From the venerable gompa and intriguing cave monastery to the local cuisine served on the rooftop of an ancient home, Lubra offers a voyage back in time to the roots of Bon Buddhism, set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.

Enjoy a day of trekking through the picturesque landscapes, sampling the unique flavors of traditional Bon cuisine, and gaining a deeper understanding of a way of life that has been virtually unchanged for 800 years.

CORE EXPERIENCE

JHARKOT, JHONG, MUKTINATH, KAGBENI

This tour blends history, culture, adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty for an immersive experience in the Nepalese countryside. Begin after breakfast with a one-hour drive to Jharkot, a tranquil Tibetan village seemingly untouched by time and famous for its historic gompa (monastery).

From Jharkot, a serene hike into the valley passes through age-old orchards to the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath, which draws both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims from around the world, particularly for the sacred 108 fountains known as Mukti Dhara. According to Hindu belief, bathing in these fountains washes away one’s sins and brings salvation (we recommend bringing your bathing suit to partake in this unique ritual).

From Muktinath you will cross suspension bridges and ascend the opposite side of the valley to ancient Jhong village. Here, you’ll visit a traditional home and enjoy a lunch prepared by the Shinta Mani culinary team at the monastery, against the breathtaking backdrop of 360-degree views of the valleys and mountains.

After the meal, choose between an exhilarating mountain biking adventure down a less-traveled trail or a comfortable jeep ride towards Kagbeni village, the gateway to Upper Mustang. Here, you’ll visit the Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery, an important Buddhist site, to end this exploration of Mustang’s spiritual and adventurous highlights.

CORE EXPERIENCE

WILDERNESS TREKKING

Embark on a trek in the Jomsom Valley, traversing rugged landscapes, crossing streams, and navigating forests while marveling at the dazzling views of the snow-capped Himalaya. The route will be carefully selected based on conditions for an optimal outdoor experience.

Midway through the trek, pause for a mountaineer-inspired picnic, enjoying high-energy foods, a glass of chilled rosé, and the unique experience of dining in the wilderness. Continue your exploration post-lunch, appreciating the serenity and solitude of untouched areas. The trek concludes back at the starting point.

Flexibility is one of the key aspects of our trekking programs. We understand that every guest is unique in terms of skill, experience, and fitness level.

All our treks can be customized, adjusting the itinerary, length, and difficulty to match the capabilities and requirements of our guests. We place great emphasis on safety and enjoyment, so rest assured that your journey through Mustang will be both memorable and within your comfort zone.

CORE EXPERIENCE

MARPHA VILLAGE

Nestled at the southern edge of Mustang, Marpha Village is a hidden gem famous for its beautifully painted Buddhist monasteries, traditional stone houses, and apple orchards where you can sample the local brandy and cider.

This authentic encounter with Nepalese rural life begins with a refreshing, two-hour morning trek from Shinta Mani Wild to Dumba Lake and the iconic Khutsab Terenga Monastery. This route offers transfixing views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the deepest valley in the world. At the monastery, you’ll be treated to an elegant breakfast picnic under the shade of an old apricot tree.

Post-breakfast, you have the option to either drive, trek, or mountain bike to Marpha. Spend your day strolling down the narrow flagstone streets, shopping for local handicrafts, and absorbing the sights and sounds of this picturesque village.

Lunch is hosted by Mrs. Kamala, a renowned Thakali chef and civic leader who will prepare a traditional meal for you at her kitchen table, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine.

After lunch, delve deeper into the fascinating history and traditions of Marpha Village, from the orchards to the monasteries.

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Phnom Kulen & Banteay Srei

Considered the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, Phnom Kulen mountain is ensconced in beautiful jungle scenery. The itinerary includes a hike to the Kulen waterfall; good walking shoes and a swimsuit are advisable. The tour also includes a visit to the majestic Banteay Srei temple, known for its exquisitely carved red sandstone. 

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 7 hrs.
  • Price: From US $198*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Kongkear Angkor Cruise

Travel along a peaceful waterway while you soak in the history, nature, and culture of the Angkor site. The longboat-style gondola will take you past the great wall of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the Royals’ Secret Path, and the City Guardpost as you enjoy drinks and canapés. Note: Temple pass required.

  • Private vehicle
  • Kong Kear boat
  • Canapés and drinks
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Price: From US $180*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Sunset Cruise in Tonle Sap Lake

This is a fantastic and peaceful way to watch the sunset over Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world. Tonle Sap has been designated by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve due to its high degree of biodiversity. Enjoy drinks and canapés as you float past its natural wonders.

  • Private vehicle
  • Boat
  • Entrance fees
  • Food and drinks
  • Duration: 5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $1,394*
  • Minimum of 8 people.

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Rulous Group Half Day Tour

This cluster of remote temples includes Bakong, Lolei, Preah Ko, and Prei Monti, some of which date from the 9th century — among the earliest permanent structures built by the Khmer. It’s a perfect excursion for 7-Day pass holders or repeat visitors to Siem Reap.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 3.5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $94*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

Rulous group half day tour

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Kbal Spean & Banteay Srei

This tour takes you to a remote part of Siem Reap Province where not many tourists visit. It includes some hiking and visits the 10th-century Banteay Srei (Ladies Temple), known for its intricate red sandstone carvings, and the spectacularly carved riverbed Kbal Spean.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 6.5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $176*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Floating Village

A fascinating exploration of communities living directly on the water, this tour includes a boat trip on the Tonle Sap lake, passing by stilt houses and a floating school.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 4 hrs.
  • Price: From US $118*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include boat ride or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Beng Mealea & Koh Ker Day Tour

This full-day tour takes in two remote and often unvisited temples that are very much worth the long drive: jungle-covered Beng Mealea and pyramid-like Koh Ker, recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tour is highly recommended for those who have previously visited Siem Reap’s temples.

Please note that Koh Ker and Beng Mealea require separate Temple Passes.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 8 hrs.
  • Price: From US $280*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Grand Circuit sunrise Tour

Experience the mesmerizing view of sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by a visit to the lesser-known temples outside the central cluster.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 6.5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $158*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Small Circuit sunrise Tour

Ideal for one-day Angkor Pass holders who wish to visit the must-see temples of Angkor and experience the magical sunrise at Angkor Wat.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 7 hrs.
  • Price: From US $118*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Grand Circuit Tour

This tour visits the lesser-known temples outside the central cluster — a deeper exploration of the history of the site and the perfect follow-up to the Small Circuit tour.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $127*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

book now

ANGKOR & BEYOND

Small Circuit Tour

This tour is perfect for one-day Angkor Pass holders as it covers the must-see temples of Angkor. It’s also a starting point for multi-day Angkor Pass holders who can, on a later day, continue with the Grand Circuit or remote temples.

  • English-speaking guide
  • Private vehicle
  • Duration: 5 hrs.
  • Price: From US $94*

*Prices quoted are net and do not include temple passes or meals.

Book now

CULTURAL DISCOVERIES

 Galleries & Boutiques

Siem Reap has become a haven for creative locals and expats inspired by Khmer heritage to fashion a new Cambodian aesthetic. Recommended stops include the studio of Christian Develter, a Belgian artist making boldly colorful portraits; the atelier of Eric Raisina, a Madagascar-born, Paris-trained couturier; and One Eleven Gallery, showing a variety of contemporary artists. We can also arrange a private art tour of the city’s best galleries and studios.

CULTURAL DISCOVERIES

Pub Street

Think of Pub Street as Southeast Asia’s version of Bourbon Street in New Orleans: several lively blocks lined with bars and clubs that entertain revelers all night long. Officially called Street 8 and just a short walk from the hotel, it’s a spirited destination for having a few drinks, sampling authentic Khmer street food, and watching performances by local musicians and dancers.

Pro tip: Start with dinner at Elia, a Greek restaurant in an old colonial house (try the watermelon feta salad and the Rhodes sausage), before your bar-hopping adventure.

CULTURAL DISCOVERIES

Siem Reap’s Coffee Culture

Coffee is a way of life in Cambodia, and hip young locals have opened a number of charming cafés across Siem Reap, many of them making drinks made with locally grown and roasted beans. A few of our favorites: The Little Red Fox, in Kandal Village, whose beans are all sourced from Southeast Asia; Kambu, in Wat Bo, an adorable Japanese kissaten-style café; and the Muffin Man, on Sumbai Road, where you can pair your espresso with Dieng Dorm’s scrumptious muffins and cakes.

CULTURAL DISCOVERIES

Phare Cambodian Circus

Uniquely Cambodian and daringly modern, Phare offers Siem Reap’s most authentic and energetic evening entertainment. More than just a circus, Phare performers tell Cambodian stories — historical, folk, and modern — with a fusion of theater, music, dance, and modern circus arts. The talented artists are all graduates of Phare Ponleu Selpak, a Battambang-based performing arts school that offers free vocational training to underprivileged children.

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CULTURAL DISCOVERIES

Kandal Village

Siem Reap’s rising art and culture precinct is nestled in the leafy central neighborhood, just a short walk from Shinta Mani. Concentrated on a block of Hap Guan Street is a vibrant mix of cafés, galleries, spas, and boutiques selling beautiful, made-in-Cambodia housewares and clothing.

This is the place to find unique gifts, superb coffee and specialty juices, strikingly designed lacquer and ceramic curios, eco-friendly delights for home and body, art by both locals and expats, street fashion, jewelry, furniture, and more.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

COOKING CLASSES

Our jungle cooking class begins with a zipline over the river into the forest. There, you’ll forage for ingredients as you make your way to our organic farm and its rustic, open-air cooking sala, which replicates a typical Cambodian village kitchen. After refreshments, you’ll prepare three dishes from the seasonal menu, learn time-honored local techniques — and then feast on the results.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

MIXOLOGY LESSONS

Whether you want to learn about local spirits and juices or just perfect your Negroni-making skills, our bartender can show you the difference between cocktail shakers, the importance of ice cube size and shape, and the secrets of a perfect drink.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

BIRDWATCHING

Hundreds of species of birds live in and around Shinta Mani Wild, and many, many more pass through the preserve during the migratory seasons. Guests can spot six species of kingfishers, 10 different types of drongos, eagles, hornbills, and more. 

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

BUTTERFLY ENCOUNTERS

Wild is home to over 140 species of butterflies, a kaleidoscope of hundreds of painted Jezebels, magpie crows, and sapphire-colored blue-banded king crows. Head Bensley Butler and lepidopterist Bong Mac will guide you on a hike and share his passion for butterflies with you.

At our new butterfly hatchery, developed in partnership with Conservation International, we breed indigenous species for reintroduction into their natural habitat.

Immerse yourself in the serene, meditative ambiance while learning about the butterfly's fascinating life cycle — then carry a specially curated box of butterflies to an isolated location within the preserve and set them free into the wild!

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Our fleet of yellow mountain bikes awaits riders of all skill levels. A virgin run on forested single-track? A gentle ride through a Khmer village? A challenging uphill to the Kirirom Reservoir, followed by an exhilarating downhill sprint? Our Butlers love getting on two wheels with guests. The best way to rinse off the dirt? Combine a bike ride with your estuary boat expedition.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

HIKING

Wild’s 350-hectare (865-acre) property brings endless opportunities to explore the forest. Deep in the forest, where the birdsong falls away and sunlight barely pierces the canopy, you might spot a rare orchid, a spider's web, a tarantula hole — teeming life where humanity has not trespassed.

Your Bensley Butler will happily guide you on an adventure of your choosing, from an easy walk on a riverside trail to full-day, hardcore slogs into the Cardamom interior.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

FORAGING

The Cardamom Rainforest is a natural larder, and our wild foragers — most of them reformed poachers and loggers who know how to live off the rainforest — will guide you through the bounty of the jungle.

You may dig up wild potatoes, pick exotic fruits off trees, discover edible mushrooms, and taste some unexpected flavors (including, yes, live red ants). All of it goes in the basket to bring back to our chefs.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

CAMERA TRAPPING

As part of our conservation agenda, Shinta Mani Wild maintains a network of camera traps that capture footage of our resident species and help scientists keep tabs on the area’s biodiversity. Join our resident naturalist on a nature walk to check the camera traps and gibbon stations.

In the past, we’ve found endangered species such as the pileated gibbon, dhole (a type of wild dog), pangolins, and even new species of orchids, macaques, and leopard cats.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

ZIPLINING

Climb Eastern Tower’s 102 steps, strap on a harness, and clip into a double cable for extra safety before flying at upwards of 50 kmph for 400 meters (31mph for 1,300 feet) over the jungle canopy and the river.

Catch your breath at the West Tower before one last zip over the face of Raging Big Sister Falls, arriving at the Landing Zone Bar — where your favorite cocktail awaits.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES / seasonal

KAYAKING

The Southern Cardamom rainforest has some of the highest annual rainfall in Southeast Asia — and all that water drains to the Gulf of Thailand through a massive system of rivers and estuaries that are perfect for flatwater kayaking.

The gentle current will guide you downstream, palm fronds dangling overhead, breeze and birdsong the only sounds. Indeed, this is one of the best ways to birdwatch here, with bee-eaters, black-crested bulbuls, and six different kingfishers all native to the area.

NOTE: This experience is dependent upon the water level; during monsoon rains, the river becomes too high to navigate safely.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

TAILGATE SUNDOWNERS

Could this be the world’s most decadent pop-up cocktail bar? Golden hour drinks on a big flat stone in the middle of the river — its divots acting as nature’s own little ice buckets — with the campfire going is an unforgettable experience. Even better? The tiny toothless fish nibbling at your toes dangling in the water.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

SWIMMING AT THE CISTERN

Unwind with a G&T in hand in our own little swimming hole, a 33-meter (108-foot) black steel pool inspired by the cisterns once used to store groundwater. Here, the water is gin-clear, the forest provides ample shade, and the views of the canopy and the waterfall below are smashing. 

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

PICNICS

Don’t let the restaurant confine you! All of Wild is yours for an alfresco meal. Our team of Bensley Butlers are ready to whip up a picnic feast perched above a waterfall, ensconced in the forest, or in one of many other dramatic spots.

core experiences

NATURAL
WELLNESS

For us, total immersion in nature is the key to well-being. So whether it’s a facial in your tent, a stone foot massage by the river, a yoga session in the forest, or a full-body scrub in the spa itself, our wellness experiences are an essential part of your stay. 

learn more

core experiences

anti-poaching patrols

The Cardamom Rainforest is one of Asia's most biodiverse places, with populations of rare and endangered wildlife — including Malayan sun bears, pangolins, clouded leopards, and pileated gibbons. But their existence is threatened by poaching, logging, and other illegal activities. 

That is why we help fund Wildlife Alliance, a Cambodian NGO whose armed rangers patrol the area, seizing snares, running loggers out of their camps, and confiscating guns and chainsaws.

Here at Shinta Mani Wild, you are on the front lines of conservation, and your presence alone is helping us fight this fight. 

Our guests can have the eye-opening experience of joining the rangers on motorbikes for 2-6 hours (depending on your stamina) as they survey and protect the resort’s 350 hectares (865 acres) to ensure the sanctity of this precious habitat. You might help them dismantle a homemade trap — or even rescue and release an animal caught in a snare.

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core experiences / Seasonal

expedition boats

Explore the secret backwaters, scenic rice fields, and golden sand beaches of the upper Srey Ambel Estuary on our custom-designed expedition pontoon, equipped with a full bar, daybeds, toilet, and a top deck with sun loungers. Your Bensley Butler will point out the vivid birdlife, and knows which mangrove-lined channels are best for exploring by kayak, and where to set up a picnic in the wilderness.

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Shinta Mani Mustang

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