In a time when much of Southeast Asia was rife with battles and conquests between competing kingdoms, the Khmer soldiers stood out not only as the fiercest warriors but also as a key element in the success and expansion of the Khmer empire. Carvings on base reliefs on the temple facades are adorned with depictions of warriors waging battles in ancient times. Weaponry and martial arts being two of the most recognizable traits of a Khmer Warrior. We want to bring some of that ancient art back and thus have created The Khmer Warrior Initiation experience to get you more intimate with the warriors of ancient times. Weapons played an important role in the battles waged by the Khmers. In becoming a Khmer warrior, you will first get an opportunity to make your own knife with Ty, our blacksmith host. In traditional smithing techniques and methods that haven't changed for centuries you will burn, mould and sharpen your knife - you now have your weapon.We will then have lunch at local restuarant.After this sumptuous protein filled meal, we'll move on to the last and final stage of the warrior initiation - making crossbows. An effective weapon of choice, the crossbow is still used today, but instead of the battle field, it is used by hunters. Their utility has not yet faded from the culture and thus still lives on in the jungles of Cambodia. Last you will learn the the Khmer martial arts, or Bokator from a local master. Bokator, literally translated to "pounding a lion' is said to have been the origins of the much popular Muay Thai in Thailand. The art form will teach you basic forms and practical attack and defense maneuvers practiced and used in the battlefields of ancient times. Itinerary 0800 - 1130: Pick up from the hotel and head to the knife making workshop 1130 - 1300: Having Lunch at local restaurant 1300 - 1600: Crossbow making 1630 - 1730: Head to the local gym for Bokator