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From Siem Reap: Full-Day Banteay Srei Temple and grand circuit tour

8 hour(s)
Host by Experts


Overview

Experience the hidden gems of the Angkor Archaeological Park on this captivating shared group journey. While most visitors flock to the central complexes, this "Grand Circuit" itinerary takes you further afield to discover the "Jewel of Khmer Art"—Banteay Srei.

Led by a professional historian guide, you’ll travel with a small group of like-minded adventurers to witness the evolution of Khmer architecture, from the towering brick pyramids of Pre Rup to the jungle-clad corridors of Preah Khan. This tour is designed for travelers who appreciate intricate details, ancient mythology, and the atmospheric beauty of temples where nature and stone are inextricably intertwined.


Highlight

  • Banteay Srei (The Pink Temple): Admire the most intricate and finest stone carvings in the world, crafted from rare pink sandstone and preserved in stunning detail for over a millennium.
  • Pre Rup Temple Mountain: Step back to the 10th century at this massive funerary temple, offering grand views of the surrounding canopy from its upper tiers.
  • Preah Khan’s "Jungle" Atmosphere: Explore a sprawling labyrinth of vine-covered ruins and towering trees, currently being preserved in its natural, atmospheric state.
  • Neak Pean Island Shrine: Walk across a long wooden boardwalk over the Jayatataka Baray to reach a unique "floating" temple set upon a circular artificial island.
  • Authentic Khmer Lunch: Enjoy a mid-day break at a local restaurant near the temples, offering a chance to relax and swap stories with your fellow group members.
  • Expert Narrative: Gain deep insights into the transition from Hinduism to Buddhism in the Khmer Empire through the stories shared by your English-speaking guide.
  • Seamless Group Travel: Enjoy the convenience of round-trip hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and social day of exploration.



Itinerary


  • From Siem Reap: Full-Day Banteay Srei Temple and grand circuit tour

    Start with a pick-up from your hotel at around 8:00 AM and travel with your small group to the most interesting temples outside Angkor Thom city. Begin with the first stop at Pre Rup Hindu Temple, built as the state temple of Khmer King Rajendravarman and dedicated in 961 or early 962. It is a temple mountain of combined brick, laterite and sandstone construction.

    Then, drive to the intricately carved and well-preserved Banteay Srei. The detailed reliefs on this smaller sandstone structure are regarded as the finest, most skillfully crafted in Cambodia. Banteay Srei has only been accessible since the late 1990s, when the Khmer Rouge left the area. End your tour at Angkor with lunch at the temple and a short rest.

    On the return journey, visit Neak Pean, a Buddhist temple on a circular artificial island in Jayatataka Baray, then continue to Preah Khan temple, a ruined but highly atmospheric mélange of tree roots and crumbling stone structures commissioned by the prolific temple builder Jayavarman VII in honor of his father. Preah Khan is currently being restored by the World Monument Fund and in places is in remarkably good condition and a visit to this smaller site makes for an interesting contrast with the more imposing Angkor Wat.

    In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Siem Reap after a memorable day of exploration.


  • Includes
    • Professional English-speaking tour guide
    • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
    • Sightseeing as specified in the itinerary
    • Hotel pick-up and drop off
    • Mineral water

    Excludes
    • Entry tickets to Angkor Wat and other temples are USD37.00 per person per day, USD62.00 per person per 3 days
    • Personal expenses
    • Tips for the guide and driver
    • Travel Insurance
    • Additional snacks or beverages not included in the provided lunch
    • Lunch at the temple

    What to bring
    • Comfortable walking shoes
    • Lightweight and respectful clothing (covering shoulders and knees)
    • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
    • Sunscreen
    • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Small backpack for personal items
    • Insect repellent

    Know before you go
    • The tour starts with a hotel pick-up at approximately 8:00 AM.
    • The tour involves a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.
    • Respectful attire is required when visiting temples (covering shoulders and knees).
    • The weather can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
    • The tour ends in the late afternoon with a return to your hotel.

    Not allowed
    • Shorts
    • Short skirts
    • Sleeveless shirts




    5 (1 reviews)
    MR

    Mr. Robaer

    04 November 2024

    A Stunning Exploration of Cambodia's Ancient Heritage!

    Discover the exquisite beauty of Banteay Srei Temple with its intricate carvings and explore the stunning temples on the Grand Circuit in a full-day tour from Siem Reap. Led by an expert guide, this tour provides a deeper insight into Cambodia’s rich history and architecture. Perfect for those wanting to experience the unique charm and artistry of the Angkor temples beyond Angkor Wat.