Explore Angkor Wat and Ta Phrom in depth

Siem Reap , Cambodia

Explore Angkor Wat and Ta Phrom in depth

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

No one is actually prepared when entering Angkor Archaeological Site for the very first time. Its sheer size, dotted with spiritual remnants of years of constructed are smeared strategically, and with meaning, across hundreds of square kilometres of land in the very heart of Cambodia.

Since its first signs of placing itself as the centre of the world in the 9th century, Angkor Wat has been the crown on the palatial grounds of what is now of immense historical and cultural value to the country. Added to this immense stone structure with its five towers are the temple remains of the Ta Phrom, an example where conservationists left its structure untouched with nature roaming freely through its walls and foundation.

Available options

Explore Angkor Wat and Ta Phrom in depth

Pickup included

What's included

All applicable taxes and service charges

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

A half day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Guided by a true local expert on the history of Angkor, you will set out first to the main entrance for purchasing your entrance pass (not included) before driving towards the Angkor Wat, the site’s most treasured temple.

Towering over the surrounding tropical forests, Angkor Wat exists as one of this planet's last great-unexplored tourist destinations. Built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is constructed following the model of the temple mountain symbolizing the Mount Meru, home of the gods. The centre of Siem Reap’s main attraction is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple both inside and outside its walls. How important this mesmerizing monument of magnificence is for the Khmer is clear; Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.

Stop 2

Next, we head over to the Ta Phrom. One of the very few temples that have been left largely in its natural state since its re-discovery by French explorer, the Ta Phrom is seen as one of the most must-sees of Angkor as much of the jungle has not been cleared and it looks very much as most of the Angkor monuments would have appeared when European explorers first stumbled across them. Surrounded by jungle, its labyrinth of stone hallways is overgrown with the roots of massive banyan trees, which envelop the stones like tentacles. It is one of the largest temples at Angkor and is adored by many for its mystical charm.

After this visit, we head back to Siem Reap and your booked accommodation, ending this 4-hour exploration of two of Angkor’s most recognisable sites.

What's not included

Entrance pass to the Angkor Archaeological site

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

Single supplement charges for single travellers, where applicable

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply.

Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Siem Reap.

Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Tonle Sap, Koh Ker, Banteay Srei and Siem Reap International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.

The entrance pass to enter the Angkor Archaeological Site is not included during this tour. Guests are responsible to purchase the pass, ranging from one day up to seven day entry passes at the main gate into Angkor. The applicable fees are charged in US Dollars only. The entrance pass gives access to all sights in and around Angkor and should be visible at all times. Children under the age of 12 years old are free of charge for entry; a valid passport must be presented at the booth as proof otherwise normal prices will be levied.

We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.

To avoid any issues pertaining obtaining an arrival visa at the airport, please ensure that your passport contains at least two empty pages. Failure to do so may result in not gaining entrance into the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Some of the Angkor sights temples and palaces (such as the Baphuon) uphold a very strict dress code: it is essential that you dress appropriately during this excursion by wearing clothes that cover shoulders and fall below the knees.

Customers wearing shirts with obscene and disrespectful prints and pictures and brightly-coloured clothing may be refused entrance.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

Until further notice, the top two levels of Angkor Thom’s Bayon temple are being reconstructed as part of a large maintenance project. Visitors may only see the faces of the Bayon at the first and second level.

Important notes

- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation with the correct hotel information. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.
- A valid passport for children under the age of 12 years old must be presented at the entrance of the Angkor Archaeological site as proof to obtain free of charge entry, otherwise normal prices will be levied.
- Please ensure you carry enough US dollars with you for an Angkor entrance pass. For those booking this excursion yet are in possession of a pass, there is no need to purchase another one, subject to the validity date.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.

About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the ancient Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city offers a blend of rich history, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Cambodia.

Top Attractions

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is a walled city and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. It features several impressive temples, including the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is a temple complex overgrown by jungle, featuring a unique blend of nature and architecture. It was famously used as a filming location for the movie 'Tomb Raider'.

Historical 1-2 hours USD 37 for 3-day pass

Pub Street

Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere.

Entertainment Evening Free to explore, budget for food and drinks

Siem Reap Night Market

The Siem Reap Night Market is a bustling market offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts and experience local culture.

Shopping 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy, coconut-based curry with fish, chicken, or tofu, steamed in banana leaves. It's a traditional Khmer dish with a unique flavor.

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Nom Banh Chok

A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork served with broken rice and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia.

Breakfast Contains meat

Lok Lak

A stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, served with rice and fresh vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Angkor Archaeological Park Exploring the bamboo train in Battambang Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying a traditional Khmer massage Exploring temples and historical sites Attending traditional dance performances Boat tours on Tonlé Sap Lake Swimming in waterfalls

Best Time to Visit

November to February

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temples. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long days of sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Khmer
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.

Getting there

By air

Siem Reap International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Siem Reap Virak Buntham Express Terminal, Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transport in Siem Reap. They are widely available and can be negotiated for short or long trips.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wat Bo Wat Damnak Sivatha

Day trips

Battambang

150 km from Siem Reap • Full day

Battambang is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved French architecture, bamboo train, and nearby temples. It's a great destination for a day trip from Siem Reap.

Kampong Phluk

16 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kampong Phluk is a floating village on the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community and the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Kbal Spean

25 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kbal Spean is a remote archaeological site featuring ancient carvings and a beautiful river setting. It's a great destination for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 13-15 (dates vary) Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) • November (dates vary) Angkor Photo Festival • December (dates vary)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for the Angkor Archaeological Park to gain a deeper understanding of the temples' history and significance.
Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Try local street food like nom banh chok and bai sach chrouk for an authentic culinary experience.
Bargain for better prices at markets and street stalls, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
Use a map app like Google Maps for navigation, as street signs can be limited and confusing.