Sacred River & Timeless Temples: Kbal Spean and Banteay Srei Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour will start at 8:00 after you have had breakfast and we’ll start the journey to Kbal Spean. Along the way, we’ll stop at Dom Dek market so that you can explore a local market and see how the locals do their grocery shopping! We’ll then continue our journey to visit Kbal Spean – also known as the River of a 100 Lingas. We’ll enjoy the views of the surrounding forests and river before stopping for lunch. After lunch, we’ll go to Banteay Srei temple which is also known as the “Jewel of Angkor” due to it’s unparalleled beauty. On the way back to Siem Reap, we’ll stop at the Cambodian Landmine Museum.
Available options
Sacred River & Timeless Temples: Kbal Spean and Banteay Srei Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Cool water and towels
Experienced English speaking local guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pick up / drop off from / at your hotel
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This tour starts at 8:00 after you’ve had breakfast. Our guide and driver will come and pick you up and start the journey to Kbal Spean. We’ll head out of town along the National Highway No. 6 towards Phnom Penh. About halfway along the journey, we’ll stop at a local market call Dom Dek Market. Here, you can see how the locals do their grocery shopping in a local market.
From here, we’ll continue the journey to Kbal Spean which is known as “Bridge Head” in English. This is an ancient Angkorian site on the slopes of the Kulen Mountain Range, around 25km from the main temples at Angkor. The area is known as the “River of a 1000 Lingas” and contains a series of stone carvings around the Kbal Spean River.
2
Stop 2
We’ll then stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing our tour to Banteay Srei temple. Banteay Srei means the “Citadel of the Women” in English and it’s said that the carvings are so fine that they could only have been carved by women’s hands. It’s also known as the “Jewel of Angkor” because of it’s unparalleled beauty which you won’t see anywhere else in Cambodia due to it’s unique pink sandstone architecture.
On the way back to Siem Reap, we’ll stop at the Cambodian Landmine Museum where you’ll learn how years of conflict have affected Cambodians. From the civil war, the American bombings, the Khmer Rouge regime, to the occupation of Cambodia by Vietnamese forces, Cambodia has been devastated by landmines. Although many have been removed, there are still millions to remove.
What's not included
Accommodation
All expenses are not mentioned as above
Angkor temples complex
Meals
Tipping and personal expenses
Cambodian Landmine Museum
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
