Grand Tour With Banteay Srei by Tuk Tuk with English Driver

Preah Khan, meaning “Sacred Sword,” is one of Angkor’s most atmospheric and expansive temples. Built by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, it once served as a Buddhist monastery, university, and royal residence. Today, visitors can explore its long, maze-like corridors, impressive carved lintels, and towering trees growing through ancient walls. Unlike more restored temples, Preah Khan retains a mysterious, untouched feeling, offering guests a true glimpse into the grandeur and spiritual depth of the Khmer Empire.

Neak Pean is a unique and peaceful island temple built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Designed as an ancient healing sanctuary, it features a central pond surrounded by four smaller pools, each representing the life-giving elements—earth, water, fire, and wind. Visitors walk along a long wooden bridge over a serene reservoir to reach the temple, making the approach just as memorable as the site itself. With its iconic statue of the horse Balaha and its tranquil setting, Neak Pean offers a glimpse into the Khmer belief in spiritual and physical healing.

Ta Som is a charming 12th-century temple built by King Jayavarman VII and known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful tree-covered structures. Smaller than many other Angkor temples, it features classic Bayon-style towers, intricate carvings, and quiet courtyards ideal for exploration. The highlight of Ta Som is its stunning eastern gate, where a giant sacred tree dramatically wraps its roots around the ancient stone—creating one of the most photogenic spots in the Angkor complex. This serene temple offers visitors a relaxed and intimate look into the artistry of the Khmer Empire.

East Mebon is a striking 10th-century temple built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II. Originally constructed on an island in the middle of the now-dry East Baray reservoir, it once symbolized the king’s divine power rising above the sacred waters. The temple features three impressive tiers, elegant brick towers, and beautifully detailed carvings of animals, guardians, and celestial beings. Highlights include its famous stone elephant statues that stand majestically on the corners of the platforms. With its open layout and elevated views, East Mebon offers visitors a wonderful blend of history, architecture, and sweeping Angkor landscapes.

Pre Rup is a grand 10th-century temple mountain built by King Rajendravarman II and is believed to have served both religious and royal ceremonial purposes. Constructed from warm-hued laterite and sandstone, the temple features steep stairways leading up to a high central platform, symbolizing Mount Meru—the sacred center of the universe in Hindu mythology. Visitors will find beautifully carved lintels, elegant towers, and panoramic views of the surrounding jungle from the top. Known for its fiery colors at sunset, Pre Rup offers a majestic and historic stop on the Grand Tour circuit.

Banteay Srei, often called the “Citadel of the Women,” is one of Angkor’s most celebrated temples, renowned for its incredibly detailed and delicate carvings. Built in the 10th century from pink sandstone, the temple glows beautifully in the sunlight and showcases some of the finest classical Khmer art ever created. Every corner reveals exquisite depictions of gods, legends, and floral patterns, carved with unmatched precision. Smaller in scale but rich in beauty, Banteay Srei offers visitors an intimate and unforgettable experience—making it a true highlight of the Grand Tour and a must-see masterpiece of the Angkor kingdom.

Kravan Temple is a charming early 10th-century brick temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Known for its five distinctive brick towers standing in a row, Kravan is especially admired for its remarkable interior bas-reliefs—rare and finely detailed carvings directly engraved into the brick walls. These depict beautiful images of Vishnu and his avatars, offering a unique insight into early Khmer artistry. Simple yet elegant, Kravan Temple provides a peaceful and interesting stop, showcasing a different architectural style from the later Angkor temples.