The Angkor Wat Grand Circuit is a captivating 2-day private tour that immerses travelers in Cambodia’s rich heritage. Exploring the iconic Khmer temples at sunrise, visitors can admire the intricate carvings and marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and ancient architecture. With expert guidance and private transportation, this tour offers a personalized journey through the grandeur of Angkor Thom, the enigmatic Bayon, and the enchanting Ta Prohm. Indulging in local cuisine, travelers can fully appreciate the magnificence of these 12th-century wonders, leaving them eager to uncover more of Cambodia’s hidden treasures.
Good To Know
- A 2-day private tour exploring the Angkor Wat Grand Circuit, including visits to Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and other renowned 12th-century temples.
- The tour features rich history, intricate architecture, and iconic landmarks such as the Bayon Temple with its 200+ carved stone faces.
- Highlights include a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, exploration of the Banteay Srei temple known for its exquisite carvings, and a visit to the Rolous Group temples.
- The tour is rated 4 stars and includes private transportation, an experienced guide, and all admission tickets, starting from $188.
- The itinerary allows for immersion in the local culture, with traditional cuisine served during lunches at local restaurants.
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Contents
- Good To Know
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary: Day 1
- Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple
- Exploring Ta Prohm
- Itinerary: Day 2
- Sunrise at Angkor Wat
- Banteay Srei and Beng Melear
- Rolous Group Temples
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
- What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?
- Are There Any Vegetarian/Halal/Kosher Meal Options Available?
- Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Tour?
- Do I Need to Arrange My Own Transportation to the Pickup Location?
- Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in Siem Reap
- More Private Tours in Siem Reap
- More Tours in Siem Reap
- More Tour Reviews in Siem Reap
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Tour Overview
This 2-Day Private Tour in Angkor Wat Grand Circuit takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the renowned Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
With a 4-star rating from 4 reviews, this comprehensive tour covers the iconic Angkor Wat, the sprawling Angkor Thom complex, and the jungle-encroached Ta Prohm, among other highlights.
Spanning two days, the tour offers ample time to explore the rich history and architecture of these 12th-century temples.
Priced from $188, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission tickets, making it an accessible and engaging way to discover the wonders of Angkor.
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Itinerary: Day 1
On the first day of the Angkor Wat tour, travelers embark on the Angkor Wat Small Circuit, exploring some of the park’s most iconic and well-preserved temples.
They start their day at 8:00 AM with a visit to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in Cambodia.
Next, they discover the grand Angkor Thom complex, featuring the enchanting Bayon Temple with its 200+ smiling Buddha faces.
The tour then takes them to other highlights, including Baphuon, Phimean Akas, Elephant Terrace, and Leper King Terrace.
After a local restaurant lunch, the day concludes with a journey through the captivating Ta Prohm, the "Jungle Temple" made famous by the Tomb Raider film.
The full-day tour lasts approximately 8 hours.
Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple
The Angkor Thom complex is the next major highlight on the tour. Spanning an area of 9 km², this walled city was the last capital of the Khmer Empire.
At its heart is the Bayon Temple, known for its 200+ carved stone faces that seem to gaze out in all directions. Visitors can explore the intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from daily life and historic battles.
Other notable structures within Angkor Thom include the Baphuon, Phimean Akas, Elephant Terrace, and Leper King Terrace. This comprehensive visit provides a deeper understanding of the grand scale and architectural prowess of the Khmer civilization.
Exploring Ta Prohm
After exploring the grand scale of Angkor Thom, the tour moves on to the captivating Ta Prohm temple.
This "Tomb Raider" temple is renowned for its overgrown trees and vines that intertwine with the ancient stone structures, creating a mesmerizing jungle-like atmosphere.
Visitors can’t help but feel a sense of awe as they wander through the winding corridors and courtyards, imagining the temple’s vibrant past.
The highlights of Ta Prohm include:
- Massive tree roots that have engulfed the temple walls, blending nature and architecture
- Intricate carvings and bas-reliefs that have withstood the test of time
- A serene and mystical ambiance that transports visitors to a bygone era
Itinerary: Day 2
Visitors start their second day with an early wake-up, meeting their guide at 4:45 AM to witness the stunning sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat.
After this breathtaking experience, the tour continues to the quieter Banteay Srei, known for its intricate carvings.
Next, they explore the stunning temple of Beng Melear, admiring its notable bas-reliefs.
The final stop is the Rolous Group, where they can see the early temple style of Bakong and Preah Ko.
Lunch is at a local restaurant, allowing travelers to enjoy the local cuisine.
This full-day itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of the Angkor Wat complex and its surrounding temples.
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Sunrise at Angkor Wat
As the first rays of dawn peek over the horizon, visitors gather at Angkor Wat to witness the captivating spectacle of the sun rising over the majestic temple complex.
The quiet, serene atmosphere before sunrise creates a sense of anticipation and wonder. Guests are treated to a breathtaking sight as the sun’s golden glow illuminates the intricate carvings and towers of the ancient monument.
The experience is enhanced by:
- The peaceful calm of the early morning
- Unobstructed views of the temple’s silhouette against the changing sky
- The opportunity to explore Angkor Wat before the crowds arrive
This sunrise visit provides a truly memorable start to the second day of the Angkor Wat tour.
Banteay Srei and Beng Melear
Following the sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, the tour moves on to explore the serene and less-crowded Banteay Srei temple. This 10th-century temple is renowned for its intricate and well-preserved carvings, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the Khmer Empire. The tour then visits Beng Melear, another stunning temple known for its notable bas-reliefs and peaceful atmosphere.
| Site | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Banteay Srei | Intricate carvings, well-preserved |
| Beng Melear | Stunning bas-reliefs, peaceful setting |
The itinerary provides an opportunity to immerse in the rich cultural heritage of the region, exploring these lesser-known yet captivating temples away from the crowds.
Rolous Group Temples
The tour then explores the Rolous Group, a set of early Khmer temple ruins that showcase the evolution of Khmer architecture.
This group includes:
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Bakong, the largest and most impressive of the Rolous temples, featuring a central pyramid-shaped tower surrounded by smaller satellite towers.
-
Preah Ko, one of the oldest temples in the Angkor region, known for its intricate carvings and well-preserved state.
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Lolei, a small but beautifully decorated temple that provides insight into the transition from Hinduism to Buddhism in Khmer culture.
These ancient sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Cambodia, complementing the more famous Angkor Wat complex.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves a significant amount of walking as visitors explore the extensive temple complexes of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and other key sites. Travelers should expect to cover several kilometers throughout the day’s activities.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?
The tour guides make modifications to the itinerary in case of inclement weather, such as shifting outdoor activities to indoor sites or adjusting the timing to avoid heavy rain. They aim to ensure guests have an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Are There Any Vegetarian/Halal/Kosher Meal Options Available?
The tour provider offers a range of meal options, including vegetarian and halal choices, to cater to dietary requirements. Guests can communicate their preferences to the guide, who will arrange suitable lunch arrangements during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Tour?
Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and water on the tour. The tour provider encourages guests to carry their personal refreshments to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
Do I Need to Arrange My Own Transportation to the Pickup Location?
No, you don’t need to arrange your own transportation to the pickup location. The tour includes private transportation, so the guide or driver will pick you up directly from your hotel in Siem Reap.
2-Day Private Tour in Angkor Wat Grand Circuit
“We have had a wonderful two days with our guide Kea Simon. Seeing Angkor Wat and many other temples around Siem Reap. Our taxi was top rate, very c…”
Sum Up
This 2-day private tour in Angkor Wat’s grand circuit offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. From the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat to the captivating interplay of nature and architecture at Ta Prohm, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through the grandeur of the 12th-century Khmer temples, complemented by expert guidance and delectable local cuisine.
