Siem Reap: Khmer Water Blessing by Monk and Lotus Farm Visit

Siem Reap, the enchanting gateway to Cambodia’s ancient wonders, beckons travelers to enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This captivating tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the Khmer Water Blessing ceremony led by local monks, a centuries-old tradition that promises spiritual cleansing and rejuvenation. Coupled with a visit to a picturesque lotus farm, this experience promises to transport visitors into the heart of Cambodian heritage, where they’ll have the chance to learn about the significance of these sacred rituals and the intricate cultivation of the revered lotus flower. As the journey unfolds, participants are sure to be captivated by the profound cultural insights and the chance to connect with the essence of Siem Reap.

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Good To Know

• Immersive cultural experience with a Khmer water blessing ceremony led by Buddhist monks in Siem Reap.
• Guided tour of a picturesque lotus farm, including handpicking of lotus flowers.
• Exploration of the Royal Residence and Wat Po Banteaychey pagoda to learn about Cambodian history and Buddhist practices.
• Snack break with refreshing local fruits and drinks to recharge during the tour.
• Round-trip transportation and English-speaking guide provided for a hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Offering an in-depth exploration of Siem Reap’s rich cultural heritage, this 4-hour tour combines a traditional Khmer water blessing ceremony led by monks with a visit to a picturesque lotus farm.

Priced from $39 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel and an English-speaking guide.

Highlights include a guided tour of the Royal Residence, a walk through the lotus fields, and a visit to a local pagoda.

Throughout the experience, you’ll gain insights into Cambodian culture and Buddhist practices, making this an immersive and educational adventure.

Highlights and Experience

The tour offers a unique spiritual blessing experience, allowing participants to take part in a traditional Khmer water blessing ceremony led by local monks.

This immersive cultural activity provides insights into Cambodian Buddhist practices. Visitors will also explore a picturesque lotus farm, learning about the farming methods and handpicking lotus flowers for the blessing.

The tour also includes guided visits to the Royal Residence and a local pagoda, offering a well-rounded introduction to Siem Reap’s cultural and historical attractions.

With engaging local guides, this tour promises a memorable and enriching experience for travelers seeking to connect with Cambodia’s spiritual heritage.

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or other locations within Krong Siem Reap. You’ll then visit the Royal Residence for a 30-minute guided tour before heading to the lotus farm. At the lotus farm, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute guided tour and walk, learning about the farming methods and picking lotus flowers for the blessing ceremony.

Itinerary	Time
Royal Residence	30 minutes
Lotus Farm	30 minutes
Wat Po Banteaychey	1 hour
Water Blessing Ceremony	Experience and learn
Snack Break	Enjoy local fruits and drinks

The tour continues with a visit to Wat Po Banteaychey, where you’ll have a guided tour and walk for 1 hour. Finally, you’ll participate in the water blessing ceremony, where you’ll gain insights into Cambodian culture and Buddhist beliefs, before enjoying a snack break with local fruits and drinks.

Pickup and Visits

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or other locations within Krong Siem Reap.

You’ll start with a guided tour of the Royal Residence, learning about its history and significance.

Next, you’ll visit a lotus farm, where you’ll explore the fields, learn about the farming methods, and pick lotus flowers for the upcoming blessing ceremony.

The group then heads to Wat Po Banteaychey, a local pagoda, for a guided tour and walk.

This provides insight into Cambodian culture and Buddhist practices before the highlight – the traditional water blessing ceremony led by monks.

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Water Blessing Ceremony

During the water blessing ceremony, participants have the opportunity to enjoy a profound cultural and spiritual experience.

Led by revered Buddhist monks, the ceremony involves the cleansing and purification of the body and spirit through the symbolic use of water. Visitors will kneel before the monks, who’ll chant prayers and gently pour blessed water over their heads, bestowing blessings and well-wishes for their journey.

This deeply meaningful ritual provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Cambodian Buddhist traditions, leaving participants with a renewed sense of inner peace and a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural heritage.

Snack Break

After the spiritual and cultural experiences, participants can enjoy a well-deserved snack break.

During this time, they’ll be served refreshing local fruits and drinks. This snack break provides a chance to rest, rehydrate, and reflect on the meaningful water blessing ceremony and lotus farm visit.

The fresh fruits and beverages help to recharge participants, ensuring they’ve the energy to continue exploring the rich cultural heritage of Siem Reap.

This short break allows travelers to savor the flavors of Cambodia and reenergize before the final part of the tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the tour package, the inclusions cover a local English-speaking guide, transportation via Remork (Tuk Tuk), cold water, and local snacks.

Temple donations (entrance fees) are also included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

On the other hand, the tour excludes:

• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuity
• Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 95 years, or travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Participants should also be prepared to get wet during the water blessing ceremony and bring appropriate clothing for changing afterwards.

Important Information

Cancellation of this tour is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. Guests should bring sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, comfortable attire, cash, and a camera. This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 95 years old, or travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Expect to get wet during the water blessing ceremony, so bring appropriate clothing for changing afterwards.

What to Bring	Not Suitable For
Sunglasses	Wheelchair users
Change of clothes	Individuals over 95 years
Towel	Travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions
Comfortable clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour. Many tour providers offer private tours for an additional fee, which allows you to have a more personalized experience and flexible schedule.

Are There Any Children’s Discounts or Family Packages Available?

While the tour doesn’t offer specific children’s discounts, families can inquire about group rates. Private tours are available upon request and may provide more flexibility for families.

Is Photography Allowed During the Water Blessing Ceremony?

Photography is allowed during the water blessing ceremony, but participants are advised to keep their cameras and phones dry to avoid damage from the water. Discreet photography is encouraged to respect the sacred ritual.

Will the Lotus Flowers Be Used in the Blessing Ceremony?

Yes, the lotus flowers picked from the farm visit will be used in the water blessing ceremony. Participants can use the freshly picked lotus flowers as part of the traditional Buddhist blessing ritual.

Can I Participate in the Water Blessing Ritual if I’m Not Buddhist?

Yes, non-Buddhists can participate in the water blessing ritual. The tour welcomes all visitors, regardless of religious background, to experience this traditional Cambodian cultural practice. Participants will be guided on how to properly take part in the ceremony.

Sum Up

This immersive tour in Siem Reap offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia. Participants can take part in a spiritual Khmer Water Blessing ceremony led by monks, followed by a visit to a picturesque lotus farm. With round-trip transportation and local guides, this journey promises deep cultural insights and memorable experiences for those seeking to connect with Cambodian traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: