Siem Reap: Private Preah Vihear and Koh Ker Temples Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through Cambodia’s rich heritage with the Siem Reap: Private Preah Vihear and Koh Ker Temples Tour. This 10-hour exploration promises an unforgettable experience, taking you to the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple perched atop a mountain and the impressive Koh Ker Temple with its majestic Prasat Thom. With an English-speaking guide and comfortable transportation, you’ll discover the country’s ancient wonders while savoring delicious local cuisine. But what awaits you beyond these iconic sites? Uncover the secrets that lie in the shadows of these extraordinary temples.

Good To Know

• This private tour from Siem Reap explores two UNESCO-listed Khmer temple sites: Preah Vihear and Koh Ker, with round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide.
• The tour includes approximately 2 hours of exploration at each temple site, providing an immersive experience in Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
• Visitors can enjoy a local Khmer lunch near Preah Vihear Temple, savoring authentic flavors and enhancing the overall tour experience.
• The tour offers an opportunity to discover the historical significance of Preah Vihear, a site of diplomatic tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.
• Koh Ker, the former capital of the Khmer Empire, features the massive pyramid-shaped Prasat Thom, which visitors can explore during the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private Siem Reap tour offers visitors a chance to explore two captivating Khmer archaeological sites – Preah Vihear and Koh Ker Temples.

Priced from $99 per person, the 10-hour private tour includes round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide.

Highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple and the impressive Koh Ker pyramid temple, Prasat Thom.

The tour provides the flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off in Siem Reap.

Chilled water is included, while entrance fees to the temples are paid separately.

Customers have praised the excellent guide service and engaging historical insights, with a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews.

Itinerary

The tour begins with an early morning pickup at 6:00 AM from the customer’s Siem Reap hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned SUV.

The scenic drive through the Cambodian countryside leads to the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will take a short 4×4 ride to the temple complex and explore it for approximately two hours, focusing on Khmer architecture and history.

After a local lunch near the temple, the tour proceeds to Koh Ker Temple, known for its pyramid temple, Prasat Thom. Visitors will explore the archaeological site and learn about its historical significance before returning to Siem Reap Town in the evening.

• Early morning pickup at 6:00 AM
• Explore Preah Vihear Temple for 2 hours
• Enjoy local lunch near Preah Vihear
• Visit Koh Ker Temple and Prasat Thom
• Return to Siem Reap Town in the evening

Preah Vihear Temple

Perched atop a remote mountain on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, Preah Vihear Temple stands as a magnificent example of Khmer architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors take a short 4×4 ride to reach the temple complex, where they can spend approximately two hours exploring the intricate carvings and learning about the temple’s rich history.

The guide provides engaging insights into the Khmer culture and the significance of Preah Vihear, which has been a site of conflict and diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring countries.

Despite the challenges, the temple remains a captivating destination for those seeking to enjoy Cambodia’s remarkable past.

Lunch Near Preah Vihear

After exploring the magnificent Preah Vihear Temple, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a local lunch near the site. This provides a chance to take in the regional cuisine and culture.

The lunch options typically include:

• Khmer curries and stews
• Freshly caught fish dishes
• Seasonal vegetable plates
• Fragrant Cambodian rice
• Tropical fruit desserts

Savoring these authentic flavors, while taking in the picturesque surroundings, enhances the overall experience of the Preah Vihear tour.

This midday break allows travelers to recharge before continuing their journey to the Koh Ker Temple complex.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Koh Ker Temple

Following the completion of the Preah Vihear Temple visit, travelers set off towards the enigmatic Koh Ker Temple complex.

Koh Ker is renowned for its captivating Prasat Thom, a massive pyramid-shaped temple. Exploring the archaeological site, visitors learn about Koh Ker’s historical significance as the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th century.

The guide provides insightful commentary, shedding light on the temple’s architectural features and the site’s role in the region’s rich past.

With approximately two hours allocated for the visit, travelers have ample time to enjoy the ancient grandeur of Koh Ker before returning to Siem Reap, reflecting on the day’s remarkable experiences.

Return to Siem Reap

As the day draws to a close, the group makes its way back to Siem Reap, having immersed themselves in the captivating histories of the Preah Vihear and Koh Ker temples.

The air is filled with a sense of fulfillment and a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Along the journey, the guide shares additional insights, sparking further discussion among the travelers.

The return to Siem Reap is marked by:

• Reflections on the day’s experiences
• Appreciation for the guide’s expertise
• Anticipation for exploring Siem Reap’s vibrant city center
• Plans to revisit the temples in the future
• A sense of gratitude for the opportunity to discover these remarkable historical sites.

Inclusions

The tour package includes an English-speaking guide who provides engaging historical insights throughout the day. Plus, comfortable air-conditioned transportation with a professional driver and a 4×4 vehicle for mountain access are included. Bottled water is provided, and entrance passes to both the Preah Vihear and Koh Ker Temples are covered in the price.

Inclusions	Pricing
English-speaking guide	From $99.00 per person
Comfortable transportation	Preah Vihear Temple pass: $10 per person
4×4 vehicle for mountain access	Koh Ker Temple pass: $15 per person
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Siem Reap

The tour covers all the essential elements for a comprehensive exploration of these remarkable Khmer archaeological sites.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain at the temple sites.

Along With sturdy footwear, the following items are recommended:

• Sunglasses to shield eyes from the bright sunlight
• A hat or cap to provide protection from the sun
• Sunscreen to prevent sunburns during outdoor exploration
• Insect repellent to deter mosquitoes and other bugs
• Cash in local currency to pay for entrance fees and purchases

These essentials will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the Siem Reap temples tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Difficult Is the Terrain at the Temples?

The terrain at the temples can be challenging, with some areas involving steep climbs and uneven surfaces. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for moderate physical activity to fully explore the sites.

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

This tour may not be suitable for families with young children due to the challenging terrain and long hours. The itinerary involves hiking and navigating uneven ground, which could be difficult for smaller children. Additional caution and supervision would be necessary.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to visit additional sites. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate requests, as long as the changes don’t significantly impact the overall duration or logistics of the tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed at both Preah Vihear and Koh Ker temples, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disturbing other travelers or damaging the structures. Some restricted areas may require special permission for photography.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the dry season, typically from November to April, when weather conditions are ideal for exploring the temples comfortably with fewer crowds.

Sum Up

This captivating tour showcases Cambodia’s remarkable Preah Vihear and Koh Ker Temples. With an English-speaking guide, comfortable transportation, and a delightful local lunch, travelers will explore the country’s rich history and explore these iconic UNESCO-listed sites. From the mountain-top Preah Vihear to the majestic Prasat Thom at Koh Ker, this 10-hour experience promises an unforgettable journey through Cambodia’s ancient heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: