Siemreab: Oldest Pagoda Monk Blessing/ Visit Market 3h Tour

Siem Reap, the enchanting city in Cambodia, beckons visitors to enjoy its rich cultural tapestry. This captivating 3-hour tour promises an unforgettable experience, inviting you to explore the oldest pagoda, Wat Bo, where you’ll receive a blessing from a local monk. Then, venture into the vibrant Psar Leu marketplace, a bustling hub of authentic Cambodian goods and tantalizing street food, offering a glimpse into the heart of local life. Guided by an English-speaking expert, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s traditions and heritage, all the while enjoying the scenic tuk-tuk ride. Prepare to be captivated, as this tour unveils the layers of Siem Reap‘s rich cultural tapestry.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best 3 Hour Tours and Experiences in Siem Reap.

Good To Know

• Explore Siem Reap’s main marketplace, Psar Leu, known for its diverse offerings of Cambodian culture, including fresh produce, spices, jewelry, and traditional snacks.
• Visit Wat Bo, one of the oldest pagodas in Siem Reap, to receive a blessing from a local monk, a culturally enriching experience.
• Discover the personal collection of a renowned local artist at the Theams Gallery, featuring paintings and sculptures in a lush, garden-like setting.
• Experience a 3-hour guided tuk-tuk excursion around Siem Reap, highlighting local culture, traditions, and French-colonial architecture.
• Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via tuk-tuk, and the guidance of an English-speaking tour guide.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour provides a guided 3-hour tuk-tuk excursion around Siem Reap, priced from $62.00 per person.

It lasts 2.5 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund. Participants can reserve now and pay later.

Hotel pickup is included, and guests should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

The tour highlights include exploring the main marketplace, visiting the oldest pagoda for a monk’s blessing, touring an artist’s gallery, experiencing a riverside park, and admiring French-colonial architecture.

Inclusions cover transportation, an English-speaking guide, the monk blessing, gallery entrance, and bottled water.

Tour Highlights

First, the tour explores Psar Leu, Siem Reap’s main marketplace, known for its diverse offerings ranging from food to jewelry.

Next, visitors will visit Wat Bo, the city’s oldest pagoda, to receive a blessing from a local monk.

The tour also includes a stop at Theams Gallery, where guests can admire a personal collection of a renowned local artist in a garden setting.

Plus, the tour takes participants to a riverside tree planting park and Khmer Ceramics, showcasing the work of local artisans.

Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.

An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the 3-hour tuk-tuk tour, providing insightful commentary and historical context.

Transportation via tuk-tuk allows for an immersive exploration of the city.

Visitors will receive a blessing from a local monk at the city’s oldest pagoda, Wat Bo, with the pagoda donation included.

The tour also includes entrance to the Theams Gallery, showcasing a renowned local artist’s personal collection.

Complimentary bottled water is provided, and lunch is available as an optional extra.

Tips for the tour guide are welcomed but not expected.

Restrictions

This tour is generally not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the itinerary may present accessibility challenges.

Certain attire is also prohibited for this experience, including:

1. Shorts
2. Short skirts
3. Sleeveless shirts
4. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

Plus, participants should be aware that this is a cultural tour, and visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Preparation Tips

Recommended to bring a hat for sun protection, as the tour takes place primarily outdoors and visitors may be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Plus, guests should check availability for the desired date and number of participants before booking to ensure the tour can accommodate their needs.

It’s also advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the itinerary involves exploring various sites on foot.

While the tour includes water, guests may want to bring their own snacks or light refreshments, especially if they plan to have lunch during the excursion.

Psar Leu Marketplace

Psar Leu, Siem Reap’s main marketplace, bustles with activity as visitors explore the vast array of goods on offer.

From vibrant local produce and fragrant spices to handcrafted jewelry and textiles, the market is a treasure trove of Cambodian culture.

Visitors can browse through the following offerings:

1. An assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, including tropical delights like dragonfruit and rambutan.
2. A selection of traditional Khmer snacks and street food, such as siem reap’s famous fish amok.
3. A wide range of artisanal goods, including hand-woven baskets, carved wooden figurines, and vibrant silk scarves.
4. A bustling mix of local vendors, each offering a unique glimpse into the daily life of the Siem Reap community.

Wat Bo Pagoda

Situated within the heart of Siem Reap, Wat Bo stands as one of the city’s oldest and most revered pagodas. Dating back to the 16th century, this historic Buddhist temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and serene atmosphere.

Visitors have the opportunity to receive a blessing from a local monk, an experience that’s both culturally enriching and spiritually uplifting. The pagoda’s tranquil setting offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets, allowing travelers to enjoy the rich tapestry of Cambodian religious traditions.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a moment of contemplation, Wat Bo promises to leave a lasting impression on all who venture through its sacred gates.

Theams Gallery

After exploring the serene atmosphere of Wat Bo Pagoda, the tour continues to Theams Gallery, a captivating destination showcasing the personal collection of a renowned local artist.

The gallery features:

1. A lush, garden-like setting that allows visitors to appreciate the artwork in a tranquil, natural environment.

2. A diverse range of paintings and sculptures that reflect the artist’s unique style and interpretation of Khmer culture.

3. Opportunities for visitors to engage with local artisans and learn about their creative processes.

4. Insights into the creative mind of the artist through informative displays and interactive exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Monk Blessing?

During the monk blessing, visitors may take photos, but should do so respectfully and avoid disturbing the ceremony. It’s important to follow the tour guide’s instructions and be mindful of the pagoda’s cultural and religious significance.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can discuss their interests and preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to modify the tour to suit their needs within the 3-hour timeframe.

How Many People Are Typically in the Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from 2 to 10 participants. The tour operator aims to maintain small groups to provide a more personalized and intimate experience for each guest during the guided tuk-tuk tour of Siem Reap’s highlights.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as the tour provider offers water throughout the journey. However, an optional lunch is available for purchase during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not explicitly offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of customizing the tour length. Some flexibility may be available depending on guide and transportation availability.

Sum Up

This captivating 3-hour tour of Siem Reap’s rich culture offers a unique opportunity to take in local traditions. Visitors can receive a blessing from a monk at the oldest pagoda, Wat Bo, and explore the vibrant Psar Leu marketplace, experiencing the authentic sights, sounds, and flavors of Cambodian life. Led by an English-speaking expert, the tour ensures a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage while enjoying a scenic tuk-tuk ride.

You can check if your dates are available here: