How to Plan Your 2-Day Temple Visit and Floating Village Tour in Siem Reap

If you’re planning to explore the beauty and culture of Cambodia, you should definitely plan a visit to the ancient temples of Siem Reap, which offer a glimpse into its rich history. And what better way to do it than a 2-day tour that covers the temples and floating villages? In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of planning and experiencing the 2-day temple visit and floating village tour from Siem Reap so that you can make the most out of your trip.

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Temples

The first day of your tour will take you through the magnificent temples of Siem Reap. Your itinerary will include the following stops:

Angkor Wat at Sunrise

Your tour will begin early in the morning, around 5 am, to catch a remarkable sunrise shot over the breathtaking Angkor Wat, one of the most famous ancient temples in the world. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the temple and learn about its history and architecture.

Ta Prohm

You will then head to Ta Prohm, a temple complex that has been left partially in ruins, making it an ideal place for some stunning photos. The temple is famous for its overgrown trees and vines, which have intertwined with the temple structures, creating a surreal atmosphere.

Banteay Srei

Next up on your itinerary is Banteay Srei, a small but significant temple complex known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone architecture. This temple is relatively less crowded and offers a quieter retreat away from the hustle and bustle of touristy sites.

Angkor Thom

Finally, you’ll visit Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khmer Empire. Here, you’ll explore the Bayon Temple, famous for its massive stone faces and extensive bas-reliefs. Don’t forget to take a photo with the smiling faces that adorn the temple’s towers.

Day 2: Discovering the Floating Village

The second day of your tour takes you on a cultural journey to the floating village of Kampong Phluk, where you’ll get to experience the traditional lifestyle of the local people.

Kampong Phluk Floating Village

Located on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Phluk is an authentic floating village that offers you insights into the life of Cambodians living on the water. Here, you’ll take a boat tour around the village, visit a local school, and learn how palm sugar is made.

Tonle Sap Lake

You’ll then head out to the lake to witness Cambodia’s impressive biodiversity. The Tonle Sap Lake is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and it serves as a critical breeding ground for a variety of fish species. You’ll also get to see how the local fishermen catch fish using traditional methods.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your 2-day temple visit and floating village tour from Siem Reap is easy. You can do it online by clicking on this link book the tour here and filling out the necessary details. The tour includes your private air-conditioned car, an English-speaking guide, temple entrance fees, and cold water during the tour.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your 2-day temple visit and floating village tour in Siem Reap. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and sufficient hydration as these tours can be physically demanding due to the humid climate. Don’t forget to bring along your camera to capture the memories of this memorable tour.

Siem Reap: Answers to the most frequently asked questions

Siem Reap, a city located in Cambodia, is a popular tourist destination because of its proximity to the iconic temples of Angkor. Every year, millions of travelers visit Siem Reap to experience the mystique and grandeur of these ancient structures. Siem Reap plays host to many other attractions and activities, making the city a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. In this article, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Siem Reap, from getting there to what to do.

How to get to Siem Reap

Finding your way to Siem Reap can be a little tricky, but there are several options available, depending on where you are coming from.

By Air

The main gateway to Siem Reap is Siem Reap International Airport. The airport is well-connected to major cities in Southeast Asia like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. Direct flights to Siem Reap from other cities around the world may be available, depending on the season. Several domestic airlines operate flights between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and other cities in Cambodia.

By Bus

If you are already in Cambodia, you can opt to take a bus to Siem Reap. Many bus companies operate between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and tickets can be purchased from any travel agent or online. The journey can take around six hours, depending on the bus company and the time of day.

By Boat

If you are in Phnom Penh and have some extra time, taking a boat from the capital to Siem Reap via the Tonle Sap Lake can be a unique experience. This option is only available during the wet season, from June to November, as the water level in the lake is too low during the dry season.

When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and drier. The temperature during these months hovers around 22-28 degrees Celsius (72-82 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal to explore the temples and other attractions on foot.

What are the must-visit attractions in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is famous for the Angkor temples, but there are many other attractions that you should not miss while in the city.

Angkor Wat

Undoubtedly the most iconic attraction in Siem Reap, the Angkor Wat temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for anyone in the city. The temple is the largest religious monument in the world and features intricate carvings, towering spires, and stunning bas-reliefs.

Bayon Temple

Located in the Angkor Thom complex, the Bayon Temple is famous for its many stone faces that adorn its towers. The temple features a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture and is one of the most photographed temples in the region.

Tonle Sap Lake

The largest lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap Lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The lake is home to several floating villages, where locals live in stilted houses and go about their daily lives on the water.

Banteay Srei Temple

Known as the “Citadel of Women,” the Banteay Srei Temple is famous for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone construction. Located around 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from Siem Reap, the temple is a bit farther but worth the journey.

What are some things to do in Siem Reap besides visiting the temples?

Siem Reap offers plenty of activities and experiences, besides exploring the temples.

Night Markets

Siem Reap has several night markets, offering a range of shopping options, from souvenirs to clothing and local handicrafts. The most popular night markets are the Angkor Night Market, the Old Market, and the Made in Cambodia Market.

Cycling the Countryside

Siem Reap has several countryside areas that are ideal for exploring by bike. Riding through rural villages and seeing how locals live can be an eye-opening experience. Many bike rental companies are available in the city, and several guided tours can take you through the countryside.

Kayaking on Tonle Sap Lake

Kayaking on Tonle Sap Lake is a peaceful and scenic experience. Several tour operators offer guided kayaking trips through the lake, allowing you to see the floating villages and the unique wildlife that lives on the water.

Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap?

Yes. Cambodia requires all visitors to have a valid passport and a visa to enter the country. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or land border crossings, or online through the e-Visa system. The tourist visa is valid for 30 days and costs around $30.

What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in Siem Reap, and most transactions are in dollars. It is advisable to carry small denominations of dollars when traveling around the city.

What is the language spoken in Siem Reap?

Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, and it is widely spoken in Siem Reap. However, many locals also speak English, especially those in the tourism industry.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is a city with much to offer, from its ancient temples to its natural beauty to its modern attractions. We hope this article has answered some of your questions about the city, and that it has inspired you to plan your next trip to Siem Reap. Remember to plan your trip well in advance, and to follow all local regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience.