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How to Plan Your Angkor Thom Kingdom Tour in Siem Reap
Siem Reap, Cambodia is home to the magnificent ruins of the Angkor Archeological Site, which attracts countless tourists every year. Hop on a tuk-tuk and embark on a half-day tour to explore Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer empire. By taking this slow-paced tour, you’ll have plenty of time to learn about Cambodia’s rich history and fully appreciate the stunning beauty of these ancient temples. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Angkor Thom Kingdom tour in Siem Reap.
Overview of the Tour
With pickup and drop-off convenience from your Siem Reap hotel, you’ll be greeted by your professional English-speaking guide and driver at your requested time. Upon arrival at the site, you’ll start your exploration of the nine square kilometers’ area of Angkor Thom on a tuk-tuk. This way, you’ll experience the beautiful and warm climate of Cambodia while enjoying the refreshing breeze.
While on the tour, you’ll learn from your guide about the history and symbolism of the Khmer empire’s final capital. The first stop is the most prominent temple, the Bayon Temple, notable for its massive stone faces carved onto the towers. Afterward, you’ll visit the Terrace of the Elephants, an ancient platform adorned with carved elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King, named after its stone statue of the same name.
What’s Included in the Tour
When you book the Half-Day Angkor Thom by Tuk Tuk tour with Viator, you’ll enjoy a perfect day without worrying about any additional costs. The tour includes the Angkor entrance fees, and the transportation is by tuk-tuk to ensure that you have a classic Cambodian experience. Here is a breakdown of what is included and not included in the tour:
Included:
- Half day tour with a professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation by local Tuk Tuk (maximum 2 persons per Tuk Tuk) with professional driver
- Angkor entrance fees
Not Included:
- Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, shopping, portage fees, and tips
- Any airline tickets or related travel expenses
How to Book the Tour
Booking the Half-Day Angkor Thom by Tuk Tuk tour is easy and convenient with Viator. You can book online by visiting the following link:
After booking, print your voucher and present it to your guide at the start of the tour. It’s that simple!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, exploring the Angkor Thom Kingdom’s captivating ruins by a tuk-tuk is an excellent way to experience Cambodian culture and history. With a professional guide, you’ll learn all about the historical significance of the sites and their architectural details. To make the most of your time in Siem Reap, we recommend including this tour on your itinerary. Book your tour online today and start your journey to uncover the secrets of the ancient Khmer empire.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia, known for its ancient temples, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture. If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, you may have some questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap, answered:
1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and beautiful, and there is little to no rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities like temple exploring, biking, and hiking. The peak tourist season in Siem Reap is from December to February, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to visit during the shoulder season in March or April when the weather is still excellent.
2. How do I get to Siem Reap?
There are several ways to get to Siem Reap, depending on where you’re coming from. If you’re coming from another city in Cambodia, you can take a bus, minivan, or taxi. If you’re coming from abroad, you can fly directly into Siem Reap International Airport, which is located just 7 kilometers from the city center. There are direct flights to Siem Reap from many major cities in Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
3. What are the must-see attractions in Siem Reap?
The most famous attraction in Siem Reap is, of course, the ancient temples of Angkor, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. Other must-see attractions in Siem Reap include the Angkor National Museum, the Tonle Sap Lake, the Phare Cambodian Circus, and the Pub Street Night Market. You can also explore the traditional villages in the surrounding countryside, go hiking or biking in the Kulen Mountain area, or take a cooking class and learn how to make authentic Khmer cuisine.
4. What is the currency used in Siem Reap, and how much should I budget?
The currency used in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but most businesses in Siem Reap accept US dollars. You can also withdraw money from ATMs in Siem Reap using your debit or credit card. As far as budgeting goes, Siem Reap is a very affordable destination, with budget accommodations starting at just $5 per night and excellent local food being very reasonably priced. Expect to spend around $20-30 per day on food, transportation, and activities, more if you’re looking for more high-end accommodations or a Western-style dining experience.
5. Is Siem Reap a safe city for tourists?
Overall, Siem Reap is a very safe city for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and incidents of theft and pickpocketing are relatively uncommon, although it’s important to take precautions like keeping your valuables secure and not flashing large amounts of cash. It’s also a good idea to be aware of potential scams like tuk-tuk drivers overcharging tourists or offering to take them to “secret” Angkor temples that don’t exist.
6. What is the local language in Siem Reap?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, and this is the language spoken by most locals in Siem Reap. However, many people who work in the tourism industry, including hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant servers, speak English fluently. Learning a few basic Khmer phrases, like “sous-dey” (hello) or “aw-koon” (thank you), is always appreciated by locals and can help you make connections with the people you meet on your trip.
7. What should I wear when visiting Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is a relatively conservative city, so it’s important to dress respectfully when visiting temples or other religious sites. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, as the weather can be very hot and humid, especially during the summer months.
8. Can I use my credit/debit card in Siem Reap?
Yes, many businesses in Siem Reap, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, accept credit and debit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially for smaller purchases like street food or souvenirs, as some businesses may not accept cards or may charge an additional fee for card transactions.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich history and a unique cultural identity. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, sampling delicious Khmer cuisine, or just soaking up the atmosphere at a local market, there’s something for everyone in Siem Reap. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve made your trip planning a little easier and given you a better idea of what to expect when you arrive in this beautiful part of Cambodia.
