How to Plan Your Angkor Top 3 Temples Tour in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia, mainly because of the nearby ruins of the Angkor civilization. The ruins are the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Site in South-East Asia, and a tour of the temples is one of the must-do activities in Siem Reap. This private full-day tour will take you to the top three temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, namely Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, including hotel pick-up, private AC transport and an English-speaking tour guide.
Overview
This full-day tour will cover three of the most popular temples of the Angkor Archaeological Park, starting and ending in Siem Reap. The tour is conducted privately, so you will have more flexibility with a tour guide at your disposal. The temples visited include the iconic Angkor Wat, the serene Bayon, and the world-famous Ta Prohm, where the Tomb Raider movie was filmed. You will have enough time to explore the sprawling temple sites with your tour guide and cool off in your private air-conditioned car in between stops.
The Top Three Temples of the Angkor Archaeological Park
The temples that you will visit on this tour were once part of the Khmer Empire and cover a more significant area than modern-day Paris. These temples are stunning examples of Khmer architecture and of cultural, religious and symbolic importance to the people of Cambodia.
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the most significant and well-known temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu and was built in the 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II. The temple is designed to represent Mount Meru, the home of the Gods, and is known for its intricately designed bas-reliefs and detailed carvings, which took 30 years to complete.
Bayon
Bayon is a popular temple located within the Bayon complex, one of the most iconic temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. It was built in the late 12th century for King Jayavarman VII and represents the intersection of Heaven and Earth. The temple features 54 towers, each with four giant smiling faces of the Buddha, representing good fortune, compassion, equalization, and introspection.
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is located east of Angkor Thom and was built during the late 12th and early 13th centuries by Jayavarman VII. The temple is famous for the giant tree roots that have grown over and around the temple walls and structures. This unique feature has made Ta Prohm one of the most popular temples in the park, and its mystical setting was the backdrop for filming Tomb Raider.
What’s Included in the Tour?
- English-Speaking Tour Guide
- Transportation ( AC car or minivan or minibus)
- Bottles of drinking cold Water
- One Day Angkor Pass ($37 per person)
Not Included in the Tour:
- Food and Drinks
- Accommodation
Meeting and Pickup Details:
Pickup points:
Select a pickup point
Start time:
08:00 AM
Pickup details:
We will come to pick you up from your hotel lobby at the start of the tour. You must let us know the name of your hotel, its address, and phone number.
Booking the Tour
To book the Top 3 Angkor Temples Tour, please visit the following link:
Conclusion
A tour of the Angkor Top 3 Temples is an unforgettable experience that will fascinate anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. This private full-day tour provides a comprehensive exploration of these iconic temples, including hotel pick-up, private AC transport and an English-speaking tour guide to enrich the experience. So, plan your tour to Siem Reap and book this fantastic tour to explore the ancient temples of the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a beautiful city located in the northwestern part of Cambodia. It is mainly known for its rich cultural heritage, mesmerizing historic temples, vibrant nightlife, lush countryside, and delicious traditional cuisine. Being a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of questions that visitors, especially first-timers, have about this city before they plan to visit. In this blog post, we have tried to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap that will help you plan your trip accordingly.
1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to March, when the weather is cool and dry. During these months, the temperature ranges between 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, and the humidity is low, making it comfortable for tourists to explore the temples and other tourist attractions. Moreover, the skies are clear, giving visitors a great opportunity to witness stunning sunsets over the temples. However, during peak season, there are higher chances of crowds and queues.
2. What is the currency used in Siem Reap, and can I use my credit card?
The official currency of Cambodia is Riel; however, the US dollar is widely accepted in Siem Reap. Most of the tourist attractions, restaurants, and hotels accept dollars, and you can easily exchange your money at any bank in Siem Reap. Using credit cards is also possible, but not as common as cash, especially for small transactions. Make sure to bring cash with you, especially when exploring the markets and street vendors as they usually don’t accept credit cards.
3. Is Siem Reap safe to visit?
Yes, Siem Reap is generally a safe city to visit for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, there are some petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. It is always recommended to keep your valuables such as passport and cash in a secure place and to stay alert when walking around crowded areas. Moreover, it is recommended to hire reliable local guides or tour operators who know the city well and can help you with the best advice and information.
4. What are the must-visit temples in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is mainly known for the Angkor Wat complex, which includes various temples such as Bayon, Ta Phrom, Preah Khan, and many more. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other temples that are worth visiting include Banteay Srei, Beng Mealea, and Koh Ker. Each temple has its own unique architecture, history, and significance, making it a must-visit for every traveler.
5. What is Khmer cuisine, and what are the must-try dishes in Siem Reap?
Khmer cuisine is a blend of traditional Cambodian flavors, influenced by neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. Some of the popular Khmer dishes that you must try in Siem Reap include Amok, a coconut-based fish curry, Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with rice and vegetables, and Nom Banh Chok, a Khmer-style noodles dish served with fresh vegetables and fish gravy. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, and you can also try some tropical fruits such as mangosteen and durian.
6. What are the best things to do in Siem Reap besides visiting temples?
Apart from the temples, Siem Reap offers various activities and experiences that every traveler should try. You can explore the floating villages around Tonle Sap Lake, enroll in a traditional Khmer cooking class, watch the stunning Phare Circus show, take a bike tour around the city, or visit the Angkor National Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Cambodia. There are also plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Siem Reap.
7. What are the transportation options in Siem Reap?
The transportation options in Siem Reap mainly include tuk-tuk, taxi, bicycle, and motorbike. Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transportation in Siem Reap, and you can negotiate the price with the driver beforehand. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive than tuk-tuks. You can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike to explore the city on your own, but make sure to have a valid driving license and wear a helmet for safety.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a delightful city with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery. It’s a must-visit destination for all travelers who want to immerse themselves in the vibrant Khmer culture and discover the wonders of ancient temples. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions about Siem Reap, you can plan your trip better and make the most out of your visit to this enchanting city.
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