How to Plan Your Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing in Siem Reap

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to experience something unique, you should consider booking the Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing. This immersive experience provides an opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s religious history while receiving a traditional water blessing from Buddhist monks. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan the tour so you can make the most out of your visit to Siem Reap.

Overview of the Tour

The Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing is a half-day tour that starts with a pick-up from your hotel. Your local English-speaking guide will take you to a traditional Buddhist monastery where you will learn about Cambodian Buddhist beliefs and practices. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional water blessing led by resident Buddhist monks.

What’s included?

The tour includes pick up from your hotel and transportation for 1-5 passengers on a remork, and for more than 5 passengers, transportation will be by mini-van. The tour excludes any additional personal expenses.

Meeting and Pickup Points

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Siem Reap. The pick-up time is flexible and can be arranged for either morning or afternoon depending on your preference.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins with a visit to a traditional Cambodian Buddhist monastery, where your guide will explain the history and traditions of Cambodian Buddhism. You will learn about the daily life of the monks and the role of the monastery in the local community.

After the tour of the monastery, you will participate in a water blessing ceremony led by the resident Buddhist monks. During the ceremony, the monks will offer a prayer and pour water over your head to bless you with good fortune and health.

Additional Information

The Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing is flexible in terms of timing, with morning or noon tours available depending on your request. However, it’s important to note that the experience is not recommended for pregnant women or travelers with back or heart problems. Additionally, the experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time, you will not receive a refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start of the tour will not be accepted.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing, you can do so by visiting the following link: book the tour here. Viator, a trusted third-party company, provides this tour, so you can have peace of mind that your booking is secure.

Conclusion

The Buddhist Monastery Tour with Monks Water Blessing in Siem Reap is an immersive cultural experience that provides insight into Cambodian Buddhist traditions. By planning your tour in advance, you can ensure that you make the most of your visit to Siem Reap and enjoy a meaningful and unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about the City of Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city located in northwest Cambodia and is famous for the historic temples of Angkor. It is a tourist hub, receiving millions of visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, you might have a lot of questions about the city. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and February when the weather is dry and cool. During this time, the temperature is around 25-30°C, and the humidity is low. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect large crowds at popular attractions.

2. How do I get to Siem Reap?

You can get to Siem Reap by air, bus, or boat. Siem Reap International Airport is well connected to major cities in Asia, and several airlines operate direct flights to Siem Reap. You can also take a bus from Phnom Penh or other major cities in Cambodia. Boats are another option, and you can take a boat from Phnom Penh or Battambang.

3. Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?

Yes, you need a visa to enter Cambodia. If you’re coming from a country that has an embassy or consulate in Cambodia, you can apply for a visa in advance. Alternatively, you can get a visa on arrival at the airport or land border. Visa on arrival costs $30 and requires a passport-sized photo.

4. What are the best things to do in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is famous for its temples, particularly the Angkor Wat complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other popular temples include the Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple, and Banteay Srei Temple. You can also visit museums, night markets, and take a stroll along Pub Street, which is famous for its nightlife.

5. How do I get around Siem Reap?

You can get around Siem Reap by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bicycle. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation, and you can hire them on hourly or daily rates. Taxis are also available but are more expensive. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace.

6. Is Siem Reap a safe city?

Siem Reap is generally a safe city, but like any other tourist destination, you should be aware of pickpockets and scams. It’s best to keep your valuables safe and be cautious when dealing with strangers. Also, be careful when crossing the road as traffic can be chaotic.

7. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The currency used in Siem Reap is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted, and most transactions are in dollars. ATMs are available, and you can withdraw both riel and dollars. However, it’s a good idea to carry small bills as some vendors may not be able to provide change for larger bills.

8. What should I wear when visiting the temples?

The temples are considered sacred places, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Hats are also not allowed inside the temples. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

9. Can I take photographs inside the temples?

Yes, you can take photographs inside the temples, but you should be respectful of the religious significance of the temples. Avoid touching any artifacts or climbing on the ruins. Flash photography is also not allowed inside the temples.

10. What are some local dishes to try in Siem Reap?

Some of the popular dishes in Siem Reap include amok, which is a curry made with fish, lemongrass, and coconut milk, and lok lak, which is a stir-fried beef dish. Other dishes to try include prahok (fermented fish paste), num banh chok (rice noodles with curry), and bai sach chrouk (pork and rice).

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve helped you plan your trip to Siem Reap with ease.