How to Plan Your Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei & Grand Circuit Tour in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is known for its ancient temples of Angkor, but the surrounding countryside has many hidden gems that are worth exploring. A popular tour among visitors is the Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei & Grand Circuit tour. In this tour, you get to discover unique and impressive temples in a full-day private tour with an experienced local English tour guide.

Overview

This tour is packed with exciting activities, including hiking and swimming in a refreshing waterfall. You will explore the intricately carved pink sandstone temple of Banteay Srei and many impressive temples of the Angkor Grand Circuit. You’ll benefit from your own private tour, which is flexible to meet your needs. The tour also includes all entrance fees, so there are no hidden costs. You’ll stay cool in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water provided, ensuring comfort throughout the tour.

What’s Included

The following are included in the tour package:

• Experienced local English tour guide.
• Travel in air-conditioned transportation
• All sightseeing & tour activities as programmed.
• Cambodia entry visa accommodation
• Angkor entrance fee
• Drinks and personal expenses

The Tour

The Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei & Grand Circuit tour begins at 7:30 AM, and customers are picked up from any hotel in Siem Reap. From there, you’ll travel through picturesque countryside beyond the Angkor complex to your first stop in Kbal Spean.

Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean is also known as the “River of a Thousand Lingas.” Here, you’ll take a 45-minute hike through the lush jungle to reach the river. You’ll discover the intricately carved lingas (phallic symbols), which were created in the 11th and 12th Century, and believed to have been carved by hermits who lived in the area. You can also take a refreshing swim in the waterfall.

Banteay Srei

Next on the tour is the stunning pink sandstone temple of Banteay Srei. The temple is known for its intricate carvings, which have remained well-preserved over the centuries. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the temple and learn about its history from your tour guide.

Angkor Grand Circuit

After Banteay Srei, you’ll continue on to the Angkor Grand Circuit. Here, you’ll visit many impressive temples, including Preah Khan, Neak Pean, and Ta Som. You’ll learn about the intricate details of each temple’s history as you explore them with your guide.

The Benefits of a Private Tour

One of the benefits of this tour is that it’s a private tour, meaning you’ll be the only group on the tour. This allows for a more personalized experience, as your guide can cater the tour to your needs and likes. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions you may have about the temples and Cambodian culture in general.

Conclusion

The Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei & Grand Circuit tour is an excellent way to explore Siem Reap’s hidden gems. With an experienced local English tour guide, you’ll discover unique and impressive temples, take refreshing swims, and learn about Cambodia’s rich history. All entry fees are included, and the tour is private, ensuring comfort and personalized attention. Book the tour here to make the most out of your Angkor visit.

The Ultimate Guide to Siem Reap: Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to traveling, Southeast Asia is undoubtedly on the bucket list of many travelers around the world. Siem Reap, located in northern Cambodia, is one of the most popular destinations in the region. As the gateway to the world-famous Angkor temple complex, Siem Reap attracts millions of visitors every year. Here are some frequently asked questions and everything you need to know about Siem Reap.

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

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to March. During this period, the weather is dry and mild, with low humidity and cooler evenings. The temperature ranges from 22°C – 28°C, making it pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, this is the peak season, and prices for accommodation and tours are higher than usual. From April to August, the weather is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. While it may be uncomfortable for some travelers, this is the best time to see the rice paddies and lush green forests.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Cambodia?

Yes, foreign tourists need a visa to enter Cambodia. A tourist visa is valid for 30 days and can be obtained in advance or on arrival at the airport or border checkpoints. The fee for a tourist visa is $30 USD, and a visa on arrival requires two passport-sized photos. It’s important to note that your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

3. How do I get to Siem Reap?

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Siem Reap is by air. Siem Reap International Airport is the second-busiest airport in Cambodia, with flights connecting to many cities in Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong. You can also take a bus from Phnom Penh or other cities in Cambodia. The journey can take between five to eight hours, depending on the distance and condition of the road.

4. What are the must-visit attractions in Siem Reap?

The Angkor temple complex is undoubtedly the highlight of any trip to Siem Reap. Within the complex, Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm are the most iconic temples and not to be missed. Besides the temples, Siem Reap has many other attractions worth visiting. The Angkor National Museum, Landmine Museum, and War Museum Cambodia provide an insight into the history and culture of Cambodia. Other must-visit places include the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, Artisans Angkor, and the old market.

5. What is the food like in Siem Reap?

Cambodian cuisine is known for its fresh and fragrant flavors, with influences from Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisine. In Siem Reap, you can find a wide variety of local dishes, including amok, a creamy fish curry steamed in banana leaves, and lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with rice and salad. Street food is a ubiquitous part of the local culture, with stalls serving everything from noodles to grilled meats and fresh fruit juices. For those who are adventurous, you can try exotic snacks such as fried tarantulas, scorpions or crickets from the market.

6. Where is the best place to stay in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. The most popular areas to stay are in the center of the town, close to the Old Market and Pub Street, where you can find many restaurants, bars, and shops. For a luxurious stay, resorts on the outskirts of the town, such as Angkor Village Resort and Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor, offer five-star services and amenities. For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses are widely available and offer comfortable rooms and basic facilities at affordable prices.

7. Is it safe to travel to Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is generally a safe city to visit, and violent crimes are rare. However, there are some things you should be aware of to ensure your safety. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur in crowded areas, so keep your belongings close and secure. Tuk-tuk drivers and vendors may try to overcharge you, so always agree on a price before accepting any services. It’s also essential to show respect for local customs and culture and dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is an exciting and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a culture vulture or an adventure seeker, there is something for everyone in Siem Reap. With this guide, we hope to have answered some of your most frequently asked questions and provided you with a better understanding of what to expect when visiting this enchanting city.