How to Plan Your Kompong Khleang Day Tour from Siem Reap

Siem Reap, located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, is a famous tourist destination known for its ancient temples and rich culture. However, beyond the famous Angkor Wat and other temples, the city has many other hidden treasures that most tourists are not aware of. One of these gems is the Kompong Khleang floating village situated about 45 km east of Siem Reap. This unique community, set along the banks of the Tonle Sap lake’s floodplain, comprises stilted houses, schools, shops, and even a floating market. If you’re planning your visit to Siem Reap, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your Kompong Khleang Day Tour.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

The Kompong Khleang Day Tour from Siem Reap takes about 6.5 hours to complete, and it is a great way to experience local life and learn about the incredible feats of architecture and engineering that have allowed communities to thrive around the Tonle Sap. Here’s a detailed itinerary of the tour:

1. Hotel Pick-Up

At 8:30 AM, a guide will pick you up from your hotel or guest house and transport you in an air-conditioned minivan to the boat launch that leads to the Khleang River. Don’t forget to be ready and waiting in your hotel reception area.

2. Boat Cruise on the Khleang River

Once you arrive at the boat launch, you’ll take a flat-bottomed boat and embark on a leisurely cruise along the Khleang River. As you navigate the waters, you’ll pass through the flooded forests and floating villages that sit at the river’s banks. The views along the river are breathtaking, with the colorful homes on stilts, the floating school, and the busy market boats passing by.

3. Visit to the Floating School

As part of the Kompong Khleang Day Tour, you’ll stop at a floating school. Here, you’ll get an opportunity to learn about education in the village, meet the school children, and interact with locals. You may chose to bring small gifts for the children, such as pencils, erasers, or small toys.

4. Enjoy Khmer-style Lunch

After visiting the floating school, you’ll then proceed to a local restaurant where you’ll be served a delicious Khmer-style lunch. The meal is already included in the tour package, making this an inexpensive and convenient way to experience the local cuisine.

5. Return to Siem Reap

After lunch, you’ll hop back onto the boat and return to the boat launch for drop off. A guide will then escort you back to your hotel or guest house in a comfortable minivan, concluding the tour.

What’s Included in the Tour Package

The great-value Kompong Khleang Day Tour package includes the following:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off service
– Transport by air-conditioned minivan
– Bottled water
– Gratuities

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Kompong Khleang Day Tour from Siem Reap is easy. You can use this link to book the tour from Viator – an online tour booking platform. It is important to note that you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist seasons. As with most tours, it’s always advisable to read through the terms and conditions carefully and understand what is included in the tour package before you book it.

Final Thoughts

The Kompong Khleang Day Tour from Siem Reap is an excellent way to experience authentic local life and immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of Cambodia. With a well-structured itinerary and value for money, this tour is highly recommended for anyone planning to visit Siem Reap. Don’t forget to bring your camera and snap away at the stunning scenery and local lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city located in Northwestern Cambodia. It’s a prominent tourist destination, known for its historical sites and cultural richness. If you are planning to visit Siem Reap, you might have some questions that need to be answered. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.

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

Siem Reap has a tropical climate, which means it has two distinct seasons: wet and dry. 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 comfortable, making it perfect for exploring the city’s historical sites and temples.

2. What are the must-visit temples in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is home to a number of ancient temples, dating back to the Khmer Empire. The most popular temples include:

A. Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the most famous temple in Siem Reap and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is known for its beautiful sunrise views and ornate carvings.

B. Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple is known for its giant faces carved on its towers. It’s a beautiful temple and is located within the ancient city of Angkor Thom.

C. Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm Temple is also known as the “Tomb Raider temple” because it was featured in the movie Tomb Raider. It’s famous for its overgrown trees that have intertwined with the temple’s ruins.

3. Can I get around Siem Reap easily?

Yes, you can get around Siem Reap easily. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation used by tourists in Siem Reap. They are cheap and readily available. You can also rent motorbikes and bicycles to explore the city.

4. What is the local currency in Siem Reap?

The local currency in Siem Reap is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, US dollars are widely accepted, and most transactions are carried out in dollars.

5. What is the cost of living in Siem Reap?

The cost of living in Siem Reap is relatively cheap compared to other popular tourist destinations. Accommodation is affordable, and food is cheap. You can get a decent meal for less than $5.

6. What are some local dishes that I should try in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a rich culinary culture, and there are several must-try local dishes. Some popular dishes include:

A. Amok

Amok is a traditional Cambodian dish made from fish, coconut milk, and curry paste. It’s usually served with rice.

B. Lok Lak

Lok Lak is a popular Cambodian dish made from stir-fried beef, onions, and lettuce. It’s usually served with rice and a fried egg.

C. Fish Curry

Fish curry is a popular Cambodian dish made from fish, coconut milk, and curry paste. It’s usually served with rice.

7. Is it safe to visit Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is generally safe to visit. However, like any other tourist destination, you need to take precautions to avoid any mishaps. It’s recommended that you avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables when walking around the city. It’s also advisable to take a tuk-tuk instead of walking alone at night.

8. What other activities can I do in Siem Reap?

Apart from visiting temples, there are several other activities you can do in Siem Reap, such as:

A. Visit the floating villages

The floating villages of Siem Reap are a popular tourist attraction. You can take a boat tour of the villages to see how the locals live and work.

B. Visit the markets

Siem Reap has several markets where you can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. The most popular market is the Old Market, which is located in the city center.

C. Take a cooking class

Taking a Cambodian cooking class is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and culture.

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a beautiful city with a rich cultural history. It’s a great destination for tourists who want to explore ancient temples, taste exotic food, and immerse themselves in a unique culture. Remember to take precautions to stay safe, and don’t forget to try the local dishes!