How to Plan Your Tour to the Unknown Banteay Chhmar Temple in Siem Reap

Are you planning your trip to Siem Reap and want to explore beyond the main sites? A day trip to Banteay Chhmar temple complex could be the perfect solution. Located near the Thai border, this mysterious and secluded temple complex has fascinating Khmer bas-reliefs and architecture that will intrigue history and architecture lovers. In this guide, we will give you all the information you need to plan your day tour to the hidden gem of Banteay Chhmar temple.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day Banteay Chhmar excursion includes pickup and drop-off at Siem Reap hotels, lunch, all entrance fees, with a stop at a community project that supports Cambodian weavers. Traveling with a professional English-speaking guide, you’ll have the morning to explore the fascinating ruins of the secluded temple site after which you’ll make a stop at a local community project before returning back to Siem Reap.

What to Expect

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Siem Reap at around 7:30 AM, and then you’ll be driven to Banteay Chhmar, which is around a 3-hour drive. On arrival, you will be welcomed by the sight of the ancient ruins, which are in a peaceful and natural environment.

You will learn about the history of the site and its connection to the powerful Khmer Empire from your knowledgeable guide. You will explore a variety of structures, stopping to appreciate the bas-reliefs that have remained largely intact throughout the centuries. Further exploration will reveal hidden corners of the temple with impressive carvings and details.

After your exploration of the temple, we will stop at a community project that supports the local weavers. Here you will be able to see how they make their traditional textiles by hand and purchase some souvenirs. Then we will head back to Siem Reap and drop you off at your hotel.

What’s Included in the Tour

The full-day tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, all entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description, entrance pass to the Angkor Archaeological Site, lunch and all taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees. Any personal expenses that may incur are not covered within the package.

Planning Tips

• Book your tour in advance through the provided link at least a few days before you plan to visit to guarantee availability.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes since you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen since it can get very hot in the afternoon.
• Carry a hat or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun.
• Make sure your camera, phone and other electronics are charged before leaving your hotel or consider bringing a portable charger.

Final Thoughts

The Banteay Chhmar complex is a hidden gem of the Siem Reap region, and you’ll find it much less crowded than other temple sites. You will have a unique experience exploring the nearly untouched ruins of this temple site, which boasts some of the best bas-reliefs in Cambodia. With a professional guide and comfortable transportation, you can relax and focus on enjoying the beauty of the site.

Book Your Tour Here

If you’re ready to explore the stunning ruins of Banteay Chhmar temple and learn about Cambodia’s rich history and culture, book your tour now through the following link: book your tour here. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Siem Reap: Your Guide to the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Siem Reap is one of the busiest and most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia. Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, Siem Reap draws in millions of visitors each year. If you are planning a trip to Siem Reap, you might have some questions on your mind. In this post, we will provide answers to the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.

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

Siem Reap is a city that can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit the city is from November to March when the weather is dry and cool. The temperatures range between 20-30 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city’s landmarks. The other months are humid and hot making it ideal to carry light and loose clothing.

2. What is the currency in Siem Reap?

The currency used in Siem Reap is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but most places in Siem Reap accept the US dollar as well. It is recommended to carry small denominations of both currencies as smaller shops and vendors may not have change for larger bills. ATMs are available throughout the city and dispense both US dollars and Cambodian Riel.

3. What are the must-visit landmarks in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, which is a must-visit landmark in the city. It is one of the largest religious monuments in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other popular temples include the Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple, and Angkor Thom. The city also has several museums, including the Angkor National Museum and the War Museum Cambodia.

4. How can I get around Siem Reap?

Tuk-tuks are the most common form of transportation in Siem Reap. They are affordable, and most of the drivers speak basic English. Another popular mode of transport is bicycles, which can be rented from local shops. Motorbikes are also available for rent, but it is vital to have a valid license and be careful while riding.

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

Siem Reap’s cuisine is diverse and influenced by neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. The most popular dish to try in Siem Reap is Amok, which is a type of fish curry cooked in coconut milk and served with rice. Other local dishes include Khmer Red Curry, Lok lak, and Bai Sach Chrouk. Do not forget to try some street food, which includes insect delicacies like fried crickets or silk worms.

6. What is the dress code for visiting temples in Siem Reap?

Visitors are required to dress modestly while visiting temples in Siem Reap. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. It is also necessary to remove footwear before entering the temples. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes to traverse the temple complex easily.

7. Are there any health concerns I should be aware of in Siem Reap?

Tourists to Siem Reap are advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. It is essential to apply mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to prevent mosquito bites. The tap water in Siem Reap is not drinkable, and tourists should drink only bottled or filtered water.

8. Is it safe to travel to Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is generally a safe city for tourists. Petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching can occur, and tourists should take precautions to avoid such incidents. It is also recommended to use only licensed and reputable tuk-tuk drivers and book tours through reliable travel agencies.

9. What are some cultural etiquettes to follow in Siem Reap?

Cambodia is a culturally rich country, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. It is customary to remove shoes before entering temples or homes. Visitors should also dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin. It is also polite to greet locals with “Sous-dey” with folded hands or “barang” for Westerners.

10. Where can I shop in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has several local markets and shops where tourists can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles. The most popular market is the Old Market, also known as Psah Chas. The night markets also offer a wide variety of goods at reasonable prices. The Made in Cambodia Market is also another great shopping spot, which specializes in traditional Cambodian handicrafts.

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a city full of rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. By following some simple rules, you can explore the city comfortably and safely. We hope this article has helped in answering the most pressing questions you might have had about Siem Reap.