Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei, and Banteay Samre Day Trip from Siem Reap

Are you planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to explore the rich history and culture of Cambodia? Look no further than the Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei, and Banteay Samre Day Trip. This private tour offers the perfect opportunity to see Khmer art and architecture from the 10th to 12th centuries, without the crowds of the more popular tourist attractions.

Overview

This full-day tour takes you to three unique sites, beginning with Kbal Spean, also known as the River of a Thousand Lingas. Here, you’ll witness rock relief carvings along the banks of the Siem Reap River that depict Hindu mythology and are believed to have been carved in the 11th century. This sacred site is definitely worth the 45-minute hike through the jungle to reach it, and taking a private tour means you’ll have plenty of time to ask your guide about the history and meaning of the carvings.

Next, the tour takes you to Banteay Srei, often described as the ‘jewel’ of Khmer art. This temple is unique in its intricate pink sandstone carvings, which are well-preserved and date back to the 10th century. There are also less crowds here compared to Angkor Wat, allowing you to explore the stunning architecture and take fantastic photos.

Finally, the tour ends at Banteay Samre, a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. This temple is known for its well-preserved carvings of apsaras (celestial dancers) and the intricate details of its architecture.

What’s Included

This tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off. You won’t need to worry about bringing a snack as lunch is provided, making it a hassle-free experience. Plus, entrance fees for the Angkor pass are included, which saves you time and money. Drinks and gratuities are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points are available from select locations, with the tour starting at 8:00 AM. Be sure to confirm your pickup point and time when booking.

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Vegetarian meal options are available, but please let the tour operator know in advance.

Overall, the Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei, and Banteay Samre Day Trip is the perfect way to explore the Khmer art and architecture of Cambodia and delve into its rich history. Book this tour today to ensure an unforgettable trip to Siem Reap. Book the tour here.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, Siem Reap is a popular city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The city is the gateway to the world-renowned Angkor Archaeological Park, which houses the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and natural beauty, Siem Reap is definitely a must-visit destination. However, before you book your tickets to this city, you may have some questions in mind. In this blog post, we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.

1. How do I reach Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has an international airport – Siem Reap International Airport – which is served by various airlines from different parts of the world. You can also reach Siem Reap by road or waterway. From Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, you can take a bus or a taxi to Siem Reap, which takes around 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, which takes around 5-9 hours depending on the water levels.

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

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to February when the weather is relatively cool and dry. During this time, the temperature ranges between 20°C-30°C, and the humidity is relatively low, making it suitable for exploring the city and the ancient temples comfortably. However, the peak season for tourism is from December to January, so if you are planning to visit during this time, make sure to book your accommodation and tours in advance.

3. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted in Siem Reap, especially in the tourist areas. You can use US dollars for most transactions such as shopping, tours, and accommodation. However, it is advisable to carry some local currency (Khmer Riel) for small transactions and to avoid any confusion.

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

Siem Reap is best known for its ancient temples, and the most famous ones are:

• Angkor Wat
• Bayon Temple
• Ta Prohm
• Angkor Thom

Apart from these, Siem Reap also has many other attractions that are worth visiting, such as:

• Phare, The Cambodian Circus
• Pub Street
• Angkor Night Market
• Banteay Srei
• Tonle Sap Lake

5. How can I explore Siem Reap?

There are various ways to explore Siem Reap:

• Tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuk is the most popular mode of transport in Siem Reap. You can hire a tuk-tuk for a day or half-day to explore the ancient temples and other attractions.
• Bicycle: If you are up for some adventure, you can rent a bicycle and explore the city on your own.
• Moto: Moto (motorbike taxi) is another popular mode of transport, especially among the locals. However, it is not advisable for tourists unless you are an experienced rider.
• Car: You can also hire a car with a driver or rent a car if you prefer more privacy and comfort.

6. What should I wear when visiting Siem Reap?

The climate in Siem Reap is tropical, which means it is hot and humid throughout the year. It is advisable to wear light, breathable clothes like cotton or linen. However, when visiting the ancient temples, it is essential to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for the local culture and customs.

7. What are the local customs and traditions in Siem Reap?

Cambodia has a vibrant culture and traditions, and it is essential to respect them when visiting Siem Reap. Here are some local customs and traditions you should know:

• Greeting: The traditional greeting in Cambodia is a slight bow with pressed hands (like in prayer). It is called “Sampeah” and is a sign of respect and appreciation.
• Customs: It is customary to take off your shoes before entering temples or someone’s home.
• Etiquette: In Cambodia, it is impolite to shout, point with your feet or touch someone’s head. Also, it is customary to wait for the oldest person to start eating before you begin.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. We hope this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap and has helped you plan your trip. If you have any more questions or need further information, do not hesitate to contact a local travel agent or the Cambodian Tourism Board. Enjoy your trip!