The Unmissable Realm of Angkor Thom: How to Plan Your Tour in Siem Reap

Siem Reap’s Angkor Archaeological Park, with its impressive temple ruins and fascinating cultural history, is a must-see destination for any traveler to the region. Among its myriad attractions stands Angkor Thom, the final capital of the Khmer empire. To help you explore this incredible site, we recommend booking the Half-Day Angkor Thom private tour. In this blog, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your tour to Angkor Thom, including itinerary details, transportation, costs, and essential travel tips.

Overview of the Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour

With this tour, you can take an in-depth exploration of the Angkor Thom complex instead of rushing through the temples in a full-day tour. You will have the chance to visit the magnificent Bayon temple and admire its carved heads, the Elephant Terrace, and the Leper King terrace, which features some of the most spectacular architecture in the Angkor Archaeological Site.

This is a private tour, so you can expect personalized service and the full attention of your professional English-speaking guide. You will enjoy comfortable transportation in a private vehicle with a professional driver. Additionally, the tour cost includes admission to Angkor, so you won’t have to worry about paying extra upon arrival.

Finally, you can enjoy the convenience of pickup and drop-off at your Siem Reap hotel, making this an easy and straightforward experience.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour includes a professional English-speaking guide and transportation by car/mini-van/coach with a professional driver. The tour doesn’t include tours inclusions of any kind, services not outlined in the tour description, personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping portage fees, and optional tours unless otherwise stated.

Itinerary Details

The Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour is a 4-hour excursion that starts in the morning or afternoon. Your professional English-speaking guide will take you on a private tour of the Angkor Thom complex, including the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, and Bayon temple.

After pickup from your Siem Reap hotel, you’ll head to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where you can see the four giant faces of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. From there, you’ll visit the Bayon temple, famous for its enigmatic smiling faces and decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from daily life and Khmer history.

Your tour will continue to the Terrace of the Elephants, which consists of a 300-meter long platform with a carved depiction of elephants and mythical animals. Finally, you’ll visit the Terrace of the Leper King, which features a 7-meter tall statue of Yasovarman I and intricate carvings of garudas, nagas, and other mythological beings.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off services at your Siem Reap hotel, so you don’t have to worry about finding your way to the starting point. You will be transported in a private car/minivan/coach with a professional driver, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride to and from the Angkor Thom complex.

Booking the Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour

To book the Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour, you can visit the following link: Book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, so you can expect expert guides and top-notch transportation services.

Final Thoughts on Planning Your Tour to Angkor Thom

The Half-Day Angkor Thom Tour is the perfect way to explore the wonders of the Angkor Archaeological Site without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. With a professional guide, you can learn about the fascinating cultural history of Angkor Thom and admire its stunning architecture and carvings. Book your tour today to experience the unmissable realm of Angkor Thom for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap

If Cambodia is on your travel bucket list, you must have heard of Siem Reap. Siem Reap is a charming city located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, known for its rich culture, historical sites, and delicious food. As a popular tourist destination, there are a lot of questions that travelers ask about Siem Reap. In this blog post, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap to help you plan your trip better.

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

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to March as the weather is pleasant and dry. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for exploring the city, visiting temples, and enjoying outdoor activities. The monsoon season starts from May and lasts till October, and during this period, the city experiences heavy rain and humidity. However, if you are on a budget, traveling during the low season (June-October) can save you some money as hotels and flights are cheaper.

2. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The currency used in Siem Reap is Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in the tourist areas. However, it would be best if you always carried some Cambodian riel for small purchases like street food and souvenirs. ATMs are readily available in Siem Reap, and you can withdraw Cambodian riel or US dollars.

3. What language is spoken in Siem Reap?

The official language in Cambodia is Khmer, but English is widely spoken in Siem Reap, especially in tourist areas. You can communicate easily with tuk-tuk drivers, restaurant staff, and hotel staff in English.

4. Is Siem Reap safe?

Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, you should take some precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Avoid walking alone in dark alleys or deserted areas, and always keep an eye on your belongings. Do not wear expensive jewelry or carry a lot of cash while sightseeing.

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

Siem Reap is best known for its historical sites, and the most famous attraction is Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Other must-visit attractions include Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Bayon temple, Banteay Srei, and Phnom Kulen National Park. Siem Reap also has a vibrant nightlife scene, and Pub Street is the place to be if you want to experience the city’s nightlife.

6. How can I get around Siem Reap?

The most popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap is tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are available everywhere, and they are cheap and convenient. You can also rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the temples and city at your own pace. However, it would be best if you were careful while riding a motorbike, especially if you are not an experienced rider.

7. What is the food like in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a rich culinary culture. The food is spicy, flavorful, and delicious. The most famous dishes include Amok, a traditional Cambodian curry, Fish Lok Lak, stir-fried fish with vegetables, and Beef Kampot Pepper, a slow-cooked beef dish. You can also try street food like Khmer noodles and fried insects if you are feeling adventurous.

8. What should I wear while sightseeing in Siem Reap?

Cambodia is a conservative country, and it is essential to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites like temples. It is recommended to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting clothes like cotton pants, maxi dresses, and shirts are perfect for exploring the city’s sites.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap?

Yes, tourists visiting Cambodia require a visa. You can apply for a visa online or get it on arrival at the airport or border checkpoints. The visa fee is $30, and you need to submit a passport-sized photo and your passport details while applying.

10. Is haggling common in Siem Reap?

Yes, haggling is common in Siem Reap, especially while shopping in markets and street vendors. However, it is essential to be respectful while negotiating the price, and it is always helpful to know the fair price for the item you want to buy.

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a fascinating city, and visiting it will be an unforgettable experience. It would be best to plan your trip well in advance and keep these frequently asked questions in mind while traveling to Siem Reap.