Explore some hidden gems of temples with sunset

Experience the Hidden Treasures of Angkor: A Private Day Tour of Temples and Sunset

If you’re dreaming of exploring Angkor’s temples beyond the crowded popular spots, this private guided tour offers a refreshing look at some lesser-known yet captivating sites. Priced at $131 per group (up to 6 people), it promises a full day immersed in history, spirituality, and stunning scenery, with a focused itinerary that includes Kravan temple, Srah Srang, Banteay Kdei, Bat Chum, Ta Keo, and Bakheng for sunset. Guides in the know will take you through these ancient structures, revealing their stories and secrets, while you soak in the scenery and avoid the big crowds.

What we love about this experience is the chance to explore hidden temples that are often overshadowed by Angkor Wat’s fame. The Kravan temple, with its five brick towers from the 10th century, is a charming start, especially for architecture enthusiasts. Later, the King’s Baths at Srah Srang offer a tranquil water setting that’s perfect for photos and reflection. We also appreciate the visit to the sprawling Banteay Kdei, a massive monastic complex that feels like wandering through a quiet, ancient town. And of course, the sunset from Bakheng is a classic way to end the day, offering panoramic views over the Angkor landscape.

One potential drawback is the itinerary’s pace—with so many stops packed into a single day, travelers who prefer a more relaxed, unhurried experience might find it a bit busy. Also, the cost of temple tickets isn’t included in the price, so be prepared for that additional expense. Still, for those eager to see some of the lesser-visited sites with an expert guide, this tour strikes a good balance of value, authenticity, and convenience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to discover the quieter, more intimate corners of Angkor and are comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re after a personalized experience with a small group, rather than a large tour bus. If you love history, architecture, and scenic sunsets, this trip will likely be a memorable highlight of your Cambodia adventure.

Key Points

Private Guided Experience: Focused on smaller groups for a more personalized visit.
Lesser-Known Temples: Discover sites like Kravan, Bat Chum, and Ta Nei, often missed on overcrowded tours.
Sunset at Bakheng: End your day with a breathtaking view of Angkor’s landscape.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes important sites like Srah Srang and Banteay Kdei, with rich stories and architecture.
Value for Money: $131 covers transportation, guide, and all entry fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
Physical Activity: Expect some walking and climbing, so comfortable shoes are essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: Exploring Hidden Angkor Gems with a Sunset View

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The Comfort and Convenience of Private Transport and Guided Tours

We start our journey with the reassurance of private air-conditioned transport—a blessing after navigating the Cambodian heat. The driver and guide, whose expertise shines through, handle all the logistics from hotel pickup to drop-off, saving us the stress of figuring out transportation or waiting in lines. This setup not only makes the day smooth but also allows the guide to customize commentary based on your interests.

The guide, a licensed professional, enhances the experience by sharing stories behind each temple—both well-known and obscure. Their insights turn what might be just a series of ruins into stories of ancient kings, spiritual evolution, and architectural ingenuity. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide’s knowledge made the temples come alive in a way the guidebooks couldn’t.”

Exploring the Hidden Gems: From Kravan to Bat Chum

The tour kicks off at the Kravan temple, a 10th-century Hindu site made of brick towers arranged in a line. While small, its elegant towers and quiet setting make it a charming start. We loved the way our guide explained its significance as a Hindu monument, giving us context that added meaning to the visit.

Next, we move to Srah Srang, often called the “King’s Baths.” It’s a large, tranquil reservoir that still contains water, so it’s a perfect spot for photos. We appreciated how peaceful it felt—an oasis in the midst of the ruins. It’s an excellent place for reflection and appreciation of Khmer engineering.

From there, the sprawling Banteay Kdei offers a labyrinth of chambers, hallways, and corridors. Built in the 12th-13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, it’s often less crowded, allowing us to wander freely and soak in its quiet majesty. The intricate carvings and the sense of stepping back in time make it a highlight.

Another fascinating stop is Bat Chum, a small sanctuary built in the mid-10th century, notable for its three towers and its architect Kavindrarimathana. It’s unique because Kavindrarimathana was a Buddhist architect, and the temple is dedicated to Buddha, Vajrapani, and Prajnaparamita, which gives it a rare spiritual diversity for a Khmer site. As one reviewer pointed out, “It’s a small temple, but its history and the stories behind it are remarkable.”

Architectural Marvels: Ta Keo, Ta Nei, and Baksei Chamkrong

The tour continues with Ta Keo, built at the end of the 10th century. This Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva features a distinctive pyramid shape and offers panoramic views from the top—perfect for photo enthusiasts. Many find climbing to the top rewarding; “The view from Ta Keo’s summit is worth every step,” remarked a traveler.

Ta Nei is a more secluded site, built in the late 12th century. It’s often described as atmospheric, with overgrown trees and a quiet, mysterious vibe. Some scholars believe it was constructed as a hospital, which adds a layer of intrigue. A reviewer called it “a peaceful spot where you can almost hear the echoes of monks’ footsteps.”

Then, we visit Baksei Chamkrong, a small pyramid temple dedicated to Shiva, built in 947. Its well-preserved inscriptions and thoughtful layout give insight into Khmer dedication to their gods and kings. The detailed carvings and historical inscriptions make it a must-see for architecture buffs.

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Sunset at Bakheng: The Perfect End to a Day of Discovery

No trip to Angkor is complete without witnessing the sunset, and Phnom Bakheng is the classic vantage point. As the late afternoon sun dips, the panoramic views of the temple ruins and the surrounding jungle create a stunning silhouette. We loved the sense of tranquility and reverence that comes with watching the sunset from this historic hilltop. It’s a popular spot, but arriving early ensures a good position.

The climb up Bakheng is manageable but involves some steps, so comfortable shoes are a must. The view at the top is well worth it—an iconic moment that captures the essence of Angkor’s grandeur.

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Practicalities and Value

The $131 price covers all transportation, a professional guide, and entry fees (excluding temple tickets), making it an excellent value considering the personalized experience. The tour starts at a flexible time, and the small group size ensures you aren’t lost in a crowd. Keep in mind, temple tickets are extra, so budget accordingly.

The day is active, with quite a bit of walking—wear good shoes, and bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and water. The guide’s insights transform a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful journey, making the cost well worth it for history lovers and photography fans alike.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a different side of Angkor—the quieter, more intimate temples that aren’t usually part of large group tours. It fits those who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic views and don’t mind a full day of walking and exploring. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy cultural and historical discovery, this private tour offers a flexible, meaningful way to spend a day.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a leisurely, slow-paced visit. However, if you’re eager for a personalized, authentic experience that balances exploration with comfort, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, but keep in mind the walk and climb involved. Children who enjoy walking and history will find it engaging, but the pace might be a bit brisk for very young kids.

How early does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability when booking. The tour is flexible, but it generally begins in the morning to maximize daylight, especially for the sunset at Bakheng.

Are temple tickets included in the price?
No, the temple entrance fees are not included. You will need to purchase these separately, so budget for that.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and dress modestly when visiting temples. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and water is strongly recommended.

Can I customize the tour?
It’s a private group, so guides are often flexible. You can discuss preferences or specific sites with your guide beforehand.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The temples, especially during sunset, provide incredible photo opportunities.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately a full day, with time spent at each site and a lunch break included.

Will I have breaks during the day?
Yes, there’s time for a lunch break after visiting the main temples and a moment to relax at Srah Srang.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be a break for you to enjoy local cuisine.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Moderate. Expect some walking, climbing, and uneven surfaces—comfortable shoes and water are essential.

This private tour of Angkor’s lesser-known temples paired with a sunset at Bakheng offers a well-rounded, intimate glimpse into Cambodia’s ancient architecture and spiritual sites. It’s perfect for those who want a more authentic and relaxed experience while still covering key highlights. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply looking for a meaningful day out, this adventure promises to be a memorable part of your Cambodia journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: