Cycle the Angkor Backroads – Inclusive lunch at local house

Exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park by bike offers a refreshing and more intimate way to see the temples that define Cambodia’s incredible heritage. For just $55 per person, this 7-hour guided cycling adventure takes you through some of the most famous sites — Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm — while avoiding the usual tour bus crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it combines exercise, culture, and scenery in a way that feels personal and relaxed. The guide’s commentary brings the history alive, and the included lunch at a local house adds a genuine touch of daily Cambodian life. Plus, being able to pedal along dirt lanes and less-visited paths makes this a standout choice for travelers craving a deeper connection to Angkor’s hidden corners.

One thing to consider is that this tour requires a reasonable level of fitness, as you’ll be riding 20 to 30 kilometers over the course of the day — the perfect balance of activity and sightseeing for most active travelers. Also, since entrance fees to the temples are not included, you’ll want to budget an additional $37 for your single-day pass.

This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate authentic cultural experiences, and are willing to handle a moderate physical challenge. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to see less crowded temples and explore Cambodia’s countryside from a unique perspective.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Pedal through backroads and less-visited temples for a more genuine exploration.
• Expert Guide: Commentary from a knowledgeable guide enhances understanding and appreciation.
• All-Inclusive: Bike, helmet, bottled water, snacks, and a local-style lunch are included.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics.
• Physical Activity: Suitable for reasonably fit travelers comfortable with moderate biking.
• Crowd Avoidance: Escape the tour buses and explore Angkor with a small group for a more personal experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup early in the morning, around 8:00 am. This convenience means you won’t have to worry about arranging transport — just relax and prepare for a day of exploration. At Siem Reap’s office, you’ll be fitted with a mountain bike and helmet, setting the tone for a day of comfortable, safe riding.

Exploring Angkor Thom and Bayon

The first major stop is Angkor Thom, the ancient city that once housed the Khmer empire’s capital. You’ll enter through its impressive gates, decorated with elephants and massive faces. The highlight here is Bayon Temple, famous for its enigmatic smiling faces, representing the 54 provinces of the Khmer Empire. As one reviewer noted, guide Son provided “a lot of information about the temples and history,” making the visit both educational and engaging.

The ride also takes you to Terrace of the Elephants and Baphuon Temple, where sculptures and architecture reveal Khmer culture and artistry. These sites, often overlooked by large tour groups, offer a quieter, more contemplative experience.

Jungle-Overgrown Ta Prohm

Next, you pedal to Ta Prohm, the temple famously overgrown with jungle trees, which has a cinematic appeal thanks to its appearance in the film Tomb Raider. You’ll wander among roots and crumbling stones, feeling as if you’ve stepped into a mysterious film set. This stop, lasting around two hours, is a favorite among travelers, as many reviews mention how atmospheric and photogenic it is.

Lunch at Srah Srang

Midday, the tour provides a well-earned break at Srah Srang, a tranquil setting by a pond with lush gardens. Here, a hearty lunch is served — a chance to relax, rehydrate, and chat about what you’ve seen so far. The included local-style meal is a nice touch, allowing you a taste of Cambodian cuisine.

The Majestic Angkor Wat

After lunch, the tour culminates at Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Visiting later in the afternoon helps you avoid the crowds and enjoy the temple’s grandeur at a more leisurely pace. The guide shares insights into its symbolism and architecture, enriching your appreciation of this iconic site. You’ll spend about two hours here, soaking in the vast scale and intricate details that define Khmer architecture.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up around 4:00 pm with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel. This relaxed schedule means you can continue exploring Siem Reap on your own or simply unwind after a full day.

The Ride and Equipment

Riding 20-30 km over the course of the day provides a pleasant physical challenge that most reasonably fit travelers can handle comfortably. The bikes are mountain bikes, suited for both paved and dirt roads, ensuring stability and comfort. Helmets are provided, and the small group size (max 12) means you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, making the experience more personal.

Why the biking aspect matters

Cycling through the countryside gives you a different perspective of Cambodia’s landscape, away from the tourist-heavy areas. We loved the way this approach allows for moments of quiet reflection and the chance to see local villages and rural scenery that are otherwise missed.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $55, this tour offers excellent value, considering the included bike, helmet, bottled water, snacks, and lunch. Entrance fees to the temples are extra, but at $37 for a one-day pass, the total cost remains reasonable for a full day of sightseeing. Compared to traditional tuk-tuk or van tours, biking offers a more active and immersive experience that many travelers find worth the effort.

The small group size not only enhances safety and comfort but also allows for more meaningful interaction with your guide. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Son make a difference, providing insights that bring the temples’ stories to life.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who are moderately fit and enjoy outdoor activities. If you’re comfortable cycling 20-30 km and want to see less crowded, more authentic parts of Angkor, this is a perfect choice. It’s particularly appealing if you value guided commentary that adds context and depth without the distraction of large crowds.

However, it may be less suitable if you have mobility issues, dislike biking in heat and humidity, or prefer a more relaxed, less active sightseeing style. The cultural dress code at the temples is another consideration, so planning to wear shoulders and knees covered is necessary for respectful visiting.

The Sum Up

In sum, Cycle the Angkor Backroads provides a balanced blend of activity, culture, and authenticity. It transforms a typical temple visit into a personal journey through Cambodia’s countryside, guided by knowledgeable locals. The inclusion of lunch at a local house and the chance to explore hidden pathways and lesser-visited temples make this tour stand out.

For travelers who love active, immersive experiences and are eager to see Angkor from a different angle, this tour offers great value and memorable moments. It’s also a fantastic choice for those wanting to avoid tourist crowds while still experiencing Cambodia’s most iconic monuments in a meaningful way.

If you’re prepared for some biking, crave authentic encounters, and appreciate expert guides, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and convenient.

How long is the biking portion?
You will cycle approximately 20 to 30 kilometers throughout the day, which is manageable for most reasonably fit travelers.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees (around $37 for a single day) are not included. You’ll need to budget separately for temple entries.

What should I wear?
Cambodia is conservative, so covering shoulders and knees is recommended to respect local customs at the temples.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Kids’ bikes, tag-alongs, and child seats are available, making it suitable for families with kids who can handle the physical activity.

How experienced does a cyclist need to be?
While a moderate fitness level is suggested, the tour is designed for those comfortable on a mountain bike over varied terrain.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Yes, each major stop is scheduled to give you a good amount of time to explore and absorb the atmosphere, with the guide providing commentary along the way.

This cycling tour of Angkor offers a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and authentic connection. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply eager to see Angkor away from crowds, this experience will leave you with memorable images and stories to tell.