Prasith and Reap Temples Private Day Trip from Phnom Penh

Exploring Cambodia Beyond Phnom Penh: A Private Day Trip to Prasith and Reap Temples

When most travelers think of Cambodia’s incredible temples, images of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap often come to mind. But Phnom Penh itself holds a surprising wealth of historical and spiritual sites that often get overshadowed. For those seeking a more intimate, less crowded experience, the Prasith and Reap Temples Private Day Trip offers a fantastic alternative. Priced at around $117.44 per person and lasting roughly 8 hours, this tour covers significant sites including Phnom Prasith, a modern yet impressive Angkor-inspired temple, and a local Buddhist center with monks and a reclining Buddha.

What makes this trip stand out are two particular features: first, the private guide and transport mean you can explore at your own pace, skipping the crowds and rushing through parts you’re less interested in. Second, the chance to see local pilgrimage and the daily lives of monks provides an authentic glimpse into Cambodian spirituality and culture.

The only potential consideration? The tour requires a moderate physical level—you’ll be walking around hills, temples, and possibly climbing steps—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some activity. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate local flavor, history, and want a more peaceful temple experience away from Siem Reap’s bustling crowds.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to see a different side of Cambodia’s spiritual heritage, enjoy stunning views, and value knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a compelling combination of culture, scenery, and personal attention.

Key Points

• Private Tour Experience: Moves at your pace with your guide, avoiding crowds.
• Unique Temples: Visit Phnom Prasith, a modern Angkor-style temple, and a less-visited ancient site.
• Authentic Local Encounters: Witness monks and locals seeking blessings, adding cultural depth.
• Scenic Landscape: Enjoy panoramic views from Phnom Prasith and rural countryside.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, bottled water, lunch, and transport.
• Knowledgeable Guides: As praised in reviews, guides are friendly, well-informed, and not pushy.

A Full Review of the Prasith and Reap Temples Private Day Trip

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour begins with a hotel pickup, where the private guide and driver collect you in your chosen mode of transport—either a tuk tuk or a car. We loved the flexibility this affords, as it allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery from the start.

The 90-minute drive takes you through Cambodia’s lush countryside, with a quick stop for a local snack and morning tea—an excellent way to settle into the day and get a taste of local flavors. The journey itself helps set the tone, as you leave the busy city behind and venture into more tranquil landscapes.

Phnom Prasith, perched atop twin hills, is the first major highlight. Standing high on the eastern summit, this temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and villages. Constructed in the modern era (finished in 1998), it echoes the style of Angkor Wat, earning it the nickname “the new Angkor Wat.” As you stroll through its grounds, you’ll see intricate sculptures of kings and Buddha, and even catch locals seeking blessings from monks—an authentic glimpse into ongoing spiritual practices.

The tour pauses for a traditional Khmer lunch in a shady, peaceful setting, overlooking the rural landscape—an ideal moment to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen so far. The restaurant’s calm ambiance enhances the experience, and many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the chance to enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine in a scenic spot.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Putmondul, a Buddhist centre that is home to a reclining Buddha and vibrant religious paintings. Here, you’ll see monks and nuns engaging in daily rituals, and locals making offerings for luck and prosperity. This site gives you a sense of the living faith that shapes everyday life for many Cambodians, as well as a chance to observe their customs up close.

The final stop is the Phnom Reap Temple (also called Prasat Vihear Suor), a relatively new structure that showcases Khmer architecture inspired by Angkor Wat. Completed in 1998, it’s often called the “new Angkor Wat” and is less crowded than the original, providing a more peaceful environment for reflection. Inside, you’ll find sculptures of ancient kings and Buddha, along with well-preserved bas-reliefs and carvings that hint at Cambodia’s royal and spiritual history.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

One of the standout features, as many reviews highlight, is the expert guidance. Guides like Li and Seung are praised for their knowledge, friendly approach, and ability to share insights without being pushy. Their stories and anecdotes make the sites come alive, giving you context and a deeper appreciation for what you’re seeing.

Another aspect that travelers love is the timing and pacing. Unlike larger group tours, this private experience offers flexibility—if you want to linger longer at a site or skip something, your guide accommodates it. The private transport ensures you are never rushed, and you get to see local life away from tourist crowds.

The Value and Experience

Considering the price point of around $117.44 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those who want an authentic, personalized experience. It includes hotel pickup, bottled water, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a convenient option for travelers who prefer a seamless day without worrying about logistics.

The tour’s length (around 8 hours) balances enough time to explore deeply but still leaves room for relaxation and enjoying the scenery. Many reviewers note that their guides’ English proficiency was excellent, and their stories made the sites especially memorable.

A Few Considerations

While this tour is very comprehensive, it does require moderate physical activity—walking around hills, climbing steps, and navigating uneven surfaces. Travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a less active day might want to consider this before booking.

Plus, the focus on spiritual sites means the tour might be less appealing for those seeking a purely archaeological or historical exploration. But for cultural enthusiasts and those interested in local spirituality, it hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a quiet, intimate glimpse into Cambodia’s spiritual life. It suits those who appreciate guided storytelling and want to avoid the crowds of Siem Reap. It’s also perfect for history buffs who enjoy seeing modern interpretations of ancient architecture and experiencing local religious practices firsthand.

If you’re someone who values authentic local interactions—like monks asking for photos or seeing pilgrims seeking blessings—you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer flexibility and personalized attention over large group tours.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Phnom Penh and curious about Cambodia’s spiritual heart, this private day trip offers a thoughtful, well-paced exploration of lesser-known temples and religious sites. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and meaningful interactions, it provides excellent value and a more personal look into the country’s living faith.

The experience is especially valuable for travelers who want to step away from the city’s hustle and experience authentic Cambodian culture in a peaceful setting. It’s a well-rounded option for those interested in history, spirituality, and scenery, with the comfort of private transport and tailored pacing.

This tour is a perfect choice for cultural explorers, spiritual seekers, or anyone wanting a quieter, more intimate alternative to Cambodia’s more crowded temple circuits. It’s an opportunity to connect with Cambodia’s soul, one temple at a time.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level. It involves walking and some climbing, so keep that in mind.

How long is the journey to the temples?
The drive from Phnom Penh to Phnom Prasith takes approximately 90 minutes. The tour includes some time for sightseeing and breaks, making the entire day about 8 hours.

What transportation is used during the tour?
You can choose between a tuk tuk or private car, depending on your preference. Both options offer comfort and flexibility.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Khmer lunch is included, along with bottled water, coffee/tea, and a local snack for the morning tea.

What are the main sites visited?
The key stops are Phnom Prasith Temple, Putmondul Buddhist centre, and Phnom Reap (Prasat Vihear Suor). Each offers a different glimpse into Cambodia’s spiritual and cultural landscape.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic views from Phnom Prasith and the detailed sculptures and carvings make for excellent photo opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through providers like Viator, which offers this private experience with the convenience of mobile tickets and easy cancellation policies.

Whether you’re after serene temple vistas, authentic interactions, or simply want a more personalized Cambodian experience, this private day trip from Phnom Penh offers a peaceful, meaningful way to connect with the country’s spiritual side.