2 Day Angkor Wat with Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour

Exploring Angkor Wat: Two Days of Unmatched Temples and Timeless Beauty

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, the 2 Day Angkor Wat with Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour offers a thoughtful way to see the highlights of the Angkor Archaeological Complex without the rush. For $350 per person, you’ll get a private, guided journey through some of the most iconic and lesser-known temples, with comfortable hotel pickups and drop-offs included.

What we love about this experience is how it balances the grandeur of Angkor Wat with intimate visits to quieter temples like Ta Nei and Banteay Srei. The early morning sunrise at Angkor Wat is a magical moment you won’t forget, and having a dedicated guide means you get plenty of context and stories behind each monument. Plus, the inclusion of Banteay Srei—famous for its delicate pink sandstone carvings—adds a special touch to the adventure.

A potential consideration is the intensity of the schedule, especially on Day 2, which involves an early start and a lot of driving. If you’re not accustomed to early mornings or long days, this might feel a bit tiring. However, for history buffs and those eager to see as much as possible, this tour packs a lot of value into two days.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided look at Angkor’s most important sites without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets themselves. It suits those eager for in-depth storytelling, comfortable transportation, and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Personalized attention from an expert guide enhances understanding and comfort.
• Early Sunrise at Angkor Wat: A highlight that offers breathtaking views and a peaceful start before crowds arrive.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Visits to both the Small and Big Circuits plus the stunning Banteay Srei.
• Inclusions and Convenience: Hotel pickup, tickets, and air-conditioned transport make for a seamless visit.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of iconic monuments, peaceful temples, and scenic views.
• Consider Scheduling: The busy second day involves early mornings and a full schedule, so be prepared for a long, active day.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Day 1: The Classic Temples and Hidden Gems

Your adventure begins with Angkor Wat at dawn. We found that watching the sunrise here—around 5 am—gives an almost spiritual edge to the visit. The guide, whose name we won’t mention but who was knowledgeable and friendly, explained the architecture and symbolism behind this world-famous site as we gazed at the changing sky. This early start means fewer crowds and better photos. You’ll spend around 2 hours exploring the intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards, feeling the weight of centuries of history.

Next, you’ll head to Ta Prohm, famously tangled with enormous tree roots, which has become a poster child for the temple ruins. It’s easy to see why film directors chose it for “Tomb Raider”—the atmosphere of nature reclaiming stone is both eerie and beautiful. The guide pointed out the details in the carvings and shared stories about how the temple was built by Jayavarman VII.

Close by is Ta Nei, a quieter spot offering a peaceful experience away from the crowds. We appreciated the chance to wander without being jostled, soaking in a sense of tranquility.

Then, the tour takes you to Baphuon, a 11th-century Hindu temple with a reclining Buddha. Climbing Phnom Bakheng hill at sunset is included, so you’ll get a panoramic view of the complex—an ideal way to end the first day. Expect about 3 hours of sightseeing, with tickets included in the price.

Day 2: Early Sunrise and More Temples

The second day kicks off before dawn, with a pickup at 5:00 am to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat. The experience of watching the first light hit the iconic spires is unforgettable, and it sets a reflective tone for the day.

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll visit Preah Khan, a sprawling monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII. Its labyrinth of corridors and quiet courtyards makes it one of the most atmospheric ruins. Next, the smaller but charming Neak Pean island temple offers a peaceful scene—perfect for a short, contemplative stop.

The afternoon continues with visits to Eastern Mebon and Pre Rup, both temple-mountains with striking architecture. Pre Rup, in particular, is believed to be a funerary site, and standing atop it provides another striking overlook of the jungle.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Banteay Srei, often called the “citadel of women” for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings. It’s a highlight for many, offering intricate detail that’s quite different from the larger temples. Banteay Samre and Banteay Kdei round out the day, giving you a chance to see temples with different styles and histories.

The full second day involves a fair amount of driving, but the air-conditioned vehicle and expert guidance make it comfortable. You’ll be back in Siem Reap by late afternoon, feeling like you’ve truly experienced the heart of Angkor.

Transportation and Guide

The private transportation is a key benefit. It not only makes the day more comfortable but also allows for flexibility—your guide can adjust the pace or spend extra time at a site you find particularly interesting. The guide’s local knowledge enriches the experience, explaining complex symbols and stories that bring these ancient stones to life.

Cost and Value

Although $350 per person might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: all tickets, hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a private guide. That level of convenience and personalization makes this a good value, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of self-guided touring or large group excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a deep, well-guided exploration rather than just ticking off sights. If early mornings and a busy schedule don’t scare you, you’ll love how much you see and learn in just two days. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers eager for the best shots, and anyone who wants a manageable pace without sacrificing coverage.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about organizing transportation.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with an early pickup at 5:00 am on Day 2 for the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Are tickets included?
All sightseeing tickets are included in the tour price, so you won’t need to buy anything separately.

How long is the tour each day?
Day 1 involves about 8 hours of sightseeing, while Day 2 is similarly full, with early start and multiple temple visits.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and water are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and climbing stairs at temples.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, the schedule involves some early mornings and walking, which might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor some aspects, but the core sites are fixed. Check with Mekong Tourist for options.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Angkor Wat tour offers a thorough and comfortable way to experience Cambodia’s most famous monuments. The combination of early mornings, expert guidance, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it ideal for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. The inclusion of Banteay Srei adds a special touch, highlighting the craftsmanship of Khmer artisans.

While the full schedule might feel intensive for some, the value of having a private guide and transportation ensures you can focus on enjoying and understanding each site. If you’re after a well-rounded, rich experience that balances iconic sights with peaceful moments, this tour fits the bill.

This experience works best for those who want to cover a lot of ground in a short time and appreciate expert storytelling. Be prepared for early mornings and a busy schedule, but in return, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s extraordinary temples and history.

In summary, the 2 Day Angkor Wat with Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour provides an excellent, well-organized way to see the highlights of Angkor with comfort and insight. It offers a meaningful way to connect with the ancient temples and their stories, making your visit to Siem Reap memorable and enriching.