Discover Cambodia’s Hidden Treasures in a Full Day

If you’re craving a day packed with some of Cambodia’s most fascinating sights beyond the usual Angkor Wat crowds, this Full Day Banteay Srei & Waterfall & Beng Mealea Tour offers an engaging blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. For $79 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring sites that tell stories of religious artistry, jungle ruins, and scenic landscapes. Your day kicks off with convenient hotel pickup in Siem Reap, making it easy to start your adventure without fuss.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are the intricate carvings at Banteay Srei, often called the “Citadel of the Ladies” — named after its delicate pink sandstone sculptures — and the chance to see Cambodia’s biggest waterfall, perfect for a refreshing break and some stunning photos. The exploration of Beng Mealea — dubbed the “Indiana Jones Temple” — gives you a sense of adventure and discovery, with its sprawling ruins and jungle backdrop.

A couple of points to consider: this tour covers quite a bit in a single day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and walking. Also, there are optional expenses like temples tickets ($37 for 1 day, $62 for 3 days), which aren’t included in the price. This tour suits those eager to see a mix of cultural, natural, and archaeological highlights with a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable private group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Diverse Sites: Visit a blend of artistic temples, lush waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
Expert Guides: Learn rich stories and historical context from English-speaking guides.
Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, drop-off, water, and towels, making the day smooth.
Cost & Value: Priced at $79, offering a comprehensive experience with optional additional expenses.
Physical Activity: Expect some walking and exploration, suitable for most travelers comfortable with moderate activity.
Authentic Experience: Smaller, private groups enhance intimacy and personalized attention.

While in Siem Reap, here are other experiences we've covered

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup & Introduction

Your day begins with a pickup from your Siem Reap hotel, where your guide greets you warmly. Traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll immediately notice how smooth and hassle-free this setup is, especially after a morning of travel fatigue. Your guide, likely someone passionate and knowledgeable, will set the tone by giving a brief overview of what the day holds.

Banteay Srei: The Pink Temple of Intricacy

Your first stop is Banteay Srei, about 30 km from Siem Reap. Known as the Citadel of the Ladies, this temple is famous for its delicate carvings and pink sandstone construction. We loved the way the temple is smaller and more detailed compared to Angkor Wat, making it feel like a jewel box of craftsmanship.

Here, you’ll have time to wander among the intricately carved lintels and walls, marveling at scenes of gods, demons, and celestial beings. The attention to detail is astonishing, and your guide will point out the symbolism and story behind the sculptures. It’s a masterclass in Khmer artistry, and the peaceful setting means you can really appreciate the craftsmanship without the crowds.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Waterfall & 1000 Linga Sculptures River

Next up is the biggest waterfall in the area, providing a refreshing natural contrast to the ancient temples. The sight of cascading water amid lush greenery offers a peaceful pause, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

A highlight here is the 1000 Linga Sculptures River, a sacred site where numerous lingas — symbols of Shiva — are carved into the riverbed or nearby stones. It’s a powerful reminder of Cambodia’s spiritual heritage. Some travelers have noted “seeing the lingas in the water was a highlight”, and it’s easy to see why — a blend of natural beauty and religious significance.

While you're exploring Siem Reap, here are other experiences we've looked into

Beng Mealea: Cambodia’s Jungle Temple

In the afternoon, your adventure leads you to Beng Mealea, often called the “Indiana Jones Temple” because of its sprawling ruins and jungle overgrowth. It’s a less-restored, more adventurous site that evokes the feeling of discovery. You’ll love the sense of exploring a lost city, with large stone blocks, fallen terraces, and thick greenery.

Your guide will share stories about its history and how it was hidden in the jungle for years before being opened to visitors. Expect to walk quite a bit as you explore the labyrinth of corridors and chambers. This site is perfect for those who enjoy archaeological exploration and a touch of adventure.

Additional Highlights: Reclining Buddha & Peung Chroung Temple

While heading back to Siem Reap, your guide may also point out the biggest reclining Buddha and the Peung Chroung temple, adding extra touches of spiritual significance and visual interest to your day.

Returning to Siem Reap

After a full day of exploration and discovery, you’ll be taken back to your hotel, tired but enriched by your experience. The convenience of hotel drop-off means you can relax and reflect on the day’s highlights without worrying about transportation.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Practical travelers will appreciate the all-in-one nature of this trip — covering temples, waterfalls, and ruins — all in one manageable day. The cost of $79 includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, water, towels, and hotel pickup/drop-off. The additional costs for admission tickets (around $37 for a one-day pass) are worth considering but are standard for temple visits in Cambodia.

Compared to visiting these sites independently, this tour saves you time, effort, and the hassle of planning logistics. Plus, the guided element adds context and storytelling, transforming a sightseeing day into a deeper experience.

What’s the Value for Different Travelers?

History and culture enthusiasts will love the detailed explanations and the opportunity to see lesser-visited sites.
Nature lovers will enjoy the waterfall and scenic surroundings.
Photographers will find ample opportunities at each stop for memorable shots.
Active travelers should be prepared for some walking and exploration.

The Bottom Line

This full-day tour from Siem Reap offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cambodia’s cultural and natural treasures. It’s particularly good for those wanting to go beyond Angkor Wat and see sites that are less crowded but equally awe-inspiring. Having a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and all planned stops makes it a hassle-free way to maximize your day.

While it’s not a leisurely, sit-back kind of tour, the variety of stops and the intimate group setting make it feel personal and engaging. It suits travelers who have a full day to spare and an appetite for adventure, history, and a touch of nature.

If you’re looking to expand your understanding of Khmer civilization and enjoy a scenic, active day, this trip is a solid choice. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera — you’ll want to capture every moment.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with walking. It’s not designed for wheelchair users, and some sites involve climbing or uneven terrain.

How early does the tour start?
Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. Typically, tours begin in the morning but confirm with your provider.

Are meals included?
No, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended to stay comfortable during your explorations.

Are tickets included in the price?
No, temple tickets are purchased separately ($37 for a 1-day pass, $62 for 3 days). The tour price covers transportation and guide services.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This tour offers an engaging blend of history, nature, and adventure, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day exploring Cambodia’s lesser-known but equally captivating sites.