Trip to Big Circle included Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre

Exploring the Heart of Angkor: A Private Day Trip to Big Circle

Imagine spending a day wandering through the majestic ruins of Angkor, but with a personalized touch that lets you explore at your own pace. This private 6-hour tour in Siem Reap offers just that—visiting some of the most iconic and hidden temples along the big circle route. For $165 per group (up to six people), you’ll experience Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and the remarkable Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre. The tour is perfect for history lovers and those craving a deeper dive into the less-crowded corners of Angkor than the typical crowded temples.

What really sets this trip apart are the highly knowledgeable guides, who bring the ancient sites alive with detailed explanations, and the opportunity to enjoy stunning landscape views along scenic village routes. Plus, the flexibility of a private tour means you can focus on what interests you most—whether it’s the intricate carvings of Banteay Srey or the atmospheric ruins overgrown with roots at Preah Khan.

A possible drawback? Since the tour lasts about six hours, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure. It’s also a full-day experience, so it suits travelers who want a rundown without rushing through. This tour is ideally suited for those who appreciate authentic temple visits, guided insights, and a relaxed yet immersive experience.

If you’re eager to see a balanced mix of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path gems with expert guidance, this trip offers solid value and a memorable day in Angkor. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy Cambodia’s ancient wonders up close.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your schedule and interests.
• Visit lesser-crowded sites like Banteay Srey and Banteay Samre, along with major temples.
• Expert guides provide detailed insights that make the ruins come alive.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off.
• Includes key highlights like Preah Khan’s roots-covered structures and Neak Pean’s island setting.
• Good value for a comprehensive, guided day out for groups up to six.

A Deep Dive into Your Angkor Adventure

The Perfect Introduction to Angkor’s Big Circle

Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—an appreciated luxury after a humid walk around the temples. Your guide will be with you throughout, ensuring you don’t miss key features and helping you understand the significance of each site.

Preah Khan: Roots and Ruins

We loved the way Preah Khan combines natural beauty with ancient craftsmanship. The trees and roots seem to embrace the stone structures, giving it a slightly mystical feel—a scene that rivals Ta Prohm for atmospheric power. Your guide, perhaps Mr. Vanna, will point out delicate carvings and explain the temple’s history. It’s the only site with a two-storey building, which is quite rare in Angkor’s architecture—standing on tall columns, it offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of Khmer construction.

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Neak Pean: A Water Sanctuary That Surprises

Next, you’ll visit Neak Pean, an island temple built in the same period as Preah Khan but offering a very different vibe. Located in the center of a reservoir, it’s an impressive sight—especially during the rainy season when water surrounds it completely. The raised wooden causeway leading to the island adds to the mystical feel, especially with surrounded submerged trees giving a ghostly atmosphere. This site is a bit more tranquil and offers great photo opportunities.

Ta Som: A Smaller, Yet Meaningful Temple

Moving on, Ta Som is a lesser-known gem built by King Jayavarman VII. It’s a small, charming site, but with a rich link to the Khmer royal family, as it was dedicated to the king’s father. This site, often less crowded, allows for a relaxed walk and appreciation of intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings.

East Mebon: The Reservoir Island Shrine

The East Mebon stands out for its impressive construction on what used to be an island in the East Baray reservoir. Built in the 10th century, it’s dedicated to Shiva and honors the king’s parents. It offers panoramic views from the top and a chance to appreciate the engineering of the ancient reservoir that once surrounded it.

Banteay Samré: A Hidden Hindu Temple

After a local lunch, you’ll explore Banteay Samré, built during the reign of Suryavarman II. This Hindu temple in the Angkor Wat style is smaller but beautifully preserved, with elegant carvings and a peaceful vibe. It provides insight into how Hinduism was expressed through temple architecture.

Banteay Srey: The “Lady’s Temple” of Pink Sandstone

The jewel of the day is the Banteay Srey, famous for its delicate carvings in pink sandstone. This compact temple, built in the late 10th century, is unlike many other Angkor sites—more intimate, with intricately detailed sculptures that look almost like lace. The craftsmanship here is stunning, and your guide will highlight the artistry behind the motifs. Its relatively remote location means fewer visitors, allowing you to savor the beauty without crowds.

Scenic Village Views and Authentic Atmosphere

Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy views of rural Cambodia—villages, rice paddies, and local life—adding a genuine touch of everyday life beyond the ruins. These landscapes offer a peaceful contrast to the stone temples and help you appreciate the environment in which these monuments were built.

Return and Reflection

At the end of the day, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, tired but enriched. The flexible schedule and private setup mean you can ask questions or spend more time at sites that captivate you most.

Why This Tour Works for You

This tour is undoubtedly a rich, comprehensive experience, especially for those who want to see a mix of famous and lesser-known temples with expert guidance. The small group size and private transportation make it comfortable and personal, while the well-chosen stops ensure you get the most out of your six hours. If you’re someone who appreciates detail, historical context, and a bit of scenic village life, this trip offers excellent value.

Authenticity and Accessibility

Many reviewers, like Elena, mention how the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary make the day memorable. She notes, “Mr Vanna is very good and very friendly. He managed everything in time and with very detailed and clear explanations.” That kind of personalized attention makes a difference, especially if you’re visiting such a vast site for the first time.

Value for Money

While $165 might seem steep for some, considering the private transport, guided service, and multiple sites, it delivers a lot of value. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off saves you hassle, and the skip-the-line entrance saves precious time. Plus, the chance to explore less-crowded sites makes the experience feel more intimate and rewarding.

The Sum Up

This private Big Circle tour in Siem Reap offers a balanced, well-structured glimpse into Angkor’s less-trodden corners and its most iconic wonders. It’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, guided experience that covers a broad range of sites without feeling rushed. The tour’s flexibility, expert guides, and scenic landscapes make it ideal for those eager to understand Cambodia’s temples beyond the typical tourist trail.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful yet immersive day among ancient stones, this trip is a smart choice. The authentic insights and fewer crowds elevate it above standard group tours, making your visit to Angkor truly special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Since the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, it’s best suited for children who can comfortably walk and handle a full day outside. It’s not specifically designed for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How long does each site visit last?
You’ll spend about 1 hour at Preah Khan, 30 minutes each at Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Banteay Samré, with some additional time for photo stops and brief walks.

Is the tour private for just my group?
Yes, this is a completely private tour for your booked group of up to 6 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be a lunch break after visiting East Mebon. You might find local restaurants nearby or bring snacks along.

Do I need to buy tickets for the temples?
Yes, temple entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, cash, biodegradable insect repellent, and a power bank are recommended to stay comfortable and capture memories.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired travelers due to the walking involved.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, making the day hassle-free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans flexible without upfront costs until you’re ready to confirm.

This private tour strikes a fine balance between comfort, authenticity, and adventure—an excellent way to truly connect with Angkor’s timeless charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: