2-Day Angkor Wat With Small, Big Circuit And Banteay Srei Tour

Exploring the ancient Angkor Archaeological Complex in Cambodia is a captivating journey through centuries of rich history and breathtaking architecture. This two-day private tour offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the enigmatic Bayon, the lush Ta Prohm, and the iconic Angkor Wat. With a focus on the Small and Big Circuits, as well as the exquisite Banteay Srei, this comprehensive itinerary promises to unveil the complex’s profound cultural and historical significance. As the sun rises over the ancient temples, one can’t help but wonder about the stories that lie beneath the weathered stones, waiting to be discovered.

Key Points

A two-day private excursion exploring the Angkor Archeological Complex, including the Small Circuit temples on the first day and Angkor Wat, Big Circuit temples, and Banteay Srei on the second day.
Highlights include the enigmatic carved faces of Bayon Temple, the jungle-engulfed Ta Prohm, the intricate decorations of Banteay Kdei, and the exquisite pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei.
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, cool wet towels, and Angkor temple pass.
Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, providing insights and a deeper understanding of Angkor as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start time are eligible for a full refund, but no refund is provided for cancellations less than 24 hours in advance.

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Overview of the Tour

The Angkor Wat Tour is a two-day private excursion that takes visitors through the renowned Angkor Archeological Complex, allowing them to explore the temples and ruins on the Small Circuit on the first day and visit Angkor Wat, the Big Circuit temples, and Banteay Srei on the second day.

Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and complimentary bottled water and cool wet towels.

Travelers can expect a well-organized and efficient itinerary, making the most of their time in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour is suitable for most visitors, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Day 1: Exploring the Small Circuit

Exploring the Small Circuit on the first day, visitors will be immersed in the grandeur of Angkor’s ancient temples and ruins.

Guided by a knowledgeable expert, they’ll discover the stunning Bayon Temple with its enigmatic carved faces, wander through the sprawling Ta Prohm, famously overgrown with towering tree roots, and marvel at the intricate decorations adorning the Banteay Kdei monastery.

The Small Circuit also includes visits to the iconic Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and the serene Preah Khan, a temple complex that once served as a Buddhist university.

This action-packed day provides a comprehensive introduction to the Angkor Archaeological Park’s most breathtaking and well-preserved sites.

Highlights of the Small Circuit

Visitors journeying through the Small Circuit will encounter some of Angkor’s most iconic and captivating temples and ruins.

Bayon Temple’s enigmatic carved faces leave an indelible impression, while the sprawling Ta Prohm seems to merge seamlessly with the surrounding jungle’s towering tree roots. Equally mesmerizing are the intricate decorations adorning the Banteay Kdei monastery.

Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, boasts the serene Baphuon temple and the enigmatic Terrace of the Elephants.

The iconic Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, stands as the perfect culmination of the Small Circuit tour, with its towering spires and intricate bas-reliefs captivating all who visit.

Day 2: Visiting Angkor Wat and Beyond

On the second day of the tour, visitors delve deeper into the wonders of the Angkor complex, starting with the iconic Angkor Wat. They’ll have the chance to explore this immense temple, marveling at its intricate carvings and towering spires.

From there, the tour moves on to the temples of the Big Circuit, including Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and Neak Pean. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural prowess.

The tour then concludes with a visit to the stunning Banteay Srei, known for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings. Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insights, ensuring visitors leave with a deeper understanding of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Angkor Wat

The second day of the tour starts with a visit to the iconic Angkor Wat, where travelers can marvel at the temple’s intricate carvings and towering spires. The knowledgeable guide provides insights, ensuring visitors leave with a deeper understanding of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour then takes guests to explore the larger temples of the Big Circuit, including:

Ta Prohm, the jungle-enveloped temple made famous by the Tomb Raider film.
Preah Khan, a sprawling temple complex with stunning architecture and carvings.
Neak Pean, a unique island temple surrounded by a series of pools.
Ta Som, a small temple with impressive stone carvings and a famous tree-overgrown entrance.

Exploring the Big Circuit Temples

The tour takes visitors to several impressive and expansive temple complexes, each with its own unique architectural features and historical significance.

From the jungle-engulfed ruins of Ta Prohm to the serene island temple of Neak Pean, these larger temples offer a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer empire.

Visitors will be awestruck by the colossal scale and intricate carvings of Bayon, with its serene, smiling faces gazing out from the temple walls.

The enigmatic Preah Khan, with its maze of courtyards and passages, provides a sense of adventure and discovery.

These Big Circuit temples showcase the architectural and engineering prowess of the Khmer people.

Visiting Banteay Srei

One of the highlights of the Angkor Wat tour is the chance to visit Banteay Srei, a remarkable 10th-century temple renowned for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings. This small but beautifully preserved temple is located about 25 km north of the main Angkor complex.

Visitors are often mesmerized by the temple’s intricate reliefs, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology. Banteay Srei is considered a ‘jewel in the crown’ of Angkorian art, with its exceptionally fine details and proportions.

The tour includes:

Exploring the temple’s three-tiered structure and admiring the finely carved lintels and pediments.
Learning about the temple’s history and significance as an important religious site.
Visiting the nearby Banteay Samre temple, which shares Banteay Srei’s distinctive pink sandstone.
Enjoying the serene and picturesque setting, away from the crowds of the main Angkor temples.

Inclusions and Cancellation Policy

The Angkor Wat tour package includes several amenities to enhance the overall experience, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and cool wet towels. The tour also includes an Angkor temple pass, which costs $62 per person (children under 12 are free).

Accommodation and meals are also provided, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s located near public transportation, and most travelers can participate. The tour is private, so only your group will be involved.

Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start time are eligible for a full refund, but there’s no refund for cancellations less than 24 hours in advance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and children under 12 can enter Angkor temples for free. However, the tour may not be wheelchair accessible.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for the tour. The tour includes bottled water and cool wet towels, but you’re welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages if you prefer. The tour is self-paced, allowing you to enjoy the sights at your own pace.

Are Cameras and Photography Allowed?

Yes, cameras and photography are allowed at Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples. Visitors can take as many photos as they’d like during the tour to capture the magnificent architecture and scenic landscapes.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the Angkor Wat tour is modest. Visitors should wear covered shirts, pants, or skirts that go past the knees. Hats and sunglasses are recommended to protect against the sun.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary to fit their interests and schedule. However, changes may incur additional costs or affect the overall tour experience.

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Recap

This two-day private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Angkor Archeological Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors will enjoy the grandeur of Angkor’s ancient temples and ruins, including the iconic Angkor Wat, the stunning temples of the Big Circuit, and the exquisite pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei.

This tour provides a deeper understanding of this remarkable cultural and historical treasure.