3 Days Temple Tour: Sunrise, Sunset, and Fishing Village

If you’re considering a trip to Siem Reap, a well-rounded 3-day temple tour like this offers a fantastic way to experience Cambodia’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed. Not only does it cover famous temples like Angkor Wat and Bayon, but it also includes quieter spots like Neak Pean and Ta Nei, plus an authentic visit to a floating village. It’s a balanced mix that satisfies both first-timers eager to see the classics and those craving a more in-depth, less crowded experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to catch both sunrise and sunset over Angkor Wat—truly magical moments that make the trip unforgettable. Second, the inclusion of a floating village provides a glimpse into local life on Tonle Sap Lake, which many tours overlook. One potential consideration? The price is $193 per person, which includes most of what you need but does not cover entry fees or meals, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with a focus on both history and cultural authenticity. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfortable transport, a knowledgeable guide, and a mix of major highlights and hidden gems. If you’re up for an active, engaging exploration of Angkor’s temples and local villages, this tour will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary that covers the most famous temples and lesser-known sites.
• Includes sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat, two of the most photogenic moments you can experience in Cambodia.
• Visit to floating village offers a unique perspective on local life on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Comfortable transportation and professional guide enhance the experience without the hassle.
• Flexible booking options—reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Price of $193 provides good value considering the inclusions, though additional fees apply.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Temples: A Journey Through Time and Nature

This tour kicks off early on Day 1 with a visit to Preah Khan, a sprawling monastic complex where ancient stone carvings mingle with enormous trees, creating a scene straight out of a film. We loved the way nature has reclaimed this site—roots weaving through the ruins—highlighting the passage of centuries. Then, there’s Neak Pean, an artificial island temple surrounded by tranquil water, designed to symbolize balance and healing. Its quiet, reflective atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for contemplation.

Banteay Srei follows, often called the “Citadel of Women,” thanks to its intricate pink sandstone carvings. We found these detailed sculptures to be some of the finest in the Angkor region, transforming stone into delicate art. Banteay Samre offers a more subdued, peaceful experience, with classical architecture that’s beautifully restored.

As the day winds down, you’ll climb Phnom Bakheng for sunset. This ancient temple provides panoramic views over Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle, a classic picture-perfect moment. The climb can be a bit of a hike, but the stunning vista makes it worth every step.

Awakening at Angkor: The Magic of Sunrise and the Temple Circuit

Day 2 starts with an early wake-up call—resisting sleep in favor of catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat. The sight of this massive temple reflected in the surrounding lotus ponds is a breathtaking way to start the day. The tour’s timing makes sure you get a good view before the crowds arrive, a big plus for photographers or those seeking a quieter moment.

After sunrise, you’ll visit Bayon, famous for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 serene smiling faces. The intricate bas-reliefs and towers give you a real sense of the grandeur of Angkor. Nearby, Ta Prohm, with its roots snaking through the ruins — famously known as the “Tomb Raider” temple — offers a dramatic scene of nature reclaiming stone.

Ta Keo is a simpler, yet impressive, unfinished temple with towering steps and open galleries, providing excellent views from the top. Ta Nei, a lesser-visited and tranquil temple, offers a peaceful retreat amid the busier sites.

Walking through the Victory Gate into Angkor Thom feels like entering a forgotten kingdom, with grand statues of gods and demons pulling on a giant serpent. The Elephant Terrace and Bayon complete this circuit, showing off intricate carvings and large stone faces that have become symbols of Angkor’s grandeur.

A Glimpse Into Rural Cambodia and the Floating Village

Day 3 begins with visits to Preah Ko and Bakong, early and significant temples in the Roluos group, which tell stories of Hindu gods and cosmology through their detailed carvings. You’ll appreciate how these structures reflect the spiritual and political importance of the Khmer Empire.

Later, the tour takes a turn from ancient stone to water and wood with a boat trip to Kampong Phluk, a traditional floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. Here, homes on stilts and waterborne lifestyles reveal a side of Cambodia that many travelers miss. We loved the way villagers adapt to seasonal water levels, with their houses rising and falling like a tide. The boat ride offers a fascinating perspective on local livelihoods, fisheries, and community resilience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The inclusions really add value: a professional English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and cold towels make the long days more comfortable. The flexibility of swapping day 1 and 2 activities allows you to tailor the experience based on your interests and energy levels.

Though the temple entrance fee ($62 per person) and boat ride at the floating village ($25 per person) are extra, these are standard costs for such excursions. Remember, meals aren’t included, so plan to enjoy local food options along the way or bring snacks.

The reviews highlight the tour’s quality, with one traveler calling their guide “Very good,” and noting that the experiences are well-organized and memorable. The fact that it’s a private group makes for a more personalized, less hurried experience—something many travelers appreciate.

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The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

This tour lasts three days, with starting times that depend on availability—so flexibility is key. Pickup from your hotel is included, and you’ll be contacted the day before to confirm timing. You might find the pace demanding if you’re not used to early mornings and walking, but the guide’s expertise helps keep things engaging and smooth.

The cost of $193 per person is quite reasonable considering the scope of sights covered, especially when factoring in transportation and guiding services. Still, the additional costs for entrance fees and the floating village tour should be budgeted for.

The Sum Up

This three-day tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience Cambodia’s most iconic temples, stunning natural scenery, and local life on Tonle Sap. It balances major highlights with quieter, intimate spots, giving you a fuller picture of Angkor’s magic. The inclusion of sunrise and sunset views makes these moments accessible, and the visit to the floating village adds a meaningful cultural layer.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see the temples or a seasoned traveler seeking a deeper connection with Cambodia, this tour delivers value and authenticity.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated experience that minimizes logistical worries and maximizes memorable sights, this tour is a strong choice. Prepare for early mornings, comfortable transport, and plenty of photo-worthy moments—Cambodia’s ancient wonders await.

What is included in the tour price?
A professional English-speaking guide, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing at specified sites, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and cold towels.

Are the temple entrance fees included?
No, the $62 per person for temple entrance fees is additional.

Can I book this tour for any day?
Check availability to see starting times; the tour can sometimes be swapped between day 1 and 2 by contacting the supplier.

Is there a group size limit?
It’s a private group, so you’ll have a more personalized experience with your own guide and driver.

What should I wear?
Light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes for walking, and sun protection are recommended.

Will I need to carry cash?
You might want cash for additional fees like the floating village boat ride and meals, as these aren’t included.

How early do I need to wake up?
Day 2 starts early for the sunrise at Angkor Wat—be prepared for an early start but worth it.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, so assess your group’s mobility, especially for sunrise and sunset views.

What if I want to see more temples?
You can extend your stay or book additional tours; this package focuses on key sites and highlights.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping for your guide and driver is not included and can be based on the quality of service.

This tour offers a compelling mix of Cambodia’s ancient grandeur and lively local life, all delivered with ease and insight. Whether you’re seeking iconic temples or a glimpse into rural village life, it promises a memorable six-pack of experiences in Siem Reap.

You can check availability for your dates here: