Half Day Tour in Siem Reap
With this half day trip in Siem Reap , there will be a lot of options for you choosing with different places and different experiences.
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***OPTION 1 - ANGKOR WAT TOUR HALF DAY
Visit to Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 9th and 13th centuries, around the time when Angkor Wat was built. Stroll through the intricately carved hallways that show hundreds of fine carvings and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. If time permits, continue to visit other temples in the area.
***OPTION 2 - ANGKOR WAT WITH TUK TUK (AFTERNOON TOUR)
Start exploring the stunning temples by tuk-tuk. Start with a visit to one of the wonders of the modern world, the intricately carved Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat. The temple still displays hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology in its bas relief. Stroll around the massive hallways and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Transfer back to your hotel late afternoon.
***OPTION 3 - ANGKOR WAT WITH KHMER SCHOLAR
Visit Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders and most important religious monuments in the world, with a renowned Khmer scholar. He will be able to share his vast experience and give you a concise overview of Khmer history, culture, archaeology and civilization. He has been working with the Angkor Temple Conservation Institution for many years and has a detailed knowledge of the temple’s history as well as how they will be preserved in the decades to come. Take a stroll through the elaborate carved hallways of Angkor Wat as the Khmer empire is brought to life through the scholar’s explanations of the various stories contained in each of the bas reliefs and murals. This private tour takes approximately two to three hours and will be customized to your interest level.
***OPTION 4 - ANGKOR WAT WITH SCHOLAR + BALOON + DINNER
Start exploring the stunning temples by tuk-tuk. Start with a visit to one of the wonders of the modern world, the intricately carved Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat. The temple still displays hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology in its bas relief. Stroll around the massive hallways and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. You will lead by a Cambodian scholar who will help you to get a better understanding of Khmer history, culture, archaeology and civilization. To end this eye-opening first visit to the complex of Angkor we rise 200 meters by a tethered helium balloon (if weather permits) from the plains to witness sunset over the temple and jungle. This evening, enjoy a simple home-cooked dinner with a typical Khmer family – enjoy the well-known Khmer hospitality and interact with family members.
***OPTION 5 - ANGKOR THOM TOUR HALF DAY
Visit to Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of Khmer Empire with its centre piece; the Bayon temple. As you approach, you will notice the enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII looking into every direction. Your guide will take you to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. If time permits, continue to visit other temples in the area.
***OPTION 6 - ANGKOR THOM WITH TUK TUK (AFTERNOON TOUR)
Start exploring the stunning temples this afternoon by tuk-tuk. Visit the Royal city and former capital of the Khmer Empire; Angkor Thom. Angkor Thom consists of several temples including the Bayon, Baphuon, Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Enter the city through the impressive South Gate and drive towards the Bayon. At first glance the temple may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals enigmatic faces looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King viewed the victorious return of his army. After, visit the Terrace of the Leper King with detailed carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon before returning to Siem Reap for a free evening.
***OPTION 7 - TA PROM AND OTHER TEMPLES
Visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm. This beautiful temple is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling. If time permits, continue your visit to more of the Angkor ruins, possibly including Preah Khan, Neak Pean, East Mebon, located on an islet in the center of the Eastern Baray, and Ta Son, a Buddhist temple built in the late 12th century and in a ruined state.
***OPTION 8 - ROULOUS TEMPLE GROUP
Today you will start with a short drive to the Roulous temple group. The ruins of Roulous are among the oldest Khmer monuments in the area, dating back to the 9th century reign of King Indravarman I. Witness the evolution of these magnificent temples from the early days of the Khmer empire up to its peak with the Angkor temples in the 13th century. There are three key Hindu structures that remain at Roulous; Lolei, Bakong and Preah Ko, which were all part of the ancient city of Hariharalaya. You will peacefully explore the temples and soak up the local atmosphere away from the crowds. Walk a total distance of 3km from one temple to another and meet local friendly villagers on the way. Transfer back to Siem Reap town.
***OPTION 9 - BENG MELEA BY ROAD
Located 65km from Siem Reap, it is a pleasant 1.5 hour drive through the Cambodian countryside to reach the sprawling jungle temple of Beng Mealea. Constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style by King Suyavarman II in the early 12th century, Beng Mealea preceded and may have served as a prototype for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. Transfer back to Siem Reap. (It is advisable to wear sturdy, walking shoes with a decent grip)
***OPTION 10 - BANTEAY SREI AND KBAL SPEAN HALF DAY TOUR
Depart this morning for Banteay Srei, the only major temple that was not built by a monarch. It was constructed in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god - Shiva. Banteay Srei translates to “Citadel of the Women” and is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. Continue a short drive to Kbal Spean, which translates to “Bridge Head”. From the entrance it is an easy 3km hike up to the hill passing through a nice forest offering beautiful views over the surrounding plains. On top you will find a river with many rocks under the surface holding inscriptions and Hindu statues referred to as lingas which date back to the 11th century. There is also a waterfall on top that drops significant amounts of water during the wet season but dries up entirely during the height of the dry season (March/April). Enjoy a simple picnic lunch before returning back to Siem Reap mid afternoon. In the rainy season the route may be slippery and good footwear is advised.
***OPTION 11 - BIKING TO ANGKOR WAT
Depart for an introductory cycle to Angkor Wat, one of the modern wonders of the world. The temples are set among a large forest with shaded roads which are relatively quiet and suitable for cycling. On arrival at the temple, drop off the bikes and stroll through the intricately carved hallways that still show hundreds of fine carvings of Apsara and Hindu mythology and discover small shrines still in use today by the local people. Be amazed by the sheer size of the temple and learn how the Khmer Empire prospered between the 11th and 13th century. Continue cycling around the complex before heading back to the check-point from where you transfer back to your hotel. (Maximum of 14 km cycling)
***OPTION 12- BIKING TO ANGKOR THOM AND TA PROHM
Depart by bike for Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire with its centre piece; the Bayon temple. Although it may look like a shapeless mass of stone, further scrutiny reveals towers with enigmatic faces of former King Jayavarman VII. Continue to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King could welcome back his victorious army and the Terrace of the Leper King, which holds perfect carvings winding along a narrow passage way that leads to the Baphuon complex. Continue to Ta Prohm, considered to be one of Angkor’s jewels with is overgrown fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged itself over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘forgotten city’ feeling.
***OPTION 13- KHMER COUNTRYSIDE ON HORSEBACK
If you ever had great affinity with horses, this is your chance to combine your passion with exploring lost temples and authentic Cambodian rural life. The Happy Ranch in Siem Reap is a well - established institution where a total of thirty horses are groomed and available for riding. Arrive at the ranch and learn more about how the horses are kept, bred and fed. Explore the 10 acres of land that make up the ranch before climbing on the back of a horse for a ride through Cambodia’s rural scenery. Riding through paddy fields, visiting authentic places and observing traditional customs makes you feel like you have stepped back in time. Several rides are available varying from a 30 minute trial ride at the ranch to a half day ride visiting crafts villages, pagodas and ancient temples. An experienced Cambodian instructor will join you all the way. If riding is not for you, horse carts are also available.
***OPTION 14 - KHMER COUNTRYSIDE BY QUAD BIKE (AFTERNOON TOUR)
For those who are more adventurous and have the urge to explore off the beaten track, quad bike riding in Siem Reap is a new way to explore the Cambodian countryside. Enjoy an afternoon tour that leads through paddy fields, local villages and on dirt trails. Pass by monks, local villagers and students returning home from school who will all be curious to see you tearing past on a quad bike. Continue to the top of a small mountain where you can witness the sun set over the rural plains of Cambodia. After you return the quad bikes, return to Siem Reap by private vehicle.
***OPTION 15 - ANGKOR NATIONAL MUSEUM
In November 2007, the Angkor National Museum opened its doors, offering a comprehensive collection of Cambodian artifacts showcasing the origins of Khmer art, culture, and architecture. With eight galleries in total, it covers in depth the history of Cambodia and the Khmer Empire as well as a fascinating collection of Buddhist artifacts. Apart from the antiques and historical relics, they have successfully integrated state-of-the-art multimedia technology to help bring the exhibitions to life.
***OPTION 16 - ANGKOR NATIONAL MUSEUM WITH KHMER ARCHAEOLOGIST
Approx. Duration: 1 hour
Suggested time: in the morning
Capacity: max. 20pax
In November 2007, the Angkor National Museum opened its doors, offering a comprehensive collection of Cambodian artifacts showcasing the origins of Khmer art, culture, and architecture. With eight galleries in total, it covers in depth the history of Cambodia and the Khmer Empire as well as a fascinating collection of Buddhist artifacts. Enhance your knowledge of Khmer history and culture by attending a lecture by a Khmer archaeologist who has over 11 years of experience in this field. He has been working for the World Monuments Fund on projects including the Angkor Wat temple. He is also a lecturer at the Faculty of Archaeology at the Royal University.
***OPTION 17 -ARTISAN D’ANGKOR
Artisans d’Angkor focuses on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft skills. Here you can discover traditional Cambodian handicraft skills and observe the artisans at work. Ancient techniques are still practiced here such as wood and stone carving, lacquering, gilding and silk painting. A guided tour will provide you with more insight into this organization and you may direct any questions to one of the artisans through your guide. Learn about the overall operations and their goals for the future. You will also learn more about the artisans’ backgrounds and how this training has helped them to get a head start in life. Bid farewell to the artisans and return to your hotel.
***OPTION 18 - ANGKOR SILK FARM
The Angkor Silk Farm in Siem Reap is an extensive and well documented foundation that gives excellent insight into how silk is traditionally made in Cambodia. The farm supports vulnerable women to make a living for their families. Visit the Silk Farm and follow each step of the silk process, from growing the mulberry trees to providing the essential ingredients to grow and feed silkworms. There are craftswomen at work allowing you to observe how silk is processed traditionally. They remove the silk thread from the cocoons and work the thread prior to weaving. An on-site shop allows you to bring home some memorable souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones back home.
***OPTION 19 - (MORNING TOUR) ARTISAN D’ANGKOR AND ANGKOR SILK FARM
After breakfast visit Artisans d’Angkor which focuses on training unschooled rural youth in traditional handicraft. Discover Cambodian handicraft by observing the artisans at work. Continue to the Angkor Silk Farm that gives excellent insight into how silk is traditionally made in Cambodia. The farm supports vulnerable women to make a living for their families. Visit the Silk Farm and follow each step of the silk process, from growing the mulberry trees to providing the essential ingredients to grow and feed silkworms. Return to Siem Reap.
***OPTION 20 - BENG MELEA BY HELICOPTER
Start by helicopter from Siem Reap International Airport and climb-up to heights from where the entire Angkor Complex can be observed. Located 65km from Siem Reap, Beng Melea is a sprawling jungle temple constructed by King Suyavarman II in the early 12th century. It preceded and may have served as a prototype of sorts for Angkor Wat. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling which adds to its charm in a unique way. Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. (For helicopter availability, morning flights between 8AM to 12PM are advised. You are recommended to wear sturdy, walking shoes with a decent grip)
***OPTION 21- KOH KER BY HELICOPTER
Start by helicopter from Siem Reap International Airport and climb-up to heights from where the entire Angkor Complex can be observed. Located 130km from Siem Reap, Koh Ker was built in the 10th century and functioned briefly as the Khmer Empire’s capital between 928 and 944 A.D. The style of the Koh Ker temple is different from any other temple in Cambodia and has more of a resemblance to the ancient pyramids of Egypt. Partially overgrown by the forest and inhabited only by birds, this temple and its surroundings are an exceptional experience. Enjoy a picnic on site before flying back to Siem Reap. (For helicopter availability, morning flights between 8AM to 12PM are advised).
***OPTION 22 - PREAH VIHEAR BY HELICOPTER
Start by helicopter from Siem Reap International Airport and climb-up to heights from where the entire Angkor Complex can be observed. Reach the majestic Preah Vihear Temple site in under an hour. Preah Vihear dates back to the beginning of the 11th century. It dominates the plain from its prominent position in the Dangrek Mountains at an altitude of over 700m. The temple is located near the Thai border and was previously occupied by the Thais. It has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Explore this historic temple and take in the sweeping views from the summit over Thailand and Cambodia. Enjoy a picnic on site before flying back to Siem Reap. (For helicopter availability, morning flights between 8AM to 12PM are advised).
***OPTION 23 - BOAT TRIP ON TONLE SAP LAKE
Drive about 45-minutes to the countryside, stopping en route to visit a local village. Arrive at the quay and board a local boat for a 1.5-hour ride on the Tonle Sap Lake (the best times are from July to February), also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia. Find out how communities live and work on the lake; see the floating schools, markets, and police stations, among others; observe their daily lives. Get off and visit a typical floating house to interact with the local families. Drive back to Siem Reap.
***OPTION 24 - BOAT TRIP KAMPONG KHLEANG WITH LUNCH
Transfer approximately one hour to the floating village of Kampong Khleang, one of the largest settlements on the Tonle Sap Lake. Living on water is an art the Khmer people have mastered over the course of time. Board a local boat and visit a floating house where a catered lunch is set up for you. Observe the local customs and talk with your hosts about the differences they face living on the water. Head back to Siem Reap.
***OPTION 25 - SUNSET CRUISE ON TONLE SAP LAKE
In the late afternoon, drive towards the Tonle Sap Lake and make a brief stop at Wat Athvea. This 12th century temple was used as a training ground for workers who would later build Angkor Wat. Continue to Chhong Kneas floating village where your boat awaits you for a trip onto Tonle Sap Lake. In the wet season, the lake expands to 16,000km², making it the largest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia. Cruise through the floating village and observe the local way of life. Admire sunset at a secluded spot on the lake and take in the peace and scenery. Enjoy a sunset cocktail and canapés before returning to the port for a transfer back to town. Return to the port after sunset and head back to Siem Reap by car.
***OPTION 26 - PRIVATE COOKING CLASS AT ANGKOR VILLAGE
The Angkor Village is a well - appointed resort in the middle of Siem Reap’s bustling tourism scene. Start the day early with a trip to the morning market of Psar Chas and select the freshest vegetables and spices available together with a local chef who will teach you all that you need to know about the ingredients. Once the fresh produce has been selected for today’s meal, you will head towards the peaceful grounds of the resort and receive a demonstration from the chef of the dishes you will prepare. Today, the traditional kitchen is your playground and together with your private Khmer chef you will prepare a wonderful meal. The recipe can easily be duplicated at home for you to impress your friends and family with your newly acquired cooking skills.
***OPTION 27 - SIC - COOKING CLASS AT ANGKOR VILLAGE
The Angkor Village is a well - appointed resort in the middle of Siem Reap’s bustling tourism scene. Start the day early with a trip to the morning market of Psar Chas and select the freshest vegetables and spices available together with a local chef who will teach you all that you need to know about the ingredients. Once the fresh produce has been selected for today’s meal, you will head towards the peaceful grounds of the resort and receive a demonstration from the chef of the dishes you will prepare. Today, the traditional kitchen is your playground and together with your private Khmer chef you will prepare a wonderful meal. The recipe can easily be duplicated at home for you to impress your friends and family with your newly acquired cooking skills.
***OPTION 28 - PRIVATE COOKING CLASS AT SOUJOURN VILLAS
Approx. duration: 2-3 hours
Suggested time: morning or afternooon
Venue: Soujourn Villas
Capacity: 2-7 pax
Accessible vehicle: all vehicles
Enjoy a private hands-on Cambodian cooking experience set in a purpose built bamboo village pavilion. You will learn how to make 3 Khmer dishes after a short walk through the village to learn about local cooking customs and ingredients and food superstitions. After the class, enjoy the fruits of your labors with a lunch or dinner of your personally prepared food.
***OPTION 29 - SIEM REAP PRIVATE BLESSING CEREMONY
Approx. Duration: 15-20mins
Approx. Duration: 15-20mins
Suggested time: 9:00am - 11:00am
Venue location: downtown
Capacity: max. 25 pax
Located in the heart of Siem Reap town, Wat Damnak is one of the most beautiful pagodas in town with French colonial architecture reflecting its history and a large garden filled with statues. Bring candles and incense sticks to the pagoda and participate in a private good luck blessing ceremony, performed by local monks that reside at the temple. Sit on the mat while the monks chant blessings and sprinkle holy water on you – a traditional way which is believed pass on the good luck of the gods. Afterwards, a sacred thread will be tied around your wrist. This will protect you from any evil spirits or accidents. Before you continue on your journey, you will receive a small keepsake from the monks to remind you of this special moment.
***OPTION 30 - COLORS OF CAMBODIA - PAINTING ANGKOR
Suggested time: Early morning or late afternoon
Capacity: max. 10pax
Meet a young local artist who will tell you his life story and how he became involved with art. The artist now works with a local charity, Colors of Cambodia. The project was set up by William Gentry in 2003 and aims to support children between five and sixteen years of age from the most underprivileged schools in the Siem Reap area. Enjoy a field trip to Angkor and its rural surroundings and receive a short lesson from the artist on how to paint and to reproduce the Angkor temples in your own way. You will also be accompanied by a local student who will also be there to paint and to share their experience with you. Enjoy discovering your artistic self, exchanging ideas and knowing you have helped the local community before heading back to town.
***OPTION 31 - CHILDREN’S SCHOOL OF ART
Drive to visit the School of Art that trains more than 200 children in various Khmer Arts such as classical dance, folk dance, Pin Peat Music and Yike drama. Interact with the trainers and the children to learn how they preserve the traditional performance arts. Any form of donation is welcome. (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays – in case the visits fall on either day, Artisans d’Angkor is visited instead).
This tour is built upon our firsthand knowledge & experience, offering you the best choices available. The price of this trip varies depending on the number of people in your party, dates of departure, and availability of ground services.
Please click on CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIPS and supply the required information, enabling us to send you your personalized quote within 24 hours!
Note: Amendments CAN be made to this tour to suite your requirements, but may incur price changes
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
• Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels
• Private Vehicles and Drivers
• Transport from Hanoi to Halong and return by mini van
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
• All domestic flights
• Airport Taxes and Fuel charges
• Entrance fees for all mentioned sights visited
• Drinking water available on the vehicles.
• Service Charge & Government Taxes
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
• Your International Flights
• Personal Expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
• Any bank fees or charges at your end
• Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal Travel Insurance
• Tips for tour guide and driver in each region
• Peak season or public holidays surcharge if any
• Compulsory Gala dinner on X-Mas or New Year if any
• Vietnam visa stamp fee
• Other services not mentioned above
HOTEL SELECTION:
The hotels listed below are our suggestions for the best value on this tour. However, Asia Essence Tours offers many more options of hand-picked hotels, with different "star ratings", allowing you to customize the vacation to meet your taste and budget.
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LOCATIONS |
FIRST CLASS CATEGORY |
SUPERIOR CATEGORY |
DELUXE CATEGORY |
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Siem Reap |
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Phnom Penh |
ABOUT HOTELS:
We, at Asia Essence Tours, are aware that a good tour must have good hotels. As the hotel cost will be the major expense of your vacation in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, it is essential that all of the hotels chosen by us are the highest quality for the price paid. All of our prices are based on twin, double or queen shared rooms.
BELOW IS AN EXPLANATION OF THE HOTEL "STAR" RATINGS:
First Class/ 3 Star (from US$ 50 - US$ 80 per room/night)
The First Class/ 3 Star Hotels are good value and normally centrally located. They all have comfortable en-suite rooms, good amenities and public areas to relax in. They are usually family run hotels, so offer great personalized service for your enjoyment and comfort. Most first class properties offer an in-house restaurant, and some may even have a swimming pool!
Superior/ 4 star (from US$ 100 - US$ 150/ per room/night)
The 4* superior Hotels offer a wide range of services. Many superior hotels feature a choice of several in-house restaurants. In addition virtually all of them have a swimming pool. Some may even feature a spa or health club. This grade of hotel offers more for your enjoyment and comfort, while still remaining affordable.
Deluxe/ 5 Star (from US$160 - US$ 240++/ per room/night)
These 5* Deluxe hotels are usually owned by Worldwide, well known Hotel chains. The deluxe hotels feature excellent locations, offer the highest standards of service and facilities, and are known as the best hotels in each region. Facilities such as swimming pools and spas are the norm, and guest rooms are luxurious. These hotels offer first class service and amenities throughout.
ASIA ESSENCE TOURS™ BESPOKE STYLE SUITS EVERYONE
Flexibility: The sample itinerary can be modified to suit your interests, budget as well as your personal wishes including departure date, duration, accommodation used & how long you spend in each destination.
Tailor-Made Journey: This trip can be tailor made to create a unique holiday for your individual requirements by travel experts with intimate knowledge of the destination. It is a more individual trip that will suit those who enjoy immersing themselves in new cultures and environments, with the flexibility to plan a trip at your own pace. Quality and value are the hallmark of the trips, with most services being provided on a private basis.
Commitment to Excellence: We enjoys excellent relationships with all of the highly regarded hotels and finest properties in our destinations as well as with service suppliers so that we are able to negotiate the most attractive prices for our clients, which enables us to provide exclusive holidays and affordable special offers. We create one-of-a-kind vacations for groups and individuals. We love our destinations and do our best to make sure that our customers feel the same way. Our job is to make sure that everyone gets the right balance of comfort and excitement to enjoy the experience of a lifetime.
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