Tag Archives: Temples

Street View Sunset Cambodia

Phnom Bakheng at Sunset

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Seeing the sunset in Angkor Wat proper is a little difficult but in Phnom Bakheng, minutes away, it is welcomed. There is a hike involved but the breathtaking view will make it all worth it. Bring your video camera for this one!

🏞️ Phnom Bakheng at Sunset – Quick Background

🛕 What is Phnom Bakheng?
  • Built in the late 9th to early 10th century by King Yasovarman I.
  • It was the first major temple built at Angkor, and originally the state temple of the capital city Yasodharapura (before Angkor Wat existed).
  • Constructed on a hill, it symbolizes Mount Meru, the spiritual center of the universe in Hindu cosmology.
    • 🌇 Why Sunset?
  • Because of its hilltop position, Phnom Bakheng offers one of the best panoramic views of Angkor—including a distant view of Angkor Wat surrounded by jungle.
  • It’s famous for sunset viewing, so much so that the number of visitors allowed up at one time is capped to 300 people to preserve the site and avoid overcrowding.
    • 🚶‍♂️ Access
  • It requires a moderate uphill walk of about 15–20 minutes.
  • Along the way, you’ll often spot elephants (though that practice is now being phased out for ethical reasons).

    • 🌇 Phnom Bakheng Sunset Tour

    🗺️ Tour Highlights:
    • Hilltop temple with panoramic views
    • Stunning sunset overlooking Angkor Wat
    • Chance to experience one of Angkor’s oldest temples
    📖 Tour Walkthrough:

    Your evening journey begins with a walk up Phnom Bakheng, a 9th-century temple-mountain located just northwest of Angkor Wat. As you climb the wooded hill, you’ll be retracing the steps of ancient pilgrims headed for one of the earliest temples in the Angkor region. At the summit, the temple’s five tiers rise to mimic the mythical Mount Meru. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable sunset view—golden light washing over Angkor Wat in the distance, jungle stretching endlessly around you, and the ancient stones glowing with warmth. Entry to the summit is capped at 300 people, so timing and pacing are key to this peaceful and spiritual experience. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes for this one!

    ⏳ Estimated Tour Time:
  • Three – Four Hours*

    • ✅ Tour Includes:
  • Hotel pickup, return transport, temple access guidance, and a chilled bottle of water for the hilltop climb.

    • ❌ Tour Excludes:
  • Angkor Archaeological Park Pass Fee ($37 USD 1 Day / $62 USD 3 Day); required for all Angkor area temples
  • Meals or snacks

    • 💵 Tour Cost:
    Tuk Tuk $20 USD
    Car $35 USD
    Banteay Samre Inner Temple

    Banteay Srei / Banteay Samré

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    Add Banteay Samré to your Banteay Srei tour. There is a mysterious surprise here that has Archeologist stumped for years. Can you figure it out?

    🏯 Banteay Samré & Banteay Srei – Quick Background

    🛕 What is Banteay Samré?
  • Banteay Samré is a quieter temple, often overlooked by tourists, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful mythological carvings. Within its inner sanctuary lies a small mysterious tomb whose purpose remains unknown to historians.
    • 🌸 What is Banteay Srei?
  • Banteay Srei is famous for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings dating back to the 10th century, and is said to have been built by women. The temple is surrounded by a peaceful lotus pond and is a highlight of Cambodian architecture and artistry.
    • 🚗 Why Visit Both?
  • Combining these two temples makes for a fascinating half-day tour. You’ll enjoy the tranquility of Banteay Samré and the intricate artistry of Banteay Srei, along with a scenic ride through the Cambodian countryside.

    • 🌿 Banteay Samré & Banteay Srei Tour

    🗺️ Tour Highlights:
    • Journey through the Cambodian countryside
    • Banteay Samré Temple
    • Banteay Srei Temple
    📖 Tour Walkthrough:

    The first stop on your journey is the often overlooked, but not underestimated Banteay Samré. You won’t come across many tourists here, allowing you to absorb the serene atmosphere. Walk around the enclosure and observe the carvings that depict mythological scenes, then make your way to the inner sanctuary where you will come across a small tomb whose purpose remains a mystery.

    After Banteay Samré, relax on a spectacular ride through the Cambodian countryside to Banteay Srei. Take your time walking through the art exhibition about the temple’s history and restoration. Stroll past the lotus pond and explore the marvelous pink sandstone temple with its divine carvings dating back to the 10th century. Once finished, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant before your ride back to your hotel.

    ⏳ Estimated Tour Time:
  • Five hours

    • ✅ Tour Includes:
  • Hotel Pickup And Drop Off, Transport To The Locations, A Cold Bottle Of Water And A Fresh Coconut

    • ❌ Tour Excludes:
  • Angkor Archaeological Park entry fee ($37 USD)
    Meals

    • 💵 Tour Cost:
    Tuk Tuk $30 USD
    *Add Kabal Spean $35 USD

    Car $50 USD
    *Add Kabal Spean $50 USD

    Location: Banteay Srei / Banteay Samré

    Time: 5 hours

    Description: Two smaller complexes with multiple towers connecting with catwalks. A very cool experience for those who’ve been to Siem Reap a few times.

    Banteay Srey Inner Temple

    Banteay Srei

    All Tours, Countryside Tours, Out Of Angkor Area, , ,

    This tour, just outside the Angkor Archaeological Park, offers a glimpse into authentic Cambodian countryside life and culture. Make sure your camera is ready—the views are stunning!

    🌄 Banteay Srei Tour – Quick Background

    📍 What to Expect
    • A scenic one-hour ride through Cambodia’s peaceful countryside.
    • Visit the exquisite Banteay Srei temple, famed for its pink sandstone and intricate 10th-century carvings.
    • Enjoy an art exhibition about the temple’s history and restoration.
    • Experience the charm of a temple said to have been built by women.
    • Optional traditional Khmer meal at a nearby restaurant after the visit.
    🌟 Why Choose This Tour?
    • Perfect for those who want a cultural and natural experience away from the main Angkor circuit.
    • Combines beautiful scenery, history, and local life in one relaxed outing.
    • Great for photographers and culture lovers alike.
    🚗 Access & Logistics
    • Approximately one hour each way from Siem Reap.
    • Transport via tuk tuk or car.
    • Entry fee to Angkor Archaeological Park is required ($37 USD).

    🛕 Banteay Srei Tour

    🗺️ Tour Highlights:
    • Journey through the Cambodian countryside
    • Banteay Srei Temple
    📖 Tour Walkthrough:

    Sit back and relax on the spectacular one-hour ride through the Cambodian countryside. Once you arrive at Banteay Srei, take your time walking through the art exhibition on the history of the temple and its restoration. Stroll past the lotus pond and let your journey take you to the marvellous temple that is cut from stone of a pinkish hue. Explore the divine carvings that date back to the 10th century, and take in the beauty of this temple that was said to have been built by women. Once you are finished your tour, head to a nearby restaurant and chow down on some traditional Khmer food before your ride back to your hotel.

    ⏳ Estimated Tour Time:
    • Four hours
    ✅ Tour Includes:
    • Hotel Pickup and Drop Off
    • Transport To Banteay Srei
    • A Fresh Cold Coconut
    ❌ Tour Excludes:
    • Angkor Archaeological Park Entry Fee ($37 USD)
    • Meals
    💡 Suggestions:
    • Wear Comfortable Sandals or Shoes Such as Keen or Teva
    • Bring $20–$50 For Meals, Extra Water, Souvenirs Etc.
    💵 Tour Cost:
    Tuk Tuk $25 USD
    *Add Banteay Samré $35 USD
    *Add Kabal Spean $40 USD

    Car $40 USD
    *Add Banteay Samré $40 USD
    *Add Kabal Spean $50 USD