2-Days Angkor Sunrise & Banteay Srei Tour

Introduction

This 2-day Angkor Sunrise & Banteay Srei Tour from Siem Reap offers a balanced blend of early mornings, immersive temple explorations, and authentic Cambodian culture. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, with plenty of time to appreciate each site’s unique charm.

What makes this tour stand out are the sunrise over Angkor Wat, the visit to the beautifully carved Banteay Srei, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, at $105 per person, it’s a pretty good deal considering the extensive itinerary.

One small consideration is the early start on the second day (leaving at 4:30 AM), which might be a challenge for night owls or those with very limited mornings. But if you’re eager to beat the crowds and capture that magical sunrise, it’s absolutely worth it.

This experience suits travelers who love history, photography, and cultural exploration, especially those keen to avoid the busy crowds during peak hours.

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Good To Know

• Early mornings for sunrise provide breathtaking views of Angkor Wat’s iconic silhouette.
• Comprehensive temple visits cover major sites like Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, and Ta Prohm.
• Convenience with hotel pickup, drop-off, and guided commentary enhances the experience.
• Value for money given the inclusion of multiple sites over two days for just $105.
• Authentic insights from previous reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the comfort of private groups.
• Practical tips like bringing comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and camera help optimize your visit.

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Angkor Thom and the Magnificent Temples

The tour kicks off around 8:00 AM after your breakfast, with a quick hotel pickup. Traveling in a comfortable A/C van with a driver and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’re set for a day packed with highlights.

Your first stops include the South Gate of Angkor Thom, an impressive stone entrance decorated with giant faces that seem to gaze forever. Here, you get a real sense of how monumental the Angkor complex is.

Next, you’ll visit the Bayon Temple, famed for its smiling faces carved into stone towers — a site that travelers mention as both “beautiful and mysterious.” Many reviews note the guide’s detailed commentary, which helps uncover the stories behind the carvings.

Following that, the day continues with the Baphoun Temple and the Royal Enclosure, which give insights into the royal architecture of Angkor. The tour also includes stops at the Elephant and Liper King Terrace and the less crowded Ta Nei and Ta Prohm temples, famous for its roots overtaking stones—a favorite for many movie fans after “Tomb Raider.”

By mid-afternoon, you’ll enjoy a break with lunch at a local restaurant, a perfect opportunity to recharge and enjoy authentic Cambodian cuisine.

The afternoon is reserved for the angkor Wat complex, including the big circle of temples, with highlights like Pre Rup and the Banteay Srei temple, often called the “Ladies Temple” for its intricate carvings. The day concludes with a sunset visit to Phnom Bakheng, offering elevated views over the ruins, and you’ll be back at your hotel by 6:30 PM.

Day 2: Sunrise and More Temples

The second day starts super early — 4:30 AM — to catch the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Watching the dawn light cast a golden hue over the iconic silhouette is a moment many travelers find unforgettable. You’ll be back at the hotel for breakfast afterward, ready for more.

Post-breakfast, the guide takes you to explore the big circle of temples, including Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, and the East Mebon. These sites are less crowded but equally fascinating, offering a glimpse into the diverse architecture and religious significance of Angkor.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Banteay Srei, renowned for its detailed pink sandstone carvings, often considered Cambodia’s jewel of temple architecture. The trip also includes stops at Banteay Samre and Pre Rup, providing a rounded experience of the area’s artistic and engineering achievements.

Your last temple visits include Preah Khan, a sprawling complex with a labyrinth of corridors, and the Neak Pean, a unique Buddhist temple built on an island in a sacred pool. The tour wraps up with a visit to Ta Som and East Mebon, then returns you to your hotel, usually by late afternoon.

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What to Expect from the Experience

Transport and Guide: You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver and an English-speaking guide, ensuring smooth transitions between sites. The guide’s insights are often highlighted in reviews, with many noting their friendly, informative nature.

Timing and Flexibility: The tour is designed for a full day of sightseeing with a mix of early mornings and daytime visits. Starting early on day two means beating the crowds at Angkor Wat, a definite plus for photography enthusiasts.

Temple Admission: The tour price does not include the temple pass, which is $37 for a day. Travelers should budget for this separately. The convenience of a guide means you’ll likely have your tickets ready and access to the sites without hassle.

Crowds and Comfort: Visiting during off-peak hours (like sunrise) helps avoid the crush of travelers, and the guided approach ensures you get the most out of each site without wasting time.

Authentic Experience: The inclusion of temples like Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm offers a more authentic feel than just sticking to the most popular sites. These temples are less commercialized and more atmospheric.

The Value of This Tour

At $105, including hotel pickup, drop-off, a guide, transport, and water, this tour offers excellent value. The admission fee for the temples is extra, but considering how much ground you cover, it’s a reasonable cost.

Unlike self-guided visits, this tour provides contextual stories and local insights that bring the ruins to life. Many reviews mention how their guides, like Mr. Sokha, added layers of stories and personal anecdotes, making the history more relatable.

The private group format ensures flexibility and intimacy, avoiding the overcrowding often seen on larger tours. This setup makes it easier to ask questions and tailor your experience to your interests.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking and climbing stairs at various temples.
• Sun protection: hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essentials, especially for the sun-drenched days.
• Camera: sunrise and temple details mean you’ll want to capture memories.
• Water and snacks: although water is provided, having a small snack or extra water can keep you energized.
• Arrive early on the second day to secure a good spot for the sunrise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided approach that saves you planning time. It’s great for those who want to see the iconic sights comfortably and with insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s also ideal for photographers wanting to catch the sunrise and avoid crowds.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed tour covering major temples with authentic experiences, this is a solid choice. However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to visit temples outside of regular hours, you might consider customizing your own itinerary.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but keep in mind the early start on day two and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, an English-speaking guide, parking fees, road tolls, water, and towels.

Does the price include the temple pass?
No, the temple pass (cost about $37 for a day) is not included and must be purchased separately.

How early does the tour start?
Day 1 starts around 8:00 AM, while day 2 begins at 4:30 AM for the sunrise.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private group, offering a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is each day’s tour?
Day 1 lasts approximately 10 hours, and Day 2 is similar, including the early sunrise and temple visits.

What are the main highlights?
Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and other temples on the big circle.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Many travelers appreciate the early morning light at Angkor Wat and the detailed carvings at Banteay Srei.

Final Thoughts

This 2-Day Angkor Sunrise & Banteay Srei Tour offers a well-rounded way to experience the highlights of Cambodia’s most famous temples. With a focus on authentic sites, expert guides, and the chance to see Angkor at its best (especially at sunrise), it’s perfect for travelers who want a structured yet flexible way to explore with convenience.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated experience that balances historical discovery with memorable moments like sunrise, this tour is worth considering. Its private group format and included extras make it a practical choice for those seeking comfort and insight without breaking the bank.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour helps you soak up the magic of Angkor with ease and genuine understanding.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby