Angkor Wat Cycling Tour

Exploring Angkor Wat by bike is a different experience altogether. While most visitors tend to explore the sprawling temple complex on foot or by tuk-tuk, a cycling tour offers a closer, more personal connection with the surroundings — and it’s eco-friendly too. This particular tour by Easy Angkor Trip has earned a perfect rating of 5.0 from eight reviews, which speaks volumes about its quality.

What makes this tour special? First, the small group size and personalized attention ensure you’re not lost in a crowd. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Mr. K are praised for their friendliness and local insights, making the experience more enriching. Third, the use of high-quality bikes and helmets makes for a comfortable and safe ride.

One possible consideration is the need for a temple pass at $37, which isn’t included in the tour price. Also, while the tour is quite flexible, some travelers might find the 6-8 hour duration a bit lengthy if they prefer shorter excursions.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activity, want a deeper feel for Cambodia’s rural life, and love exploring historical sites with a local expert. If you’re after a memorable and active way to see Angkor, this ride could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Eco-friendly and intimate: Cycling allows for a more personal, less crowded experience.
• Guided by friendly experts: Guides like Mr. K are a highlight, offering local knowledge and care.
• Includes bike and helmet: High-quality equipment ensures safety and comfort.
• Stops at major temples: From Angkor Wat to Ta Prohm, covering key highlights and some lesser-known sights.
• Duration and flexibility: Lasts approximately 6-8 hours, with a leisurely pace suitable for most.
• Additional costs: Temple pass ($37) is not included, so budget accordingly.

What to Expect from the Angkor Wat Cycling Tour

This tour invites you to see Angkor from a different angle—literally. With departure from your hotel around 7:30 am, you’ll start early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The pace is leisurely, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and the focus is on enjoying the scenery rather than pushing hard.

Throughout the day, you’ll cycle along well-paved trails and quiet backroads, which are often inaccessible to larger vehicles. This means you’ll encounter rural Cambodian life, observe locals going about their daily routines, and enjoy the lush jungle scenery that surrounds many temples. Think of it as a scenic, slow-motion journey through history and nature.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Angkor Wat
You’ll begin with the world-famous Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument on Earth. Built between 1113 and 1150 during Suryavarman II’s reign, this temple is an architectural marvel. Although the admission ticket ($37) is not included, you’ll spend around two hours here, marveling at its intricate bas-reliefs and towering spires. Reviewers mention the experience as a “highlight” of their trip, emphasizing the convenience of seeing it up close on a bike rather than fighting crowds in a bus or on foot.

Stop 2: Bayon Temple
Next, you’ll visit Bayon, famed for its smiling stone faces adorning the towers. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII, it’s a striking contrast to Angkor Wat’s symmetry. With 54 towers representing the provinces of the Khmer empire, this stop lasts about two hours. Reviewers appreciate the local guide’s knowledge, noting how he painted a vivid picture of the site’s history.

Stop 3: Chau Say Tevoda
This lesser-visited Hindu temple, built mid-12th century, offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It’s only a 30-minute stop, but many say it’s worth it for the chance to see an authentic temple without the crowds. It’s an excellent addition to the tour, providing a glimpse of the diversity of Angkor’s temple architecture.

Stop 4: Ta Prohm
Famous for its giant tree roots entwined with the ruins—made even more popular by the movie Tomb Raider—Ta Prohm is a must-see. Built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, it’s fascinating to see how nature reclaims stone here. This stop also lasts about two hours, and many reviewers mention how the guide’s insights helped them appreciate the blend of nature and human engineering.

Stop 5: Ta Nei
This hidden gem, built during Jayavarman VII’s reign, is a quiet spot mostly loved for its peaceful ambiance. It’s a one-hour stop, allowing for contemplation or a quick exploration. Reviewers love the less-crowded atmosphere, which feels like a secret find.

Stop 6: East Gate of Angkor Thom
The tour ends at the East (Death) Gate of Angkor Thom, built by Jayavarman VII. It’s a fitting last stop, offering a chance to reflect on the entire experience. With a short 30-minute visit, you’ll get a sense of the scale and grandeur of this ancient city.

Practical Details and What You’ll Love

Guides and Equipment
Most reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Mr. K, who is described as knowledgeable, caring, and accommodating. They’re happy to tailor the ride to your pace and interests. The high-quality bikes and helmets are another plus, especially for those wary of biking in unfamiliar terrain.

Timing and Duration
Starting early at 7:30 am, the tour spans approximately 6 to 8 hours, allowing for ample exploration without feeling rushed. The leisurely pace means you can soak in the sights and enjoy the surroundings comfortably.

Cost and Value
At $45 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and quality. While the $37 temple pass isn’t included, the cost of guided, eco-friendly exploration with a knowledgeable guide, private transport, and quality gear makes it a worthwhile investment. Many reviewers mention that the personalized experience and access to lesser-known temples add a lot to the overall value.

What’s Not Included
The only significant extra fee is the admission ticket to Angkor Wat, which you’ll need to purchase separately. The tour does include pickup, drop-off, water, and gear, making it a hassle-free experience.

Authenticity & Personal Experiences

Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Mr. K enhance the trip by sharing insights and local stories, making what could be just a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience. One reviewer notes how the back roads and jungle trails reveal parts of Angkor rarely seen by typical travelers, creating a sense of adventure and discovery.

Many refer to the safety and comfort of the bikes and helmets, which reassures even less confident cyclists. The quiet trails and rural scenery also enable visitors to see Cambodia’s countryside and everyday life, which is often missed on larger tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love outdoor activity and want to see Angkor from a different perspective, this biking tour is excellent. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a more sustainable, intimate experience and aren’t in a rush. It’s ideal for those who value knowledgeable guides and small-group adventures that focus on authenticity.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, superficial overview of the temples, or if cycling isn’t your thing, this might not be the best fit. Also, remember the additional cost of the temple pass and plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Angkor Wat cycling tour packs a lot of value into a day of exploration. You’ll visit iconic sites like Angkor Wat and Bayon, while also discovering lesser-known temples and quiet backroads, all under the guidance of friendly, well-informed locals. The combination of eco-friendliness, comfort, and authentic insight makes it a standout choice for those who want a memorable, active way to experience Cambodia’s most famous monuments.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour offers a personalized, engaging way to connect with Angkor’s ancient marvels. Just remember to budget for the temple pass and be prepared for an active day that balances sightseeing and outdoor fun.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the leisurely pace and well-paved trails make it accessible for most people, even those who are not regular cyclists.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items you may want. Water is provided, but you might consider bringing a small snack or extra water bottle.

Are helmets and bikes provided?
Yes, high-quality bikes and helmets are included, ensuring safety and comfort during your ride.

Do I need to book the temple pass separately?
Yes, the $37 Angkor Temple Pass is not included and must be purchased separately.

What if I want to customize the tour or skip certain temples?
Most guides, including Mr. K, are flexible and can tailor the experience to your preferences, within the duration.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 6 to 8 hours, depending on pace and stops.

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it convenient.

Are children or families welcome?
Most reviews mention the tour as suitable for most travelers, including families, provided they are comfortable cycling for several hours.

Can I do this tour if I don’t have much cycling experience?
Yes, the leisurely pace and quality equipment make it suitable even for beginners, but a basic level of comfort on a bike is recommended.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Starting early at 7:30 am helps avoid crowds and heat, making for a more enjoyable experience.

To sum it up, the Angkor Wat Cycling Tour offers an engaging, authentic way to explore Cambodia’s most iconic temples. It’s perfect for those who seek a blend of adventure, culture, and sustainability, guided by friendly experts. If you’re ready for a memorable day on two wheels, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.