2-Day Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei & Floating Village K-Pluk

Travelers dreaming of exploring Cambodia’s iconic temples and vibrant local life will find this 2-day private tour from Siem Reap a fantastic option. It combines the awe-inspiring architecture of Angkor Wat, the charm of Banteay Srei, and an immersive boat trip through floating villages—delivering an authentic and flexible experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized touch with a private guide and vehicle, allowing for more tailored visits. Second, the chance to witness both the grandeur of Angkor’s temples and the everyday life on Tonle Sap Lake, from rice paddies to stilt houses. Lastly, the inclusion of less crowded, yet equally fascinating temples like Banteay Srei adds a special layer of discovery.

One thing to consider is that this tour does not include temple entry fees or floating village tickets, so travelers should budget for these separately. This experience suits those who value in-depth, customized sightseeing with a balance between history, culture, and local color.

Good To Know

• Private, flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and pace
• Expert English-speaking guides rich in local knowledge
• Includes iconic sites like Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Bayon Temple
• Boat cruise through floating villages offers authentic insight into local life
• All transportation and amenities like water and towels are included
• Cost-effective at $133 per person considering the comprehensive experience

This tour is designed to give you a balanced mix of Cambodia’s ancient marvels and vibrant local culture, making it ideal whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, a culture seeker, or someone who simply wants to soak in the beauty of Angkor and the surrounding areas.

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Day 1: Angkor’s Treasures and Jungle Mysteries

The first day kicks off around 8:00 am with hotel pickup. From there, you’ll head straight into the magnificence of Angkor Wat, the largest religious temple built in the 12th century. As one of the most recognizable symbols of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is as mesmerizing in person as it looks in pictures. You’ll have a few hours to wander around, soak in the intricate carvings, and marvel at the scale of this ancient structure.

Following Angkor Wat, the tour explores Ta Promh, famous for its towering roots engulfing the ruins—an image that’s been immortalized in Hollywood, especially in “Tomb Raider.” One reviewer, GetYourGuide traveler, pointed out how well the activities were organized, mentioning the guide’s excellent storytelling and the driver’s thoughtful service, like always waiting with cold water and towels.

Around midday, it’s time for lunch at a local restaurant—an essential part of the experience, allowing you to sample Cambodian cuisine and recharge. Afterward, the exploration continues in Angkor Thom, starting from the Victory Gate, then moving to the Bayon Temple, with its famous smiling faces on 49 towers, and the nearby Baphuon Temple. The tour also covers Royal Enclosure, Elephant Terrace, Leper King Terrace, and the Palilay monastery ruins, providing a full picture of the ancient city.

The final highlight of the day is the sunset at Phnom Bakheng, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the sprawling Angkor complex. As the sun dips, the sky turns a gentle hue—perfect for photos and a quiet moment of reflection on the day’s explorations.

Day 2: Sunrise, Lake Life, and Artful Temples

Early mornings are when Angkor reveals its most mystical side. The tour starts at 5:00 am with a trip to witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat—a must-do for many travelers, and something we’ve seen in reviews that’s described as breathtaking. After sunrise, you’ll head back to your hotel or find a nearby restaurant for breakfast.

Mid-morning, the focus shifts to the Tonle Sap Lake. A private boat will take you through the floating village of Kampong Pluk, where houses on stilts sway gently on the water, and life revolves around fishing and daily routines. This segment offers a genuine glimpse into local life and the natural environment of Cambodia.

After the boat ride, it’s time for lunch before moving on to Banteay Srei, often called the Ladies’ Temple due to its delicate pink sandstone carvings. This temple, built for the Hindu trinity, feels more intimate and detailed than the grander Angkor sites. You’ll also visit Banteay Samre and Pre Rup, followed by Banteay Kdei, rounding out a day full of stunning architecture and cultural insight.

The day wraps up around 4:00 or 5:00 pm, leaving plenty of time to reflect on the diverse sights and experiences.

Considering the $133 per person price, this tour offers impressive value. It covers transportation, a guide, water, towels, and entry to the major sites. The flexibility of a private tour means we’ve seen reviews praising the ability to customize the itinerary—something rare in group tours. You won’t be herded through the sights; instead, you get to linger at favorites or skip the less appealing stops.

One reviewer emphasized how knowledgeable guides like Chhay enhanced the experience, sharing stories that made the ruins come alive. The guide’s enthusiasm, combined with the driver’s professionalism, made the long days comfortable and engaging.

The tour’s timing is also tailored for optimal experiences—early mornings for sunrise, avoiding crowds, and late afternoons for sunset views. The boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake is a highlight, providing a personal connection to Cambodian life on the water, which more generic tours might overlook.

However, remember that the temples pass and floating village tickets are not included in the package, so planning ahead for these costs is wise. Also, this tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy but well-paced schedule, and those who appreciate detailed explanations and authentic local encounters.

What truly elevates this tour is the combination of expert guides, who share captivating stories about each site, and the personalized itinerary—a rare feature in many tour options. This means you can genuinely take your time at Angkor Wat or Banteay Srei, or explore less crowded spots based on your interests.

The boat cruise through Kampong Pluk immerses you in Cambodia’s riverine lifestyle—an aspect that’s often missed by larger, more generic tours. The opportunity to see stilt houses, floating markets, and fishing boats makes the experience memorable and educational.

• Culture and history enthusiasts eager to understand Cambodia’s ancient and modern life
• Travelers seeking a personalized experience that can adapt to their interests
• Photographers and sunrise lovers who want the best spots at the right time
• Foodies and curious travelers wanting to try local Cambodian cuisine
• Those wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one package without the hassle of booking separate tickets and transportation

This tour is less suitable for travelers who prefer a very relaxed pace or are on a tight budget, given the optional costs for temple and floating village entries.

For travelers who value well-organized, private experiences that combine history, culture, and authentic local life, this 2-day tour is a smart pick. The inclusion of expert guides ensures you’ll understand the significance of what you’re seeing, while the private vehicle offers comfort and flexibility.

You’ll leave with a well-rounded view of Angkor’s grandeur, the peacefulness of Banteay Srei, and the everyday stories of Cambodians living on Tonle Sap. The tour’s balanced mix of must-see monuments and immersive cultural moments makes it a strong choice for those wanting more than just a quick overview.

While it requires some planning for extra fees, the overall value and quality of the experience make it stand out as a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to truly enjoy Cambodia’s treasures.

Does the tour include temple entrance fees?
No, the tour does not include the temple pass or floating village ticket. You should purchase these separately to access all sites.

Is the tour private or part of a group?
This is a private tour, meaning you’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle, allowing for a customized experience.

What’s the start time of the tour?
The tour normally begins at 8:00 am on Day 1, but check availability for exact start times and flexibility.

How long is the boat cruise at Kampong Pluk?
The cruise typically lasts a couple of hours, taking you through the floating houses and fishing villages of Tonle Sap Lake.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have opportunities to eat at local restaurants during the day.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for temples and outdoor activities, sun protection, water, and a hat or sunglasses are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the guide can adjust the schedule to meet your interests and pace.

Is early morning at Angkor Wat worth it?
Absolutely. The sunrise at Angkor Wat is a highlight, and going early helps avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

How long does the entire tour last each day?
Day 1 ends around 6:00-7:00 pm, while Day 2 wraps up by 4:00-5:00 pm, giving you ample time to relax afterward.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Mostly yes, but be prepared for some walking and climbing around temple ruins. Comfortable shoes are advised.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this private, flexible, and culturally rich tour fits your Cambodian adventure plans.

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