3-Day Angkor, Kompong Phluk & Roluos Temples Tour

If you’re dreaming of wandering through ancient stone temples, watching sunrise over Angkor Wat, and experiencing a floating village in Cambodia, this 3-day tour offers a comprehensive journey. Designed for those who want more than just a quick glance at Angkor, it combines the iconic sights with authentic local experiences and thoughtful touches like free cold water and towels.

What’s particularly appealing about this tour? First, it’s organized with comfort in mind, from private air-conditioned transport to professional guides. Second, it balances intensive sightseeing with enough flexibility for morning sunrise views and leisurely exploration. Third, the inclusion of a floating village visit at Kompong Phluk gives a vivid glimpse into a unique way of life. On the flip side, consider that the schedule can be quite packed, especially on the second and third days, which might be tiring for some travelers.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Angkor’s highlights without rushing. It’s great for first-timers eager for a well-structured adventure and for those seeking authentic local encounters beyond the main temples. If you love history, stunning views, and local culture, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive comfort with hotel pickup, private transport, and a professional English-speaking guide
• Balanced itinerary combining temples, floating villages, and local markets
• Early mornings with sunrise viewing and, later, leisurely temple visits
• Authentic local experience at Kampong Phluk and other off-the-beaten-path sites
• Great value at $286 for a private group of up to three, considering all inclusions
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Look Into the 3-Day Angkor Experience

Day 1: Ancient Temples and Sunset Magic

Your adventure begins at 8:30am with a comfortable pickup from your hotel. The day is designed to cover some of the most iconic sights within Angkor Thom, including Bayon, famous for its smiling stone faces, and Ta Phrom, the temple overrun by nature, which fans of Tomb Raider will recognize. You’ll also visit the Elephant & Leper King Terraces, which are perfect spots for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

After a satisfying lunch, the focus shifts to Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous and expansive temple complex. Here, you’ll get plenty of time to wander and marvel at the intricate carvings and vast scale. The highlight of the day is watching the sunset from Phnom Bakeng, a hilltop vantage point that offers panoramic views of the ancient city and the surrounding jungle.

The tour wraps up around 6:30pm with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you to unwind after a packed but rewarding day. Guests consistently mention how the guide, Seng, made the experience special with his insightful commentary and friendly manner.

Day 2: The Magic of Sunrise and Remote Temples

The early start at 5:00am means you’ll be up before dawn, but the effort is well worth it. Watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat is a classic highlight, and with the tour’s timing, you’re likely to beat the crowds and catch that golden glow. After the sunrise, you’re back at your hotel for breakfast, which helps refuel for a full day of exploration.

Post-breakfast, the itinerary takes you to Preah Khan, Neak Poan, Ta Som, and East Mebon. These temples are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience with fewer travelers in view. Each site has its own charm: Preah Khan’s sprawling ruins, Neak Poan’s unique water features, and Ta Som’s peaceful atmosphere.

In the afternoon, you travel out of town to visit Banteay Srei, often called the ‘Ladies Temple’ for its detailed carvings and pink sandstone construction. The road to Banteay Srei winds through local villages, where you can see palm sugar being made — a genuine glimpse into rural Cambodian life. Alternatively, if you prefer a darker history lesson, there’s an option to visit the nearby landmine museum.

You also stop at Banteay Samre and Banteay Kdei, adding depth to your temple tour. The day ends around 5:00pm, with plenty of stories and photos to take home.

Day 3: Floating Village & Roluos Temples

The final day kicks off at 8:30am with a visit to Kompong Phluk, about 30km from Siem Reap. Here, you’ll board a motorized boat and glide through a floating village built on stilts. It’s a different world—homes, schools, and markets all float on the water, with residents leading lives closely tied to the river. The guides are knowledgeable and will share insights into local customs and livelihoods, making it an eye-opening cultural experience.

After lunch, the tour continues to the Roluos group of temples, which are some of the earliest Angkor monuments. Lolei, Preah Ko, and Bakong are richly historic sites that give you a sense of the evolution of Khmer architecture and religious practices.

The day concludes with a visit to Phsar Leur, the old market, and Artisans d’Angkor, a craft workshop emphasizing local artisanship. You’ll be back at your hotel around 6:30pm, ending a full, varied exploration of Cambodia’s ancient and contemporary culture.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Convenience: Private pickups, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water make the long days more comfortable. The guide, Seng, is noted for his friendliness and knowledge, making complex history accessible.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting the floating village isn’t just a photo opportunity but an immersive look into local life. Seeing palm sugar making in a village adds an authentic rural touch often missed in quick tours.

Stunning Views and Sunrises: The early morning starts are demanding but crucial for capturing Angkor Wat at its most peaceful and photogenic moments. Reviews mention the sunrise as a “beautiful” and “peaceful” experience.

Value for Money: For $286, the tour offers a comprehensive 3-day experience with personalized transport, guided visits, and extra touches like cold towels. Considering the depth of sights covered, it’s an excellent investment.

Potential Considerations

While the schedule is detailed and full, some might find the early starts tiring, especially on Day 2. The pace is quite packed, so rest and hydration are vital. Also, since it’s a private group, the price might seem high if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group, but for up to three people, it offers good value.

Authenticity and Local Touches

Guests, including Beaudrix, have highlighted the “perfect” guide Seng and his warm attitude, which elevates the experience. The tour also balances major monuments with lesser-known sites, giving you a richer understanding of Khmer history and daily life.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive yet manageable overview of Angkor. It’s perfect for travelers seeking comfort, authentic local encounters, and stunning visuals. The early mornings and full days suit energetic explorers eager to see everything but might be less suited for those seeking a more relaxed pace.

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful, and visually stunning experience in Cambodia, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs, private air-conditioned vehicle, professional English-speaking guide, motorized boat fee for Kompong Phluk, bottled water, and cold towels.

Is the tour flexible with cancellations?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for flexible travel plans.

What are the start times?
Day 1 begins at 8:30am, Day 2 at 5:00am for sunrise, and Day 3 at 8:30am. Check availability for specific starting times.

How many people are in a group?
This tour is designed as a private experience for up to three people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. The guide provides bottled water and cold towels, but packing your own essentials is always wise.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour follows a set schedule, the private nature means your guide may accommodate some personal interests or adjustments if requested in advance.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Day Angkor, Kompong Phluk & Roluos Temples Tour offers a well-rounded journey into Cambodia’s historical and cultural landscape. It combines the must-see temples with authentic encounters like the floating village, all packaged in a comfortable, guided experience.

The early mornings, especially for sunrise, are a highlight for those who love capturing beauty before the crowds arrive. Meanwhile, the inclusion of lesser-known sites like Banteay Srei and local village visits add depth to your trip, making it more than just a temple tour.

If you’re after a value-packed, thoughtfully curated adventure that balances iconic sights with genuine local flavor, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full, immersive experience with the convenience of private transport and expert guidance.

In the end, it’s about crafting an authentic, memorable Cambodia journey that leaves you with stories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.

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