Phnom Penh: 2-Day Tour to Phnom Da, Phnom Chiso, and More

Exploring Cambodia’s Ancient Marvels: A 2-Day Tour from Phnom Penh

Imagine wandering through the ruins of ancient temples, walking in the footsteps of kings and warriors, and soaking in breathtaking views of the countryside—all in just two days. This Phnom Penh 2-Day Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty, making it perfect for travelers eager to go beyond the city’s busy streets.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive, the opportunity to visit lesser-known temples like Phnom Da and Phnom Chisor, and the incredible vistas from Udong Hill. One potential consideration? The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and some uphill climbs, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture explorers, or anyone looking for an authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s past and natural beauty without the crowds. It’s a compact, carefully curated journey that balances well-preserved ruins with meaningful storytelling—perfect for travelers seeking value and depth.

Good To Know

• Authentic Highlights: Visit ancient temples, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints.
• Expert Guides: Guides with knowledge and insights bring the stories of Cambodia to life.
• Comfortable Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of temple exploration, historical lessons, and countryside views.
• Moderate Activity: Expect walking, some uphill, so good shoes are recommended.
• Value for Money: For $563 (up to six people), you get a comprehensive, private experience with all transportation included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Cambodia Adventure

Day 1: From Phnom Penh to Historical and Cultural Landmarks

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, setting the tone for a relaxed, private experience. From there, the first stop is Phnom Reap Temple, also called Prasat Vihear Suor, a relatively new structure completed in 1998. It’s inspired by the architectural style of Angkor Wat, which immediately signals the feeling of stepping into a grand, ancient world. This site is often called the “new Angkor Wat” by visitors, and for good reason—the scale and design evoke Cambodia’s iconic temple complex.

We loved the way guides explained the significance of this temple, linking it to Cambodia’s glorious past. Expect some walking here, with a chance to admire the detailed carvings and the expansive grounds.

Next, the journey takes you to Udong Hill, the former royal capital from 1618 to 1866. Climbing over 500 steps, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lush countryside—an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. The hill is also a site of remembrance, with a memorial honoring victims murdered by the Khmer Rouge, adding a somber but important layer to the visit.

A highlight of the day is a visit to Long Vek, an ancient city that served as Cambodia’s second capital during the Middle Ages after the fall of Angkor. According to reviews, guides do a good job of explaining Long Vek’s strategic importance as a military and scholarly hub, giving visitors a sense of the city’s historical weight. Walking through the remains, you’ll get a feel for medieval Cambodia’s urban life and military resilience.

The day ends with a return to Phnom Penh, providing a comfortable, private transfer that allows you to process the day’s sights at your own pace.

Day 2: Temples, Legends, and Scenic Vistas

After breakfast, the adventure continues with Phnom Da, a significant site dating back to the 5th-6th centuries. Built atop a small hill, the temple’s about 100 steps are manageable, but we’d recommend sturdy shoes. The temple was founded by King Rutravarman, marking Cambodia’s first Khmer capital during the Chenla period.

What’s special about Phnom Da? The evidence of human habitation from at least 400 BCE shows how long this site has been a religious and cultural beacon. The current temple, from the 11th century, sits on the footprint of an earlier one, making it a fascinating mix of history and archaeology. Nearby caves and shrines, including a shrine for a great sage, add spiritual depth.

Next, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, not the famous one at Angkor, but a lesser-known site built by King Jayavarman VII on a 6th-century shrine. This temple’s main sanctuary features five chambers, each housing a lingam, with a tree growing on and around the structure. The intertwining of nature and architecture creates a dramatic scene—if you’re a fan of photogenic ruins, this spot is a highlight.

Following that, the tour explores Yeay Peau Temple, a site wrapped in legend, said to be named after King Ta Prohm’s mother. The atmosphere here is quiet and reflective, ideal for those wanting a peaceful moment amid history.

Finally, the group visits Prasat Neang Khmao, the temple of the Black Virgin—a site that’s both spiritually and historically intriguing. The day concludes at Phnom Chisor, an ancient temple and monastery about 50 km south of Phnom Penh. The views from the hilltop are spectacular, and the temple itself offers a look at Cambodia’s ongoing religious traditions.

The return to Phnom Penh wraps up the tour, giving you time to reflect on the layered history and natural beauty encountered over the two days.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a private air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed guide, and all transportation costs—a big plus for comfort and convenience. The inclusion of toll roads, parking, gasoline, and cold waters ensures no surprise expenses, adding transparency and value.

However, meals are not included, and visitors need to buy their own temple tickets. While the price of $563 per group is reasonable considering the private, personalized service, travelers should budget for food and entrance fees, which can add to the overall expense.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Pack comfortable walking shoes because of the uneven terrain and many steps.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable in the Cambodian sun.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, due to the walking involved.
• The flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Why This Tour Works and Who It’s For

This private, guided experience offers a rare chance to explore Cambodia’s lesser-known historical sites in comfort, with expert commentary that makes the past come alive. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints and spiritual sites makes it well-rounded for those wanting both cultural depth and natural beauty.

The value is notable—for the price, you get a tailored, in-depth look at sites that aren’t as crowded as Angkor but are just as significant. The attentive guides and seamless transport ensure a smooth experience, freeing you from logistical worries.

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, culture seekers, and travelers who appreciate authentic experiences in a small-group or private setting. If you’re keen to understand Cambodia’s story beyond typical tourist spots and enjoy meaningful, scenic stops along the way, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Phnom Penh offers an enriching peek into Cambodia’s ancient past, with visits to sites that reveal the country’s early civilizations, royal history, and spiritual traditions. Combining expert guidance, scenic vistas, and historical storytelling, it’s a well-balanced experience that caters to curious travelers.

The private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it a strong choice for those wanting a deeper connection with Cambodia’s heritage. While it involves moderate walking, the effort pays off with impressive sights and insightful narratives.

For travelers eager to go beyond the usual highlights and uncover the stories behind Cambodia’s ruins, this journey is a rewarding and educational expedition—one that truly highlights the country’s enduring spirit and timeless beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues due to the physical activity involved.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates privately for up to 6 people, ensuring a personal experience with your own guide.

What’s included in the price?
Private transport, a licensed guide, tolls, parking, gasoline, and cold waters are included. Meals and temple tickets are not.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and plenty of water are essential. Pack a raincoat if weather looks uncertain.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your booking risk-free.

Are the temples accessible for everyone?
While most sites are navigable, some require climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. It’s best suited for visitors in good health.

What kind of guide will I have?
A professional, licensed English-speaking guide dedicated to making the history engaging and understandable.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private tour, so customization options can be discussed with the tour provider beforehand.

How long are the travel days?
Each day involves a mix of sightseeing and walking, with the full itinerary scheduled around reasonable starting times—check with the provider for exact details.

Is there free time during the tour?
Most of the day is scheduled, but guides often allow some free moments for photos or quiet reflection.

This 2-day adventure combines history, culture, and scenic beauty into a manageable, meaningful journey. Whether you’re a history lover or just curious about Cambodia’s roots, it’s a trip that leaves a lasting impression.

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