2-Day Angkor Wat With Small, Big Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour

Travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples often face the challenge of rushing through the site on standard group tours. This 2-Day Angkor Wat With Small, Big Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour offers a more relaxed, immersive experience, spreading out the visits over two days with a dedicated guide and private transport. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a snapshot and prefer to absorb Cambodia’s ancient marvels at a comfortable pace.

One thing we love about this tour is the careful balance between popular highlights and lesser-known treasures, like Ta Nei and Banteay Srei. The inclusion of early morning sunrise viewing at Angkor Wat brings a magical start to the adventure. However, keep in mind that the detailed itinerary, with multiple temple stops and long walking stretches, suits travelers who are comfortable with a bit of physical activity and warm weather.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, photography lovers, or those simply eager to experience Angkor’s grandeur without the rush. Its private setting means personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and the chance to avoid crowds—welcome perks in a busy archaeological site.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration across two days allows for a more relaxed and meaningful experience.
• Private guides and transport ensure comfort, flexibility, and insider stories.
• Early morning sunrise at Angkor Wat offers a breathtaking start to your visit.
• Focus on lesser-visited temples like Ta Nei and Banteay Srei for quieter encounters.
• Includes hotel transfers and cool amenities like water and towels, adding comfort.
• Cost analysis shows great value for such an extensive, personalized experience.

The Experience of a Lifetime — A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Angkor Wat to the Smaller Temples

Your journey begins early, with a pickup from your Siem Reap hotel at 8:00 am. This timing is perfect because it gives you the chance to beat the crowds and start your day with a visit to the iconic Angkor Wat. While the ticket itself isn’t included in the $147.50 per person price, the guided commentary and personalized experience are definitely worth it. Most travelers agree that having a knowledgeable guide makes the visit far more meaningful—one reviewer noted that their guide, Jimmy, was “very knowledgeable about culture and history,” making the story behind each stone come alive.

This first stop is not just about taking photos but about soaking in the scale and detail of the world’s largest religious monument. The temple’s intricate bas-reliefs and towering spires are a sight that stays with you long after the visit.

Next, the tour heads to Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider” temple thanks to Angelina Jolie’s film. Here, massive roots intertwine with crumbling stone walls, creating a surreal scene. Many reviews highlight how awe-inspiring and atmospheric Ta Prohm is, with visitors describing it as “amazing” and “a place where Hollywood magic meets ancient architecture.” Be prepared for some uneven ground and plenty of photo opportunities.

After a busy morning, you’ll pause for a lunch break at a nearby local restaurant, where meals can be as affordable as $5 per dish, offering a taste of authentic Khmer cuisine. The break gives your feet a rest and a chance to chat with your guide about what’s next.

Post-lunch, your exploration continues with Ta Nei, a smaller, less-restored temple surrounded by trees and silence. Its tranquil setting makes it perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from tourist crowds. One reviewer called it “very good for those who want to avoid crowds,” emphasizing its peace and authenticity.

Then, a quick stop at the Victory Gate on the east side of Angkor Thom introduces you to some of the grand entrances, setting the tone for the next set of sites. The Bayon Temple follows, renowned for its 49 towers adorned with 196 smiling faces of Buddha. Walk among these towers, and you’ll see why many consider it the heart of Angkor Thom. A guide’s storytelling here is invaluable, adding layers of meaning that static photos can’t capture.

Other stops include Baphuon, a reclining Buddha and a Hindu temple from the 11th century, and the Royal Enclosure Wall, which offers a glimpse into royal life. The Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King are platforms with detailed carvings, historically used for royal ceremonies and army triumphs. These sites often surprise visitors with their storytelling potential, and a knowledgeable guide can help you interpret the intricate carvings.

The day culminates at Phnom Bakheng, where climbing the hill gives you the opportunity to wait for sunset. Although crowds can be thick, arriving early (or even a bit earlier) means you might secure a good spot. Some reviewers mention that waiting for sunset can take up to 2 hours, so plan accordingly if you’re eager for that magical view.

Day 2: Sunrise and the Outer Temples

The second day kicks off before dawn, with a 5:00 am pickup to witness the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat. As one reviewer put it, “it’s simply spectacular to watch the first light embrace the temple and surrounding jungle.” Many mention that having a guide to help navigate the early start makes a big difference—your guide will suggest the best angles for photos and share stories about the temple’s construction.

After sunrise, return for breakfast at your hotel before resuming the tour. The morning includes visits to Preah Khan, a vast monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII. Many praise guides like Khem for their deep knowledge about these sites, which used to serve as Buddhist monasteries and schools.

Next, you’ll visit Neak Pean, a small island temple set in a pond, and Ta Som, a charming small temple that’s perfect for a quick but memorable stop. These sites tend to be less crowded and offer great photo ops.

The tour then moves on to Eastern Mebon, a multi-tiered temple rising above the landscape, and Pre Rup, a late 10th-century temple known for its impressive architecture. Pre Rup is often chosen for its views and historical significance related to funerary ceremonies.

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Banteay Srei, dubbed the “Ladies Temple,” famous for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. Built in the 10th century by King Rajendravarman II, it’s dedicated to Hindu gods and considered one of the most beautifully preserved temples. Reviewers frequently mention this as a highlight, appreciating the craftsmanship and peaceful atmosphere.

The final stops include Banteay Samre and Banteay Kdei, which, while similar in style to Ta Prohm, are less crowded and more relaxed. Their architecture, with detailed carvings and atmospheric courtyards, makes them perfect for those who want to avoid the throngs at Angkor Wat.

Why This Tour Offers Exceptional Value

This two-day itinerary is designed to maximize your time inside Angkor’s sprawling complex. You get a carefully curated selection of major highlights and hidden gems, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. The private guide ensures you gain insightful stories that bring the ruins to life, and the transportation makes moving between sites comfortable, especially after long days of walking.

Compared to group tours, the private setup means you can customize your pace slightly, spend extra time at favorite sites, or skip some if you prefer. Many travelers have expressed how guides like Bun, Jimmy, and Sam made a difference, not only with their knowledge but also with their friendly approach and helpful tips—like where to get the best photos or how to beat the crowds.

The inclusion of hotel transfers, water, and towels adds comfort, especially considering the Cambodian heat. The tour’s price point at $147.50 per person offers excellent value for a comprehensive, two-day experience with all logistics handled for you. The admission fee for the temples ($62 USD) is separate but reasonable given the scope of the visit.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed, well-organized approach without the stress of logistics or large crowds, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone eager to dive deep into Angkor’s stories. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides—some with archaeological backgrounds—will find this experience enriching.

However, be prepared for a fair amount of walking and climbing, especially if you choose to wait for sunset at Phnom Bakheng. The tour’s pace is quite full, so a decent level of fitness will help you enjoy it more. Also, since the tour involves a lot of temples, sturdy footwear and sun protection are recommended.

This experience excels in delivering a personalized, memorable journey into the heart of Cambodia’s ancient empire, with plenty of room for authentic moments, great photos, and fascinating stories.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour features private, air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, a licensed English-speaking guide, and amenities like water and towels. The temples’ admission fee is not included.

How long are the temple visits?
Each stop varies from around 15 to 2 hours, with some sites like Angkor Wat and Phnom Bakheng taking longer, especially if waiting for sunset. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with comfort.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking, stairs, and heat. It’s ideal for those with decent mobility and in good health.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, guides often accommodate your needs, whether you want to spend more time at a particular site or skip a stop.

What’s the best time for sunrise at Angkor Wat?
The tour starts early at 5:00 am on Day 2 for sunrise, which is the most popular and spectacular time to see the temple, though it can get crowded.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the price but can be purchased at local restaurants for around $5 per dish, offering authentic Khmer flavors.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 46 days ahead, which helps secure your preferred dates, especially during peak season.

What is the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This 2-Day Angkor Wat Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience for those wanting to see the major sites—plus some quieter, lesser-visited temples—in a relaxed, private setting. The combination of expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a well-planned itinerary makes it a solid choice for anyone eager for an authentic and immersive journey through Cambodia’s most iconic ruins.

If you value stories, good company, and avoiding the hustle of large groups, this tour will leave you feeling both inspired and well-informed. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to take their time, soak in the sights at their own pace, and return home with more than just snapshots—stories and memories to last a lifetime.

References

• Viator Tour Details
• Review snippets based on 471 reviews with an average rating of 5.0/5
• Feedback highlights: knowledgeable guides, stunning views, great value, delicious local food