Private: Grand Circuit Full Day Tour Sunset at Bakeng Mountain

Introducing the Private: Grand Circuit Full Day Tour Sunset at Bakeng Mountain

Exploring Angkor can feel overwhelming—the sheer scale and number of temples make it tough to choose what to see. This private full-day tour offers a smart way to get the most out of your visit without feeling rushed or exhausted. It claims to hit many highlights, including the iconic Angkor Wat, but also takes you off the beaten path to less crowded spots like Pre Rup, Preah Khan, and Neak Pean.

One thing we particularly like about this tour is its personalized approach—it’s just your group and a knowledgeable guide, which means more tailored explanations and flexibility. The ending with sunset views over Angkor Wat from Phnom Bakheng adds a memorable finale to the day.

A possible consideration is the cost—at $110 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, especially when temple entrance fees are extra. But when factoring in the transportation, guide, and the convenience of hotel pickup/drop-off, many travelers find it offers good value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with a mix of famous sights and hidden treasures, all wrapped up in a manageable 8-hour window.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Hotel pickup and tuk-tuk transportation make logistics simple.
• Flexible and private: Only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention.
• Wide coverage: Visits include popular and lesser-known temples, providing depth and variety.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and appreciation of Angkor’s history.
• End with a view: The sunset at Bakeng Mountain is a highlight, offering a stunning perspective on Angkor.
• Extra costs: Entrance tickets are not included, so budget for the $37 single-day pass.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Neak Pean – The Ancient Healing Pond

Your day starts at Neak Pean, a fascinating site built during the reign of Jayavarman VII. This temple isn’t just beautiful; it’s steeped in history, serving as a place of healing during Angkor’s heyday. The guide will share stories about how pilgrims flocked here for its supposed curative powers, which adds a layer of intrigue.

What you’ll love here is how Neak Pean’s central pond is surrounded by a network of smaller pools, creating a serene, almost mystical atmosphere. We’ve heard from visitors that the guide’s insights really bring the site alive—highlighting its significance in the context of the entire Jayatataka baray, a massive water reservoir built by King Jayavarman VII.

Note that entrance tickets for temples are not included—so plan to buy your pass ($37 for a single day). As you’ll be walking around, comfortable shoes are recommended, and the guide will likely offer insights into the site’s purpose and symbolism, making it more than just a photo stop.

Preah Khan, Ta Keo, and Pre Rup – Offbeat and Iconic Temples

The tour moves on to Preah Khan, a sprawling complex built by Jayavarman VII, full of narrow corridors and carved stone details. This site offers a more trekker-like experience, with fewer travelers than Angkor Wat itself. Reviewers love the way guides bring this place to life with stories about its restoration and significance.

Next is Ta Keo, a mountain-temple with impressive views from the top, and a chance for a little climbing. The guide explains its astronomical alignments and religious symbolism, making the ascent both fun and educational.

Pre Rup, with its towering structures and steep stairs, is a highlight for many. It’s believed to have been a royal cremation site, and the sunset here offers fantastic photo opportunities—just like the tour promises with the sunset at Bakeng Mountain.

Neak Pean – A Brief Return

For some, the return to Neak Pean in the morning might be a quick revisit, or simply a chance to soak in the peaceful atmosphere before moving on to the next site. It’s a good way to connect the historical dots and appreciate the intricate water management systems of Angkor.

Phnom Bakheng – Sunset at the End of the Day

The tour culminates at Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple famous for its panoramic sunset views. Built at the end of the 9th century, it’s a place where many travelers gather to watch the sun dip behind Angkor’s jungle silhouette. Expect a bit of a climb, but the view from the top is worth every step.

From reviewers’ accounts, this spot is crowded but spectacular, especially as the light softens and the ruins are bathed in golden hues. The guide will likely share stories about the temple’s significance as a spiritual site—adding context to the stunning vista.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This private tour is all about ease and depth. The tuk-tuk ride is a fun, breezy way to cover a lot of ground without the fatigue of walking long distances, and the hotel pickup and drop-off mean you avoid the hassle of navigating Siem Reap’s busy streets.

Having an experienced, friendly guide makes a notable difference. As one reviewer mentioned, their guide Saroon was early, friendly, and full of insights, which transformed the experience from a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful journey.

The inclusion of less-visited temples like Preah Khan and Neak Pean offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded Angkor Wat, letting you appreciate the grandeur without the throngs. The itinerary is well-paced, giving you enough time at each site to explore and absorb the history.

The sunset at Phnom Bakheng adds a memorable finish, and many travelers appreciate the chance to see Angkor from a different perspective. The view is breathtaking, and it’s a fitting way to conclude a day full of incredible sights.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am. It’s a full but manageable day, especially with the hotel pickup.
• Entry tickets cost $37 for a single-day pass, and these are your own expense—plan to purchase ahead or at the site.
• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as some temples involve climbing and uneven surfaces.
• Dress appropriately—cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the temples, and opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics suited to the hot and humid weather.
• The tour is private, so only your group will participate, allowing for a relaxed experience and customized questions.
• Tips are not included but appreciated if you feel the guide enhances your experience.

What Reviewers Say

While the reviews don’t specify guides’ names, they speak highly of the knowledgeable guides who make the history come alive. One reviewer mentioned, “Saroon turned up early and was friendly from the start,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide.

Another reviewer appreciated the stunning views and the challenge of the high temperatures, noting that the effort was “worth it,” especially for the sunset experience. They also mentioned that the full-day tour covered Bayon, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, along with Angkor Wat, making it a comprehensive exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour offers a taste of both the famous and lesser-visited temples in a single, seamless day. If you’re after a well-organized, informative, and comfortable way to see Angkor without the stress of planning each detail yourself, it’s a solid choice. The inclusion of less crowded sites and the sunset makes it especially appealing for travelers keen on authentic, less commercialized experiences.

Keep in mind that the entrance fee is separate, so budget accordingly. If you’re comfortable on a tuk-tuk, enjoy learning from guides, and want to maximize your time in Angkor, this tour provides good value for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Are tickets to the temples included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You’ll need to purchase a $37 single-day pass separately.

Do I need to bring my own water?
The tour includes cool battle water for hydration, but it’s wise to bring extra if you tend to get thirsty.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and climbing are involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing covering shoulders and knees are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility, but the itinerary is generally fixed to cover key sites.

Will I get a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies your group, enriching the experience with insights and storytelling.

How do I pay for entrance tickets?
The temple entrance fee is paid separately, and most sites accept visa cards for convenience.

Final Word

For travelers seeking a balanced, authentic, yet convenient way to explore Angkor’s highlights, this private full-day tour ticks many boxes. From the less-crowded temples to the spectacular sunset views, it offers a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and visually stunning. If you value a knowledgeable guide and a personalized itinerary, this tour is worth considering for your Angkor adventure.