Angkor Park Small, Big Circuit and Banteay Srei Tour in 2 Days

Traveling through Angkor Wat and its surrounding monuments can be overwhelming—there’s just so much to see, and rushing through it often means missing the magic. That’s why this 2-day private tour in Siem Reap stands out. It offers a more relaxed pace, allowing you to truly appreciate the beauty and stories behind these incredible sites, without feeling hurried.

What we love most about this experience? It’s the combination of personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, the carefully curated itinerary that balances popular highlights with quieter spots, and the inclusion of Banteay Srei, often called the “Ladies’ Temple,” built from stunning pink sandstone.

One point to keep in mind: the tour is quite packed—covering a lot of ground in just two days—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full schedule and are comfortable with some walking and climbing. If you prefer a slow, contemplative visit, you might want to consider how this fast-paced itinerary fits your travel style. Still, for those eager to see the best of Angkor with expert insights, this tour hits many marks.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Being a private tour means you’ll get the attention of a licensed guide and tailored conversations.
• Comprehensive Coverage: It includes both the Small and Big Circuits, plus a visit to Banteay Srei, offering a well-rounded glimpse of Angkor’s highlights.
• Early Start & Sunrise View: Starting at 5:00 am for the sunrise at Angkor Wat makes for an unforgettable experience, with a good chance to beat the crowds.
• Value for Money: At around $103, this tour packs in a lot—entrance fees are not included, but the guided insights and transportation add value.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, private transport, cool water, and towels ensure a comfortable day, especially in the heat.
• Authentic Local Food: Lunch at local restaurants is budget-friendly, around $5 per dish, offering a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Angkor Experience

Day 1: The Iconic Temples and Lesser-Known Gems

Starting with Angkor Wat at dawn is a must-do. We loved how the early morning light made the iconic silhouette glow, and having a guide explain its history enriches the experience. You’ll want to arrive well before sunrise to find a good spot to view the changing colors over the temple’s ancient towers.

After the sunrise, the tour moves quickly into the Small Circuit, with visits to Ta Prohm and Ta Nei. Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider” temple, is a surreal sight with massive tree roots weaving through the crumbling stonework. It’s a photographer’s dream, and guides often share stories about the trees’ history and the recent conservation efforts.

Ta Nei offers a quieter, less-restored temple, perfect for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere away from crowds. Surrounded by large trees, it feels like stepping into a forgotten world. Several reviewers mentioned its peaceful vibe, ideal for reflection.

Lunch breaks are casual, with options nearby at local eateries, averaging around $5 per meal. This is a practical choice, saving time and money, and the food is generally simple but tasty—think noodles, fried rice, or Khmer curries.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Bayon with its 196 serene faces peering from every tower, and the Terrace of the Elephants, where ancient carvings depict victorious battles. The Victory Gate on Angkor Thom’s east side offers a quick photo op before heading to Baphuon, an impressive reclining Buddha temple, and the Royal Enclosure Wall.

The climax is climbing Phnom Bakheng just before sunset. Though waiting for sunset can be lengthy (up to 2 hours at peak times), the panoramic view over Angkor park is worth the patience. If the crowds are thick, the guide may suggest an earlier climb, which means you’ll get a head start on the sunset.

Day 2: Sunrise, Hidden Temples, and the Pink Sandstone Marvel

Waking up early to watch sunrise at Angkor Wat is a highlight. The guide picks you up at 5 am, and you’ll be among the small crowd witnessing the first light. It’s a spiritual experience, and we appreciated how the guide explained the significance of the scene without rushing.

Post sunrise, the day continues with Preah Khan, a vast monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII. It’s less crowded than other temples and has a wonderful mix of intricate carvings, corridors, and a tranquil atmosphere. Several reviewers mentioned that Preah Khan felt like a real discovery, away from the typical tourist trail.

Next, Neak Pean, a small island temple in the middle of a water reservoir, offers a peaceful break. Its reflective pools and simple layout are quite different from the grandeur of Angkor Wat, but equally captivating.

The journey takes you to Ta Som and East Mebon, with their distinctive architecture and historical importance. Pre Rup, built in the late 10th century, is a striking temple-mountain and often a favorite for sunset or early evening photos.

After a hearty lunch, the tour visits Banteay Srei, known as the “Ladies’ Temple,” made from pink sandstone and filled with delicate carvings. Many travelers note that it feels smaller but is incredibly detailed—like a jewelry box of Khmer art. The guide’s stories about the craftsmanship behind Banteay Srei add depth to your visit.

Further stops include Banteay Samre and Banteay Kdei, both less crowded but architecturally interesting, with Banteay Kdei offering classic Buddhist temple vibes.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The private guide aspect is a significant plus, allowing you to ask questions and skip the parts that don’t interest you. The air-conditioned vehicle, combined with water and towels, makes long days more bearable, especially in Cambodia’s tropical heat.

The cost of roughly $103 isn’t just about entry fees; it’s about convenience and insights. Entrance tickets are not included, but with the guide handling temple pass purchases, you avoid confusion. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t need to worry about logistics.

While the itinerary is ambitious—covering many sites in just two days—it offers a balanced approach of iconic temples and lesser-visited spots. The sunrise visit at Angkor Wat is a highlight, and the evening at Phnom Bakheng offers that magical sunset view, even if it requires patience.

Authentic Local Food & Comfort

Lunch is at local spots with affordable prices, giving you a taste of Cambodian cuisine without breaking the bank. Reviewers appreciated the variety and quality of the food, often mentioning how it helped sustain them through the long days.

The tour’s small group/private setting ensures a more personal experience and the chance to go off the beaten path slightly if desired, which many find enriching.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see the major temples with a knowledgeable guide, without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who appreciate early mornings and full days, and who want to learn the stories behind each monument.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown, but also for seasoned travelers who want a more authentic, less crowded experience. If you’re comfortable with walking, some climbing, and local weather, you’ll find this tour both fun and rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour of Angkor offers a well-rounded package that balances the must-see sights with quieter, more contemplative spots. The early sunrise at Angkor Wat, combined with the guided insights at lesser-known temples, creates a richer understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The inclusion of Banteay Srei adds a splash of color and artistry, giving a full perspective of Khmer temple architecture. The convenience of hotel transfers, private transport, and a dedicated guide makes this experience feel both special and hassle-free.

While the itinerary is quite full, it’s designed for those who want to optimize their time and avoid the crowds, especially with early starts and quiet spots. If you value knowledgeable guides, authentic stories, comfortable transport, and a chance to see many sides of Angkor over two days, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance tickets are not included, but the guide will help you purchase them on the spot. This allows for flexibility and avoids unnecessary hassle.

What time does the tour start each day?
On the first day, pickup is at 8:00 am, and on the second day, the sunrise tour begins at 5:00 am.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, offering more personal attention and flexibility.

What should I wear for the temples?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended, as it’s respectful and often required for temple visits.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires moderate physical activity, including walking and climbing stairs, so good mobility is advised.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are local restaurants nearby where you can enjoy meals around $5 per dish.

Is this suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since there’s walking and some climbing involved, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues, but the transport and guide can help make the experience smoother.

To sum it up, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-guided, and culturally rich experience of Angkor over two days, this tour offers fantastic value. Expect to walk away with memorable stories, stunning photos, and a much deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s ancient marvels.