Angkor Wat & Bayon: the Smiling Temple

Exploring Angkor Wat & Bayon: the Smiling Temple – A Fun and Authentic Cycling Experience

Taking a tour of the Angkor temples is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Cambodia. This particular adventure offers a unique way to explore the famed ruins: on a mountain bike, guided by knowledgeable locals. While the tour doesn’t include your entrance fee, it offers a relaxed, intimate way to see some of the most recognizable sights in Angkor Archaeological Park.

What we love about this experience is how it combines gentle outdoor activity with cultural storytelling — perfect for those who want a more personal, less crowded perspective of the temples. The small-group vibe, capped at just 10 travelers, means plenty of interaction and room to ask questions. One thing worth noting is the focus on a leisurely pace, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist or fitness enthusiast.

A point to consider is that the tour involves some off-road biking, which might be less ideal for travelers with very limited mobility or those expecting a purely paved journey. The tour begins early in the morning, giving you a full morning of exploration before the heat of the day sets in. This tour is best suited for curious travelers seeking an active, authentic experience that goes beyond just sightseeing — especially those eager to learn about the history and scenery from friendly, expert guides.

Key Points

• Guided bike tour offers an interactive way to explore Angkor’s highlights.
• Small group size enhances personal attention and insider knowledge.
• Includes bike, helmet, lunch, and drinks, making it a well-rounded day.
• Off-road riding provides a more adventurous experience, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Timing starts early at 7:30 am, avoiding larger crowds and the midday heat.
• Not included: temple entry fee ($37), so plan to purchase your pass separately.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Ride and Journey: What to Expect

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:30 am from Taphul Rd in Siem Reap. Your guide, whose name and background aren’t specified but who clearly earns praise for their insights, will equip you with a TREK mountain bike and a helmet. From that point on, you’re set for about five hours of gentle pedaling, punctuated by stops at historic sites and scenic spots.

The leisurely pace ensures you don’t feel rushed, even as your guide shares stories about Cambodia’s past and the significance of each site. The ride takes you along quiet, sometimes off-the-beaten-path trails, which is a big plus for travelers wanting to avoid the crowds.

Exploring Angkor Wat and the South Gate of Angkor Thom

One of the key highlights is visiting Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While the entry fee isn’t included, the guide will point out the temple’s iconic silhouette, intricate bas-reliefs, and the surrounding moat. You’ll also appreciate the peace of a morning visit before travelers flood the site later in the day.

Next, you’ll venture to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, known for its striking face towers and impressive stone carvings. Here, the tour gets extra special with a climb onto the protective wall for stunning views over the jungle, giving you a perspective that’s often missed when traveling by tuk-tuk or car.

The Smiling Faces of Bayon

The temple of Bayon is arguably the star of the tour. With its 54 towers and 216 smiling stone faces—some say they resemble the king Jayavarman VII—this site is both captivating and photogenic. Your guide will explain the symbolism behind the faces, which are thought to represent serenity and compassion, and share stories about the temple’s construction.

Hidden Trails and Natural Beauty

Beyond the main sites, the tour’s off-road sections allow you to see what many travelers miss — lush greenery, butterflies fluttering past, and blooming flowers. Reviews mention the soundscape of nature and the calmness of the surroundings as a refreshing contrast to crowded temple complexes.

Practical Aspects and Comfort

The inclusion of a lunch and refreshing coconut water helps keep energy levels high. Water is provided throughout, ensuring you stay hydrated during the bike ride. The small group size (max 10 people) means your guide can tailor the experience, answer questions, and provide a more personal touch.

While some reviewers, like Michelle, note that it might be better for families to start closer to the temples for younger children, others highlight how well-organized the logistics are — with an option for tuk-tuk support if needed.

Price and Value

At $50 per person, this tour offers a lot — bike rental, guide, lunch, drinks, and a memorable way to see Angkor. With the temple pass not included, travelers should budget an extra $37 for a one-day entry. Given the small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and the pace of the tour, many find this to be good value, especially if you prefer active sightseeing over bus tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine light physical activity with cultural discovery. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a more relaxed, eco-friendly way to explore, and who appreciate stories and insights from local guides.

If you’re traveling with older kids or teenagers, they’ll enjoy the fun of biking and the chance to see the temples from a different angle. However, those with very limited mobility or very young children might find it challenging, especially with some off-road sections.

It’s also a great choice for travelers wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Angkor’s natural surroundings. If authentic, guided experiences are your preference over self-guided or motorized tours, this bike adventure could become a highlight of your trip.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a more personal and active way to see Angkor. The combination of scenic trails, knowledgeable guides, and iconic temples makes it a memorable outing. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds convenience, and the small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd.

This tour balances adventure with comfort — it’s not a hardcore trail ride but rather a relaxed, informative cycle through some of Cambodia’s most treasured sites. The early start helps beat the heat and crowds, making for a more peaceful, enjoyable experience.

For those who want to learn about Angkor’s history, see the temples from a new perspective, and incorporate some outdoor activity into their Cambodia trip, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Do I need to have cycling experience to join this tour?
No, the tour is designed for all fitness levels. It’s a leisurely ride, and the group is small with an emphasis on comfort and enjoyment, not speed or endurance.

Is the temple entrance fee included?
No, the $37 entrance fee for a one-day pass is not included. You’ll need to purchase this separately if you don’t already have a pass.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and any personal dietary needs. Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended since there is some off-road biking.

Can I join if I don’t know how to ride a bike?
While the tour is suitable for most, it’s best to have some basic cycling skills. The ride is described as easy and fun, but if you’re unsure, you might prefer a different type of tour.

What happens if I can’t complete the ride?
The tour operator offers support, including the option for a tuk-tuk to pick you up if needed, based on reviews from travelers with mobility issues or those who got tired in the heat.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point or arrange your own transportation.

To sum it up, this guided mountain bike tour of Angkor offers a wonderful blend of activity, history, and scenery. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a more intimate, eco-friendly way to explore the temples while learning from engaging guides. The small group size and inclusive amenities make it a practical choice for those who want to avoid overly touristy experiences, all while enjoying the stunning surroundings of Cambodia’s most famous archaeological site.