Kampong Kleang & Bakong Temple 1-Day Tour

Kampong Kleang & Bakong Temple 1-Day Tour Review

Traveling around Siem Reap often means visiting the famous Angkor Wat complex, but for those craving a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Kampong Kleang & Bakong Temple tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s lesser-trodden countryside. This full-day trip managed by Peacock Asia Tours combines culture, scenic scenery, and a taste of local life — all for a reasonable price of just over $54 per person. The tour emphasizes authentic experiences, from exploring ancient temples to cruising through a floating village, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers.

What really stands out is the visit to Kampong Kleang, a remote floating village that’s not as touristy as some other water communities. It provides a rare look at how locals live and adapt to seasonal changes, which adds a meaningful perspective beyond typical temple-hopping. However, one consideration is that the tour involves some travel time—about 55 km from Siem Reap—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Ideal for travelers seeking a mixture of history, culture, and rural Cambodia, this journey offers a balanced look at both the ancient and the everyday.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Visiting Kampong Kleang offers a rare look at Cambodian life within flooded communities, less touristy than other floating villages.
• Historical highlights: The tour includes visits to notable temples like Bakong and Prasat Preah Ko, providing insight into Cambodia’s ancient architecture.
• Seasonal variations: Expect different scenery depending on the time of year—water levels in the floating village change dramatically between wet and dry seasons.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup and drop-off in Siem Reap, air-conditioned transport, and refreshments make the day comfortable.
• Cost vs. value: While the entrance fees and boat tickets are extra, the overall experience offers good value for those interested in Cambodia’s rural and spiritual heritage.
• Limited time at each site: With an 8-hour schedule, we found the stops to be well-paced, although some travelers might wish for a longer exploration at each location.

Exploring the Outskirts of Siem Reap: What This Tour Offers

The Kampong Kleang & Bakong Temple tour is designed for travelers eager to see beyond the crowds of Angkor Wat. It begins early at 8:00 am, with your pickup arranged in Siem Reap. From there, the journey takes about an hour and a half to reach the northern lake-edge community of Kampong Kleang, roughly 55 km east of town. While the drive itself isn’t long, the experience that unfolds makes it worthwhile.

Visiting Kampong Kleang: Village Life on the Water

Once you arrive, the highlight is undoubtedly the floating village. Depending on the season, the scenery varies dramatically. During the wet season, which typically runs from May to October, the village transforms into a network of houses and pathways floating among water, with boats acting as the main mode of transport. Travelers have reported that this is a “beautiful, surreal experience,” where local residents live on water, their homes bobbing gently with the current.

In contrast, during the dry season, from November to April, the water recedes, revealing raised houses that stand about 10 meters above the land. Visitors then see the village’s agricultural side, with farms growing vegetables and cash crops in the fertile but now drier soil. This seasonal change offers a different perspective, showcasing how Cambodians adapt their way of life with the seasons.

Insight from Reviews: Genuine Perspectives

One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the village changed with the season — it felt like two different worlds. In the wet season, the boat ride was peaceful and scenic, while in the dry season, we saw the farming life up close.” Others mentioned that local boat operators were friendly and eager to share stories, although the boat rides, which require an additional ticket, are not included in the base price.

Temple Visits: Bakong and Preah Ko

Beyond the village, the tour includes visits to Bakong, one of the earliest and most significant temples in the Angkor region. Built in the late 9th century, Bakong’s stepped pyramid structure is an impressive example of early Khmer architecture, offering insights into the development of temple design. It’s less crowded than Angkor Wat, giving you space to appreciate its subdued grandeur.

The route also takes you to Prasat Preah Ko, an ancient shrine complex with distinctive sandstone lintels and a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. These sites are not only visually striking but also provide context for Cambodia’s royal and spiritual history.

Practical Details: Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is handled via air-conditioned car, van, or minibus, ensuring comfort during the approximately 55 km transfer. The tour is private, meaning your group will have exclusive access, which enhances the experience and allows flexibility. Refreshments such as cool water and towels are provided, helping to beat the heat, especially important given Cambodia’s hot and humid climate.

Cost Breakdown & Value

At $54.49 per person, the tour strikes a good balance between affordability and quality. The admission fee for the temples ($37) is not included, nor are the boat tickets required for the floating village, but these are quite reasonable extras given the experience. When considering the remote location, the chance to see local Cambodian life firsthand, and the inclusion of hotel pickup/drop-off, many travelers find this tour offers excellent value.

Season and Weather Considerations

Most reviews agree that light cotton clothing is best for the heat, and travelers should dress modestly for temple visits—covering shoulders and knees. The best weather falls between November and January, when the humidity drops slightly, making outdoor exploration more comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just temple sightseeing. If you’re interested in local culture, rural life, and hidden gems, you’ll enjoy the variety this trip offers. It’s also a good choice for families or small groups seeking a flexible, private experience. Keep in mind that a good portion of the day is spent traveling, so those with limited mobility or tight schedules might want to plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Kampong Kleang & Bakong Temple 1-Day Tour by Peacock Asia Tours is a well-rounded, authentic way to experience Cambodia’s countryside and ancient architecture. It balances scenic rural insights with history-rich temple visits, all delivered in a comfortable, private setting. While some extra costs like boat tickets are additional, the overall value and unique experience make this a worthy addition to your Siem Reap itinerary.

For those looking to step outside the usual tourist trail, this tour offers a meaningful look at how Cambodians live today, intertwined with the legacy of their past. It’s a chance to see the country’s natural beauty and resilience, making it a worthwhile choice for inquisitive, culturally curious travelers.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Siem Reap, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, giving you ample time to explore the villages and temples without feeling rushed.

What transportation is used?
A comfortable air-conditioned car, van, or minibus will transport you during the day, ensuring a smooth journey.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the temple entrance fee of $37 per person is paid separately. Boat tickets for the floating village also require an additional purchase.

What should I wear?
Light cotton clothes are recommended, along with modest attire for temple visits—covering shoulders and knees.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and weather conditions, especially during the hot season.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to request some flexibility, such as extra time at specific sites.

What is the best time of year to go?
November to January offers the most pleasant weather, with less humidity and cooler temperatures.

How authentic is the experience?
This tour provides a genuine look at Cambodia’s rural communities and historical sites, away from large crowds and commercialism.

In summary, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and rural life, ideal for travelers eager to see a different side of Cambodia. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that balances sightseeing with authentic interaction, making it a memorable addition to any Siem Reap visit.