Roluos Group, and Floating Village (Kampong Phluk)

This full-day tour from Siem Reap combines history, culture, and unique floating community sights, offering a well-rounded look at Cambodia’s past and present. From exploring the earliest Khmer temples to drifting through vibrant floating villages, it’s a rich experience packed into about eight hours. The tour’s highlight is the seamless blend of archaeological wonder and water-based community life, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just Angkor Wat’s grandeur.

One feature we particularly appreciate is the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics straightforward. Plus, with group discounts and a private tour option, it caters to different travel styles and budgets. A potential drawback is the cost of the single-day temple pass ($37), which is an additional expense not included in the base price, but considering the transportation, guide, and boat rides, the overall value is fair. This tour suits those seeking a comprehensive, culturally immersive day without the hassle of planning multiple activities separately.

If you’re curious about Cambodia’s history, love exploring local communities, or simply want a varied day out, this trip hits all those marks. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—sampling local foods, seeing traditional fishing methods, and watching daily life unfold on stilts.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining ancient temples with floating village exploration
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and hotel pickup/drop-off
• Authentic insights into local community life and traditional fishing
• Value for money considering guided tours, boat tickets, and included amenities
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours
• Cultural immersion with opportunities to see and taste local foods

Exploring the Temples of Roluos

Our journey begins with a visit to the Roluos Group, located about 13 km east of Siem Reap. These are some of the earliest large-scale structures built by the Khmer, dating back to the late 9th century. The site is less crowded than Angkor Wat, which makes for a more intimate and contemplative experience. We loved the way the guide explained that these temples mark the start of the classic Khmer civilization, with some structures built entirely with bricks and others combining laterite and sandstone.

Highlights include Bakong, often considered the first major temple mountain, and Lolei, which offers a peaceful setting with its surrounding moat. The temples are smaller and less restored than Angkor Wat, so you can really get a sense of their original, ancient construction. You’ll also see Preah Ko, known for its early brick towers, and Prasat Prie Monti, a lesser-known but equally fascinating site.

Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the architecture and history, making the experience more meaningful. One traveler appreciated the chance to see “the beginning of Khmer architecture” in a less touristy setting, which adds a special touch.

Why it matters:

Visiting Roluos gives you context about the origins of Khmer civilization and a break from the crowds at Angkor. It’s a more relaxed way to appreciate the grandeur of ancient Cambodia.

The Floating Village of Kampong Phluk

After the temples, the tour takes you to Kampong Phluk, a vibrant floating community on Tonle Sap Lake. This is where the tour gets truly different, showing a side of Cambodia that few travelers get to see.

The boat ride itself is a highlight—navigating through a maze of stilts houses, floating markets, and monasteries. We loved the way local residents go about their daily lives on water—fishing, trading, and maintaining their floating homes. The stilts houses and floating markets create a surreal, almost whimsical scene, but with a profound sense of community.

The Prey Kop community is a key stop, where you’ll learn about traditional fishing methods and how residents adapt to seasonal changes in water levels. The floating monastery offers a glimpse into spiritual life at the water’s edge.

A reviewer mentioned that the boat tour is “informative and peaceful,” and appreciated the chance to see local foods being sold and prepared on the water, adding flavor to the experience. Another noted that the floating houses and markets are “a fascinating glimpse into water-based life,” which is worlds away from the land-based temples.

Why it matters:

While the temples tell the story of Cambodia’s past, the floating village offers insight into the resilience and adaptability of its people today. It’s a reminder of how communities live in harmony with nature.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is well-organized, with a professional guide providing narrative and context throughout. The transportation is comfortable, with air-conditioned cars or minivans, making the transfer between sites smooth and cool. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel simplify logistics, especially if you’re staying centrally in Siem Reap.

The duration of around 8 hours allows for a relaxed pace, but be prepared for a full day out. The group size varies, and the tour can be booked as a private experience, which might be more comfortable if you prefer a more personalized approach.

The admission fee of $37 for the temples is not included, so budget accordingly. Lunch isn’t included either, but the guide may suggest local eateries or snacks, and the floating village offers the chance to try some fresh, local foods—another tasty highlight.

The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if weather conditions or last-minute plans change.

What Reviewers Have Said

While reviews are limited, the feedback highlights the value of the boat rides and the chance to see authentic local life. One reviewer appreciated the “peaceful atmosphere” at the temples, especially since it’s less crowded than Angkor Wat. Many enjoyed the informative guides who could answer questions about Khmer history and everyday life.

A noteworthy quote describes the floating village as “a fascinating scene—like stepping into a different world.” The combination of temples and water-based communities makes this tour stand out among other Siem Reap excursions.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day tour is perfect for travelers eager to see both Cambodia’s ancient past and contemporary life. It’s suited for those who value authentic experiences over tourist-heavy spots, and who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and scenery. The tour’s flexible options and inclusive amenities make it accessible and convenient, especially for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive day out.

If you’re interested in learning about Khmer civilization’s origins and want a glimpse of local water-based communities, this is a well-rounded choice. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate good value—getting guided insights, boat rides, and transportation included for around $68—and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or a focus on only one aspect of Cambodia, you might consider splitting these experiences into separate tours. For those with limited time, this combination offers a diverse snapshot of Siem Reap’s cultural landscape.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, with comfortable air-conditioned vehicles provided.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs for about 8 hours, starting at 12 pm and finishing around sunset.

Are the temples crowded?
The temples at Roluos tend to be less crowded than Angkor Wat, offering a more relaxed visit.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera. The tour provides cool towels and bottled water as well.

Is the floating village safe and accessible?
Yes, the boat ride is safe, and exploring the water community is straightforward. Just be prepared for some uneven surfaces on stilts.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included; however, the floating village offers opportunities to try local foods.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a thoughtful way to connect with Cambodia’s history and modern water-based communities, making it a versatile choice for curious travelers. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventurer at heart, it promises a day filled with discovery, culture, and authentic local encounters.