Siem Reap: Banteay Srei & Angkor Temples Small-Group Tour

Summary

Wander ancient pink sandstone temples & village life near Siem Reap

You’ll travel from Siem Reap into Cambodia’s temple heartland with a local guide — exploring Banteay Srei’s intricate pink carvings, meeting artisans in Preah Dak Village, wandering ancient halls at Preah Khan and pausing by quiet ponds at Neak Pean. Expect moments of wonder (and maybe some laughter) you’ll remember long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

I’d seen photos of Banteay Srei before, but standing there in the early light — the pink sandstone almost glowing — felt different. Our guide, Dara, pointed out carvings I would’ve missed: tiny dancing figures, curls of stone that looked soft somehow. There was this faint smell of incense drifting over from somewhere (maybe a shrine?), and for a second I just stood there thinking how old everything was. The drive up from Siem Reap took about an hour, but it didn’t feel long; we passed rice fields and kids waving at our minivan. I’m still not sure if they were laughing at my hat or just being friendly.

After Banteay Srei, we stopped in Preah Dak Village. Dara introduced us to a woman weaving bracelets — she smiled when I tried to say “thank you” in Khmer (I definitely got it wrong). The shops here aren’t pushy; it’s mostly locals chatting under shade trees, selling things they made themselves. Lunch was at a roadside spot near the park — nothing fancy, but the noodles were good and cold water tasted like magic after the heat.

The afternoon felt slower. East Mebon sits out in what used to be a lake — now just dry grass and dragonflies flickering around the stones. Neak Pean was quieter than I expected; walking across the wooden bridge with water on both sides felt peaceful, almost like being suspended for a minute between worlds. Preah Khan came last: huge trees growing through walls, corridors that seemed to go on forever. Dara told us stories about kings and battles but honestly I kept getting distracted by shafts of sunlight catching dust in the air. It’s hard to explain why that sticks with me more than any history lesson.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Banteay Srei and Angkor Temples Tour

• Hotel pickup and ticket purchase
• Visit Banteay Srei temple and Preah Dak Village
• Visit East Mebon temple
• Visit Prasat Neak Pean temple
• Visit Preah Khan temple and return to town

Top questions

How far is Banteay Srei from Siem Reap?

Banteay Srei is about 35 km north of Siem Reap; it takes roughly an hour by minivan.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Siem Reap city center.

Do I need to buy an entrance ticket for the temples?

Yes, you need a 1-day Angkor Park ticket (USD 37). The guide stops at the ticket office if you don’t have one yet.

What temples are visited on this day trip?

The tour visits Banteay Srei, East Mebon, Neak Pean, and Preah Khan temples.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No, lunch is not included; there’s a break at local restaurants where you can buy your own meal.

How big is the group size?

The group size varies depending on bookings but remains small for a more personal experience.

Are there any dress code requirements?

Yes, visitors must wear long pants or knee-length skirts/dresses when visiting temples.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Siem Reap city center, shared air-conditioned minivan transport with bottled water provided along the way, and guidance from an experienced English-speaking local guide throughout your journey among Cambodia’s ancient temples.