Planning Your Perfect Angkor Small Circuit Adventure

Adventurous travelers! 

Now! If you’re feeling ready to embark on the ultimate journey through Cambodia’s ancient history and culture, the Angkor Small Circuit tour is your ticket to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Let’s continue to find out all you need to know, from must-see temples and attractions to practical tips like transportation and entrance fees. Ready to dive into the world of majestic Angkorian temples? Let’s go!

What is the Angkor Small Circuit Tour, and what attractions does it cover?

The Angkor Small Circuit Tour is a carefully designed route that takes you through the most iconic temples and landmarks within the vast Angkor Archaeological Park. You’ll be stepping back in time as you explore these ancient sites, each with its unique architectural styles and historical significance. The tour covers:

• The world-famous Angkor Wat
• The mysterious Angkor Thom, with its many temples and monuments
• The Bayon Temple, adorned with enigmatic stone faces
• The enchanting Ta Prohm, where nature has reclaimed its territory
• And many other hidden gems waiting to be discovered!

How long does it typically take to complete the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

The duration of your Angkor Small Circuit adventure largely depends on your interests, pace, and whether you choose a guided tour or explore independently. That being said, most travelers take one full day to complete the circuit. However, you might consider splitting the tour into two days if you want to delve deeper into the history, take more photographs, or simply take your time to soak in the atmosphere.

Are there any recommended starting points for the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Recommended Starting Points for the Angkor Small Circuit Tour

Choosing the right starting point for your adventure is essential, as it sets the tone for the entire day. For example, most travelers begin their journey at Angkor Wat during sunrise, a truly breathtaking experience you won’t want to miss. Another popular starting point is Angkor Thom, which offers a more gradual introduction to the wonders of the Angkor Archaeological Park.

What are the must-see temples or landmarks included in the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Must-see Temples and Landmarks

While there are countless temples and landmarks to explore, we’ve compiled a list of the absolute must-sees in the Angkor Small Circuit:

1. Angkor Wat – The largest and most iconic temple in the park, an architectural masterpiece that will leave you in awe.
2. Angkor Thom – The last capital of the Angkorian empire, filled with mesmerizing temples and monuments.
3. Bayon Temple – Known for its mysterious stone faces, this temple is a true example of Khmer art and architecture.
4. Ta Prohm – A temple where nature has taken over, creating a stunning blend of architecture and vegetation.
5. Baphuon Temple – A three-tiered temple mountain that offers beautiful views and intricate carvings.
6. Phimeanakas Temple – Located within the Royal Palace enclosure, this temple is believed to have been the king’s private sanctuary.
7. Preah Khan – A sprawling monastic complex with beautiful carvings and impressive gates.
8. Neak Pean – A small island temple surrounded by a serene artificial lake, perfect for a moment of reflection.

9. Ta Keo – A temple-mountain located in Angkor, Cambodia, and is possibly the first temple to be created wholly of sandstone by the Khmer Empire. It was built in the late 10th century to early 11th century by King Jayavarman V and dedicated to Shiva. 

   The temple contains five sanctuary towers that are grouped in the shape of a quincunx. These towers are located on the top level of a five-tier pyramid with overlapping terraces and moats surrounding it. 

   The primary orientation of the temple is east to west, and a causeway that is five hundred meters long connects the temple’s eastern entrance to a landing stage that is located on the East Baray.

   The temple is unfinished, and the reason for its non-completion is unknown.Ta Keo is one of the tallest monuments of Angkor, scaling 22 meters (72 feet) to the sky, and giving an impression of power. 

   The absence of decoration at Ta Keo gives it a simplicity of design that separates it from the other monuments. The temple is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, and it is recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon as it can get quite hot at the top, especially after the walk up the steps. The site is located east of Angkor Thom, north of Angkor Wat, and on the west side of the East Baray.

10. Prasat Kravan – A small 10th-century temple located in Angkor, Cambodia, south of the artificial lake called Srah Srang. It consists of five reddish brick towers on a common terrace and was dedicated to Vishnu in 921.
    Prasat Kravan is located in the east of Angkor Wat and south of Banteay Kdei.
    The temple is an unusual arrangement of five towers in a row on one terrace, built of brick with sandstone lintels and columns. The only other tower except the central tower has sunken levels that are still intact and may be seen on the inside of the building. The columns have an octagonal shape and are made of sandstone. This tower was built around a linga that was placed on a pedestal.
    The temple was partially restored in 1968, returning the brick carvings to their former glory. The images of Vishnu in the largest central tower show the eight-armed deity on the back wall, taking the three gigantic steps with which he reclaimed the world on the left wall, and riding a garuda on the right wall. The northernmost tower displays bas-reliefs of Vishnu’s consort, Lakshmi.

How can I arrange transportation for the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Arranging Transportation for the Angkor Small Circuit Tour

There are several transportation options available for your Angkor Small Circuit adventure. Here are some popular choices:

• Tuk-tuk: This iconic Cambodian mode of transport offers an open-air experience and a chance to connect with local drivers.
• Private car or van: For a more comfortable and air-conditioned experience, consider hiring a private vehicle with a driver.
• Bicycle: For the more adventurous and eco-friendly, rent a bicycle and explore the temples at your own pace.
• E-bike or scooter: Zip around the archaeological park on an electric bike or scooter, giving you the freedom to explore independently.

Are there any entrance fees or passes required for the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Entrance Fees and Passes

To access the Angkor Archaeological Park, you’ll need to purchase an entrance pass. These are available in different durations to suit your travel plans:

• 1-day pass: $37
• 3-day pass: $62 (valid for 10 days from the date of purchase)
• 7-day pass: $72 (valid for one month from the date of purchase)

You can buy these passes at the official ticket booth located on the road to Angkor Wat.

What is the best time of day to start the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Best Time of Day to Start Your Adventure

The best time to start your Angkor Small Circuit adventure is early in the morning. This allows you to witness the magical sunrise at Angkor Wat and beat the crowds at other popular sites. Plus, you’ll avoid the midday heat, which can be intense in Cambodia. Alternatively, you can begin your tour in the late afternoon and catch the sunset at one of the temples, like Phnom Bakheng or Pre Rup.

Are there any specific dress codes or guidelines to be followed during the Angkor Small Circuit Tour?

Dress Codes and Guidelines

While visiting the Angkor temples, respecting the local culture and dressing modestly is important. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Please refrain from wearing tank tops, short shorts, or miniskirts and protect your shoulders and knees with appropriate attire.
• When entering the temples, you are required to take off your hat and sunglasses.
• Do not climb on the ancient structures or touch the carvings.
• Speak softly and avoid loud noises.
• Be respectful of any ongoing religious ceremonies or rituals.

Local Tour Guides

To truly immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Angkor temples, consider hiring a local tour guide. These knowledgeable experts can provide fascinating insights and help you navigate the complex sites. You can find guides through MySiemReaptours.com, which offers top-notch private guided tours at competitive prices.