Angkor Wat & Bayon: the Smiling Temple

Introduction

This review covers a highly-rated bike tour of Angkor that promises an active yet relaxed way to see some of Cambodia’s most iconic temples. While we haven’t personally pedaled through Siem Reap’s ancient site, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this experience strikes a great balance of fun, education, and comfort.

What really catches our eye are the small-group size, the inclusion of bike rental and lunch, and the chance to see the smiling faces of Bayon up close. Plus, the leisurely pace makes it accessible for all fitness levels, perfect if you want to avoid the hustle of guided bus tours but still get a meaningful encounter with Angkor.

One thing to keep in mind is that entry tickets to Angkor are not included, so you’ll need to budget the $37 for a one-day pass. This tour suits travelers who want to combine activity with sightseeing, appreciate local guides’ insights, and prefer a more personal, less hurried experience.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances interaction and flexibility
• Includes bike, helmet, lunch, and refreshments for convenience and value
• Leisurely pace suitable for all fitness levels, especially families or casual cyclists
• Guided insights improve understanding of Angkor’s temples and history
• Route explores the hidden trails, offering peace away from crowds
• No temple pass included, so budget accordingly

Exploring the Temples on Two Wheels

This tour offers a refreshing way to see Angkor, especially if you find walking or bus rides a little too static. Cycling gives you a chance to slow down and savor the sights at your own pace, stopping to take photos or just soak in the scenery. The bike rental is a high-quality TREK mountain bike, making for a smooth ride even on off-road paths you might not see on larger tours.

Your journey begins early at 7:30 am from the meeting point on Taphul Road, which helps beat the crowds and the heat. The small group of up to 10 travelers ensures plenty of personal attention from your guide, who is fluent in English and ready to share detailed stories about each stop.

First Stop: Angkor Wat, The Wonder of the World

As you pedal towards Angkor Wat, the guide will likely share intriguing facts—like how it’s regarded as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The tour doesn’t just visit the famous sunrise spots; it explores lesser-known hidden trails around the temple, where butterflies flutter among lush foliage.

The guide may also point out subtle architectural features or carvings, turning the visit into a mini history lesson. While entrance fees are not included, the guide will tell you about the $37 ticket that grants access to all Angkor sites for the day.

Next Stop: Angkor Thom and the South Gate

From Angkor Wat, the route takes you to the south gate of Angkor Thom, a magnificent defensive wall adorned with impressive stone carvings. Walking along the wall or climbing onto the protection platform at Prasat Chrung offers panoramic views and photo opportunities.

This part of the tour is relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and ask questions. The guide’s storytelling makes history come alive, sharing tales of kings, wars, and religious significance.

The Smiling Faces of Bayon

The highlight for many is the Bayon Temple, famous for its 54 towers with 216 smiling faces. The guide will share insights into the symbolism behind these serene expressions—whether they represent Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, or a king’s desire for universal happiness.

Michelle_D from a recent review mentioned how her family enjoyed seeing the temple’s “smiling faces,” noting the guide’s insightful commentary. The relaxed pace allows you to linger and take photos of the captivating sculptures without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Ride & Local Encounters

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy peaceful off-road trails, seeing butterflies, blooming flowers, and hearing birds—elements that only cycling can reveal. The sound of nature and the gentle breeze are often highlighted by travelers as a calming contrast to bus tours.

Reviewers appreciate the flexibility; when fatigue sets in or the heat intensifies, the guide and support vehicle are quick to accommodate. Kelli_M recalls how the company “sent a car to pick us up” when she couldn’t finish due to the weather, showcasing the tour’s accommodating nature.

Lunch and Refreshments

A well-planned part of the experience is the included lunch and coconut water, perfect for recharging after a few hours of pedaling. Expect local Khmer dishes or familiar options, with fresh drinks to beat the heat. The water and coconut juice are also available throughout the tour, ensuring hydration.

Practical Details

This 5-hour adventure starts at 7:30 am, making it a fantastic morning activity that leaves your afternoon free for other explorations. The price of $50 per person is quite reasonable, considering the included bike, helmet, guide, and lunch, especially in a region where guided tours can easily exceed this cost for less value.

Since admission to Angkor Wat is separate, travelers should plan to purchase the $37 ticket beforehand or with their guide. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point—something to consider if staying outside the town center.

What the Reviews Say

Michelle_D highlighted the experience as great for families, with her kids enjoying the ride and the guide’s help in organizing a tuk-tuk home for the little ones. She suggested that starting closer to the temples might be better for families with very young children, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with small kids or prefer a shorter ride.

Kelli_M pointed out that off-road biking can be challenging in the heat, but appreciated the company’s quick response and support. This reflects the tour’s flexibility and attention to traveler needs, which is reassuring for those new to cycling or concerned about endurance.

Final Thoughts

This bike tour offers an active yet relaxed way to explore Angkor’s most famous temples, enhanced by a knowledgeable guide and a focus on personal experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the typical bus tour, enjoying fresh air, scenic trails, and meaningful insights without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The inclusion of lunch, high-quality bikes, and small-group intimacy makes it a fantastic value—especially if you’re keen to combine physical activity with cultural discovery. While you’ll need to budget separately for your temple pass, the overall experience feels thoughtfully crafted to give you a balanced, engaging day.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this tour provides a memorable and authentic way to connect with Angkor’s timeless beauty. If you love seeing historic sites from a local’s perspective and appreciate a leisurely ride through lush surroundings, this is a tour worth considering.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you prefer a more personal, less hurried way of exploring ancient sites, this small-group bike tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone interested in a deeper, more immersive experience of Angkor’s temples.

Travelers seeking comfort and convenience will appreciate the included bike, helmet, lunch, and water, while those wanting to skip the crowds will enjoy the early start and scenic routes.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more intense adventure or want all-inclusive entry fees, you might want to explore other options. Still, for the overall value and the relaxed vibe, this experience checks many boxes for an authentic Angkor adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to and from the meeting point?
No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting location on Taphul Road in Siem Reap.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, beginning at 7:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are all fitness levels able to join?
Yes, the tour is described as a leisurely, easy ride suitable for all fitness levels, including families and casual cyclists. The route involves some off-road biking, but support vehicles are available if needed.

What’s included in the price?
The price of $50 covers a premium mountain bike, helmet, tour guide, lunch, coconut water, and pure drinking water. Admission to Angkor Wat is not included and must be purchased separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refunded. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is respectful dress encouraged?
Absolutely. Since Angkor is an active spiritual site, visitors are advised to wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for local customs.

This guided bike tour of Angkor provides a wonderful way to connect with Cambodia’s ancient wonders on a personal level, enjoying the scenery, history, and culture in a relaxed, engaging manner.