Enjoy Angkor in a Gondola Boat Ride Day or Sunset Tour

Traveling to Siem Reap and eager to see Angkor from a different perspective? This Gondola Boat Ride Tour offers a peaceful journey along the waterways surrounding Angkor Thom, blending history, culture, and nature—all from a unique Khmer traditional boat. Whether you’re after a daytime adventure or a stunning sunset, this tour promises a tranquil yet fascinating experience.

What we love about this tour is its intimacy—limited to just four people per boat, making it feel exclusive and personal. The scenic views are breathtaking, especially with the chance to photograph Angkor Thom’s walls and enjoy the quiet of the water. Plus, the combination of cultural highlights with beautiful sunset vistas creates a memorable outing.

A potential consideration is the need for careful planning: booking at least a couple of days in advance is essential during peak seasons due to limited boat availability. Also, the tour requires an Angkor temple pass (not included), so budget accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and authentic Khmer traditions. It’s ideal for those looking to combine cultural exploration with peaceful sightseeing away from the crowded temples.

Key Points

• Unique Khmer tradition boat offering a different view of Angkor
• Limited group size (max 4 people), ideal for intimacy and flexibility
• Flexible options for a day or sunset tour to suit your schedule
• Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, making logistics simple
• Requires an Angkor temple pass, not included in the price
• Booking is recommended at least 2-3 days in advance during peak season

A Deep Dive into the Gondola Experience in Angkor

This tour stands out because it offers a peaceful alternative to the usual temple visits—traveling along the waterways that crisscross the Angkor complex. The private boat ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd, and the Khmer traditional design of the gondola adds an authentic touch.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start from Siem Reap: The journey kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am or 4:30 pm, depending on whether you chose the day or sunset tour. This seamless transfer sets the tone for a stress-free experience, with most travelers mentioning the ease of logistics and punctual pickups.

Stop at Angkor Thom South Gate: The first highlight is the South Gate of Angkor Thom, built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. The gate’s elaborate carvings and preserved structures make it one of the most photogenic spots. While the admission ticket isn’t included, travelers often appreciate the chance to snap photos of the intricate faces and naga motifs.

Visit the Angkor Gondola Boat Pier: This is the starting point of your water journey, located just west of the Angkor Thom gate. Here, the Khmer tradition boat awaits—an elegant, narrow vessel that’s both functional and reflective of Cambodia’s maritime heritage.

Cruising along the waterways: The central part of the tour is spent traveling along the canals and moats surrounding Angkor Thom. As one reviewer noted, “we loved the way the boat ride revealed a different side of Angkor—peaceful, scenic, and full of photo opportunities.” You’ll pass by the walls of Angkor Thom, enjoying views that are often missed from land-based tours.

Stop at Prasat Chrung: The temple of Prasat Chrung is one of the quieter corners of Angkor Thom—often deserted, making it perfect for solitude and reflection. From the boat, you get a lovely vantage point to see over the moat and the surrounding jungle. The temples here are dedicated to the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara, adding spiritual depth to your visit.

Enjoy sunset views: For the sunset tour, the boat trip concludes with a spectacular view of the setting sun, casting warm hues over the ancient ruins and water. The calm, reflective waters amplify the golden colors, creating perfect photo moments.

Return to Siem Reap: The tour wraps up with drop-off back at your hotel, usually around 11:10 am for the day tour and 6:40 pm for the sunset option.

What’s Included, What’s Not

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private Khmer gondola boat, and refreshing drinks—a nice touch to keep you comfortable. You’ll need to bring your own Angkor temple pass (cost $37), which is essential for access to the temples and the waterways.

The Experience: Authentic, Scenic, and Relaxing

Many reviewers have highlighted how this boat ride offers a peaceful way to see Angkor without the hustle of crowds. “The views of Angkor Thom’s walls from the water are truly stunning,” one wrote, emphasizing how different perspectives enhance the overall visit.

The boat itself is a cultural piece, adding an authentic Khmer touch. The quietness of the waterways and the gentle movement of the boat contribute to a calming atmosphere—perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

Practical Tips for Booking & Enjoyment

• Book early: Due to limited availability, it’s wise to reserve at least 2 days ahead in low season and 3 days or more during busy periods.
• Weather considerations: The tour operates only in good weather; heavy rain or storms may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Timing: The sunset tour offers a particularly memorable experience, with the changing light transforming the scene. The daytime tour is ideal for capturing clearer photos and enjoying the temples’ details without the sunset’s dimming light.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a serene, scenic journey that combines water, culture, and history. The price point of $39 is reasonable given the exclusivity, private nature, and the unique experience of traveling by Khmer gondola. It’s a great way to diversify your Angkor experience beyond the usual temple visits.

For travelers who love photography, the reflections on the water and the historic gates make superb subjects. For those wanting a break from walking and temples, this tranquil boat ride offers a refreshing perspective.

Limitations and Considerations

The main consideration is the need to book in advance because of limited boats. Also, you should budget for an Angkor temple pass separately. It’s not a full-day tour, so if you want to see every temple, you’ll need to combine this with other excursions.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This boat tour is perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers seeking a quiet, cultural escape within Angkor. It’s ideal if you’re after stunning visuals, authentic Khmer tradition, and a peaceful setting away from crowds. It also suits travelers with flexible schedules looking to add a special water-based experience to their Angkor itinerary.

Those who enjoy photography, history, and nature will find plenty to love here, especially with the chance to see Angkor from a different angle. If you’re after a romantic sunset or a calm, reflective cruise, this tour will meet those desires.

FAQs

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour is priced at $39 per person, which includes hotel pickup, private boat, and drinks. The temple pass is not included.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with the boat trip itself being around 60 minutes.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour with a maximum of 4 people per boat, making it intimate and flexible.

What are the tour timings?
There are two options: a day tour starting at 9:00 am (boat departs at 9:30 am) and a sunset tour starting at 4:30 pm (boat departs at 5:00 pm).

What should I bring?
Bring your Angkor temple pass, camera, sunglasses, and water. Comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended.

Is there a minimum age?
The tour is suitable for ages 6 and above.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This gondola boat ride around Angkor offers a lovely, less conventional way to explore the historic site. It combines the tranquility of water with stunning vistas of Angkor Thom’s walls and temples, making it a perfect addition for travelers wanting a peaceful and authentic Khmer experience.

Priced reasonably, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s a smart choice for those who appreciate quiet scenery, cultural authenticity, and memorable photo opportunities. Keep in mind to book early especially in peak season, and be prepared for beautiful sunsets or serene daytime views.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply seeking a relaxing escape from busy temple tours, this water journey helps you see Angkor from a fresh perspective—quiet, captivating, and utterly unique.