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1Day-From : $120.00

Sambor Prei Kuk Full-Day Tour from Siem Reap | Chenla Kingdom | Temple Tours

Kampong Thom, Sambor Prei Kuk

Overview

Sambor Prei Kuk is an ancient temple complex and the former capital of the Chenla Kingdom. Known as Isanapura, it was mainly built in the late 6th and early 7th centuries under King Isanavarman I. The site features more than 100 brick temples, beautiful carvings, and unique octagonal towers surrounded by peaceful forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, Sambor Prei Kuk offers a fascinating look at the early history and architecture of the Khmer civilization.

Tour Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage
  • 7th-century brick towers
  • Strangler-fig ruins
  • Quiet forest setting

Destinations

Kampong Thom, Sambor Prei Kuk
From : $120.00
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View Itinerary Details

Tour Itinerary
07:30 AM

Hotel Pickup
Pick up from your hotel in Phnom Penh (or Kampong Thom). Travel by private vehicle through scenic countryside.

 

10:30 AM

Arrival at Sambor Prei Kuk
Welcome by local guide with a brief introduction to the history of Isanapura (ancient capital).

 

Morning

Temple Groups Exploration
Prasat Sambor (North Group) - Main temple dedicated to Shiva, one of the oldest 7th-century structures. Prasat Yeah Puon (South Group) – Multiple temples surrounded by forest with rare octagonal towers. Prasat Tao (Central Group-Lion Temple) – Famous lion statues guarding the sanctuary, an iconic photo spot. Walk through shaded forest paths connecting temples - much less crowded than Angkor.

 

01:00 PM

Lunch Break
Local restaurant in Kampong Thom town (or picnic lunch option near temple area).

 

02:30 PM

Cultural & Village Experience
Visit nearby local village. Learn about traditional lifestyles. Optional: interact with local artisans or monks.

 

03:30 PM

Return Journey
Relax on the drive back.

 

06:30 PM

Drop-off at Hotel
End of tour.

 

Price
Private Tour
  • 1–2 persons: $120 – $150
  • 3–5 persons: $160 – $200
  • 6–10 persons: $220 – $300
Group Tour
  • Per person: $40 – $70

Prices depend on transport type, guide language, and group size.

 

Includes & Excludes
What's Included
  • Hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fee to Sambor Prei Kuk
  • Drinking water & cold towels
Not Included
  • Meals (lunch & drinks)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guide/driver
  • Travel insurance

 

Best Time to Visit

  •  Best Season: November - February (Cool & dry) - Comfortable weather, best for walking.

  •  Hot Season: March - May - Very hot (start early recommended).

  • Green Season: June - October - Lush forest, fewer tourists, but occasional rain.

 

Highlights
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2017)
  • Over 100 ancient temples in jungle setting
  •  Unique pre-Angkorian architecture
  •  Quiet and authentic experience
  •  Rich Khmer history before Angkor
Essential Items to Bring
Required
  • Camera with extra batteries
  •  Small backpack
  •  Cash for breakfast
  •  Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Leave at Hotel
  •  Passport (bring a copy)
  • Airline tickets
  •  Excess cash
  •  Valuable jewelry
Travel Tips
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  •  Bring mosquito repellent
  •  Carry sunscreen & hat
  •  Hire a local guide for deeper history
  •  Start early to avoid heat

 

Optional Add-ons
  •  Combine with Kampong Kdei Ancient Bridge stop
  •  Extend to Koh Ker or Preah Vihear (multi-day tour)
  •  Cycling tour inside temple complex

 

Weather
Hot and dry weather is expected throughout this tour. There is always the possibility of a shower or two, given the world's changing climate, but it is likely to be dry most, if not all, of the time. Midday temperatures are likely to be very hot, but most of the woodland sites we visit have low humidity. Wetland sites, however, can be fairly humid by their very nature. The tour has been paced so that we have plenty of time and are not forced to be birding throughout the heat of the day to see most of the birds.
Food

Khmer cuisine is similar to most Southeast Asian cooking, but rather less spicy. The traditional cuisine of the country is recovering after much of the knowledge being lost through the years of war here, but staff at the lodges we visit cook a wide variety of good local food. The former French influence manifests itself in the fact that good bread is available in many areas, and for those who like beer, there is a surprisingly wide range of local brews to try.

 

Terms & Conditions
  •  Booking confirmation required in advance
  •  Free cancellation: 24–48 hours before tour
  •  Child policy: discounts available
  •  Tour operates year-round
  •  Refunds will be processed within 5–10 business days
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