Big Circuit Cycling Tour with Local Lunch
Imagine leaving the bustling tourist crowds behind and riding straight into the grand, untamed beauty of the ancient Khmer Empire.
Our Angkor Big Circuit Cycling Tour isn’t just a standard temple visit; it’s an immersive, full-day adventure that connects you with hidden jungle temples, ancient water reservoirs, and authentic Cambodian village life, all from the saddle of your bicycle.
Itinerary:
Your Big Circuit Cycling Tour with Local Lunch
- 7:30 AM: Your tuk-tuk driver will pick you up directly from your hotel. (Please ensure you have purchased your Angkor Wat ticket before reaching the starting point).
- 8:00 AM: Start the Cycling Tour! Meet at Angkor Bike Rental Service and saddle up. We will begin by cycling through charming local village paths toward the South Gate of Angkor Thom. Continue along the ancient Angkor Thom City Wall toward the Death Gate, then ride through quiet jungle trails toward our first major stop.
Bike Through Ancient Civilizations
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Preah Khan Temple. Explore this sprawling monastic complex, built by King Jayavarman VII as a dedication to his father. Your guide will help you draw fascinating comparisons between this site and Ta Prohm (the “Mother” temple).
- 10:00 AM: Cycle through the lush forest to Neak Pean & the Ancient Water System. Discover this unique temple sitting gracefully on a circular island surrounded by water. Learn about the ancient Jayatataka Baray—one of the great reservoirs of Angkor—and the crucial role of water management in the Khmer Empire.
- 11:00 AM: Ride past the peaceful Ta Som Temple before continuing to the impressive East Mebon. Explore this 10th-century mountain temple, built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II, and marvel at its famous, beautifully preserved elephant statues. It stands as the second-largest island temple in the Angkor region.
Local Culture & The Journey Back
- 1:00 PM: Take a well-deserved break for a Local Lunch in Preah Dak Village. Relax in a hammock at a local village hut and experience the peaceful atmosphere of Cambodian countryside life. Taste traditional palm-based snacks, including delicious palm muffins. Depending on availability, you might even try unique Cambodian specialties like stuffed frog or roast pork with red ant sauce. This is more than just lunch—it’s a chance to meet the villagers and enjoy the slower side of life, far from the main tourist areas.
- 2:00 PM: Continue to Pre Rup Temple, a magnificent 10th-century state temple boasting beautiful laterite and brick architecture. (Note: This stop is optional, depending on your energy levels, weather, and preferred cycling pace).
- 3:00 PM: Cycle Back. After a full day of exploring, begin the approximately 12 km scenic ride back toward the starting point, following quiet roads and charming village paths.
- 4:00-4:30 PM: Cycle Back. Finish the Tour. Return your bikes at Angkor Bike Rental Service, where your tuk-tuk driver will be waiting to take you comfortably back to your hotel.
Why Choose Our Big Circuit Bicycle Adventure?
Venture Beyond the Crowds: Escape the heavy tourist traffic and discover the sprawling beauty of the Big Circuit. Cycling allows you to take the roads less traveled, moving at your own pace through quiet jungle trails and ancient pathways that most visitors miss from the back of a tour bus.
Discover Monumental History: Explore incredible sites like the labyrinthine corridors of Preah Khan and the imposing brick towers of East Mebon and Pre Rup. Your expert guide will bring the 10th and 12th-century history to life, explaining the intricate designs and the stories behind the magnificent architectural structures.
Understand the Ancient Khmer Water System: Water was the lifeblood of the Khmer Empire. By visiting Neak Pean and the ancient Jayatataka Baray, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the advanced engineering and mystical significance of water in this ancient civilization.
Pedal Through History, Taste the Real Cambodia Combine awe-inspiring 10th-century architecture with a genuine taste of countryside life. On the Big Circuit tour, you won’t just marvel at the elephant statues of East Mebon or the island temple of Neak Pean—you’ll also kick back in a hammock in Preah Dak village. Savor traditional palm muffins, mingle with the locals, and soak up the laid-back rhythm of rural Cambodia before riding back through picturesque village paths.
Trade the Crowds for the Canopy Ready to explore Angkor beyond the postcards? Our Big Circuit Cycling Tour takes you off the busy tourist tracks and into the serene heart of the ancient Khmer Empire. Pedal under the shade of towering jungle canopies, discover the sprawling ruins of King Jayavarman VII’s magnificent temples, and experience the quiet magic of ancient stone swallowed by the forest. This is the Angkor that most travelers never get to see.
Experience Authentic Village Life: We go beyond the temples. Our stop in Preah Dak Village isn’t a typical tourist restaurant—it’s an authentic slice of Cambodian countryside life. Kick back in a hammock, savor traditional palm muffins, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try unique local delicacies. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to connect with local culture away from the busy crowds.
Duration: 8-9 hours
Time: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Tour Cost:
- Private Tour: $55/person (2 people or more is $55/person. Just your family and friends)
- Join Group Tour: $45 per person
What to Bring:
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Comfortable cycling attire
- Camera
- Cellphone
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
Tour Includes:
- English-speaking tour guide and cycling specialist
- Well-maintained mountain bike and helmet
- Cold drinks and fresh fruits
- Authentic local lunch
- Tuk-tuk transportation (pick-up and drop-off)
Tour Excludes:
- Life insurance
- Personal expenses
- Angkor Temple Pass
- Drinks or food not mentioned above
Vehicle support is not included. If you need to stop cycling and use a tuk-tuk during
the tour, an additional fee will apply depending on the distance and location.
Payment: You can pay us after the completion of your tour.
