Unveiling the Wonders of the West Baray: A Cycling Adventure

Embark on a captivating 35km cycling journey around West Baray, one of the largest and most impressive hand-cut reservoirs on earth. This tour offers a unique blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty, as you pedal through charming villages, lush rice paddies, and fascinating ancient sites.

Itinerary:

8:00 AM:
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel by tuk-tuk.
8:30 AM:
Meet your guide, who will provide an overview of the bikes, safety instructions, and the cycling route (both on-road and off-road).
9:00 AM:
Begin your cycling adventure, starting with a visit to a recently abandoned village. Continue through the countryside, enjoying views of rice paddies and navigating scenic trails.
9:45 AM (approx):
Cycle along the outer moat of Angkor Thom city.
10:00 AM:
Visit a local primary school and observe traditional stilted houses. Your guide will explain the architectural advantages of these houses and discuss other wooden structures.
11:00 AM (approx):
Stop at a local house to observe livestock (cattle, chickens, or pigs) and interact with the homeowners, gaining insights into their daily lives.
12:00 PM:
Arrive at the platform on the West Baray dyke. Your guide will provide detailed information about the history and significance of the West Baray.
12:30 PM:
Enjoy a delicious local lunch at a designated hut. The meal includes authentic regional dishes such as free-range chicken, papaya salad or noodle salad, meatballs, and grilled walking catfish. Choose from refreshing drinks like Coca-Cola, Fanta, cold coconut, and sugarcane juice. Relax in a hammock while waiting for your meal.
1:30 PM:
After lunch, depart for Ak Yum Temple, a 7th-century structure located near the main water gate. Take photos of the Water Gate.
2:00 PM:
Visit a village to witness the traditional, handmade process of making bamboo sticky rice.
2:30 PM:
Visit a local Buddhist temple. Your guide will explain the distinctions between Hindu and Buddhist religions, including concepts like hell, heaven, and karma.
3:00 PM:
Depart from the temple and begin the return journey.
4:00 PM:
Arrive back at the starting point, where a tuk-tuk will transfer you to your hotel.

About West Baray:

The West Baray is a monumental feat of ancient Khmer engineering, constructed during the reigns of King Suryavarman I and King Udayadityavarman II. It is oriented east-west and measures roughly 8 km long by 2.1 km wide. This vast reservoir played a crucial role in the Angkorian water management system, serving as a vital source of water for irrigation and symbolizing the power and prosperity of the Khmer Empire. At its heart lies the West Mebon temple, which, as the Wikipedia entry confirms, was indeed dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

Tour Highlights:

On this tour, you’ll witness the daily life of rural Cambodians, explore historical landmarks, and appreciate the natural beauty of the region. The journey includes visits to:

Traditional Villages: Immerse yourself in the local culture, observe traditional stilted houses, and interact with friendly villagers.
Rice Paddies and Countryside: Cycle through picturesque rice fields, traverse narrow trails used by cattle and ox carts, and enjoy the tranquility of the Cambodian countryside.
Local School: Gain insight into the education system and interact with students (if possible).
West Baray Dyke: Learn about the history and significance of the West Baray from our knowledgeable guide, gaining a deeper understanding of its role in Angkorian society.
Ak Yum Temple: Explore this fascinating 7th-century temple, predating the main Angkor complex and offering a glimpse into earlier Khmer architectural styles.
Bamboo Sticky Rice Making: Witness the traditional process of making this local delicacy.
Buddhist Temple: Discover the differences between Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and rituals.