TOURS

Explore Siem Reap with Babel Hotels

While the Angkor Wat temple complex is iconic, Siem Reap has so much more to offer. We have chosen a range of tours that take you from the famous main temples to the hidden, quiet corners of our province.

Our goal is to help you discover the true heart of Cambodia. Here is how our tour program works:

Our Commitment to Fair Tourism

When you book a tour with us, you are supporting local families. We set our tour prices together with our Tuk Tuk drivers and local staff. These prices ensure our partners earn a proper living wage, which is especially important as we continue to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

We kindly ask you to respect these prices, as they are essential to maintaining the high quality and ethics of our service.

Practical Information

• How to Book: You can book all tours directly at the reception of your hotel (Babel Guesthouse or Babel Boutique Hotel) upon arrival.

• Exceptions: Please note that a few specific tours may require advance booking during peak tourist months; these are clearly marked in the tour descriptions.

• Easy Payment: To make your stay stress-free, most Tuk Tuk tours and recommended activities will be added directly to your room bill. You can settle the total amount conveniently at the end of your stay.

General information Angkor

Temple Entrance Fees (2026)

Before you visit the temples, you will need an Angkor Pass. Please purchase this at the official ticket office or online.

• 1-Day Pass: $37

• 3-Day Pass: $62

• 7-Day Pass: $72

Choosing Your Angkor Pass

• 1-Day Pass: Best for a quick visit. This covers the "Iconic Three" (Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm) on a Small Tour.

• 3-Day Pass: Our most popular choice. This gives you enough time to see the main temples and explore the magic of the remote, countryside temples.

  • Important: You do not have to use these days in a row. You have a 7-day window to use your 3 entry days.

• 7-Day Pass: Best for total freedom. This pass is valid for one month. It allows you to take your time and visit the temples at different times of the day to experience the unique light and atmosphere at each location.

Our Popular Tuk Tuk Tours

All prices are per Tuk Tuk (not per person). Updated prices for 2026.

Each Tuk Tuk can carry a maximum of 4 adults. You can book these at our reception when you arrive.

For a deeper understanding of the Angkor complex and Khmer culture, we highly recommend booking a Certified Temple Guide.

• English-Speaking Guide: $40 (Standard Small/Big Tour) Note: Prices may vary slightly ($40–$50) during peak season or for special requests.

• Specialty Language Guides: Available in French, German, Spanish, Italian, and more. Due to limited availability, please pre-book specialty guides.

Why Book a Babel Guide?

• Certified & Licensed: All our guides are fully qualified and certified by the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism.

• Seamless Logistics: Your guide will meet you at Babel and join you in your tuk-tuk.

• Authentic Storytelling: Beyond just dates and facts about the temples, our guides share insights into daily Khmer life.

• Small Tour: $18 - (maximum 7 hours)

• See the Iconic Three - Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Phrom.

• Big Tour: $18 - (maximum 7 hours)

• Preah Khan, Neak Poan, Ta Som, East Mebon, Pre Rup, Banteay Kdei.

• This tour does not include the Iconic Three

• Full Day Tour: $28 - (maximum 10 hours)

• A combination of the Small and Big Tour

Flexibility & Extra Time

We want you to enjoy your experience at your own pace. While we have set standard durations for our tours—7 hours for the Small and Big circuits, and 10 hours for the Full Day tour—you are welcome to make your tour shorter or longer based on your preference.

• Need more time? If you wish to extend your tour beyond the standard hours, we are happy to arrange that. An additional fee of $5 USD will be added to your bill to cover the driver's extra time.

• Shorter tours? No problem at all! You can finish your tour whenever you are ready.

Have a look at our video from a tour to Angkor Wat

Add-ons

The Cambodian sun can be intense! Many guests prefer to explore in the morning, return to Babel for a swim or lunch, and head back out in the afternoon.

• Return to town for a break: Add $10 * (Covers the extra 15–20km of driving and additional fuel for the round trip).

• Sunrise OR Sunset: Add $5

• Sunset 0r Sunrise ONLY:$10 total

  (Direct transfer to temple and back to Babel).

Outlying Temples & Hidden Gems

While the main temple area is famous, the outlying temples offer a quieter, more unique experience. These tours take you a bit further into the countryside to see a different side of Cambodia.

Our Outlying Temple Tours

All prices are per Tuk Tuk (not per person).

Updated prices as of 2026.

• Banteay Srey: $30

• A beautiful, small temple made of red sandstone with the most detailed carvings in the region. The walls are covered with some of the most beautiful carvings of any Angkorian temple. Tip: Catch the soft afternoon glow on these remarkably detailed temple carvings for an even more magical experience.

• Banteay Srey & Kbal Spean: $35

• A mix of culture and nature. Visit the temple, then enjoy a 2 km walk up a jungle path to see ancient carvings in the riverbed.

• Note: Banteay Srey is located north of the main temple area and is included in your Angkor Pass. Kbal Spean is also covered by the Angkor Pass, with no separate tickets available. Please note that Kbal Spean closes after 3:00 pm.

• Best time for Kbal Spean: We recommend visiting between September and January for the best experience.

Insider Tip:

Want to maximize your day? Add Banteay Srey to your Big or Small Tour for a total of only $35! This is a fantastic way to see the main sights and the beautiful red sandstone temple in one trip.

Recommended Stops (On the way to Banteay Srey Temple)

While you are in the Banteay Srey area, there are two wonderful places located along the main road that we highly recommend visiting. They are only 5 minutes apart, so it is easy to see both in one trip.

• Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre: A beautiful conservation project where you can walk through a large netted garden filled with thousands of native Cambodian butterflies.

  • Traveling with young kids? This is a favorite among our guests with children. Not only does it offer a refreshing break from the temples, but the lovely garden also provides plenty of shade, nature, and a cozy little cafe for parents to relax while the kids explore.

• The Landmine Museum: This museum offers a deep and important insight into Cambodia’s history. You will learn about the history of landmines in the country, how they work, and the impact they have had on local communities. It is a very educational experience that provides a better understanding of Cambodia's past and present.

More Outlying Temples: Beng Mealea & Roluos

Escape the crowds and discover the origins of the Khmer Empire

• Price: $40 (Tuk Tuk)

• Duration: Full Day (Approx. 6–8 hours)

• Best Time to Visit: Arrive at 7:00 AM for a crowd-free experience.

• Beng Mealea is one of the few temples where you can pay a separate entrance fee ($10) without holding an Angkor Pass.

The Great Lake of Tonle Sap

Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and one of the richest fishing lakes in the world. What makes this lake truly unique is how dramatically it changes between the wet and dry seasons. In the wet season, it swells to around 12,000 km², while in the dry season it shrinks to about 2,500 km². Water levels rise by 8–10 meters between seasons, transforming the entire landscape.

Chong Khneas Floating Village

Chong Khneas is the most accessible floating community on the Tonle Sap. While it has become heavily commercialized and can feel "touristy" to some, it remains a fascinating look at a resilient community living in harmony with the lake's rising and falling tides.

• Tuk Tuk Transfer: $15 round trip

• Bonus Stop – The Lotus Fields: Ask your driver to stop at the beautiful lotus fields on the way. It’s a perfect spot for photos, a refreshing drink, and a quiet moment away from the crowds.

• Sunset Experience: We highly recommend a late afternoon trip to watch the sunset over the horizon of the lake.

Kampong Phluk: The Stilted Village & Flooded Forest

Kampong Phluk is a village about 25 km east of Siem Reap. It is famous for its very tall houses built on bamboo poles (stilts). This village is different because the houses do not float; they stay high above the water.

Kampong Phluk is a leader in keeping the Tonle Sap clean. Local people, like our friend Sea Sophal, have started great recycling programs to pick up plastic and protect the nature here.

• Tuk Tuk Transfer: $18 round trip

• Community Boat Ticket: Generally $20 – $27 per person.

  • Note: Fees are managed by the local community cooperative. Babel does not control these rates, and they may vary based on group size or season.

• Optional Canoe Ride: Approx. $5 per person (Highly recommended during the wet season for exploring the mangroves).

  Insider tip!

  Walk with your Driver: Ask your Babel driver to show you the main paths and the pagoda. It’s a great, informal way to see the village through a local’s eyes.

  Book a Certified Guide: For a deeper dive into the "fish-economy" and history, hire an expert guide to join you and answer all your detailed questions.

  Kampong Khleang: The Authentic Giant

  Looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience? Located 50km from Siem Reap, this is the largest community on the lake (10,000+ residents) and offers a raw, non-touristy look at Cambodian life.

  Why visit?

  Scale: Massive stilted houses reaching up to 10 meters high.

  Authenticity: A bustling community focused on fishing and trade.

  Eco-Friendly: A proud partner of the NGO2 BambooShoot Foundation waste management program. Note: Does not include a flooded forest.

  Tuk Tuk: $40 | Car: $60 (Round trip)

  Boat Tickets: ~$20–$27 per person (Set by the local community).

  Let us handle the details! We offer a half-day private tour with a minivan, professional guide, and refreshments. (Please book at least 2 days in advance).

Is it worth going during the dry season?

The experience at Kampong Phluk and Kampong Khleang changes entirely depending on when you visit:

The Wet Season (August – December): The village is flooded, and houses appear to float. This is the peak time to visit the "Flooded Forest." You can take a small canoe through the submerged mangrove trees—a truly meditative experience. (Kampong Phluk)

The Dry Season (January – July): The water recedes, revealing the massive 6–10 meter bamboo stilts that support the houses. You can walk through the village streets that were underwater months prior, offering a unique architectural perspective.

Important: Travel Safety & Ethical Visiting

At Babel Hotels, we want your visit to the Tonle Sap lake to be meaningful and respectful. Unfortunately, some areas have become known for tourist scams.

Avoiding the Scams

If a boat driver or local guide suggests stopping at a floating school to buy "schoolbooks, rice, or noodles" for the children: Please politely decline.

• The Reality: These "schools" are often set up purely for tourism. The supplies you buy are frequently returned to the shop and resold once you leave.

• The Children: The children are often brought to these locations by recruiters rather than attending their actual village schools.

• How to help instead: If you wish to support local education, we can recommend verified NGOs or community-led projects like the BambooShoot Foundation that ensure 100% of your donation reaches those in need.

The Tara Riverboat Sunset Tour

The Most Popular Experience on the Tonle Sap

For a stress-free and ethical way to see the lake, we highly recommend the sunset tour aboard the Queen Tara. This 100-year-old former cargo vessel has been beautifully restored into the lake’s largest and most comfortable floating restaurant.

Tour Pricing (2026)

• Price:$38 per person (All-inclusive)

• Includes: English-speaking guide, a light and refreshing local dinner buffet (vegan and vegetarian options available), unlimited open bar (beer, soft drinks, spirits), and round-trip transfers.

What to Expect

• Hotel Pickup: A friendly, knowledgeable guide will pick you up from Babel in a comfortable minivan.

• The Scenic Route: Your journey to the lake passes through lush rice paddies and blooming lotus fields.

• Exploring the Villages: Before boarding the Queen Tara, you will explore the floating villages and mangrove forests in a smaller boat to get a closer look at local life.

• Sunset on Deck: Relax on the expansive top deck of the Tara. As a 100% solar-powered vessel, you can enjoy the "golden hour" in peace, without the noise or fumes of a diesel generator.

• Dinner and Drinks: Enjoy a freshly prepared buffet dinner meal and cold drinks as the sky turns to fire over the "Great Lake." It is the perfect, quiet escape from the city’s heat.

You can book your sunset tour directly with our reception staff.

Tours in and around Siem Reap

The Babel Village Tour

A Local Family Experience

This isn't a standard tour—it is an invitation into our community. Created and hosted by our own Tuk Tuk drivers, this trip takes you away from the crowds and into the heart of rural life.

The Local Market

Every morning the village market is full of life. Your driver will show you how rural families shop and eat:

• Seasonal Flavors: Discover the fresh fruits, vegetables, and local meats available right now. Your driver will explain why "village-fresh" food tastes so different.

• Unique Local Tastes: Explore the snacks and specialties that make Cambodian cuisine famous—from sweet treats to more adventurous bites.

• Traditional Wisdom: Learn how families use natural methods to preserve food and keep traditions alive in the modern world.

The Village Pagoda

Visit the local temple, the "Safe Haven" of the community. Your driver will explain how this peaceful place supports everyone in the village.

The Living Khmer Garden

Visit their family home surrounded by food. Walk through gardens of Jackfruit, Coconut, and Bananas, and learn the difference between "Light Rice" and "Heavy Rice" seasons.

Dining with the Family (Our Favorite Part!)

For a small fee, enjoy an amazing traditional meal prepared by the family.

• Get Involved: You are welcome to help cook and ask questions!

• Family Friendly: This is perfect for guests with kids. The village children love meeting new friends and practicing their English.

• Dietary Needs: Please tell our reception if you are vegetarian or have allergies.

Tour Pricing (2026)

Prices are the total for your whole group:

• 1 Person: $25

• 2 People: $35

• 3+ People: $40 (Includes Tuk Tuk transport, your driver/guide, and the village experience. The family meal is a small additional cost.)

The Lotus Silk Farm

An Eco-Tourism Gem

Discover the world’s most sustainable textile at the Samatoa Lotus Silk Farm. Since 2003, this heartwarming initiative has empowered local women by transforming the sacred lotus flower into rare, luxurious silk using ancient Cambodian techniques.

Join a 30-minute guided walk through the world of sustainable fashion:

• Price: $5 (Adults) | Free (Children under 12)

• Departures: Every 30 minutes (English & French)

• Includes:

  • Professional Guided Tour: See the entire lotus silk production process.

  • Tea Ceremony: Enjoy a traditional lotus tea tasting.

  • Educational Presentation: Learn about the social impact and heritage of the farm.

• Recommended Add-on: Lotus Boat Excursion

  Duration: 30 Minutes | Price: $10 per person Go beyond the workshop with an authentic boat trip through the blooming lotus cultivation areas. It is the best way to see the beauty of the flower in its natural habitat and take incredible photos.

Your Afternoon Escape

Travel with one of our Babel Tuk Tuk drivers into the peaceful countryside to one of our favorite local farms.

• Relax & Unwind: You can choose to spend the afternoon in a private bamboo hut overlooking the fields. It is the perfect spot for a cold drink, some local food, or a quiet nap in the hammoc.

• Flexible Timing: You choose when to go! Stay for an hour or spend the whole afternoon "chilling" in nature.

• Tuk Tuk Transfer: $12 total (Round trip from Babel).

• Lunch & Drinks: Not included in the price (available to purchase).

Kids love this afternoon trip!

The Angkor Silk Farm (Artisans d’Angkor)

The Silk Farm is operated by Artisans d’Angkor, a renowned Cambodian social enterprise. Since 1992, they have created meaningful career opportunities for rural youth while reviving ancient Khmer craftsmanship in silk, stone, ceramics, and silver.

Free Guided Tour

Take a complimentary guided tour (available in English, French, and Khmer) through their beautiful 8-hectare farm to see the eco-friendly production process:

• The Cocoon-erie: Discover the unique Cambodian Yellow Silkworms and walk through the organic mulberry orchards where they live.

• Ikat Weaving: Witness master weavers creating Hol Ikat—an intricate, world-famous technique where threads are tie-dyed before they ever reach the loom.

• The Shop: Explore a premium collection of handmade silk scarves and luxury home décor in their stunning showroom.

Travel & Logistics (2026)

• Location: Puok District (approx. 20 minutes from Babel).

• Entrance: Free (Small tips for your local guide are appreciated).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

• Tuk Tuk Transfer: $17 per Tuk Tuk (Round trip). Choose your own departure time!

Insider Tip:

To see the full scope of Cambodian craftsmanship, we recommend pairing your visit to the Artisans Silk Farm Click to open side panel for more information with a stop at the The Living Arts Village by Artisans Angkor Click to open side panel for more information (the main Workshop and Visitor Center in town).

• Why it’s great: It gives you a complete look at all Khmer traditional arts—from heavy sculpture to delicate silk weaving—all while supporting a sustainable social enterprise.

• Location: The Visitor Center is centrally located near the Old Market, making it an easy stop before or after your rural silk farm excursion.

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM.

• Fot only $19 - your driver will make this stop on your Silk Farm tour!

Babel Recommendation: If you are short on time, the town center workshops are a great way to see the carving process without leaving the city. However, if you want the full experience, the 20-minute trip to the Silk Farm is definitely worth it for the scenery alone!

The Visitor Experience

To protect the animals, you can only visit the center through a guided tour.

• What you will see: Meet various native species, including primates (monkeys), colorful birds, and reptiles.

• Expert Knowledge: A professional guide will explain how they rescue injured animals and prepare them to return to the wild.

• Family Friendly: It is an excellent educational stop for children to learn about respect for nature and biodiversity.

Tour Times & Booking (2026)

• Fixed Tour Times: Tours start daily at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM sharp.

• Duration: The tour takes about 1.5 hours.

• Advance Booking: You must pre-book with the Babel reception at least 24 hours in advance.

Donation & Transport

ACCB is a non-profit center. Your entry is a donation that goes directly to animal care:

• Adults: Minimum $5 donation.

• Children (5–12): Minimum $2.50 donation.

• Under 5s: Free.

• Transport from Babel:$40 by Tuk Tuk or $60 by Car.

Insider Tips:

• Be on Time: The center is closed to the public outside of the 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM tour starts. Please arrive 10 minutes early!

• Pack for Nature: Bring your water bottles, sun protection, and mosquito spray.

• Combine your trip: Since ACCB is at the entrance to Kbal Spean, many guests visit the wildlife center first and then hike up the mountain to see the "River of a Thousand Lingas" afterward.

ACCB: Wildlife Rescue & Conservation

Located at the base of Kbal Spean (50km from Siem Reap), the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) is a vital sanctuary.

This is not a zoo; it is a professional center dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing Cambodia’s endangered wildlife.

A visit here is a meaningful way for families and nature lovers to see rare animals and learn about the real challenges of conservation.

Angkor Zipline: Eco-Adventure in the Canopy

Located inside the UNESCO-protected Angkor Park, this is the only zipline canopy tour in Cambodia. It is a thrilling way to experience the rainforest from above—soaring through the trees and crossing suspended sky bridges.

The Adventure Highlights

• Fly through the Jungle: Experience multiple ziplines and "Sky Bridges" high above the treetops.

• Safe & Professional: The course was built by experts with over 20 years of experience to ensure the highest safety standards while protecting the nature around it.

• Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes open! You might see exotic birds or even the rare Gibbons that live in this protected area.

Good to Know

• No Temple Pass Needed: Even though the zipline is located inside the Angkor Park, you do not need an Angkor Pass to join this activity.

• Kids Welcome: Children over 100 cm tall can join the fun (must be with an adult).

• Clothing: Please wear comfortable sports clothes and closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops/sandals).

Booking & Prices

Because there are different "Gold" and "Silver" packages available, please come and talk to us at the Babel reception. We can show you the different routes and book the best time for you! Starting at around 55 USD per person.

West Baray: The Ancient Ocean

West Baray is a massive, rectangular reservoir built during the Angkor period. Measuring roughly 8km by 2km, it is one of the largest hand-built reservoirs on Earth—a true masterpiece of ancient Khmer engineering.

The Local Vibe

Unlike the temples, West Baray is a "living" destination. It’s where Siem Reap locals go to relax, especially on Sundays.

• Hammock Life: Rent a small bamboo hut with hammocks to catch the breeze and watch the world go by.

• Swimming: Instead of revealing swimwear, do what the locals do—swim in a T-shirt and shorts. * Why it matters: West Baray is a family destination and a holy site. Wearing a T-shirt ensures you feel relaxed and fits the local "vibe" so you don't feel out of place.

• Island Temple: Take a traditional boat to West Mebon, a small 11th-century temple sitting on an artificial island in the center.

Street Food

Forget the fancy restaurants! The shore is lined with food stalls selling the freshest local snacks:

• Signature BBQ: Try the famous BBQ chicken, grilled fish, or even local frogs.

• Tropical Refreshments: Fresh coconuts and seasonal fruits like mango, jackfruit and pineapple.

Logistics (2026)

• Tuk Tuk: $15 per Tuk Tuk (Private round trip from Babel).

• Boat to West Mebon: Approx. $10–$15 per boat (Check with your driver for current community rates).

• Entrance: Free (No Angkor Pass required to visit the huts on the water).

Insider Tip: If you want a quiet experience, visit on a weekday morning. If you want to see the "real" local energy, go Sunday afternoon!

Phnom Kulen: The Sacred Mountain

Located 50km from Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen is the holy mountain where the "Age of Angkor" began over 1,200 years ago.

Important Note: The road up the mountain is very steep and rocky. Because of this, we do not use Tuk Tuks for this trip. We use a Car or Minivan to keep you safe and comfortable.

This is a beautiful place for a day trip. It is a mix of ancient history, religion, and nature. It is also where local families go to relax on their days off.

What to See:

• The Waterfall: A big, beautiful waterfall where you can swim and cool down.

• The River of 1,000 Lingas: Ancient carvings of symbols hidden under the clear river water.

• The Big Buddha (Preah Ang Thom): A massive statue of a sleeping Buddha carved into a giant rock.

• The Picnic Spot: Relax in a hammock or a wooden hut near the water, just like the locals do.

Swimming

The waterfall is a great place for a cooling dip! However, please remember that this is a holy place for Cambodians.

• What to wear: To show respect and feel comfortable, please do like the locals and swim in a T-shirt and shorts over your swimsuit.

• Why? Since this is a sacred mountain and a popular spot for local families, covering up helps you fit in and stay respectful of the local culture.

Travel & Prices (2026)

• Car (up to 4 people): $65

• Minivan (up to 12 people): $70

• Entry Ticket: $20 per person (You buy this at the mountain gate).

• The Journey: It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive from Babel to the mountain.

• One-Way Traffic: The mountain road is narrow. For safety, cars can only go UP before 11:00 AM and only come DOWN after 12:00 PM. This means you must leave early in the morning!

• Want to Explore? Trekking with a local guide is a fantastic way to see hidden temples in the jungle.

• Need Help? Come and talk with us at the Babel reception! We can help you book your car and plan your timing.

Kulen Elephant Forest: Ethical Sanctuary

This is a beautiful chance to see elephants living a free and happy life. In the past, these elephants worked hard carrying tourists at the temples. Since 2020, they have been "retired" to this 530-acre forest. Now, they are free to roam, socialize, and just be elephants.

The Elephant Experience

This is an observation-based tour—not a "riding" tour. You will spend your time in nature watching how the elephants choose to spend their day.

• Observe: See the elephants in their natural forest home.

• Feed: Meet the elephants and feed them their favorite snacks.

• Walk: Join them for a walk through the jungle and see how they interact with each other.

Booking & Availability

Because this is a true sanctuary focused on the elephants' well-being, the number of visitors is strictly limited to keep the environment quiet and peaceful.Daily Tour Times

There are only two trips per day:

• Morning Tour: Perfect for those who want to see the elephants early when it is cooler.

• Afternoon Tour: Great for watching the elephants enjoy their late-day forest stroll and cool down in the pond.

High Season Warning (November – March)

This is the most popular time to visit Siem Reap. Because there are not many seats per trip, this tour sells out very quickly.

Tips for Your Visit

To make sure you have the best day possible, please pack the following:

• Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes that are good for walking on dirt paths.

• Protection: Bring sun protection (hat/sunscreen) and mosquito spray.

• For Families: If you have children, please bring extra snacks and a full water bottle for them.

• Food Note: The sanctuary provides vegetarian food, but vegan food is not available.

Beyond Angkor: Remote Temple Adventures

If you have extra time and want to see something truly different, these remote temples are for you. Because these sites are far away, we use our reliable Babel Taxi drivers to ensure you have a comfortable and safe journey.

Koh Ker: The Pyramid of the Jungle

Located about 120km from Siem Reap (2.5 hours by car), Koh Ker was once the capital of the Khmer Empire. It is famous for having a completely different style than Angkor Wat.

• Prasat Thom: A massive 7-tier sandstone pyramid that is 36 meters high. It looks like a Mayan temple! You can climb to the top for an incredible view of the forest.

• Prasat Pram: Known as the "Fairytale Temple." This site is famous for five red-brick towers completely wrapped in giant tree roots—a dream for photographers.

• Prasat Damrei: A beautiful temple guarded by large stone elephant sculptures.

• The Vibe: It is very quiet, peaceful, and wild. You will feel like an explorer!

Sambor Prei Kuk: The Forest Temples

Located in Kampong Thom province, these are some of our absolute favorite temples.

• At One with Nature: These temples are much older than Angkor Wat. You can walk peacefully through the jungle with almost no other tourists around.

• Unique Style: Famous for their octagonal (8-sided) brick towers hidden among the trees.

Preah Vihear: The Temple in the Sky

This ancient Hindu temple sits on top of a 525-meter cliff in the Dangrek Mountains.

• The View: From the top, you can see for miles over both Cambodia and Thailand. It is one of the most breathtaking views in the country.

• Pro Tip: This is a long day trip (3 hours each way). We recommend leaving very early. You can also visit Koh Ker on the way back to Babel!

• Important Travel Update: Preah Vihear (2026)

  Because Preah Vihear sits directly on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, access to the temple is currently restricted due to local border regulations.

  At Babel, your safety and a stress-free holiday are our top priorities. Because the border situation can change quickly, we have decided to pause our tours to this specific temple for now.

Remote Temple Tour Pricing (2026)

Explore the hidden gems of Cambodia with our reliable team of professional drivers. These prices are per vehicle (not per person), making them a great value for couples and small groups.

Koh Ker $100

Koh Ker + Beng Mealea $110

Sambor Prei Kuk $120

Preah Vihear*$120

Preah Vihear + Koh Ker*$140

Important Note: Please double-check these prices with our reception team before booking. Fuel costs and local border regulations for Preah Vihear can change.

More to Explore in Siem Reap

Beyond the temples, there are many amazing ways to experience Cambodian culture and nature. Our reception team can book all of these for you!

Phare: The Cambodian Circus

Strictly No Animals. This is Siem Reap’s top-rated evening show! It combines theater, dance, live music, and incredible acrobatics to tell Cambodian stories.

• The Vibe: High energy and emotional. Great for all ages—kids and adults love it!

• Timing: The show starts at 8:00 PM - they do NOT let people in after this. Arrive early (from 5:30 PM) to enjoy street food and a pre show in the garden.

• Important: This sells out quickly in high season (Nov–March). Please ask us for tickets at least 2 days in advance.

• Transport: Tuk Tuk return from Babel is $10.

Traditional Apsara Dancing

Apsara is a beautiful "dance-drama" that brings Khmer history and mythology to life. More than just a performance, it is a vital piece of Cambodian heritage that you can see carved into the very stones of Angkor Wat.

A Story of Survival The art of Apsara was nearly lost forever during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979), when most of the country's artists and masters were killed. However, a few brave surviving masters kept the dance alive in their memories. After the war, they worked tirelessly to teach a new generation of dancers, ensuring the tradition would never die.

A Global Treasure Because of this incredible revival, Apsara was recognized by UNESCO as a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity." Every movement—from the curl of a finger to the arch of a foot—is a sacred gesture that has been passed down for over a thousand years.

• Apsara Theater (Wat Bo): Located in a stunning colonial wooden building. This is the most authentic, air-conditioned venue in town. Dinner is at 7:30 PM, show at 8:30 PM.

• Kanell Restaurant: If you are looking for a more relaxed and child-friendly evening, Kanell is a beautiful choice. The restaurant is set in a lush tropical garden with palm trees and a traditional Khmer wooden house. Along with the graceful Apsara dance, Kanell also features a thrilling demonstration of Bokator—Cambodia’s ancient martial art. The menu is created by one of Cambodia’s top chefs, offering high-quality Khmer flavors in a comfortable environment. Dinner and the show start at 7:00 PM.

• Booking: Our reception staff will explain the diffenrt food options and make a reservation for you.

Khmer Cooking Classes

Want to learn how to cook authentic Khmer food yourself? We are proud to partner with Beyond Unique Escape to offer high-quality, hands-on cooking experiences.

The Experience

• Local Market Tour: Start your day with a guided walk through a bustling Cambodian market. Discover colorful produce, exotic fruits, and the essential ingredients of Khmer cuisine.

• Countryside Kitchen: Head out to a beautiful rural setting for your interactive class. Led by professional local chefs, you will learn to create three traditional dishes from scratch.

• Your Own Station: Every guest has their own individual cooking station and equipment to ensure a true hands-on experience.

• Take it Home: You will receive recipe cards so you can recreate the magic for your friends and family back home!

Class Options & Pricing

• Half-Day Morning Class: $32 per person (Includes market tour).

• Evening Class: $35 per person (Includes cocktails).

• Dessert Class: $32 per person (Focuses on delicious Khmer sweets like palm sugar treats).

• Plant-Based / Vegan: Available on request! Just let us know your dietary preferences when booking.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours. Booking: Please talk to our reception staff to check availability and make a reservation.

QUAD BIKE TOURS

The quad bikes are specially designed off road vehicles that cope with all kind of terrain. After clear instructions and practice, you will go for an unforgettable off road experience amongst rice fields and traditional villages. Their guides will show the way.

"Please bear with us! We are currently updating our tours and prices for May 2026 to ensure you get the best experience. Check back soon!"

APOPO - HERO RATS

Not far from the city center of Siem Reap is Apopo´s Visitor Center. This center gives you the chance to discover the history of conflict in Cambodia, the impact of landmines on local communities, and the opportunity to meet and see the HeroRATs in action.

They have designed and build a demonstration area where the HeroRATs will sniff out buried items, scratch the surface to indicate they´ve found something to trainers and of course receive a tasty treat as a reward.

SIEM REAP HAS SO MUCH MORE TO OFFER!

Pottery class, basket knitting, jewelry making, ferris wheel, trick ark museum, butterfly cetre, wake park, minigolf, playgrounds...  and a lot more!

Come talk to us at the reception for the up to date offers!