Each year thousands of tourists visit Cambodia and it’s world-renowned ruins, The Temples of Angkor. The traditional way to see these magnificent remains is either in a tour group or on a tuk tuk (a motorized rickshaw). Cycling, however, is becoming increasingly popular. As it is an extremely flat country, Cambodia is perfect for cycling, and the tour around Angkor’s impressive remains is no exception.
What is Angkor Wat? Where Are The Temples Of Angkor?
The Temples of Angkor, often collectively know by the name of the most famous temple, Angkor Wat, are the ruins of the ancient Khmer kingdom’s capital city. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is Cambodia’s most famous monument and a great source of national pride.
The thousand temples that make up the complex are spread over a vast area in northeast Cambodia, near the city of Siem Reap. Due to it’s proximately to the Temples of Angkor this city is packed full of hostels and hotels and is the best base for visits to the site. The temple complex is only seven kilometers north of Siem Reap, along a well marked, but extremely busy main road. Although there is a lot of traffic, the cars, motorbikes and tour buses are used to the steady stream of bikes heading to the ruins.
Why Cycle To Angkor Wat?
Pedal power is arguably the most rewarding way to see one of the greatest sights in the world. Pleasantly paced, and the only truly independent way to go (since renting cars and motorbikes is forbidden), biking to the Temple Complex has a number of benefits:
- The ride is relatively easy, as it’s almost totally flat.
- Cycling is the cheapest way to get to the temples.
- It is totally independent, allowing visits to Angkor Wat at all paces.
- The tourist can set the agenda and only see what they want to see.
Will I Be Able To See All The Temples On A Bike?
The one thousand Temples of Angkor stretch over an extended area. Very few people visit all of the temples; the majority of visitors see only the central grouping.
There are two cycle circuits (17 km, and 26 km) that allow tourists to see the most famous and impressive temples in one day. People who intend to spend longer at the sites can take these routes at a slower pace, revisit temples and explore father afield. Some of the lesser-known temples are extremely far from Siem Reap and are only really feasible by motorized transport. However, there will be no problem visiting all the must-see sites by bike.
Unmissable Sites At The Temples Of Angkor
- Angkor Wat
- Angkor Thom
- The Terrace of the Elephants
- Preah Khan
- Ta Preah
Where Can I Hire a Bike In Siem Reap?
Bicycles are available for hire at the majority of hotels and shops in central Siem Reap. The rates are extremely reasonable; some are available to rent for as little as $1 per day, though, it’s probably worth spending an extra dollar for a better quality bike. Although the bikes available are not excellent, most are workable and it is easy to find one in a fair condition.
What Do I Need To Take To Angkor Wat?
- A map of the site—Maps are available free in most hotels.
- A guide book— guides can be brought at the market in central Siem Reap.
- Water—Bottles of water are also for sale at every temple (at slightly inflated prices).
- A waterproof rain jacket or poncho—If it does start to rain, ponchos are on sale across the complex.
- Snacks—Chocolate or protein bars will keep the energy up, although food is available in the complex.
Cycling is the calmest and best way to enjoy one of the world's greatest monuments. Finding a bike, map, guide and equipment is easy so there is no excuse no to enjoy these magnificent attraction by pedal power.
Tom Ravenscroft - Tom Ravenscroft is a freelance journalist and academic who currently resides in the UK. Though he feels particularly educated in ...
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