Countryside Life and Dining

From local villages to monk blessings and from ox-cart rides to fine dining in a paddy field, this is a truly exquisite experience that's perfect for families and couples. It's ideal for those who want to see more of Cambodia than just temples.

Area

Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Type

Art & Architecture

Food & Drink

Grade

Standard

Who

Adults

Older Kids

Duration

Half Day

Beyond the temples lies a rural landscape which is often little changed since the days of Jayavarman VII. To depart Siem Reap having seen only the temple ruins is to miss contemporary Khmer culture. As infrastructure and technology encroach upon the countryside, this opportunity will soon be lost.

After a short drive from Siem Reap visit a colorful contemporary pagoda to learn more about the importance of Buddhism in rural communities and seek a blessing from the monks.

This evening joins us at ABOUTAsia’s country villa Chandara, situated in a beautiful and tranquil village to the north of the Western Baray. An impressive engineering feat, this man-made reservoir was once integral to the complex Angkorian rice irrigation system. You will travel to Chandara by boat (depending on the water level) late this afternoon.

To relax here for a while is an opportunity to slow down and just watch, cold drink in hand. The tempo of the Cambodian countryside is truly meditation in motion. At the end of the day, you will likely see ox-carts returning from the fields, children washing their water buffalos, or playing and laughing as they jump from the bridge into the stream.

While our chef prepares your Classic Dinner, you can wander across the levees of the rice paddies, look for fish traps, or walk to a viewpoint over the ancient reservoir. Listen to the elegance of traditional Khmer music played by local musicians, before being seated for your evening meal.

Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

Amansara

Occupying what was once the 1960's guest villa of Cambodia's retired king, Amansara is exclusive, luxurious and tranquil – the perfect retreat after a day's sightseeing offering fantastic service, delicious cuisine and luxury accommodation.

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Zannier Hotel Phum Baitang

Phum Baitang, which means 'Green Village' in Khmer is one of Siem Reap's most luxurious and elegant hideaways, with just 45 spacious stilted villas that are wrapped in luminous greenery and finished with high quality interiors.

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Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas

Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas is a fantastic option for those wanting a super slick and stylish boutique hotel in a great location, just a 15-minute drive from Angkor Wat.

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Viroth's Hotel

For modernist architecture with a tropical twist, jewel-toned vintage-styled Scandinavian furniture and a hip but friendly vibe, check in to Viroth’s Hotel. A firm favorite with the design-conscious, Viroth’s evokes the ex-pat glamour of a bygone age.

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More Experiences in This Area

Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.

Banteay Srei and Kbal Spean

A wonderful full-day tour that takes you out to the Cambodian countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading on to Banteay Srei temple, a beautiful a mysterious red sand-stone temple.

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Hidden Temple Trek

Visit some of Angkor's hidden temples on this afternoon hike through Angkor Archaeological Park. Starting at Angkor Thom follow the walls to pass through Angkor Krau. Through paddy fields you will end at Prasat Banteay Thom where sunset drinks await.

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Country Life Photography

Explore beyond the temples of Angkor and head into rural Cambodia outside of Siem Reap. Travel by tuk-tuk with self-taught photographer, Mr Kimleng, who will lead the way into luminous paddy fields and exuberant rural villages.

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Phare - The Cambodian Circus

Top of Siem Reap's to do list is the amazing and moving Phare, Cambodian Circus. Watch these talented young performers in a breathtakingly entertaining and original show. This hour-long show has a variety of performances to enjoy.

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Explore Angkor Thom

This is one of our favorite half-day experiences from Siem Reap.

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Angkor Thom Scavenger Hunt by Bicycle

Exclusive to Scott Dunn and ideal for the whole family, this unique experience takes you through Angkor Thom on an adventurous photo scavenger hunt. You'll have 11 different clues peppered across the ancient temples. Success will be awarded at the end!

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Quad Biking in Siem Reap

Quad bike through the countryside surrounding Siem Reap for an alternative view of Cambodia.

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Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Full Day Tour

One of our favorite experiences in Siem Reap that gets you out to the Cambodian countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading on to Banteay Srei temple which is made from beautiful red sand-stone.

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Foodie Vespa Adventure

Explore the local culinary scene of Siem Reap on the back seat of an Italian Vespa in this lively and exciting evening experience.

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