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
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 colourful 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.
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![Pool - Phum Baitang]()
View AccommodationZannier 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 Shack - Outside Pool]()
View AccommodationShinta 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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![Exterior]()
View AccommodationViroth'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 favourite with the design-conscious, Viroth’s evokes the ex-pat glamour of a bygone age.
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![Main Pool - Amansara]()
View AccommodationAmansara
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.
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.
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![Temples - Temples of the Forest]()
View ExperienceTemples of the Forest
This fantastic tour is geared around avoiding the crowds, getting you to Ta Prohm, Ta Nei and Ta Keo at the quietest time of day. Ensconced in jungle, these temples are ideal for adventurous families and couples wanting an Indiana Jones experience!
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![Vespa - Foodie Vespa Adventure]()
View ExperienceFoodie 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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![Angkor Thom - Explore Angkor Thom]()
View ExperienceExplore Angkor Thom
This is one of our favourite half-day experiences from Siem Reap.
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![Tonle Sap]()
View ExperienceBoat Trip on Tonle Sap Lake
Home to colourful floating villages and luminous mangroves, Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is just 45 minutes from Siem Reap. Spend time cruising the lake onboard a simple local boat, a perfect way to explore.
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![Angkor - Hidden Temple Trek]()
View ExperienceHidden 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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View ExperienceHalf Day with Elephants at Kulen
You will spend time learning about elephants as you follow them through their natural habitat, observing their relationships and behaviours.
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![Banteay Srei and Kbal Spean Half Day Tour]()
View ExperienceBanteay 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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![Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea]()
View ExperienceBanteay Srei and Beng Mealea Full Day Tour
One of our favourite 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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![Quad Biking in Siem Reap]()
View ExperienceQuad Biking in Siem Reap
Quad bike through the countryside surrounding Siem Reap for an alternative view of Cambodia.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning
