Siem Reap is best known as the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Wat complex, To Do in Siem Reap but the adventure doesn’t stop there. Beyond the ancient temples lies a world of natural wonders, hidden ruins, floating villages, and wild experiences waiting to be discovered.
To Do in Siem Reap For travelers with a sense of adventure, Siem Reap offers an exciting range of day trips that take you deep into Cambodia’s culture, landscape, and history. Whether you’re into jungle hikes, off-road quad biking, or exploring secret temples, this guide will show you the 10 best day trips from Siem Reap for those who crave something more than the typical tourist trail.
1. Beng Mealea: A Jungle Temple Lost in Time
To Do in Siem Reap Just a 1.5-hour drive from Siem Reap lies Beng Mealea, a temple that looks like it’s straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. Built in the same period as Angkor Wat but left unrestored, the complex is swallowed by jungle—with roots, vines, and trees growing over its collapsed stones.
Adventurous travelers can climb over rubble, squeeze through archways, and explore its mysterious passageways. Since it’s less crowded than Angkor, Beng Mealea provides a raw, immersive temple experience.
Distance: \~70 km | Time Required: Half day to full day
2. Kulen Mountain (Phnom Kulen): Sacred Trails and Waterfalls
To Do in Siem Reap Located about 2 hours from Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain rich in both natural beauty and religious history. You’ll find the River of a Thousand Lingas, ancient carvings in the riverbed, as well as a 70-foot reclining Buddha at the top.
The highlight? Kulen Waterfall, where you can swim in a refreshing pool at the base of a jungle cascade. This day trip is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Distance: \~50 km | Time Required: Full day
3. Tonlé Sap Lake: Kayaking Through Floating Villages
To Do in Siem Reap The Tonlé Sap Lake is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and its unique ecosystem supports vibrant floating communities. For an adventurous twist, skip the touristy boat tours and opt for a kayaking tour through Kampong Phluk or Kampong Khleang.
You’ll glide through flooded mangrove forests, witness daily life on the water, and interact with locals in one of Cambodia’s most fascinating environments.
Distance: \~25–50 km depending on the village | Time Required: Half to full day
4. Preah Vihear Temple: A Sacred Site with Epic Views
For those willing to make a longer trek, Preah Vihear Temple offers both historical intrigue and jaw-dropping mountain-top views. Located along the Thai border, this Hindu temple sits on a cliff with panoramic vistas of northern Cambodia.
To Do in Siem Reap While the trip is longer—roughly 3.5 to 4 hours one way—the reward is immense. It’s far less visited than Angkor, making it ideal for travelers looking for solitude and a true sense of discovery.
Distance: \~210 km | Time Required: Full day
5. Kampong Thom and Sambor Prei Kuk: Temples Older Than Angkor
Step even further back in time with a visit to Sambor Prei Kuk, an archaeological site that predates Angkor by several centuries. Located near Kampong Thom, these pre-Angkorian temples are surrounded by dense forest, making the area ideal for biking and exploring on foot.
To Do in Siem Reap The temples are built with brick and sandstone, featuring intricate carvings and moss-covered towers. It’s an off-the-beaten-path treasure for true history buffs.
Distance: \~150 km | Time Required: Full day
6. Quad Biking Through the Cambodian Countryside
Want a thrill without leaving Siem Reap far behind? Quad biking tours offer adventurous travelers a high-energy way to explore rice paddies, villages, dirt tracks, and sunset viewpoints.
Several operators offer 2-hour to full-day adventures, some of which include stops at local farms, schools, and temples. It’s the perfect way to add excitement to your itinerary while seeing rural Cambodia up close.
Distance: Varies | Time Required: 2–6 hours
7. Banteay Srei and the Landmine Museum
To Do in Siem Reap Combine culture and conscience with a visit to the intricately carved Banteay Srei Temple, often called the “jewel of Khmer art.” Located about an hour from Siem Reap, this pink sandstone temple is famous for its detailed bas-reliefs and elegant design.
Nearby, you’ll find the Cambodian Landmine Museum, which provides powerful insights into Cambodia’s past and ongoing demining efforts. It’s a thought-provoking and meaningful day trip.
Distance: \~37 km | Time Required: Half day
8. Birdwatching at Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve
To Do in Siem Reap For nature lovers, the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary is a must. Located in the Tonlé Sap Biosphere, this protected area is home to rare and endangered bird species, including painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, and the greater adjutant.
A guided day trip often includes boat rides, hiking through wetland areas, and visits to local conservation projects. Prek Toal is perfect for eco-conscious adventurers and photographers alike.
Distance: \~1.5–2 hours (by road and boat) | Time Required: Full day
9. Bike Tour to Local Villages and Hidden Temples
Sometimes, the best adventures are the slow ones. A bicycle tour through Siem Reap’s back roads offers travelers the chance to visit local villages, ancient ruins, and scenic rice fields—without the rush.
Guided tours often include cultural activities like making palm sugar, visiting Buddhist monasteries, or meeting local artisans. It’s a great way to connect with Cambodia’s heartland in an active and intimate way.
Distance: \~15–40 km depending on the tour | Time Required: Half day to full day
10. Chong Kneas: Boat Ride to the Floating Forest
To Do in Siem Reap While Chong Kneas is often criticized for being touristy, it still offers unique experiences—especially during the wet season, when the surrounding floating forest comes to life.
Opt for a guided boat ride to less crowded areas of the forest, where the trees seem to rise straight out of the water. It’s surreal, peaceful, and perfect for those looking to explore Cambodia’s wetland wilderness.
Distance: \~15 km | Time Required: Half day
Conclusion: Adventure Awaits Beyond the Temples
Siem Reap is much more than a one-stop temple destination—it’s the perfect base for a series of day trips that cater to adventurous travelers. Whether you’re hiking up sacred mountains, paddling through floating villages, or exploring jungle-clad ruins, each journey offers a new perspective on Cambodia’s rich heritage and wild beauty.
To Do in Siem Reap As you plan your trip, consider stepping outside the usual tourist zones. The real heart of Cambodia lies in its countryside, its culture, and its people, all waiting to be discovered just beyond the city limits of Siem Reap.
So pack your sense of adventure—you’re in for an unforgettable ride.
FAQs
1. Is it safe to go on day trips from Siem Reap alone?
Yes, most areas around Siem Reap are safe for solo travelers, especially on guided tours. However, always inform your hotel of your plans, avoid remote areas alone, and book with reputable tour companies for longer trips like Preah Vihear.
2. What’s the best time of year for adventurous day trips in Siem Reap?
To Do in Siem Reap The cool, dry season from November to February is ideal for outdoor adventures. The wet season (June to October) offers lush scenery and unique activities like kayaking through flooded forests, but some roads may become difficult to access.
3. Can I rent a motorbike to explore these areas myself?
Motorbike rentals are available in Siem Reap, but many rural roads can be rough or poorly marked. If you’re an experienced rider, go ahead—but for longer or more remote trips, a guided tour or private driver is recommended.
4. Are these day trips suitable for families with kids?
Many of them are! Trips to Tonlé Sap, Kulen Mountain, and Banteay Srei are especially family-friendly. Activities like quad biking or long-distance hiking may be better suited for teens and adults.
5. How do I book these adventurous day trips from Siem Reap?
You can book online via platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or through local agencies and your hotel. Always check reviews, inclusions, and safety standards before booking.