Jungle Hike to Kbal Spean -Holy River & Banteay Srei Private Tour

5.0 (20 reviews) 7–8 hours Free cancellation Private tour

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20 reviews

5.0

Jungle Hike to Kbal Spean -Holy River & Banteay Srei Private Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Jungle Hike to Kbal Spean -Holy River & Banteay Srei Private Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the perfect mix of nature, history, and adventure on this private full-day tour from Siem Reap.

Start your day with a scenic jungle hike to Kbal Spean, also known as the Sacred River or River of a Thousand Lingas. Follow a forest trail to discover ancient carvings hidden in the riverbed, admire a peaceful waterfall, and learn about the fascinating history and spiritual importance of this unique archaeological site.

After the hike, visit the beautiful Banteay Srei Temple, famous for its pink sandstone and some of the finest carvings in the Angkor region. Your local guide will share the stories, history, and legends that make this small temple one of Cambodia's greatest treasures.

Travel in the comfort of a private air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly local guide, and enjoy complimentary bottled drinking water throughout the day. With a private tour, you can explore at your own pace, ask questions, and take plenty of photos without feeling rushed.

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At a glance

Duration: 7–8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English
Operated by: Pineapple Cambodia Tours

Ages: Infants (0–0 years) · Children (1–14 years) · Adults (15–90 years)

What is included

Included

Included: English speaking guide
Included: Drinking waters throughout the day.
Included: Round trip by a private air-conditioned minivan

Not included

Not included: Entrance fee to Angkor Archaeological Park.

Itinerary

Kbal Spean

3 hours Admission not included

Kbal Spean (River of a Thousand Lingas) is one of Cambodia's most unique archaeological and natural attractions, located about 50 km northeast of Siem Reap on the southwestern slopes of the Kulen Mountains. Unlike the grand temples of Angkor, Kbal Spean is hidden within a tropical forest and is reached by a scenic 1.5 km uphill hike.

The sacred carvings at Kbal Spean date from the 11th to 13th centuries, during the the Khmer Empire. The site was developed as a sacred Hindu sanctuary where water flowing from the Kulen Mountain was believed to be blessed before continuing downstream to Angkor. Kbal Spean is famous for its hundreds of lingas carved directly into the sandstone riverbed.

The hike to Kbal Spean passes through a peaceful tropical forest filled with tall trees, unique rock formations, birds, butterflies, and seasonal wildflowers. The trail is moderately challenging with some rocky and uneven sections, making it suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Banteay Srei

50 min Admission not included

Banteay Srei, the "Jewel of Khmer Art"

Banteay Srei is widely regarded as the finest example of Khmer stone carving. Every doorway, lintel, pediment, and column is covered with incredibly detailed floral patterns, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu mythology.

Unlike most Angkor temples, which were built from gray sandstone or laterite, Banteay Srei is constructed from pink sandstone. This softer stone allowed artisans to create exceptionally delicate and intricate carvings that remain remarkably well preserved after more than 1,000 years.