Looking for a cycling tour in Siem Reap that goes beyond the temples? The Ancient Highway Biking & Farmhouse tour offers a refreshing day out in the countryside, combining history, village life, and local food into one memorable experience.
This full-day cycling adventure takes you from Siem Reap along parts of the ancient Khmer highway, a route that once connected the Angkor region with Phimai in present-day Thailand. Today, it offers a peaceful ride through backroads, rice fields, and traditional villages, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Along the way, cyclists get a closer look at daily life in rural Cambodia. You may see local basket weaving, traditional Kralan cake being made, village schools, pagodas, vegetable gardens, and wide-open farmland. It is a wonderful way to connect with the landscape and people of the Siem Reap countryside.
One of the tour’s unique highlights is a visit to the ancient Angkorian sites hidden in the countryside. Riders stop at the impressive West Baray, one of the largest ancient reservoirs built during the Khmer Empire. This massive man-made water reservoir once played an important role in the Angkor civilization’s irrigation system and still remains an important landmark today. The peaceful surroundings and open views make it a perfect place to take a short break and enjoy the countryside atmosphere.
The journey also includes a visit to Ak Yum Temple, one of the earliest temple mountains in the Angkor region. Built before the famous Angkor Wat, Ak Yum is an important archaeological site that reflects the early development of Khmer temple architecture. Hidden near the edge of West Baray, the temple offers travelers a quieter and less-visited historical experience.
Another important highlight is crossing the ancient Spean Memay Bridge, a historic laterite bridge that formed part of the Khmer Empire’s ancient highway network. This bridge once connected Angkor to the western provinces and played a key role in transportation and trade during the Angkorian period. Cycling across this ancient route gives visitors a rare opportunity to follow the footsteps of the Khmer Empire while enjoying the beautiful rural scenery.
One of the highlights of the tour is a stop at a local farmhouse, where guests enjoy a delicious farm-to-table Khmer lunch. This is not an overnight stay, but a cultural visit where you can relax, enjoy local hospitality, and learn more about farming life in the countryside. Depending on the day and season, visitors may also explore the farm, see sustainable farming practices, and join light hands-on activities. The farmhouse library also adds a special touch, giving visitors a deeper glimpse into Khmer history and local knowledge.
The cycling distance is around 20 to 30 kilometers, making it suitable for riders with a moderate fitness level. The route is supported by an experienced English-speaking biking guide, a mechanic, snacks and drinks, and a support vehicle for extra comfort. Mountain bike and helmet are included, and travelers can also choose an e-bike upgrade for an additional cost. The tour lasts around 8 hours and departs daily from Siem Reap.
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