Overview
The Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Express Cycling Tour - 3 Days is a masterfully condensed expedition designed for time-conscious travelers who refuse to sacrifice adventure for brevity. This high-energy route carves a path through the heart of the "Kingdom of Wonder," offering a sensory-rich transition from the urban energy of Phnom Penh to the ancient spiritual grandeur of Siem Reap.
Your journey begins on the tranquil shores of Koh Dach (Silk Island), where the rhythmic sound of traditional looms sets the pace. From there, we follow the majestic Mekong River to Kampong Cham, cycling through a landscape of colonial heritage and riverside charm. The adventure intensifies as we head toward Kampong Thom, pedaling through the sprawling rubber and cacao plantations of Chamka Leur—a lush, green canopy that provides a unique backdrop for our cross-country ride.
The final leg of this 235km odyssey takes you deep into the forest to uncover Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the pre-Angkorian capital of the Chenla Empire. Cycling among these 7th-century brick temples, shrouded in jungle vines, offers a profound sense of discovery before we make our grand entry into Siem Reap. With a dedicated support vehicle, premium gear, and expert lead guides, this 3-day tour is the ultimate "active shortcut" to experiencing the authentic soul of Cambodia.
Highlights
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Silk Island Immersion: Experience the ancient art of silk weaving in the traditional stilt-house villages of Koh Dach.
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Mekong Riverside Trails: Enjoy scenic cycling along the banks of the mighty Mekong, passing tobacco fields and local fishing communities.
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Plantation Pedaling: Ride through the vast, shaded rubber and fruit plantations of Chamka Leur, experiencing Cambodia's agrarian wealth.
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Sambor Prei Kuk Discovery: Explore the pre-Angkorian brick temples of the Chenla Empire, a hidden UNESCO gem nestled in the forest.
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The Rural Heartland: Navigate the red-dirt backroads of Kampong Thom, far away from the standard tourist bus routes.
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High-Octane Adventure: Challenge your stamina with a 235km journey over just three days, perfectly supported by our professional crew.
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Boutique Heritage: Stay in hand-picked accommodations that reflect the local charm of Kampong Cham and Kampong Thom.
BRIEF ITINERARY
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Day 1: Phnom Penh – Koh Dach Island – Kampong Cham (Cycling: 85km) | The Silk & Mekong Trail
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Day 2: Kampong Cham – Chamka Leur – Kampong Thom (Cycling: 85km) | The Plantation Route
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Day 3: Kampong Thom – Sambor Prei Kuk – Siem Reap (Cycling: 65km) | The Ancient Capital Path
What’s Included
What is Included:
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Support Vehicle: Professional A/C support van for luggage, snacks, and "backup" for tired legs.
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Bicycles: High-quality mountain bike rental (Trek/Giant) and safety helmets.
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Expert Team: Professional English-speaking cycling guide and dedicated support crew.
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Accommodation: 2 nights in comfortable boutique hotels/guesthouses (twin/double sharing).
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Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 2 Dinners.
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Entrance Fees: Sambor Prei Kuk UNESCO site permit and ferry crossings.
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Hydration: Unlimited chilled water, electrolytes, and fresh seasonal fruits on all ride days.
What is Excluded:
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Airfare: International flights.
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Visas: Cambodian tourist visa fees.
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Insurance: Mandatory personal travel and medical insurance.
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Accommodation (Day 3): Hotel in Siem Reap (your own arrangement).
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Personal Items: Laundry, telephone, and alcoholic beverages.
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Tips: Gratuities for your hard-working guide and driver.
Itinerary
Experience a high-octane 3-day cycling journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap! Ride through Silk Island, explore the rubber plantations of Kampong Cham, and discover the pre-Angkorian ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk. The ultimate short active tour in Cambodia.
Tour Plan
Your journey begins at 08:00 AM as we escape the capital's bustle for a serene 1.5-hour boat cruise up the mighty Mekong. We disembark at Koh Dach (Silk Island), a world frozen in time. As you pedal through the shaded island paths, you’ll hear the rhythmic "clack-clack" of wooden looms; here, every stilt house is a workshop where artisans weave shimmering silk by hand. After absorbing the island’s tranquility, we continue our 85km ride along the lush Mekong Riverside. The trail offers a front-row seat to riverside life—fishing boats, tobacco fields, and waving children. Upon reaching the colonial-era town of Kampong Cham, we conclude our ride with a visit to the 12th-century Nokor Batchey Temple, a stunning sandstone monument where ancient history meets modern Buddhist faith.
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Route: Phnom Penh – Mekong Boat Cruise – Silk Island – Mekong Bank – Kampong Cham
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Cycling Distance: ~85km
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Road Condition: A mix of flat village dirt paths, shaded island trails, and paved riverside roads.
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Meals: Lunch, Dinner