The Grand Circuit is the longer loop around the Angkor park, and its eastern half holds some of the most atmospheric temples in the region. This tour concentrates on that side. Pre Rup, built in the tenth century, is a stepped pyramid of red laterite and sandstone with a commanding view over the surrounding forest, and it was once a funerary temple in the royal city of Rajendravarman. Ta Som is a smaller temple of the late twelfth century with an eastern gateway that a giant tree has swallowed, a scene that photographers love because it is far quieter than Ta Prohm. Preah Khan and Neak Pean, the temple of the sacred sword and the island shrine in a square pool, complete the loop with long corridors and a lotus-shaped sanctuary. Along the way a guide explains the building styles of different kings, the symbolism of the temple-mountain and the part water played in Khmer worship and daily life. For travellers who have seen the main Small Circuit and want a deeper look at Angkor without the crowds, this is an ideal second day.
How to visit
The half-day tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel and runs by minibus or tuk-tuk through the eastern part of the park. You need an Angkor Pass, which is sold only by the park’s authorised seller, and the operator says whether it is included.
The order of the stops varies, but most itineraries visit Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som and Pre Rup, with time to explore each. Because it runs beyond the Angkor Thom gates, the route uses the peaceful forest roads that make this side of the park feel remote.
What to see
Pre Rup is the place to climb, with steep steps to the top tier where five brick towers stand, and it is a favourite for late-afternoon light when the stone glows red. Ta Som has a classic tree-wrapped doorway and carved faces that echo the Bayon. Neak Pean, a small shrine on an island in an artificial pool, was built as a place of healing, with the water linked to a legend of a sacred lake.
Preah Khan, the largest of the group, is a maze of corridors, galleries and fallen blocks where trees and stone have grown together. Because these temples attract fewer visitors than Ta Prohm or the Bayon, you often have whole courtyards to yourself.
Making the most of it
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent, and wear shoes with good grip for the stone stairs. Cover shoulders and knees as at every temple. A morning departure is best for the soft light and cooler temperatures, although late afternoon is good for Pre Rup. The dry season from November to March is the most comfortable time, and the rainy months bring a green, moody atmosphere with fewer crowds.
If you have only a short stay, treat this tour as an addition to the main Small Circuit, and do it on a different day from the Angkor Wat sunrise. If you want to see more, combine it with the Phnom Bakheng sunset tour or a morning at Banteay Srei. Avoid climbing on fragile carvings, follow the guide’s advice and take your rubbish with you. A half-day gives you time for a long lunch afterwards in town.
What to expect
The experience
A guided half-day loop of the eastern Grand Circuit, visiting Pre Rup, Ta Som, Neak Pean and Preah Khan.
Best time
Mornings for cooler air, or late afternoon for the glow on Pre Rup; the dry season from November to March is most comfortable.
How long
About four to five hours.
Tips
Buy your Angkor Pass beforehand, wear shoes with grip, cover shoulders and knees and carry water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers on their second day at Angkor who want quieter temples.
- Families
- Good for children who like climbing and exploring; Pre Rup has steep stairs.
- Couples
- Peaceful corridors and tree-wrapped doorways with few other visitors.
- Pair with
- A morning at Banteay Srei, or the Phnom Bakheng sunset tour on another day.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
What is the Grand Circuit?+
It is the longer loop road around Angkor Thom that passes temples such as Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup. It is quieter than the Small Circuit.
Do I need an Angkor Pass?+
Yes. Every temple on the circuit requires a pass, which is sold only by the park’s authorised seller.
Is Ta Som like Ta Prohm?+
It is smaller and quieter, but it has a similar scene of a giant tree growing over a gateway. Many visitors prefer it for the lack of crowds.
Can I climb Pre Rup?+
Yes, there are steep stairs to the top level, which gives views of the surrounding forest. Take care on the steps, especially when wet.
How is this different from the Preah Khan and Neak Pean half-day tour?+
This tour adds Ta Som and Pre Rup and follows the eastern part of the Grand Circuit, so it is a fuller loop of the quieter temples.
