Siem Reap

Secret Siem Reap: Shrines, Studios & Quiet Paths

Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5

(63)

Secret Siem Reap: Shrines, Studios & Quiet Paths

Wander tucked-away lanes and tranquil spots shaped around your pace, curiosity, and connection.

What makes this experience special

Discover a hidden side of Siem Reap, creative, contemplative, and tailored to you. Explore with a local who adapts each moment to your rhythm, from artistry to spirituality to stillness.

Key highlights

Explore hidden artist workshops away from galleries
Walk a quiet monk’s trail known only to locals
Pause at a bodhi tree shrine covered in handwritten prayers
Choose to sketch, wander, or reflect, your pace sets the tone
Pause in a quiet spot even longtime residents might overlook
See Siem Reap’s quieter rituals beyond the temples

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Wat Damnak, Wat Damnak, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Wat Damnak, Wat Damnak, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

Wat Damnak Pagoda’s Wooden Bridge Start

Tucked behind leafy lanes, a peaceful place to begin

Secret Siem Reap: Shrines, Studios & Quiet Paths

Your experience starts quietly at Wat Damnak, a neighborhood pagoda where monks pass on bikes and the river drifts nearby. It sets the tone for a morning shaped by softness, not spectacle.

Artisan Alley in Wat Damnak Backstreets

Unmarked studios where tradition and creativity live on

Step off the riverside into quiet lanes where creativity flows softly. You might glimpse a carving, pass a home-studio, or follow the sound of a brush on canvas. Where you pause depends on what sparks your curiosity.

The Monk’s Path & Secret Garden Shrine

A shaded path ending in quiet ritual

You might follow a shaded riverside path locals call the Monk’s Path. It ends at a quiet shrine beneath a bodhi tree, faded murals, candles, and folded prayers. Pause here, or continue into a nearby lane where a wooden library waits.

The Creative Courtyard

A quiet corner for art, rest, or reflection

Tucked behind wooden shutters, this calm space blends creativity and conversation. Whether you're drawn to try something or simply pause in the shade, your host will match the moment to your pace.

Above the Rooftops

An unexpected view and a moment to pause

Toward the end of your walk, your host might lead you to a peaceful courtyard space rarely noticed from the street. There could be a shaded terrace or upper landing where you can look out over tiled roofs and treetops, a gentle place to read, reflect, or simply let the moment linger.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Unwinding by the water on a peaceful boat ride

Sharing laughs in the heart of a vibrant market street

Riverside temple adventure

Evening charm in Chinatown

Cultural deep dive at the Grand Palace complex

Bright skies and happy moments

Authentic flavors and street eats in a local food haven

Smiles and skyline on a scenic ferry ride

Tuk-Tuk Adventures and Smiles

Exploring a flower market with vibrant colors in hand

Hugging it out on a colourful street adventure

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

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What travelers think of our Hidden Gems experiences in Asia

Osam Aug 2025

I enjoyed the interactions with thr tour guide. Very knowledgeable and attentive.

Lauren Aug 2025

We loved this tour and Criselda made it extra special! We walked and explored the castle, Kenroku-en Garden, and samurai district. Criselda shared a lot of information and taught us a great deal. We love Japan and Kanazawa and are really glad we chose this tour. What a unique city.

Panagiotis Jul 2025

Mia's comfort to the region

Tara Jul 2025

Cici was so knowledgeable about Gion. She catered our walking tour to meet our needs - and was very accommodating when we wanted to shop for gifts or sightsee outside the area. She was easy going and fun to tour with. Highly recommend! Ps. She didn’t ask us for a recommendation - which is why I felt compelled to leave one.

Mary Jul 2025

Seiichi was exceptionally accomodating and friendly, gave us plenty of space to express our own wishes and interests for the tour and gave us a great insight into the local culture. The overall tour was a great experience. I wish every tour-going traveler a guide as good as Seiichi!

Marieke Jul 2025

It was a great experience and because of the early start (8am) we had a quiet and pleasant experience ahead of the incoming (other) tourists. Great way to learn about the history of Kanazawa, its crafts and typical food specialties. Our guide was very knowledgeable and had great suggestions to do by ourselves the rest of the day.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I request specific places or types of stops?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.