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OUDONG ESCAPE
A day-long cycling retreat into the countryside, the Oudong trail reveals Cambodia’s ancient beauty.
Oudong was once Cambodia’s capital. When that title relocated to Phnom Penh, the area of Oudong returned to simpler life composed largely of small villages, rice farmers, and palm wineries. While now it’s a calming countryside, Oudong still boasts the impressive Khmer architecture from historic glory days. These majestic temples dot the rumpled hillsides through which our bike trail winds.
Our trail is visually stunning. We’ll cycle sienna dirt roads that lead through swaying rice fields, past blooming lily ponds, and into stilted villages. The Oudong bicycle trail leaves behind the city commotion of modern Phnom Penh to explore the Cambodia that once was—a dominating place of powerful beauty set in natural surroundings.
What do we see? Our bike trail begins at a pagoda just outside Phnom Penh's city limits. Cycling crumbling roads lead us into the Oudong countryside where rice fields sprawl to meet distant mountains, mango orchards shade simple villages, and prickly palm trees host fermenting palm wine. The bicycle trail bends gently past the impressive Khmer Temple of the Heavens and into a community street market. Surrounded by vivid, rolling hills, we’ll lunch in the market here.
As if guarding the skies, the towering Oudong temple rests atop one of these nearby hills. After lunch, climb the stairway to the temple grounds for an inspiring view over the quilted countryside.
The last leg of our bicycle trail continues past the local school and back into more remote settings. We’ll cycle along the shores of lakes brimming with lilies and lotus before meeting our private van to return to our hotels.
What is the riding like? This is a comfortable 40-km, full-day ride that is suitable for any level. Experienced SpiceRoads cycle guides set a relaxed pace according to the cycling strength of the group. Regarding road conditions, expect a mix of paved and dirt roads. The dirt roads can be bumpy depending on recent rains. Of course, water, soft drinks, and snacks are all included during the ride, and SpiceRoads supplies a quality mountain bike and helmet.
| FACTS & FIGURES | |
|---|---|
| Tour Cost | US$75 per person |
| Number of Days | 1 day |
| Pick up Time | 06h45 to 07h30 at your hotel |
| Drop Off | Usually around 17h00 at your hotel |
| Departure Days | The tour departs every Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat. with a minimum group of 2 adults. |
| Children | Children aged 12-16 years are welcome on this trip and receive a 25% discount. |
| Bike Hire | A quality mountain bike and helmet are included in the tour price. |
| Total Distance | 40 km |
| Biking Grade |
(out of five)
|
| Support | Fully supported by SpiceRoads: bike, bus, and driver. |
| Group Size | Minimum 2; maximum 12. |
