Lotus Farm & Countryside Tour Siem Reap | Prices & Guide
Updated: 6 days ago
Step beyond the temples and discover a quieter side of Siem Reap through beautiful lotus fields, Cambodian craftsmanship and peaceful rural landscapes. The Lotus Farm & Countryside Tour introduces visitors to the remarkable journey of the lotus—from a sacred flower growing in water to a natural fibre used in textiles, paper, jewellery and other handmade products.
Depending on your selected experience, you can explore lotus cultivation areas by boat, observe skilled artisans, try traditional handicrafts, enjoy lotus tea and travel through the surrounding Cambodian countryside.
Tour at a Glance
Destination: Lotus Silk Farm and Siem Reap countryside
Location: Phnom Krom area, south of Siem Reap
Travel time: Approximately 20–35 minutes each way
Recommended duration: Two to five hours
Tour style: Nature, culture, handicrafts and rural life
Physical level: EasyBest time: Morning or late afternoon
Suitable for: Couples, families, groups and creative travellers
Farm opening hours: Daily, approximately 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Official experiences: From USD 6 per adult
Angkor Pass required: No
The Story of the Lotus Silk Farm
Lotus Silk Farm was founded by Samatoa, an initiative that has developed sustainable textiles and meaningful artisan employment in Cambodia since 2003. The project combines traditional handcraft techniques with an innovative process that extracts extremely fine natural fibres from lotus stems. These delicate fibres are rolled together by hand, spun into yarn and woven into rare lotus textiles.
Creating lotus fabric requires patience and skill because every stem produces only a tiny amount of fibre. The process provides an excellent example of how Cambodian artisans can transform a local plant into a valuable and environmentally conscious product. The farm also uses other parts of the lotus to create paper, tea, jewellery, incense, cosmetics and plant-based materials. This approach reduces waste and provides additional income opportunities for artisans.
The Meaning of the Lotus in Cambodia
The lotus holds an important place in Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Because it rises clean and beautiful from muddy water, it commonly represents purity, spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Visitors frequently see lotus flowers presented as offerings at Cambodian pagodas and temples. Lotus shapes also appear in Khmer architecture, religious sculpture and decorative art.
At the Lotus Silk Farm, visitors discover both the spiritual symbolism and practical value of this remarkable plant.
What to Experience
Explore the Lotus Fields
Your guide will introduce you to the lotus-growing environment and explain how the plants are cultivated and harvested. The appearance of the fields changes according to the weather, water level and natural growing cycle. Lotus flowers usually open more fully earlier in the day, making the morning particularly attractive for visitors and photographers. Because lotus plants are seasonal, a full field of open flowers cannot be guaranteed on every visit.
See Lotus Fibre Extraction
One of the most fascinating demonstrations shows how fibre is carefully extracted from fresh lotus stems. An artisan gently breaks or cuts the stem and pulls its sections apart. Fine natural filaments appear between the separated pieces. These fibres are collected, rolled together and gradually joined into a continuous thread. Visitors can then observe how the yarn is prepared and woven into finished fabric. The entire process requires considerable time, plant material and manual skill.
Meet Local Artisans
Visitors can watch Cambodian artisans produce lotus yarn, textiles, paper, jewellery and other handicrafts. The guided experience offers an opportunity to learn about their skills, working methods and the value of preserving Cambodian craftsmanship. Ask permission before taking close-up photographs and avoid interrupting detailed work.
Take a Lotus-Field Boat Ride
Selected experiences include a peaceful boat journey through lotus cultivation areas. The boat ride provides a closer view of the plants, waterways and surrounding countryside. Its availability and route depend on water levels and weather conditions. Passengers should remain seated and follow all safety instructions during the journey.
Join a Hands-On Workshop
Depending on your package, you may participate in activities such as:
Lotus-fibre spinning
Lotus-seed bracelet making
Lotus-paper making
Natural silk eco-printing
Plant-based leather carving
Traditional incense making
Most handmade creations can be taken home as personal souvenirs. Products requiring extra drying or processing may be delivered later.
Enjoy Lotus Tea and Khmer Food
Short visits may include traditional lotus tea and a small snack. The farm also offers an optional Khmer set lunch featuring lotus ingredients and vegetarian and organic elements. Inform the farm in advance about food allergies or dietary requirements.
Discover the Siem Reap Countryside
A Lotus Farm visit becomes even more memorable when combined with a private journey through the surrounding countryside.
Depending on the route and season, travellers may see:
Rice fields
Lotus ponds
Palm trees
Vegetable gardens
Traditional wooden houses
Small Buddhist pagodas
Local markets
Fishing areas
Cattle and water buffalo
Rural craft workshops
The scenery changes throughout the year. Rice fields may appear green during the growing season, golden around harvest or dry after the crop has been collected. The countryside is home to working communities. Visitors should never enter private homes, agricultural fields or places of worship without permission.
Official Experiences and Prices
The following experiences and prices were published by Lotus Silk Farm for 2026. Confirm current availability when booking.
Discovery Visit
Duration: 30 minutes
Adult price: USD 6
Children under 18: Free
Departures: Every 30 minutes from approximately 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Includes:
Guided farm visit
Traditional lotus tea
This option is suitable for travellers with limited time.
Lake Experience
Duration: 1.5 hours
Adult price: USD 15
Child price, ages 6–17: USD 10
Children under six: Free
Departures: Every 30 minutes from approximately 8:30 AM–4:00 PM
Includes:
Guided visit
Boat excursion through lotus cultivation areas
This experience is recommended for nature lovers and photographers.
Artisans Immersion
Duration: 2.5 hours
Adult price: USD 35
Child price, ages 6–17: USD 25
Children under six: Free
Departures: Every 30 minutes from approximately 8:30 AM–3:00 PM
Includes:
Guided farm visit
Lotus-field boat excursion
Lotus-fibre spinning
Lotus-seed bracelet making
Lotus-paper workshop
Handmade creations to take home
This is the best balanced option for most travellers.
Master Class
Duration: Three hours
Adult price: USD 65
Child price, ages 6–17: USD 50
Children under six: Free
Departures: Every 30 minutes from approximately 8:30 AM–2:00 PM
Includes:
Guided farm visit
Lotus-field boat excursion
Natural silk eco-printing
Plant-based leather carving
Traditional incense making
Lotus-fibre spinning
Lotus-seed bracelet making
Lotus-paper workshop
Handmade creations to take home
This package is ideal for travellers interested in art and craftsmanship.
Sunset Monk Experience
Duration: 3.5 hours
Departure: Approximately 4:30 PM
Adult price: USD 75
Child price, ages 6–17: USD 45
Children under six: Free
Includes:
Guided farm visit
Lotus-field lake excursion
Sunset blessing by Buddhist monks
Two hands-on craft workshops
Handmade creations
Cocktail
Dinner
Unlimited soft drinks and craft lotus beer
This premium experience is particularly suitable for couples and special occasions.
Optional Khmer Set Lunch
Price: USD 12 per person
The published menu is described as a traditional Khmer meal featuring lotus ingredients, with vegetarian and organic elements.
Estimated Countryside Transportation
If you add private countryside transportation:
Private tuk-tuk: Approximately USD 15–30 per vehicle
Private car: Approximately USD 35–65 per vehicle
English-speaking countryside guide: Approximately USD 30–60
Complete farm and countryside tour: Approximately USD 45–110 per person
Final prices depend on the selected farm package, group size, tour duration and transportation.
Transportation and Pickup
Lotus Silk Farm publishes a complimentary scheduled shuttle with advance reservations from:
Maison Lotus #36, 2 Thnou Street, Siem Reap
The scheduled transfer usually operates every 30 minutes from approximately 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, excluding 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM.
This service departs from a designated meeting point and does not automatically provide pickup from every hotel.
The Riverfront Central Hotel can help arrange:
Transportation to the official meeting point
Private tuk-tuk transfer
Private air-conditioned car
Direct hotel pickup and return
A customised countryside route
Confirm your pickup time and location before departure.
Recommended Half-Day Itinerary
8:00 AM – Depart from the hotelTravel through the peaceful countryside south of Siem Reap.
8:30 AM – Countryside stopSee seasonal rice fields, lotus ponds and rural village landscapes.
9:00 AM – Arrive at Lotus Silk FarmMeet your guide and learn about lotus cultivation.
9:15 AM – Farm and artisan tourObserve lotus-fibre extraction, spinning and weaving.
10:00 AM – Lotus-field boat rideTravel through the cultivation area when conditions allow.
10:30 AM – Craft workshopsCreate lotus paper, a lotus-seed bracelet or lotus yarn.
11:30 AM – Lotus tea or optional lunch
12:30–1:00 PM – Return to the hotel
Times are approximate and depend on transportation and the selected package.
Best Time to Visit
Morning
Morning is recommended for:
Cooler temperatures
Open lotus flowers
Softer photography light
Comfortable outdoor activities
Combining the farm with another afternoon attraction
Late Afternoon
Late afternoon offers:
Golden countryside light
Cooler temperatures
Sunset photography
A romantic atmosphere
Access to the Sunset Monk Experience
Seasonal Conditions
Lotus flowers, rice fields and water levels change naturally throughout the year. Heavy rain may affect the boat experience, while very low water may alter the route.
If seeing blooming lotus fields is especially important, ask the farm or hotel about current conditions before visiting.
What to Bring
Lightweight clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Camera or phone
Waterproof bag during the rainy season
Cash for purchases and optional activities
Modest clothing for religious experiences
Wear clothing that can tolerate natural dye, plant material or paper pulp during craft workshops.
Code of Conduct
Lotus Silk Farm is a working agricultural and artisan environment. Visitors should:
Follow the guide’s instructions.
Do not pick lotus flowers without permission.
Do not damage lotus stems or leaves.
Remain on designated paths.
Wear a life jacket when requested.
Remain seated while the boat is moving.
Ask permission before photographing artisans.
Avoid interrupting delicate craftwork.
Supervise children during workshops and boat rides.
Do not leave rubbish in the fields or water.
Avoid loud music.
Respect private homes and agricultural land.
Dress modestly for religious activities.
Ask permission before photographing monks.
Support artisans through responsible purchases.
Responsible Shopping
The farm shop offers lotus textiles, scarves, jewellery, paper, tea, cosmetics and other handmade items.
Before purchasing an expensive textile, ask about:
Material composition
Percentage of lotus fibre
Whether the fabric is pure or blended
Production method
Care instructions
Country of manufacture
Return or exchange policy
Delivery arrangements
Authentic lotus textile is difficult and time-consuming to create, so genuine products can be expensive.
Photography Tips
Visit early to photograph open flowers.
Use a polarising filter to reduce water reflections.
Protect your equipment during the boat ride.
Ask permission before taking portraits.
Do not enter planted areas for a better photograph.
Keep camera straps inside the boat.
Visit late afternoon for warm countryside light.
Request permission before using a drone.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
Yes. Craft workshops and the boat ride can make this an educational family experience.
Parents should:
Choose an age-appropriate package.
Supervise children near water.
Confirm that life jackets are available.
Prevent children from picking cultivated flowers.
Ask whether workshop tools are suitable.
Bring sun protection and drinking water.
Confirm current child prices before booking.
Accessibility Information
The main visitor and workshop areas may be accessible to many guests, but agricultural and boat areas can involve:
Uneven ground
Muddy or wet paths
Steps into boats
Narrow boarding points
Limited handrails
Heat and humidity
Guests with reduced mobility should contact the farm in advance. A land-based Discovery Visit may be easier than a package involving a boat excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lotus Silk Farm a traditional silkworm farm?
No. Its signature process extracts natural fibre from lotus stems. Some products or workshops may also use traditional silk and plant-based materials.
Are the lotus fields always flowering?
No. Lotus blooms depend on season, weather and time of day. Morning generally offers the best opportunity to see open flowers.
Is an Angkor Pass required?
No. The farm is outside the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket system.
Is advance booking necessary?
It is strongly recommended for boat trips, workshops, meals, transfers and the Sunset Monk Experience.
Is transportation included?
The farm provides a scheduled transfer from a designated location in Siem Reap with advance booking. Private hotel transportation should be confirmed separately.
Can I take my handmade crafts home?
Most workshop creations can be taken home. Items requiring additional processing may be delivered later.
Can visitors buy lotus products?
Yes. The official shop sells textiles, scarves, accessories, tea, paper and other lotus-based products.
Is lunch available?
Yes. An optional Khmer set lunch is currently published at USD 12 per person for eligible packages.
How much time should I allow?
Allow approximately 30 minutes for the Discovery Visit or two to four hours for a boat trip and craft workshops. Add additional time for a countryside journey.
Our Tour Recommendation
For most hotel guests, we recommend the Artisans Immersion experience combined with a private countryside drive.
This package provides enough time to:
Explore the lotus environment
Enjoy a boat excursion
Learn about lotus-fibre production
Complete three craft workshops
Meet Cambodian artisans
Photograph the countryside
Return to the hotel within half a day
Couples and guests celebrating a special occasion may prefer the Sunset Monk Experience, which combines crafts, a blessing, sunset, drinks and dinner.
Book Your Lotus Farm & Countryside Tour
Let The Riverfront Central Hotel arrange your Lotus Silk Farm and countryside experience with transportation, package reservations and optional private guiding.
After exploring the lotus fields and rural scenery, return to our newly built riverfront hotel in central Siem Reap for a refreshing swim, spa treatment, dinner or evening cocktail.
Telephone: +855 85 812 588 | +855 10 381 258
Telegram: 085 812 588
WhatsApp: +855 10 381 258
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