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Angkor Wat Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Angkor Wat. We've got 555 adventures going to Angkor Wat, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 104 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the largest number of tour departures.

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250+ angkor wat tour packages with 2,645 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Ancient Angkor Wat Independent Adventure

Cheak is a very good guide, he tells us the history of the Angkor Wat and took good care of us. We really enjoyed our time with him in Cambodia.

• Sightseeing

Temple Small circuit & Tonle Sap Lake Joining Tour

Angkor Wat Sunrise and All Highlight Angkor Temples Day Tour

Amazing experience in Cambodia

Angkor Sightseeing Package Tour for Family with Ancient Temples

Brilliant trip! We have just returned from a 5-day tour package taking you from Siem Reap and end in Tonle Sap Lake organised by DNQ Travel, and can only echo what previous reviewers have said. It was probably the best-organised trip we have ever made, despite there being so any elements to the holiday where things could have so easily gone wrong, but everything went like clockwork.You got a wonderful overview of Cambodia in such a short time and the hotels were excellent. All in all, a great holiday, and we would have no hesitation in recommending DNQTravel.

Private Angkor Wat Sunrise with All Angkor Highlight Temples 2 Days Tour

We had 6 days tour to see all highlights of Angkor temples and it was amazing to cover all important sites in and around Siem reap. Our guide Sara was excellent knowledge, friendly and helpful. We had nice hotel and large room, foods were delicious. Overall the services were excellent and great experience.

Best Tour 3D2N in Siem Reap-Cambodia

Angkor Cycling Adventure

Incredible and unforgetable biking tour. Biking through city streets and trails that wind through the jungle, rice fields, numerous villages and learning about the local agriculture, culture and daily life, in addition to exploring several temples within the ancient Anghor Wat complex and beautiful waterfalls. The support from the guide was top notch, specifically regarding the knowledge of the rich history of the Siem Reap area and the connections with local people who welcomed us into their villages. In addition, the guide, Phath, and driver, Phann were attentive to providing water, snacks, lunches and breaks throughout the tour, and offered tuk tuk rides in the evening hours. It was an adventure/trip of a lifetime and I highly recommend it. Thank you Siem Reaper Travel.

3 - Day Siem Reap (Angkor Wat Tour), Cambodia

Angkor Bike, Hike, Kayak

An incredible 6-day trip that encompassed biking, hiking, and kayaking was an unforgettable adventure. Exploring the back roads of Cambodia and immersing ourselves in the stunning beauty of the Kulen Mountains was an enlightening experience - we were able to witness so many things we would have never encountered without stepping out of our comfort zone. Despite all the cycling involved, the journey was absolutely worthwhile and something that none of us will ever forget.

Bicycle Discovery Culture Gem Temple & Countryside

• Cultural Photography

3 Days Angkor Thom & Tonle Sap Lake Tour

Angkor Wat and Floating Village Cruise at Tonle Sap Lake Private 3 Days Tour

3-Days Angkor Temples - Cambodia

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Angkor Temples & Lost City of Ta Prohm, Private Tour

Classic Cambodia

Once we met up with the tour group, things went very well. We had just had a great tour in Thailand with Viator so this one had a lot to live up to. Accommodation was good, the meals that were provided were good (and supported teaching kitchens which was nice) and the tour guide (Li) was great. Negatives were: the booking of the initial transfer from the airport in Phnom Penh- it seems that 4 days is not enough advance warning to book a taxi from the airport to the hotel - and, the price is quite high for only a few meals covered (since the hotels provided breakfasts anyway) Other than those irritants, the tour was very good.

What people love about Angkor Wat Tours

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• Cambodia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

• Deutsch: Angkor Wat Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits et voyages au Angkor Wat
• Español: Circuitos y viajes por Angkor Wat
• Nederlands: Angkor Wat Rondreizen

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Angkor Wat Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Angkor Wat is an ancient city in Cambodia that was the center of the Khmer Empire that once ruled much of Southeast Asia. This civilization went extinct, but not before building amazing temples and buildings that were reclaimed by the jungle for hundreds of years.

Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century, the surrounding complex spanning over 400 acres. It was the state temple for the empire, an empire larger than the Byzantine Empire, stretching from Thailand to Vietnam and all the way into Southern China. The temples were “rediscovered” in the 1840s and have been a popular tourist attraction ever since.

Today, the temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and though it’s always packed with tourists, the area and ruins are still breathtaking to see.

The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. But there are over 70 temples here so I recommend getting a multi-day pass so you can visit some of the outer temples where there are fewer visitors. There’s a lot to see!

The closest major city and launching pad for tours here is Siem Reap and the temple complex an easy day trip from the city either by bike or by tuk-tuk.

This travel guide to Angkor Wat will help you plan your visit, save money, and ensure you have the best time possible one of the greatest wonders in the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Angkor Wat

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Angkor Wat

1. Explore Angkor Wat

This temple was built by Suryavarman II, who ruled from 1113-1150. It’s considered the biggest Asian pyramid, standing over 61 meters (200 feet) high and divided into several layers. This temple is the largest in the whole complex and is where the historic site gets its name. The central temple complex has 792 meters (2,600 feet) of bas-reliefs.

2. See The Bayon

Built by Jayavarman VII, the temple stands in the center of Angkor Thom. With its 54 towers and 216 faces of Avalokiteshvara (a manifestation of Buddha), this temple looks best in the morning just after sunrise or at the end of the afternoon. The temple was built in three levels: the first two are rectangular, while the third is circular.

3. Step back in time at Ta Prohm

Still covered by the jungle, this place is exactly as they found it when it was rediscovered. Ta Prohm makes it easy to imagine how the whole complex looked when it was re-discovered in the 19th-century. If you come early, you can avoid the crowds that arrive mid-day. It’s the second-best complex behind Bayon in my opinion.

4. Visit Banteay Srei

This temple is located 19 kilometers (12 miles) north of Angkor. The name means “Citadel of the Women” and refers to the size and delicacy of the decoration. Unlike the major sites at Angkor, this was not a royal temple. The temple boasts exquisite decorative carvings in pink sandstone with miniature proportions.

5. Admire Ta Som

This temple has the same style, structure, and founder as Ta Phrom. It is almost like its little brother. The major feature that sets it apart is a huge tree that grows atop the eastern Gopura. It is slowly destroying the building, but it makes for amazing photo opportunities.

Other Things to See and Do in Angkor Wat

1. stroll the terrace of the elephants.

This 350-meter (1,150-foot) long terrace of elephants was used as a giant viewing stand during public ceremonies, royal ceremonies, and other events (such as viewing the returning army when they returned from war). Numerous life-size lions decorate this enormous path as well. Today, it’s surrounded by camera-wielding tourists and I found it to be one of the busiest sites here. I suggest visiting late or early to avoid the crowds, which can be overwhelming.

2. See East Mebon

Built in the 10th-century by King Rajendravarman, a huge baray (reservoir) surrounded this temple complex during its prime. Because it was encircled by water, there was no need for enclosures or moats that became customary for temples in Angkor. East Mebon has five towers — make sure to climb the central platform to the towers and check out the intricate stonework.

3. Explore Preah Khan

Preah Khan is one of the largest sites in the Angkor temple complex. Not only was this site an important temple, but it also appears to have been a large Buddhist university with over 1,000 teachers and upwards of 100,000 servants and attendants. It remains largely unrestored, as evidenced by the many trees growing around the ruins and mossy stones left laying everywhere. The site was a previous palace of Yasovarman II and Tribhuvanadityavarman, and historians believe a famous battle was fought here. There are shrines to over 430 deities here as well.

4. Climb Pre Rup

About 600 meters (2,000 feet) south of the East Baray lies Pre Rup. It was built by Rajendravarman II, who reigned from 944-968, and was his capital after re-establishing Angkor once he took over as king. Pre Rup was at the center of a city that has long since vanished. Many believe this was the place where funerals were held and was dedicated to the god Shiva. You can climb the steep steps up to the three tiers of the pyramid.

5. Go to Preah Ko

King Indravarman I built this temple, called Sacred Bull, in 879 CE, making it the first temple to be built in the ancient (and now defunct) city of Hariharalaya. The temple lies about 16 kilometers (10 miles) southeast of the main temples at Angkor and was dedicated to the king’s family as well as the god Shiva. Today, there are six small brick towers that sit atop a sandstone base. The temple derives its name from the three sandstone statues representing Nandi, the white bull of the Hindu deity Shiva.

6. Catch the sunrise at Srah Srang

Commonly known as “The Royal Baths,” this spot was once a major bathing spot for the area. The reservoir was first created in the mid-10th century by a Buddhist minister of King Rajendravarman II. It was expanded in 1200 by Jayavarman VII. It’s especially picturesque in the mornings as the sun rises over the tranquil water. Excavations have found a cemetery and necropolis nearby as well.

7. See Baksei Chamkrong

On the road between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom is a single tower that was built by Harshavarman I (he reigned from 910-923). It’s one of the few ruins accredited to him. He had it built to honor his father who was responsible for the construction of Phnom Bakheng. The temple’s name means “The Bird Who Shelters Under Its Wings.” It’s one of the first temples in the complex built with more durable materials (bricks and laterite), with sandstone decorative elements.

8. Find the secret passage at the Terrace of the Leper King

This seven-layer terrace, built in the 13th century, is dedicated to the god of death, Yama. It earned its name as the moss growing on the statues left them discolored and looking as if they had leprosy. Keep an eye out for the secret passageway that runs from the southwest to the northwest side of the structure.

9. See the sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Built in the late 9th century (two centuries before Angkor Wat itself), this is the oldest temple here. It is both a Hindu and Buddhist temple and bears statues and symbolic elements from both religions. It was built as a representation of Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods. Located on a hill, it’s a popular place to watch the sunset (so popular in fact, that visitor numbers are now limited during this time).

10. Stroll through Banteay Kdei

Located opposite the Srah Srang reservoir, Banteay Kdei was built in 1181 by Jayavarman VII. Its name means “Citadel of Chambers” as this used to be where Buddhist monks lived (monks lived here all the way up until the 1960s). There are three cloisters in the complex and the walls are carved with Buddhas, though unfortunately many have been defaced or have degraded over time. This complex is currently undergoing renovations, though you can still visit. This temple sees fewer crowds so it’s a good place to go to experience some tranquility.

  For more information on other destinations in Cambodia, check out these guides:

• Phnom Penh Travel Guide
• Siem Reap Travel Guide
• Sihanoukville Travel Guide

Angkor Wat Travel Costs

Note: Cambodia uses USD. There’s no real need to carry the local currency, Cambodian Riels (KHR), unless you’re paying for really small things on the street. In many places, especially in the countryside, you might start getting riels back when paying in USD but you can essentially get by using mostly USD here.

Siem Reap is the nearest city to Angkor Wat. That’s where you’ll be staying during your visit.

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs $6-10 USD per night. Larger dorms with 10-12 beds can be found for as little as $3-4 USD per night. For a private room with an ensuite bathroom, expect to pay closer to $15-25 USD per night.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have a swimming pool (some have multiple). None of the hostels include free breakfast or self-catering facilities, but many have a café/restaurant on-site with food available.

Budget hotel prices – A room in a guesthouse with air-conditioning, hot water, a private bathroom, and TV costs around $13-15 USD per night. For a hotel/guesthouse with a pool and a restaurant, expect to pay closer to $20 USD.

Airbnb is also available in Siem Reap. Expect to pay at least $25 USD per night for an entire home/apartment.

Average cost of food – Cambodian food is similar to Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnam and Cambodia especially have many dishes in common due to the countries’ shared history of French colonization. For example, the baguette sandwich known as bánh mì in Vietnam is called num pang pâté in Cambodia. Other popular Cambodian dishes include num banhchok , a lightly fermented rice noodle dish served for breakfast; amok trei , a fish curry dish; and samlar kako , a hearty soup filled with vegetables, roasted ground rice, and catfish or pork. In general, Cambodian cuisine includes a huge variety of noodle soups, stir-fries, curries, fried rice, and sweets.

Rice and freshwater fish are present in nearly every Cambodian meal. Lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, tamarind, ginger, chili pepper, and kaffir lime are all commonly used spices. Fermented fish paste is another widely used ingredient that adds saltiness and flavor.

Common vegetables include leaf and root vegetables as well as melon, long beans, snow peas, bean sprouts, and eggplant. Dozens of types of fruit are native to Cambodia, with durian being the most infamous. However, there are plenty of less pungent fruits to try, including mangosteen, passionfruit, dragonfruit, and mangoes. Fruit is a popular dessert and snack, either eaten alone or made into a variety of sweets.

There are tons of food options within the temple complex (though prices are higher than in the city). You can easily find restaurant meals in the $5-7 USD price range.

Around the temples are little stands with cheap meals for about $2-3 USD. There are also lots of vendors selling fresh fruit and juices for as little as $1.50 USD. They are a great choice to stay hydrated and cool down as you explore.

Angkor Wat Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, you can expect to pay $60 USD per day to visit Angkor Wat. On this budget, you’re staying in a hostel dorm, eating cheap street food, limiting your drinking, and using a bike to get around the complex. This also includes a day entry to the Angkor Wat site.

On a mid-range budget of $97 USD per day, you can eat at restaurants in the complex, stay in a private room at a hostel or budget hotel, enjoy a few drinks, and hire a shared tuk-tuk driver to take you around Angkor Wat.

On a luxury budget of $247 USD per day, you can stay in a hotel or at a resort with a pool, eat out for every meal anywhere you want, drink more, and opt for a private guided tour of the site over multiple days.

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Angkor Wat Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There aren’t a ton of ways to save money here since it’s a huge tourist attraction that draws millions of people each year. Nevertheless, here are a few of my top money-saving tips for Angkor Wat:

• Get a multi-day pass – Everyone needs a permit to enter the Angkor temples unless you are Cambodian or related to a Cambodian. A 1-day pass is $37 USD, a 3-day pass is $62 USD, and a 7-day pass is $72 USD. There’s so much to see that it’s worth getting a multi-day pass so you don’t have to rush your time.
• Rent a tuk-tuk – It’s best to rent a tuk-tuk for an entire day to get around. They know how to get you in and out of each temple as well as the best routes for the complex. You’ll be able to see more places in a day and it’s very affordable, generally around $25 USD for the day. If you split this between a group of 3-4 it becomes quite affordable. Getting a driver in Siem Reap is cheaper than inside the park. (Most hostels can help you with this).
• See the sunset the night before – If you buy your ticket after 5pm you can legally enter the park without using up your allotted days. This means you can technically enter the park and explore before it closes, and still have your 1, 3, or 7 days remaining. The best way to spend this extra time is to watch the sunset, saving the temples for the following day(s).
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Siem Reap isn’t safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand for bottles with built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Angkor Wat

Travelers stay in Siem Reap when they’re visiting Angkor Wat. My suggested budget-friendly places to stay are:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel
• Onederz Hostel Siem Reap
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap

How to Get Around Angkor Wat

There are two ways for you to get to and from Angkor Wat (and around the complex):

Bicycle Rental – Bicycles are a great way to explore the complex, and you can find rentals for about $5 USD per day. If you choose this method, be prepared for long hours cycling in the heat.

When to Go to Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is open year-round but no matter when you visit Angkor Wat, it’s a toss-up: either you’ll have a rainy, muddy visit with fewer people around, or great weather and crazy tourist hordes. But if you’re concerned mainly with the weather, the best time to visit is during the dry season (from late November to early April).

December and January are best for weather, but they’re also busiest months. April and May can be unbearably hot, with tons of humidity. The average daily temperature in April is 31°C (88°F).

The monsoon season lasts from late May/June to the end of October, with September and October being the hottest months. If you can time your visit to one of the shoulder months, do so.

Having a multi-day pass will give you the opportunity to plan around the weather — another reason why going for multiple days is worth it!

How to Stay Safe in Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel, even if you’re a solo traveler, and even as a solo female traveler. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime here so always keep an eye on your valuables (especially bags, purses, and phones).

You may encounter persistent children trying to sell you stuff and they may even become more aggressive if you don’t shop with them. There are also many people offering to take you on a personal tour or show you the best photo spots, but these are not licensed guides. Just walk away from them saying “no thank you,” and eventually they will give up.

These are the most common scams and situations you might encounter, but if you’re concerned about others, read about these common travel travel scams to avoid here .

Avoid dehydration in the heat by making sure you bring lots of water to keep hydrated. Remember that tap water isn’t safe to drink, so bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. Wear a hat as well to keep the sun off of you. You’ll be here for hours and it can be very easy to overheat or get a sunburn.

If you experience an emergency, dial 119 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Angkor Wat Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Angkor Wat Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Cambodia travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Experiencing Local Cambodian Culture on Bamboo Island

Phnom Penh, I Love You!

The Tragic Death of Phnom Penh’s Lake Area

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Visiting Angkor Wat? Here’s everything you need to know

There are few experiences in all my travels that I recall with greater clarity or fondness than the magical time I spent exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park.

I remember waking up in the earliest part of the morning when there was still a thick layer of fog. I remember getting into a tuk-tuk with my partner, Briana, and arriving just as the sun was keen to peak out its knowing head. I remember being entranced by the famed spiraled towers of Angkor Wat, and I stood there, completely in awe, with nothing to do but soak in the sun’s rays and the temple’s majesty.

Visiting Cambodia ‘s Angkor Wat is like being granted the keys to another world for a short period of time. While I was there, I often imagined in my head that, like a certain CS Lewis novel, I must have walked through a closet and into another realm.

What is Angkor Wat anyhow?

Angkor Wat is the prized temple and showpiece of what is now known as the Angkor Archaeological Park. The city of Angkor itself was built in the 12th century to be an unparalleled Khmer capital for King Suryavarman II. When built, the ancient city extended over 400 kilometres, which makes it the largest pre-industrial city in history. While guesses about the city’s population vary wildly, some prominent historians suggest that the population could have been as high as one million people. Mysteriously, archaeologists are still unsure of what actually happened to this vast empire and its people.

What I didn’t know when I visited, but learned after through further reading, is that the Angkor Archaeological Park shouldn’t really be conceptualized as a collection of disparate temples and monuments in a jungle. This was a fully functioning, complex city that was well-connected, and these temples were just a part of that burgeoning city.

When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?

Generally speaking, November to February is going to be your best window for a visit. I had the pleasure of getting some input from Channa, an incredible intrepid leader with a remarkable story , and she wholly concurs because, “it is not too hot, and there’s no rain.” Now, it’s worth noting that because you’ve got this window without the aggressive humidity and rainfall, you’re going to have more tourists, so it’s going to be quite a bit busier.

As far as timing for visiting, the Angkor Archaeological Park is open most days from 5am until 6pm. I would very strongly recommend getting there for sunrise. Most people who are visiting Angkor Wat will be staying in Siem Reap, and that means if you want to do this right, you’re in for an early morning. The tuk-tuk ride takes approximately 30 minutes, so factor that into your plans.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

Once the park opens, you’re going to want to head straight to Angkor Wat to get the famous sunrise picture. The full breadth of the sunrise usually occurs between 5:30-6:00, so have your camera ready. And prepare for crowds.

Prepare for crowds!

You might be tired, but I always joke to my fiancée (who in all likelihood is getting tired of my jokes) that it’s always worth it to get up extra early or stay up extra late because fatigue is temporary, but a picture lasts forever.

Trust me, Angkor Wat at sunrise is something to behold, do yourself a favour and get up to appreciate it.

VISIT ANGKOR WAT ON A SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE WITH INTREPID 

What should I wear to Angkor Wat?

It’s important to note that at Angkor Wat, there is a dress code that must be abided by. You’ll need to wear clothing (preferably light) that covers your shoulders and knees. The sun is likely to be quite strong, so it makes sense to bring a hat, and you should be wearing good-quality walking shoes. Lastly, you might want to carry around or pack a thin raincoat as weather can be a touch erratic.

What do you need to see if you’re short on time?

If you haven’t got much time, you’re going to want to make the most of every moment. The good news is that you can cover a lot of ground in just a little bit of time if you’ve planned with purpose. There are some places that you simply need to see if you’re visiting the Angkor Archaeological Complex, and they are, in my humble opinion, the following:

Firstly, the Angkor Wat temple itself. I’d recommend taking in the views of Angkor Wat at sunrise, then going directly after to explore the famed temple. Angkor Wat is the pièce de résistance of the complex, and the postcard picture you’ve seen a million times.

The iconic Angkor Wat

Its pointed towers rising up from the base structure are a classic example of Khmer Architecture of the 12th century, and, based on its prominence, some suspect that this structure was actually constructed by Suryavarman to be his final resting place. Angkor Wat, in short, is a temple like you’ve never seen, on a scale you couldn’t have anticipated. It doesn’t disappoint.

FIND OUT WHAT IT’S REALLY LIKE ON AN INTREPID TRIP TO CAMBODIA, IN PHOTOS

Angkor Thom, known as the Bayon Temple, is also an absolute must. Technically Angkor Thom is a city built by the ruler Jayavarman VII and the Bayon Temple is within it, but they’re often thought of as synonymous. Before I move forward describing what the Bayon Temple is, you should note that there’s no need to be intimidated by the distances between temples as you can take a tuk-tuk between sights to save time if you’ve only got a day.

Bayon Temple

The Bayon Temple is a very impressive temple built towards the end of the 12th century, and it’s beyond photogenic. What makes it unique is the smiling faces which jut out of the rocks and greet you with their warm disposition. 

Insider tip from top Intrepid guide in Cambodia, Channa :

My favourite spot in the whole park is Bayon Temple, one hour before sunset. There are fewer tourists, it’s cooler and when sun rays hit the faces it is just magic.

Lastly, you’d be remiss to leave without spending some time at Ta Prohm Temple, which was constructed roughly around the same at Angkor Thom, and commissioned by the same ruler. Ta Prohm  was constructed to be a monastery and university, and what is perhaps most impressive is that it’s still in remarkable condition considering when it was constructed. What makes it truly famous, however, is the way the jungle has grown into and straddled the structure. It’s an example of what happens when a man made structure is essentially given back to nature. To me, this is the most unique spot to snap a photo.

What should you see if you’ve got time to spare?

The sights listed above will astonish you, but they’re far from the only sights to see. Preah Khan is also dazzling in its own right, and it’s not too far away from Ta Prohm and other more famous temples. Preah Khan was also built by Jayavarman VII (12 century), but, in this case, to honour his father. It served as a massive administrative headquarters of sorts, but is now famous because of the overgrowth that has added a layer of mystique.

Jayavarman VII also built a small temple known as Ta Som. It’s a temple dedicated to his father, Dharanindravarman II, and it’s not far from Angkor Thom, which makes it well worth checking out. It’s a single-level shrine that has been left unrestored, and also exists in congruence with growth of the jungle. This is a nice temple to check out if all the other more popular temples seem a little crowded.

An Intrepid traveller exploring Angkor Wat

Perhaps the unsung hero is Banteay Srei, which you wouldn’t be able to fit into a short visit, but is certainly worth fitting into an extended visit. It’s about 25km away from the more well-known temples, but it often receives rave reviews from tourists due to the fact that there are less crowds, and it’s build with red sandstone. It’s not large and imposing, but it’s gorgeous, ornate, and offers something a little different. Not to mention, it was built in the 10th century, so it predates much of what you’ll see elsewhere!

What can you do in Siem Reap?

I’m not going to lie, when I was staying in Siem Reap, I likely stayed out on Pub Street a touch longer than I needed to the night before heading to the Angkor Archaeological Park. Now, while I wouldn’t recommend that, I also can’t say I regret it. Siem Reap is a fun place to be.

That being said, Siem Reap is a lot more than just “Pub Street,” that’s for absolute sure. The food in Siem Reap is just remarkable, and it’s a good place to dive into Cambodian cuisine which, in my opinion, deserves just as much respect as Thai or Vietnamese. I personally love Fish Amok, which is essentially a fresh fish curry (usually served in a banana leaf), but I’m also a fan of Lap Khmer which is more or less beef salad. I’d also say that you’re safe trying most curries, especially red curries, as they’re to die for.

READ MORE: A GUIDE TO CAMBODIAN DISHES AND MUST-VISIT RESTAURANTS

One of the more unique experiences that I had in Siem Reap was taking one morning to go out to the Tonlé Sap Floating Villages (explore them on this day tour). It was fascinating to see how people lived seasonally when the lake flooded, and the communities that formed more or less on stilted houses. 

What to do in Siem Reap according to top Cambodian Intrepid guide, Channa :

Go to Phare (a circus with dance, theatre and live music that tells Cambodian stories). Go to the Angkor Silk Farm . Go shopping, visit local villages and monasteries, and try a cooking class.

Siem Reap, by night

So, why go?

I’ve been to the Angkor Archaeological Park, but I’m yearning to go back because it’s just that special. I’ve always been a creative and imaginative person, and I feel like visiting this place unlocked doors I didn’t know existed for me. It was like watching fact and fiction blur together before my eyes.

That’s what makes this place so unbelievable, it’s the idea that, unless you go, you just can’t imagine being there. I look around today at the skyscrapers that populate the skylines of most metropolitan cities, and I just can’t imagine them being around for too long. Then you have the Khmer temples which have endured centuries, and will still be there long after the skyscrapers are gone.

Ready to experience this awe-inspiring site for yourself? Check out Intrepid’s range of tours in Cambodia.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel x5, Chris Mitchell, Intrepid Travel, Chris Mitchell, Intrepid Travel x3.)

Feeling inspired?

Chris Mitchell

Chris regularly thanks his unquenchable sense of curiosity for ensuring he's never in one place for too long. He's been to over 75 countries across this gorgeous planet of ours and has always felt that all that's needed for a good trip is a well-bound notebook, a well-written book, and a passport with an expiry date that offers a little wiggle room for extending your journey. As a freelance writer and blogger, Chris is only too pleased that his passion for travel, photography, and writing have ever so politely collided. You can follow his adventures at travelingmitch.com, or with the handle @travelingmitch on any of your favourite social media platforms.

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Visiting Angkor Wat – The Ultimate Guide

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2024

Categories Asia , Cambodia , Guides , Travel Guides

Visiting Angkor Wat is not hard. Being one of the most popular tourist attractions in Asia and the biggest highlight of Cambodia, the ancient Khmer city hosts millions of tourists every year.

Visiting Angkor Wat the best way possible and having a wonderful time – well, this is not as easy as it sounds. Avoiding hordes of tourists, surviving Cambodia’s scorching heat, and finding the best route around the dozens of temples can leave you physically and emotionally exhausted. Visiting Angkor really is a daunting task.

It is possible, though, to see one of the biggest marvels in the world, have a great time, and even avoid the gazillion other enthusiasts. No, I’m not advertising some group tours here ( I hate those ). If you plan your visit carefully ( and I guess you’re already doing that since you’re reading that post ), you can be prepared for everything Cambodia has to throw at you. And if you follow my itinerary, you can even avoid the massive crowds ( not all of them but at least the huge groups ) and see Angkor Wat the best way possible.

Now I know what you’re thinking:  Is it really necessary to read such a long guide only to visit a temple? Angkor Wat does look big, but is it really that hard to see? Well, Angkor Wat is significant indeed, but that’s not the main reason you need a guide. Believe it or not, to see Angkor Wat the best way possible, you need not one but three days. How come? Because Angkor is not just a temple.

What is Angkor Wat

Wait, I thought Angor Wat is this colossal temple that’s on the flag on Cambodia. What do you mean, it’s not a temple?

Well yes, this is Angkor Wat, but it’s only one of the many temples in the Angkor Archeological Complex. A building complex containing more stone than the great pyramid of Giza and covering four times more land than Vatican city. The forgotten medieval metropolis used to be home to more than 1,000,000 people, and it’s considered to be the largest preindustrial city before the Khmers abandoned it.

We can see only a glimmer of the glorious site today. The reason is that apart from public infrastructure and temples, all other buildings were built by wood, which was fastly consumed by the merciless Cambodian jungle. Due to many wars and political instability, most of the city remained hidden in the wilderness until it was rediscovered in 2007.

The main temple – Angkor Wat – may be the largest religious structure on Earth and the biggest highlight of the park, but it is more definitely not the only thing to see there.

Getting to Angkor Wat

Getting to Angkor Wat is the easiest part of the whole adventure. Being an immensely popular travel destination, everything around the archeological complex is built for tourists.

The gateway to the temples is the Cambodian city of Siem Reap. It has a modern airport, plenty of hotels, and food joints ( including a vast choice of western food ). If you prefer to travel by bus, Siem Reap has more bus routes to it than any other place in Cambodia.

If you still haven’t got your Angkor Wat journey set, check out  12go.asia . The unrivaled number one transport site in Asia.

The Angkor Wat archeological complex is located around 5km ( 3 miles ) from Siem Reap, and you can’t reach it by foot ( I mean you can, but it would be very unpleasant and would waste a ton of time ). You can hire a bike which I wouldn’t recommend unless you’re a big bike enthusiast ( distances between the temples are significant, and Cambodia is hot and dusty ) or hire a tuk-tuk driver. 

Tuk-tuks are the most popular way to explore the Angkor temples. They cost around 20-30 USD per day and can be found everywhere in Siem Reap. Keep reading to see how to get yourself a top-notch tuk-tuk driver.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Central Blanche Residence

An incredible value for money, the Blanche residence offers modern, clean rooms, and friendly staff that goes above and beyond to satisfy your every need. Airport shuttle and breakfast are also included in the price. Also, a great pool area which is vital to surviving the scorching heats of Cambodia! See the latest prices

Want to explore more options in Siem Reap? See the best hotels in town with a tasty breakfast and free wi-fi

What’s Inside the Angkor Complex

There are around 50 temples inside the Angkor Wat complex, but very few people attempt to see them all. Since some of them are not in perfect condition while others have kind of a similar design, there’s no need to do it. Here are the must-see temples I recommend checking out when visiting Angkor Wat.

No surprise here. The biggest reason for your Angkor visit is to see the main temple, of course.  Built in the 12th century and rediscovered for the world in 1860, Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure on Earth. It’s the symbol of Cambodia and ( probably ) the most recognizable monument in Asia.

Angkor Thom

The second most famous sight in the complex, Angkor Thom, is not just another Khmer temple. Angkor Thom is a whole city with its own sanctuaries, gates, terraces, streets, and everything! It was the last great capital city of the Khmer Empire, and it’s absolutely glorious.

If there is only one thing to see in Angkor Thom, it’s the main city temple – Bayon. Decorated with 54 gigantic smiling faces, the temple is one of the most enchanting places on the planet.

The last of the big three, Ta Prohm is known as the “Tomb Raider Temple”. Once the Angelina Jolie movie hit the cinemas, Ta Prhom became a superstar overnight and is now one of the most visited spots in Cambodia. 

The magic of Ta Prohm, however, has nothing to do with the movie. Once abandoned ( around the 15th century ), the jungle quickly consumed the temple. The Silk-cotton and Strangler fig trees made the ruins their new home, creating an incredibly picturesque blend between nature and mankind.

A vast temple that used to be home to 100,000 people, Preah Khan is one of the most underrated highlights in the complex. Visiting Angkor Wat and skipping it is a mistake plenty of tourists do. I’m sure you won’t be one of them.

It’s divided into four enclosures, and all of them are full of beautiful bas-relief carvings. To get there, you need to pass through one of the famous moat bridges that depict a battle between mythical Garudas and the King of Nagas.

Banteay Kdei

The “Citadel of Chambers” is another hidden gem of Angkor Wat. It’s a labyrinth rich in bas-relief carvings depicting mythical beasts and legends. It’s not on the main path of the tours, so unlike the other temples, you won’t have to battle the tourist hordes to enjoy this sanctuary.

Psst :  Wanna know more about the five temples above and see some cool photos? Check out my  Top 10 Siem Reap Temples  post, and you’ll also learn which are the other five I recommend visiting.

The Best Way to See Angkor Wat

The best way to see Angkor Wat would not lead you around all 50 temples. I mean, if you’re a huge history buff, you can get the 7-day pass and try to do it, but for the regular visitor, so many temples would be too much. I suggest visiting around ten temples in 3 days.

Once you have a tuk-tuk driver, they would offer you three different routes – Small Circle (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Keo and Ta Prohm), Big Circle (Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som and Pre Rup) and the Long Trip ( Women’s Temple , Landmine Museum and other small temples outside the main park).

For your three days, my best suggestion is skipping the Long Trip and focus on the other two. To escape the crowds and have the best experience possible, we’re going to tweak them a little bit.

If you arrive at Siem Reap at noon – afternoon, Get your ticker at 4:30 – 5:00 PM. Once you have it, go inside the park. Make sure it’s after 5:00 PM though. This late of a visit won’t cost you one of the ticket pass days, and you can watch the sunset for free.

The most famous sunset point in Angkor Wat is the Phnom Bakheng temple. However, the temple only allows 300 people on it, and arriving that late almost guarantees you won’t be able to get in. My recommendation is to go for sunrise over the Srah Srang reservoir.

Best Way to See Angkor Wat – Day 1

Surprisingly, our first day would start late. Tell your driver to wait for you around 11:00 – 11:30 AM and head straight to Angkor Wat. Note: If you didn’t manage to get your ticket the previous day, your first stop would be the ticket office. Being the main temple, Angkor Wat is impossible to catch free of people, but around noon is your best bet. The first groups are there right after sunrise, while the lazy ones arrive around 10:00 AM. Don’t worry about the sun. It would be hot, but Angkor Wat is mainly covered so you won’t be that bothered.

After lunch, continue to Angkor Thom. The biggest must-see there is the Bayon Temple.

Exploring the two main temples of Angkor should take the better part of the day. If you still have some power left, in the afternoon, you can take a look at the other attractions of Angkor Thom. The Elephant and Leper King terraces are a sight to be seen, while the smaller temples – Baphuon and Phimeanakas – would offer a fascinating non-crowded experience.

Best Way to See Angkor Wat – Day 2

Our second day will start a lot earlier. We’re doing a modified Big Circle today, but to avoid the groups with the same idea, we’ll have to lose some sleep.

Start your trip around 6:30 AM so you can reach the first temple – Pre Rup – before 7:00 AM (groups will arrive around 8:00 – 9:00 AM). Pre Rup is one of the few temples that opens before 7:30 AM, so it’s the perfect place to start your day.  

At 7:30 AM, you should be at the second temple – East Mebon. Those two temples may not be as grand as the ones from day one, but they quite different and have their charm.

The third sanctuary for the day is Ta Som. This is the first jungle-consumed temple you’ll visit. Make sure to go to the far end of it to get a picture with the fig tree that hugs the old gate. Ta Som is relatively free of people before 9:00 AM.

Your driver would probably suggest a visit to Neak Pean next, but my advice is to skip it. It’s quite a boring one and will only slow you down. Go straight to the last temple of the day – Preah Khan.

If it’s still early in the morning, there should be no groups hording around. Preah Khan is huge and would easily take you a few hours to explore. Once you get enough ruins for the day ( or the sun becomes too much ), it’s time to go back to Siem Reap and relax. Visiting Angkor Wat sure isn’t an easy task.

On the way back, instruct your driver to go through the North Gate. It’s a very picturesque place, and you won’t be sorry. 

Best Way to See Angkor Wat – Day 3

The last day of our Angkor Wat visit will start early. Veeery early. It’s time to witness the most famous sunrise in the world! 

If you want to get a good photo, you need to go even extra earlier. Arrange your tuk-tuk for 4:30 AM ( yup, you’ve read that right ) and make sure at 5:00 AM ( when the temple opens ), you are among the first ones to enter. It may sound excessive, but if you want to get a good photo spot, this is the only way.  The actual sunrise starts around 6:30 AM, so if you don’t care about the photo, but you’re more into the experience – go an hour later.

Around 7:00 AM, the hordes gathered for the sunrise would either go inside Angkor Wat or go back to the hotel for breakfast. Well, we’ve already seen Angkor Wat, so we make our way to another heavyweight attraction – Ta Prohm.

The only time of the day you can catch the Tomb Raider Temple relatively free of people is at its opening times – 7:30 AM. There are several enormous fig trees around the temple, take your time, and see them all. There’s also a very curious attraction named the  Dinosaur of Ta Prohm . There is no map, so challenge yourself to find it. Take your time exploring around. This is the last tourist-heavy temple on our visit, so we’re no longer in a hurry.

Our day continues is the underrated Banteay Kdei. No matter the time you make it there, there shouldn’t be a lot of people, so you can enjoy the fantastic bas-relief carvings in peace.

Once you get enough of them, make your way to Ta Keo. This pyramid-shaped temple is not that spectacular, but the climb up ( and down ) makes it an exciting challenge. The top of the pyramid is also a pretty good photo spot, so it’s worth a visit.  Other tourists won’t ruin the experience, but there is no shade at this temple, so I wouldn’t recommend a visit at noon.

The last attractions on our Angkor Wat visit are two small temples right next to each other. There’s plenty of shade around Spean Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda, plus some street vendors selling fruits and drinks. What better place for a picnic and kick-back time.

Your way back to Siem Reap goes through Angkor Thom, so if there’s something you missed on day one, you may stop and check it out now.

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Visiting Angkor Wat is not complete without experiencing the sunrise over the main temple. Let me warn you though, it may sound as a serene activity, but in reality, it is everything but that. Especially if you want to get a good photo.

I like to call Angkor Wat sunrise ‘the most popular sunrise in the world’. There are plenty of places I’ve explored at dawn, but I’ve never witnessed so many people trying to capture the flaming ball of gas. It may be a bit overcrowded, but it’s a definite bucket list experience . And since you’re already in Angkor Wat, it would be a shame to miss it just because you hate getting up early.

Psst: it’s me again! I have another post explaining in detail  what to do to have the best Angkor Wat sunrise experience . Check it out!

Some Tuk-tuk Advice

Finding a tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap is the easiest thing in the world. They would start offering their services at the airport. They would be waiting in front of your hotel. Your hotel would offer you some too. And if you still haven’t got one, just seeing you walking around Siem Reap would attract them like flies. But how to make sure you get an excellent tuk-tuk driver? The answer is – you prepare your transport before you even arrive.

A tuk-tuk driver named Mr.Sok was highly recommended to me, so I gave it a try. Unfortunately, he was already booked, so he arranged one of his friends to show us around.

Mr. Thorn ( the friend ) was a cautious driver ( something you would appreciate on the Cambodian roads ). After every temple visit, he was waiting for us with a cold bottle of water and ice-cold wipes. He had some excellent temple advice and was on time every morning, smiling and waiting for us.

To reach Mr.Sok ( or Mr.Thorn ) and guarantee yourself a great tuk-tuk driver, add him as a friend on  Facebook  first and then write a message ( this way, you can be sure the message will be seen and not sent into the “others” inbox that nobody ever checks ).

Angkor Wat FAQ

What is the angkor wat entrance fee.

There are three types of Angkor Wat tickets: 1-Day pass  – 37 USD 3-Day pass  ( recommended ) – 62 USD ( The days do not have to be consecutive, this pass can be used on three separate days within one week ) 7-Day pass  – 72 USD ( The days do not have to be consecutive, this pass can be used on seven different days within one month ) Tickets are bought only from the official ticket office ( your tuk-tuk driver would lead you there first ), and they have a picture on them. Don’t buy any tickets from the streets or anywhere else. They won’t work.

When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat ?

Ahhh, this is a bit of a tricky one. Angkor Wat is open year-round, but there isn’t really a best time to visit. You’d always have to compromise either with weather or with immense tourist crowds.

For the best weather, December through February is the best time to visit Angkor Wat. Not the hottest of the year but still dry. Those are the tourists months though, so expect to have a large chunk of the 2 million people that visit Angkor Wat every year, there with you.

April and May are hot as hell. Literally…hot…as…hell! The average temperatures are around 35C (95F). Even during the night, it goes a little bit under 30C (37F). If you think you can tolerate such extremes, the tourist crowds would be way more manageable.

From June onwards, the temperatures start to drop, but the rain is becoming more and more often. Cambodia is in the monsoon season. The torrential downpours are usually in the afternoon, leaving the other parts of the day ok for exploring. The showers are quite intense, though. From August through October, Siem Reap receives as much rain as London does for the entire year! If you don’t mind the mud and you’re ready to risk catching a storm or two, the monsoon season would give you pleasant temperatures, low prices, and the smallest amount of tourists possible.

March and November are the shoulder months and maybe  (at least on paper ) offer the best balance between weather, tourist crowds, and prices. It’s still a bit of a gamble, though.

Can I use USD in Cambodia ?

The US dollar is an official currency in Cambodia, and it’s accepted everywhere. Just don’t be surprised if you get some change return in the local Cambodian Riel.

Is one day enough to visit Angkor Wat ?

This one depends on the type of traveler you are and what you expect to see. For me visiting Angkor Wat for just one day is unthinkable. The most popular one-day itinerary is Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm. Going on the most famous Angkor Wat route can guarantee you two things. Huge crowds and a lot of missed things.

The next option is to spend three days exploring the complex. It gives you more flexibility to design your itinerary ( and avoid rush hours ) and also gives you the chance to see more of the wonders of the Khmer. There is a chance that many temples would burn you out, but it’s ( for me ) the best way to see Angkor Wat.

The third option – the weekly pass – is for people who want to explore every detail of the complex and don’t want to rush it. If you have the time and you think seven days of ruins won’t be too much for you, go for it. You’ll explore one of the biggest wonders of the world in a way only a few others have.

What to wear in Angkor Wat ?

Being a religious site, Angkor Wat requires the appropriate attire to visit the temples. Pants should not be above the knee and shirts should cover your shoulders. Tank tops, skirts, shorts, and other revealing clothes are not allowed, and you may be turned away from the temples if you wear one.

Is Angkor Wat open 7 days a week ?

Yes, Angkor Wat is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Is Siem Reap safe for tourists ?

It may sound surprising, but Cambodia is an incredibly safe destination to visit. Being the tourist heavyweight of the country, visitors are catered carefully, and crimes are rooted out fast. Just as any tourist place, though, you must always be aware of your surroundings. The violent crimes may be incredibly rare, but petty thefts are not.

A rule of thumb is to not give any money to begging children. As heartless as it sounds, you’d see plenty of kids who would either beg or try to sell you magnets, postcards, and other souvenirs. Buying from them would only encourage this practice to continue, and children to be used as a workforce instead of going to school. 

Another rule of thumb is to never travel without travel insurance. I currently use  HeyMondo  for my travels because they have proven themselves to me more than once over the years. The link above will give you a 5% discount, but If you have another favorite provider, that’s ok. Just make sure you have one because you never know what may happen.

Angkor Wat Itinerary Map

Click to open in google maps

That’s all from me, I hope you enjoy visiting Angkor Wat ! ———————————— If you haven’t planned your trip there yet, find out how I plan my trips! ———————————— I have 11 bucket list ideas for Cambodia. See my impossible bucket list of 1700+ adventures!

Is Angkor Wat on your bucket list?

Some of the above are affiliate links and I will earn a percentage of the sale if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you. This helps keep my site running – so thanks in advance for your support!

Sunday 4th of February 2024

Many thanks for the blog post. We added Mr Sok after reading this and organised two days of driving around the temples of Angkor Wat in February 2024. Great recommendation, he was really great and knowledgeable! Would highly recommend.

Monday 25th of December 2023

Thank you so much for your invaluable info, just back from Cambodia and had an amazing adventure following your advice. I contacted Mr. Sok but didn't get a reply, but found an amazing tuk tuk driver in Mr. Ponleu who was amazing, whatsapp number +855 77 773 425 with excellent English and got me to the temples before the crowds, apart from Angkor Wat of course, like you said that is impossible, but I was on-time and at the front of the lines of folks for the sunrise, and always ready with a cold water once back to the tuk tuk. Thank you again

Sunday 19th of November 2023

Can confirm Mr.Sok is a great choice for a driver :)

Thursday 9th of July 2020

this was a good read for a solo , middle aged traveller hoping to go next year .

Friday 10th of July 2020

Thank you, Jayne! I hope you have the chance to see it, Angkor Wat is truly a remarkable place!

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The traveller's first glimpse of Angkor Wat, the ultimate expression of Khmer genius, is matched by only a few select spots on earth. Built by Suryavarman II (r 1112–52) and surrounded by a vast moat, the temple is one of the most inspired monuments ever conceived by the human mind.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Churning of the Ocean of Milk

The southern section of the east gallery is decorated by the most famous of the bas-relief scenes at Angkor Wat, the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. This…

Army of Suryavarman II

The remarkable western section of the south gallery depicts a triumphal battle march of Suryavarman II’s army. In the southwestern corner about 2m from…

Battle of Kurukshetra

The southern portion of the west gallery depicts a battle scene from the Hindu Mahabharata epic, in which the Kauravas (coming from the north) and the…

Heaven & Hell

The punishments and rewards of the 37 heavens and 32 hells are depicted in the eastern half of the south gallery. On the left, the upper and middle tiers…

Battle of Lanka

The northern half of the west gallery shows scenes from the Ramayana. In the Battle of Lanka, Rama (on the shoulders of Hanuman), along with his army of…

Battle of the Gods & the Demons

The western section of the north gallery depicts the battle between the 21 gods of the Brahmanic pantheon and various demons. The gods are featured with…

Krishna & the Demon King

The eastern section of the north gallery shows Vishnu incarnated as Krishna riding a garuda. He confronts a burning walled city, the residence of Bana,…

Vishnu Conquers the Demons

The northern section of the east gallery shows a furious and desperate encounter between Vishnu, riding on a garuda, and innumerable devils. Needless to…

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Angkor Wat Itinerary: 4 Days In Siem Reap Cambodia

As a gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temples , Siem Reap is the cornerstone of Cambodia’s tourism and it’s definitely one of the best travel destinations to put on your Cambodia itinerary.

You could easily spend a week or two exploring everything in the Siem Reap area, but the top highlights can be seen with 3 or 4 days in Cambodia if you’re limited on time.

This Angkor Wat itinerary will guide you through some of the very best Angkor temples to see, along with a few of the most interesting sights in Siem Reap town itself.

Hopefully this gives you some ideas for what to do in Cambodia for 4 days!

✈ Where To Start

This entire Angkor Wat itinerary takes place in and near the small town of Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Fly to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI), which is serviced by a bunch of budget friendly airlines with good ratings. Among other places, there are flights from Singapore (SIN), Bangkok (DMK), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Siem Reap for as low as $40 USD.

You can shop for flights to Siem Reap at Skyscanner.

When you arrive in Siem Reap, take an airport transfer to your hotel. You can book this in advance on Klook for $11 by private car , or $5 by tuk tuk .

Check in to your hotel, and get rested up to explore some ancient temples for 4 days in Cambodia!    

• Day 1: Angkor Wat Sunrise + Small Circuit

○ angkor wat sunrise.

Wake up early and start your Cambodia itinerary with the incredible Angkor Wat sunrise on the pond. Afterwards, explore the main temple area, which is huge.  

○ Baksei Chamkrong

This is one of my favorite temples in Angkor. It’s a small, barely known pyramid temple near Angkor Thom. You might have to ask your driver to stop here, because most tours don’t include it in the normal itinerary. It’s a hidden gem!  

○ Angkor Thom Gate

This is a gate on the south side of the Angkor Thom temple complex, right next to Baksei Chamkrong. It’s in poor shape, but you can still drive or walk through it, so it makes for some cool photo ops.  

Bayon is one of the most important temples in Angkor Thom, and it has some of the best wall carvings in the area. This is also where you can see the famous stone faces that you’ve probably seen in lots of Cambodia photos.  

○ Thommanon

This is one of the less known temples in Angkor Thom, and most tour groups don’t seem to go here. The carvings and doorways are good to explore.  

Ta Prohm is the famous ‘Tomb Raider temple’ used in the Angelina Jolie movie. There’s an incredible tree here that is growing on top of one of the temples. It’s a must see.  

○ Banteay Kdei

More incredible trees and temples! The tree roots at Banteay Kdei are absolutely massive, and they’re taking control of the buildings.  

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Baksei Chamkrong Temple

Angkor Thom Gate

Bayon Temple

Thommanon Temple

Ta Prohm Temple

Banteay Kdei Temple

• Day 2: Angkor Wat Grand Circuit

○ preah khan.

Tour the Angkor Wat again (grand circuit this time), starting with Preah Khan. Most of the main temple is ruined, but it’s cool to see how nature is reclaiming what’s left of it.  

○ Neak Pean

This is an island temple in the middle of a little pond. It looks better right after the rainy season. Late in the dry season there’s not much water left.  

This is a smaller temple, but the best part is the stone doorway being consumed and held in place by a strangler tree.  

○ East Mebon

This temple is not in great shape, but the highlight here would have to be the elephant statues in each corner of the temple.  

This is a big temple near the end of the grand circuit. Funerals were done here, so that may be why the temple looks so creepy. The buildings at the top of the pyramid are in the best shape, so be sure to take a look up there.  

○ Bantei Srei Temple

This temple is a 1 hour drive from Siem Reap, but it can be combined with a grand/small circuit tour if you pay your driver a bit extra. The red sandstone colors are nice, and it’s known for having some of the best stone carvings out of all the Khmer temples.  

Bantei Srei Temple

• Day 3: Day Trip To Koh Ker Temples & More

○ koh ker temple.

Hire a driver for the day and head over to Koh Ker, a group of remote temples about 2.5 hours drive from Siem Reap. The main building is a 7-tier pyramid in the forest, and a stairway leads to the top where you can get a nice view of the whole area.  

○ Prasat Pram Temple

This is an incredible spot that’s part of the Koh Ker area. These are ancient temples being swallowed up by huge strangler trees and you must see them while you’re nearby.  

○ Beng Mealea

This is another remote temple you can visit on the way back to Siem Reap. The temple is mostly ruined, but that’s part of what makes it cool!  

○ Roluos Group

Last but not least, you’ll find the Roluos temples just 30 minutes east of Siem Reap. These date back to the 9th century, making them some of the oldest Khmer temples in Cambodia (you may have to pay your driver a little extra to pack so many sights into a 4 day Cambodia itinerary like this, but it’s worth it).  

Koh Ker Temple

Prasat Pram Temple

Beng Mealea

Roluos Temples

• Day 4: Siem Reap Town

○ bugs cafe.

Start out Day 4 by exploring the many interesting restaurants and shops in Siem Reap town. If you really want a unique experience, head over to the Bugs Cafe. This place serves fried tarantulas, scorpions, and other bugs to eat! It was started by a French expat and a Khmer chef, and it’s a fusion of local culture as well as the influx of tourism.  

○ Wat Thmey (Killing Fields)

Make a culture & history stop at Wat Thmey, a Cambodian temple that’s also notable for being used as a killing field during the Khmer Rouge communist rule in Cambodia during the 1970s. There is a stupa memorial filled with skulls and bones from the victims of the genocide.  

○ Siem Reap Market

The riverside markets in Siem Reap are great for souvenir shopping, street food, and street photography. The stalls have all kinds of items for sale, from paintings and clothing, to fridge magnets and postcards.

The Bugs Cafe

Wat Thmey Temple

Siem Reap Market

More Angkor Wat Travel Tips

I hope this Angkor Wat itinerary was helpful for planning your own Cambodia trip.

These are just a few ideas of what to do in Cambodia for 4 days. You could easily spend longer in Siem Reap exploring all of the nearby temples, and enjoying the restaurants and markets.

Don’t forget to check out my full Angkor Wat Travel Guide with free tips, maps, photos, and more!  

Best Angkor Wat Tours

If you're looking for a good Siem Reap driver/guide to show you around, Klook has shared day tours starting from $12 USD .

If you plan to do the sunrise tour, which I highly recommend, they also have a private Angkor Wat sunrise tour by tuk-tuk for $19 USD or a shared sunrise tour for $12 USD .

We've used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Angkor Wat Shared Tour / Private Tour

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the 4-star La Residence Blanc D'Angkor in Siem Reap . It was $18 USD per night for a clean double room with cold A/C, work desk, refrigerator, wardrobe, and more. There's also an on-site restaurant and pool.

The staff there is amazingly friendly, and I love the epic wall art showing scenes from the Angkor Wat. It sets the mood for exploring some Cambodian temple ruins.

Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

We stayed at this 4-star hotel in Siem Reap for $18 USD

This was the pool at our hotel

• Angkor Wat Cambodia Temple Guide & How To Visit
• Cambodia Travel Guide: Tips, Photos, & Blog

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The photography in this post is stunning! You’ve really managed to capture Cambodia’s beauty well. I love this itinerary, some really great suggestions in here for me to visit next time!

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How to Plan a Trip to Angkor Wat

When to visit, getting there, getting around, suggested itineraries, photography opportunities, with a tour guide and a private car vs on your own, where to stay, where to eat, where to drink, currency and prices, health and safety considerations.

Three days would be good enough to explore Angkor temple complex. On day 1, start with Angkor Wat and its nearby sites, returning to Angkor Wat for sunset. On day 2, head for the jungle temples , then see the sunset on the top temple mountain of Pre Rup. On day 3, see Roluos for some of the earliest Khmer buildings.

The following guide may help you develop your plans for visiting Angkor Wat.

The ideal time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season from November to February, which brings relatively cool weather. In this season the sky is clearer than usual, providing good opportunities for photography. As it's the peak season for tourism, however, it can be very crowded, with hordes of tourists.

Alternatively, during the rainy season from June to November, lush landscapes shimmer in the daylight. Angkor is rather wet, often with rain in the afternoons, making morning the best time to explore. It tends to be quieter then, with fewer tourists, which allows you to explore at your own leisure.

It's probably wise to avoid the hot season from March to May, to dodge the stifling heat. But if you don't mind high temperatures, the cost of accommodation is much lower at this time.

We promise you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

The easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by air. Siem Reap International Airport offers regular connections to many Asian cities, especially neighboring cities.

The airport offers a Visa-on-Arrival service

From the airport, it takes about 20 minutes by car to get to the downtown area and only 10 minutes to Angkor Wat.

You can travel around Siem Reap in various ways: by car, tuk tuk or bicycle.

The most comfortable and flexible way to travel is by hiring a private car with a tour guide. This can easily be arranged via travel agencies or hotels.

Tuk tuks are easy to find around the temples. They can be fun and relaxing, even if rather bumpy and, in the long run, tiring. We recommend you book a tuk tuk through your hotel, for a more reliable experience. Then you might have the same driver each day and the driver will take you wherever you want to go and wait for you outside.

If you like cycling, a bicycle can easily be rented. Otherwise, don't rent one, for riding only makes you more tired after walking through the temples.

To gain access to the Angkor complex, visitors need to buy an entrance ticket. The ticket-office is on the road from Siem Reap to Angkor.

Three types of ticket are available:

a 1-day ticket for US$20

a 3-day ticket for US$40 (valid for any three days within a week)

a 7-day ticket for US$60 (valid for any seven days within a month)

There will be a rise in price starting from 1st, February, 2017. The price will be at:

a 1-day ticket for US$37

a 3-day ticket for US$62 (valid for any three days within a week)

a 7-day ticket for US$72 (valid for any seven days within a month)

Remember to keep your ticket handy, as it will be required as you pass certain checkpoints and visit certain temples.

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The temple complex at Angkor is so enormous that visiting priorities are a matter for personal preference, depending on the time available. It takes about three days to see most of the important sites. But if your time is limited, it'll still be worth spending only one day in Angkor.

The following itineraries are for your consideration and stimulation. They can be adapted according to your preference. We offer tailor-made tours.

Morning: Angkor Wat (sunrise) — Bayon

Afternoon: Ta Prohm — Banteay Srei

One and a Half Days

Morning: South gate of Angkor Thom — Bayon — Elephant Terrace — Terrace of the Leper King — Phimeanakas and the Royal Enclosure

Afternoon: Ta Prohm — Angkor Wat (sunset)

Morning: Banteay Srei — Beng Mealea

Two and a Half Days

Afternoon: Preah Khan — Angkor Wat (sunset)

Morning: Phnom Bakheng (sunrise) — Ta Prohm — Eastern Angkor (Prasat Kravan/Srah Srang/Thommanon/Chao Say Tevoda)

Afternoon: Banteay Srei — Beng Mealea

Morning: Roluos

We have developed a Siem-Reap-focused package , which includes a walk with a Khmer schoolar to know the stories behind.

Angkor Wat is renowned for the silhouette of the central sanctuary reflecting on the ponds at the west entrance. Both sunrise and sunset are great.

Phnom Bakheng is good for the spectacular panoramic views from its summit. The temple itself and its stairway also look good in pictures. It's the most popular spot for sunrise or sunset.

Bayon comprises a mass of Buddha-face towers which together create a stone mountain and provide various photographic possibilities. Early morning and late afternoon can reveal unexpected and interesting perspectives of the faces.

Ta Prohm is special for its ruins embraced by tree branches. It looks particularly peaceful in the early morning.

Banteay Srei is known for its exquisite carvings on glowing red sandstone. Early morning and mid-afternoon provide attractive lighting.

Srah Srang is a good spot for the sunrise from its landing-stage.

Continue to read Beyond Angkor Wat to know other mysterious ruins.

Tour guides are definitely helpful for showing you how to visit and appreciate each specific temple. They not only supply more detailed information and show you the best photo angles, but also lead you away from large groups where possible.

Otherwise, you'll find it hard to understand the temples and won't know where to begin.

A private car and driver facilitates a more comfortable and flexible experience. You'll be glad to relax in an air-conditioned car after walking a lot through temples and climbing many stairs. A private car can also facilitate any change of plans. Otherwise, you may become sweaty and stressed.

The cost per day is about US$50 for a guide and US$25 for a private car plus driver.

A variety of accommodation is available, from 5-star luxury hotels to low-budget hostels. A standard room in a 3-/4-star boutique hotel costs about US$50–US$100 per room per night, while a 5-star hotel costs more than US$150 per room per night.

Best stay in downtown Siem Reap, where you can stroll around comfortably at night. It's near the Angkor complex and only a 20-minute drive from the international airport. We recommend the Sokha Angkor and Tara Angkor hotels as the best-value hotels.

There is a good variety of food, Asian and European, enough to cater to all tastes. Many reasonably-priced restaurants are clustered together downtown or tucked away in the villages. Usually US$10–US$20 per person is enough for a decent meal.

If your itinerary focuses on Angkor Wat or Angkor Thom, go back downtown for lunch. If you head further afield, to Banteat Srei for example, you'll probably enjoy lunch at one of the wooden-built restaurants in the village.

Just don't frequent the restaurants in the Angkor area, as they're often expensive and the food is not quite so good.

You may find some vendors in the Angkor area serving bottled water, fresh coconut and soft drinks at about US$1 or US$2 per drink. For other drinks, go back downtown.

Though the Cambodian currency is the riel, most transactions can be made in USD. You can obtain cash from a bank or an ATM downtown, but not in a rural area.

The tourist industry in Siem Reap is undergoing a phase of rapid development, with accommodation and restaurants to suit various budgets. Tours are also easily arranged.

The cost of a budget trip is around US$60-100 per day, a mid-range trip about US$120-150 per day, and a luxury trip over US$180 per day. The main difference in cost lies in the different hotels. These prices include day-trips, hotels and food.

Most visitors, with the exercise of everyday common-sense and caution, will have a safe and healthy stay in Siem Reap. We still advise you to buy comprehensive travel insurance before setting off.

Consult your doctor before traveling for suggestions about vaccinations and medical care. As malaria sometimes arises in Angkor, you'll probably need to take a prophylactic.

To avoid dehydration caused by the heat, bring bottled water on outings, and wear a hat and cool clothing.

To avoid scams, don't go to remote areas or accept invitations to strangers' homes. Choose standard hotels, rather than unreliable hostels. To preempt being robbed, don't wear too much jewelry and leave valuable items in your hotel safe.

Continue to read:

How to Appreciate Angkor Wat

Know Before You Visit Angkor Wat

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Visit Angkor Wat: An Epic Travel Guide (Temples & Map)

A visit to Angkor Wat is something you’ll never forget. It’s massive. It’s impressive. It’s an amazing complex of well-preserved scattered temples and wats that showcase Khmer culture and beauty. The temples of Angkor Wat make up what is referred to as Angkor Archeological Park, which if you don’t know, is an explorer and history buff’s paradise.

From the well-known temples of Bayon (face temple) and Ta Prohm (tomb raider temple) to the lesser-known temples of Angkor Wat, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive travel guide so your visit to Angkor Wat is seamless. Be it information on Angkor Wat tickets, the best time to visit, or how to get there and around Angkor Archeological Park, we’re here to be your Angkor Wat guide.

Visiting Angkor Wat Temple & Travel Guide

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Angkor Wat Temple Facts

It’s always nice to understand what you’re about to experience, isn’t it? Below is a short but helpful list of essential Angkor Wat facts so you understand the basics before you arrive. Looky, looky whose coming prepared!

• Constructed in the early 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat is one of the largest religious monuments in the world.
• The former Hindu, now Buddhist Wat, sits within a 400 square kilometers (154 square miles) complex that is known as Angkor Archaeological Park.
• Angkor Archaeological Park houses the remains of not only Angkor Wat itself, but the remains of the entire Khmer Empire dating back to the 9th – 15th centuries.
• The name “Angkor Wat” means “Temple City” or “City of Temples”.
• In the 15th century, the Khmer Kings abandoned their sprawling city and Angkor Wat laid forgotten for centuries. It wasn’t until a French explorer by the name of Henri Mouhot, rediscovered the Khmer city in 1860.
• In the early 1900’s the French established a commission to begin restoring Angkor Wat. To this day, restoration efforts are still underway, and a portion of ticket sales go to these restoration efforts.

Check out our Cambodia Travel Itinerary right here!

Where Is Angkor Wat & How To Get To There

The entire Angkor Wat Archeological Park complex is about 162.6 hectares / 401 acres in size and is located about 15 minutes (5.5 km / 3.5 mi) northwest of the city center of Siem Reap in Cambodia.

If you are not in Siem Reap yet, no worries. Siem Reap has an international airport (REP) so you can easily catch a flight into the city.  Alternative options are to travel overland by bus . If you’re coming from Phnom Pehn or neighboring Thailand, there are loads of overland bus options for you to reserve and book. Once in Siem Reap, you’ll find no shortage of transportation options and guided tours that will happily whisk you to, from, and around Angkor Wat.

Best Way To Get Around Angkor Wat

If you are not planning on booking a tour of Angkor Wat, you have a handful of options on getting you not only to but around Angkor Wat.

A tuk-tuk from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat is the most popular option to take tourists to, from, and around Angkor Wat. You can easily hire a tuk-tuk for the day (or half-day) directly with a driver on the streets of Siem Reap, through your accommodation or local tour agency. Trust us, once you get into Siem Reap, you’ll see the plethora of Tuk-Tuk drivers offering their services to take you and your companions to visit Angkor Wat.

A round-trip Angkor Wat tuk-tuk price will cost you anywhere from $15 – $20 USD per day. If you pay closer to the $25 range, that is a little on the higher end, but up to you how much you want to haggle.

TIP: If you book a tuk-tuk with a driver on the street (like we did), do not pay him upfront. Wait to pay in full till the end of your trip. Regardless of who you book a tuk-tuk ride through, make sure the temples you want to see and how long you have the tuk-tuk for are clearly communicated and agreed upon upfront.

Private Van

Another option on how to get to and around Angkor Wat is booking a private van. Private vans provide air-conditioning and much more comfort than tuk-tuks. Also, you also have the nicety of having a tour guide accompany you as well.

To book a private van tour from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat, check out this private van tour here .

Bicycle Or eBike

The most cost-effective transportation option from Siem Reap to and around Angkor Wat is renting a bicycle. However, this is also the most labor-intensive. Temperatures in Siem Reap can be very hot and humid so please remember to stay hydrated while you cycle.

Also, to avoid any hiccups along the way, make sure the bike is sturdy. We’d hate for you to lose a tire along the way. Hey, it happens! Bicycle rentals vary but around $5 USD per day is average. A handful of accommodations have free bicycle rentals for guests and bike shops in Siem Reap offer day bike rentals.

Speaking of day rentals! An alternative to bicycling is getting a little assistance while you do it. eBike rentals are also available in Siem Reap. Regardless of how you choose to get to and around Angkor Wat, just know that walking isn’t an option.

Be sure to check out our 22 things to know before you travel to Cambodia here!

Angkor Wat Entrance Fees & Hours

When planning your visit to Angkor Archaeological Park you’ll need to determine how much time you want to spend in the park. You have three ticket options, each offering visitors different lengths of time:

• 1-Day Angkor Pass – $37
• 3-Day Angkor Pass (valid for 1 week) – $62
• 7-Day Angkor Pass (Valid for 1 month) – $72

Angkor Wat is open daily from 5:00am to 6:00pm . Whereas Phnom Bakheng and Pre Rup Temples are open from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm , and all other temples open at 7:30 am and close at 5:30 pm .

Angkor Wat Tickets – Additional Things To Know

• Children 12 and under can enter for free but must show a passport for proof of age
• Park tickets issued after 5 pm are valid for the next day
• The above 1, 3, and 7-day tickets options include entrance to all temples except Kulen Mountain and Bengmealea temple
• There is no ticket discount for groups
• All tickets require a photo of you, this ensures you cannot resell your ticket to another individual
• You can pay for your Angkor Wat ticket in cash or with a credit card (Discover, Visa, Mastercard)

Where To Buy Angkor Wat Tickets

Please understand that you can ONLY buy your Angkor Wat ticket from the Ticket Office Box. The Ticket Box office is not all that convenient to get to – 15 minutes from Siem Reap and 15 minutes from Angkor Wat. Tickets bought elsewhere are considered fraudulent Angkor Passes.

The ticket box office for Angkor Wat opens at 5:00 am and it would be in your best interest to get there before opening – around 4:30 am or 4:45 am. The ticket line can be loooong and if it’s too long, you could miss that beautiful sunrise you’re trying to get to. Luckily, there are about 20 window clerks cranking out tickets for tourists so your wait shouldn’t be too long, especially if you are one of the first in line.

Even though it takes about 15 minutes to get from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat, you need to take into consideration the amount of time it takes to get from Siem Reap to the Ticket Office, and then to Angkor Wat. On average, it takes around 30 minutes to get to and from all three, however, you’ll also need to take into consideration the time it will require you to buy your tickets. This is important when trying to plan for sunrise.

An alternative option is to buy your tickets the night before . Any tickets sold after 5:00 pm are valid for the next day . The ticket office closes at 5:30 pm so be sure to arrive around 4:30 pm to allow yourself the time you need to get in line and buy your ticket. Whatever you do, DO NOT BUY your ticket till after 5:00 pm. If you buy tickets before 5:00 pm, they’ll count for the current day and will not be valid for the next day.

Get our take on a perfect Angkor Wat itinerary right here!

Ticketing Check Points and Angkor Wat Ticket No-No’s

Whatever you do, don’t lose that Angkor Wat ticket of yours, and always make sure to have it on you. Why? It’s common to have your ticket checked by security at the entrance of certain Angkor temples.

If you lose, tear, or damage your ticket in any way, you’ll be required to purchase a new ticket at full price in order to gain access to the temples of Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat tickets are non-transferable and not meant to be resold. If you get caught selling your Angkor Wat ticket to another individual, you’ll pay a hefty fine.

Best Time To Visit Angkor Wat

January to May and then November to December are the best months to visit Angkor Wat. June to October is hit-and-miss months. During the months of June through October, the monsoon season is in full swing making walking around outside or seeing the Angkor Wat sunrise a bit of a challenge.

Regardless of which month you plan to visit, just make sure to start your day early. It gets extremely hot and humid in Cambodia so do your best to avoid sightseeing during mid-day. Plus, the early bird gets the worm as they say. Morning is not only great lighting for photos but tends to be a little lighter on the crowds.

How Long Do You Need To Visit Angkor Wat

How do you know which ticket option is best for you when visiting Angkor Wat? Well, it’s a personal preference. Our recommendation is to buy a one-day or three-day pass. Ask yourself the below questions and we promise, it’ll help you decide.

• Short On Time: Get you that one-day pass to Angkor Wat.
• Have A Few Days: Go on and buy that three-day pass or hell, the week pass if you have the time.
• Tight On Money: The one-day pass is $37 per person so even on a budget, that’s pricy.
• Have Some Funds to Spare : The three-day pass is going to set you back $62 per person but if you have the time, it’s worth it.
• Only The Highlights, Please : One-day pass for sure.
• Let Me See It All: If you are a history buff and seriously love ancient ruins and temples, then there are plenty of sites to keep you occupied. Get that three-day or seven-day pass.

Do You Need A Guide To Visit Angkor Wat?

First, understand that you do not need to book a tour to experience and visit Angkor Wat. Booking your own transportation and determining what Angkor Wat temples you want to see can be completely done by yourself.

However, take it from us, we got SO much more out of our visit by having a guided tour of Angkor Wat. You can reserve a guided tour of just Angkor Wat or look to book a guided tour through the entire park so you can get the history of each Angkor Wat temple you wish to visit.  

Angkor Wat Tour Routes – The Grand Circuit and The Small Circuit

Alrighty, so what we’ve come to learn about Angkor Wat is there are established tour routes referred to as The Grand Circuit or The Short Circuit. While these are established routes, they are also totally customizable, especially when you hire your own Tuk-Tuk driver or book a private tour to take you around the park.

Before paying for either the Tuk-Tuk or the private tour , BE SURE to agree on any modifications you’d like to make to the below routes to ensure you see the Angkor temples you want to see. Having these conversations upfront ensures you are not surprised later by either having to pay more or risk not seeing a temple you had your heart on exploring.

The Small Circuit Tour

Great for those who only have one day in the park. The Small Circuit route covers the major highlights of Angkor Wat Archeological Park.

• Bayon Temple
• Baphuon Temple
• Terrace of the Elephants
• Banteay Kdei

Two popular guided tour options are to start the Small Circuit tour with sunrise or to start a little later to experience the Small Circuit with sunset . Whichever you decided, you’ll be whisked around Angkor Wat temples and shown some of the very best Angkor Wat has to offer.

There are two other Angkor temples that sometimes are or are not included in these routes, it just depends on your tour guide or Tuk-Tuk driver. But if of interest, it’s worth seeing if you can add Srah Srang and Phnom Bakheng to your Small Circuit route.

The Grand Circuit Tour

Unlike the Small Circuit route, the Grand Circuit route (also called the Big Circuit) includes a handful of Angkor temples on the outskirts of the complex. The below list of Angkor temples is often less visited by tourists when compared to the temples on the Small Circuit.

• Neak Pean (or Neak Poun)
• Banteay Prei
• Banteay Srei
• Banteay Samre
• Pre Rup 

If you are looking to experience the temples on both the Small Circuit and Grand Circuit , you can coordinate with a Tuk-Tuk driver or look into booking a tour like this one , where over two days you’ll be whisked around Angkor Wat and the most popular set of temples. Or, if you’re just wanting to explore the Grand Circuit route, this is a great guided tour to check out.

Angkor Wat Temples Not To Miss

So now, with all the route talk said and done, really and truly the temples you want to see are up to you. We worked with our tuk-tuk driver and pulled from both the Small Circuit and Grand Circuit to see the temples we wanted to see.

Fair warning, there are several hundred temples and ruins that lay within the boundary of Angkor Archeological Park. Yes, that’s indeed a lot and can become a bit overwhelming when looking to find the best temples to visit in Angkor Wat. Below are not only the most popular Angkor Wat temples to visit , but the below also cover the most beautiful park highlights as well.

• Sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Angkor Thom
• Sunset at Pre Rup

Be sure to coordinate with your Tuk-Tuk driver to ensure the temples you want to see are understood and included in the price they give you. Same for a private tour , work with the tour company to ensure you see what you want to see.

Where To Watch Sunrise At Angkor Wat

Alright, being honest, there really is only a handful of places you should consider for sunrise. Also, it’s important to mention that not all Angkor Wat temples are open at the same time. So really, your options are limited as to where you can watch the sunrise.

If you are wanting to catch a sunrise at a temple not listed below, be sure to check its hours to make sure you can access the temple during the early hours of the morning.

• Angkor Wat Reflection Pond (Open at 5 am ): The most popular choice for sunrise in Angkor Wat is to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat and as the sky illuminates, watch the pond in front of Angkor Wat give a wonderful reflection of the scene appearing in front of you. Just know, sunrise here is BEYOND crowded. You will be shoulder to shoulder with people striving to see the same view as you, that famous Angkor Wat reflection pool sunrise. So, if you want to get a good seat, arrive early and hold your own as tourists begin to arrive.
• Pre Rup (Open at 5am): Pre Rup opens early for visitors to climb to the top for sunrise where you can find a spot to perch and watch the sunrise over the ruins and jungle below.
• Phnom Bakheng (Opens at 5am): Another option to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat is Phnom Bakheng. This temple offers a high vantage point with views of Angkor Wat in the distance.

Get our tips for catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat!

Where To Watch Sunset At Angkor Wat

Like sunrise, only a handful of temples are open late enough in the evening for you to catch a sunset. Three of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Angkor Wat are listed just below.

• Pre Rup (Closed at 7pm): In the direction the sun sets, you’ll be watching it dip below a jungle tree line, but nonetheless, it’s pretty cool to watch the sunset from the top of an Angkor temple. Pre Rup is a close second to the most popular temple for an Angkor Wat sunset.
• Phnom Bakheng (Closes at 7pm): The most popular location in Angkor Archeological Park for sunset is Phnom Bakheng. Fair warning though, there are only 300 people allowed at a time in the temple to watch the sunset. So, if your heart is set to watch the sunset here, arrive a few hours early to not only get temple access but a good spot.
• Srah Srang (Closes at 5:30pm): Popular for sunset as the light and colors of the sky will light up the reservoir or Royal Bath that makes up Srah Srang.  

Regardless of if you want to see the sunrise, sunset, or both, BE SURE to check the weather . If the forecast calls for rain or overcast, you might be out of luck. We’d hate for you to wake up early and not get to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat Dress Code

Yes, these temples are ruins but that still doesn’t mean you can dress how you want. These are active religious sites still used by practicing Buddhist and Buddhist monks. So, your behavior and attire should be respectful. 

• Knees and shoulders should be covered
• Feel free to wear a tank top but just bring a sarong or scarf to cover your shoulders when entering the temples
• Shoes are accepted, no need to go barefoot
• Shorts are fine
• Keep those shoulders covered aka no tank tops

We know, we know, Cambodia is hot, and shorts and tanks are amazing for that hot weather, but these outfit choices are not appropriate clothing for Angkor Wat. Be respectful and you’ll be just fine.

What To Bring With You To Angkor Wat

• Water : It is hot, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking so make sure you have plenty of water on you.
• Day pack: You’ll definitely want a comfortable backpack to carry your items, food, and water.
• Camera : Definitely do not leave this back at your room. Also, if you have extra batteries, be sure to pack those too.
• Sunscreen : Lather up your face and body. The sun is intense and since you plan on spending a full day exploring outside, make sure you apply several times throughout the day to keep you from looking like a crispy lobster.
• Sunglasses : Again, the sun. Protect those eyes and make it easier to see.
• Hat (if needed) : Yup, the sun again. Hats help block the sun further and provide you a little shade.
• Angkor Wat Ticket : 100% don’t leave this back in your room or you won’t be getting very far.
• Bug Repellent : You’re in the jungle after all, aren’t you? Don’t make yourself a mosquito snack. Pack and apply buy spray.
• Cash: There are food stalls and restaurants in the park, bring some cash for food and tips for your tour guide or driver.
• Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitizer : Meh, it’s dusty and you’re going to touch a lot of things other people have touched. It’s nice to have some clean hands when you take a break for lunch or to eat any snacks.
• Power bank : More than likely you are going to be out all day, and no one likes it when their phone dies. Bring a power bank to keep your phone or any other gadgets charged.
• First Aid Kit : We always have one with us in our day bag. It’s SO nice pull out a Band-Aid to cover up blisters of some Tylenol when you have a headache. We don’t want you to have a cut or headache and have to go searching for relief when you could have something in your pack instead.
• Snacks : Plain and simple, no one likes to explore when they’re hungry.

Tips For Visiting Angkor Wat

• Do not ride the elephants . Just don’t. That’s animal abuse and it’s cruel so please avoid elephant rides and tours at Angkor Wat and everywhere else you travel too.
• Dress appropriately . Be respectful in your attire (cover your chest/cleavage, shoulders, and knees) if you want to gain access to temples in Angkor Wat.
• Stay Hydrated . Ya’ll we can’t stress enough how hot it can get. Just make sure you have plenty of water and more importantly drink the water.  
• Plan Ahead . Know which temples or route you want to take, book tours or guides, and have a plan for when you want to buy your tickets. Laying out a plan will take any stress of your visit away.
• Wear comfortable shoes . You are going to be doing LOADS of walking, so be sure those little feet of yours are supported.
• Be Wary of Fake Tour Guide s: You may get approached by kids or adults offering to take you on a personal tour of “x” temple you are currently exploring. Politely, but assertively decline as these are not certified guides.

Angkor Wat Temple Map

Below, you’ll find an interactive map showcasing the temples traditionally shown during the Small Circuit route as well as the temples typically shown on the Grand Circuit route. Click on the map to show what temple is what as well as zoom in and out to get a feel of the space and the complex of Angkor Wat.

Accommodations Near Angkor Wat

Siem Reap offer’s plenty of accommodation choices for those looking to explore Angkor Wat. With the city center of Siem Reap is only 15 minutes away, staying in Siem Reap is a great choice when booking accommodations . However, if you are wanting to stay outside of the city, there are accommodations near Angkor Wat for you to consider.

For The Budget Conscious:  Looking for a humble stay? Well, look no further than Sok Phen Homestay or Dany’s Angkor Cottage . Stay in humble abodes situated in the Cambodian countryside. Enjoy cooked meals and sweet serenity at Sok Phen Homestay or Dany’s Angkor Cottage .

For The Luxury Inclined: Templation Hotel , is a luxury getaway close to Angkor Wat. With lovely rooms, an amazing pool, beautiful gardens, and friendly staff you’re in for an unforgettable stay.

For Something In Between : Located a few miles from Angkor Wat, you’ll find the beautiful Grand Venus La Residence . Grand Venus La Residence is a modern hotel featuring a massive pool and beautiful surroundings far from the noise of Siem Reap.

For more places to stay near Angkor Wat, you can  check out the latest places and prices here .

WANT MORE INFORMATION ON CAMBODIA?!

Kampot, Cambodia: Your Complete Travel Guide

9 Amazing Things To do in Battambang, Cambodia

6 Tips For Seeing Angkor Wats Sunrise

Cambodia Tips: 22 Things To Know Before You Visit Cambodia

Volunteering at a Cambodian School

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For more travel tips, guides, and awesome travel shots, be sure to poke around our site, follow us on Instagram @wanderingstus, Pinterest   on  Facebook . Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. We’re happy to answer. Or, just leave us a positive note!

Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)

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A Little Exploring… The History and Fun of Visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Last updated on January 21, 2024 by Shannon

Traveling Southeast Asia these past months has been an incredible whirlwind. Seven weeks seemed like enough to make the backpacker loop through Thailand , Laos , Vietnam , and Cambodia , but that isn’t even remotely the case.

I decided to adjust my itinerary and save Vietnam for another trip, which has allowed me to more deeply explore Laos. Once I finished ziplining at the Gibbon Experience in Laos , I didn’t have much time left. I only planned a few hard and fast days for these round the world trip, and meeting my cousin in India is one of them.

With that in mind, I hopped on a puddle-jumper flight out of Luang Prabang and landed in Siem Reap, Cambodia just an hour later. It would have been a gross oversight for me to leave Southeast Asia without a visit to one of the most recognizable UNESCO sites in the world : Angkor Wat.

Table of Contents

Taking it Slow My First Days in Cambodia

Landing in Cambodia was a shock to my senses. Laos is widely regarded as the most laid-back and quiet of the Southeast Asian countries, and after more than a month in Laos, I wasn’t prepared for the bustle and energy of a big tourist city. 

It’s not just the traffic in Siem Reap, Cambodia—although there is a lot of it. And it’s not just that the city is hopping with activity—although it is.

It’s the sum total of everything that just crawls up your skin and lodges in your brain as you walk the streets.

Siem Reap has aggressive child begging issues. That’s largely the fault of the tourists for funding the beggars, and a systemic Cambodian issue that there is enough poverty that begging needs to happen.

The entire change of pace both Luang Prabang and the peaceful quiet of the Bokeo Nature Reserve had me off kilter. Instead of jumping right into touring Angkor Wat, the key reason I was in town, my friend Laura and I decided to hole up our lovely guesthouse and adjust, calibrate, and recharge. After all, this is one of those “main events” of backpacking the region and I wanted to be prepared to explore and enjoy!

(Years later, when I visited with my niece, we also used our first day in Siem Reap to recover from a long travel day on the boat from Battambang.)

In the first days, I shopped the markets and powered up with delicious vegetarian restaurants. The choice of veggie restaurants in Southeast Asia’s bigger cities is definitely a reason to visit. Though I love the charming towns, it’s nice to have a selection of interesting options!

The begging is hard not to avoid. Within a minute of leaving your hotel and guesthouse, you’ll likely discover the street kids and beggars in your area. Some approached and clasped my hand. Others followed with quiet pleas. I’ve been back to Siem Reap since, when traveling with my niece , and the vibe hadn’t much changed. One reason I find it overwhelming is because of the idea that it’s not always a good thing to pass money to the beggars—these children are sometimes run as a business and might not see much of the money.

Within walking distance of our guesthouse, Laura and I found a fabulous night-market and we were still quite close to the touristy areas of the city. I actually liked that we were in the thick of things after going off the grid and getting horribly ill in Laos .

Laura and I spent our first evening camped out at an exquisite gourmet vegetarian restaurant. The best part, it was affordable. The total price of dinner, drink, appetizer, and dessert: $7. And this restaurant had my favorite unique drink to-date, a cold and tasty Tamarind Ice Tea. It was bizarre and the first sip was face-scrunchingly tart, but after that it was wholly refreshing and just what I needed after a blisteringly hot day.

And boy am I loving the warmth here! While others sweat profusely in the baking hot heat, my Florida-girl self is loving every second of it!

It didn’t take long to recharge. Tasty food, rampant free WiFi at nearly every restaurant, and I was in heaven. In fact, I managed to crank out some mad work while I was in Cambodia, which is topping up the travel fund nicely. I am not sure what I will face in India, so I wanted to log good hours for my client now, while I could.

Exploring Angkor Wat by Bike

The flight from Laos to Cambodia was very dear, but I came here to visit Angkor Wat. I’ve read National Geographic for most of my life, and this is one of the big items I’ve always wanted to explore in person.

Laura and I woke up early and slathered ourselves in of sunscreen. I also rocked a large floppy hat, sunglasses, and a face mask to combat the dust and traffic pollution—I was the height of attractive let me assure you! Kitted out for an entire day out at the temples, she and I rented bicycles and headed out to the main temple complex at Angkor Wat.

We opted for the three-day pass to the temples and a wave of joy, excitement, and the thought finally  rushed through me when I rounded the bend and first sighted the huge moat and iconic towers of Angkor Wat.

The complex lies a bit outside Siem Reap, so we biked for a while, finally making a long shady stretch before we rounded a bend in the road. Then it was just there. Huge, ancient, and humbling.

We secured our bikes in the large parking area, we flashed our passes, and then joined the heaps of other tourists with mouths shuffling across the long bridge. I admit, I gapped. I stopped and photographed it all. It was just impossible to take understand the magnitude of this beautiful ancient city.

I knew only a bit about Angkor Wat’s history before I arrived. King Suryavarman II built the temples in the 12 th Century as a holy city by for his people. Even more though, is that Angkor Wat is just one of a dozen of pagodas in the area. Although the three spires of the main temple are most iconic and emblematic of this site, it’s spread across acres of land. This wasn’t just a temple, it was a thriving and active city.

Angkor Wat is a labyrinth of intricately carved walls, over-hangings, and statues. When Laura and I entered, we both noted that there was a strange energy in the temple complex. It’s hard not to sound new-agey, but there was an odd vibe when we entered and we both felt it enough to turn to each other and note it. It wasn’t negative or unwelcoming, just odd.

And who knows, perhaps we’re off our rockers, but our initial inauspicious comment about the energy lead to a thoroughly frustrating visit. Within a few minutes of arriving, we lost sight of each other in the twisting hallways.

Then we each spent the next four hours looking for each other. How you can lose someone for four hours in just one single location I do not know, but we were both dehydrated and exhausted by the time we found one-another by the food-stalls.

Without a cell phone, we had resorted to asking the local children and vendors to keep watch for one another. (In fact, Laura’s description was “a tall girl with an ugly brown floppy hat”—apparently they knew exactly what she meant as they helped bring me to her). It wouldn’t have been a huge deal, but we had locked our bikes together (and yes we both checked at the bikes), so it was all a tad overwhelming.

Anyhow, even in the mad hunt for my traveling companion, I managed to see a great deal of the complex. At times, I lost myself when I would pass the intricate carvings of dancing ladies carved into the walls. As I passed throughout the different areas, I would often pop into the back of groups guided in English or Spanish. Then, as they belabored a point I would drift off to find other fascinating parts of the complex.

The long wall of images are Bas Relief carvings that circle the perimeter of the temple and tell the story of various battles. I loved the description of the carvings dedicated to the story of the Ramayana.

I’ll admit that I first dove into this story when I had a brief but heartfelt obsession with the movie The Little Princess. The guides nearby explained how some of the fading reliefs represented various aspects of Rama’s journey. So neat.

On my search for Laura, I sat down at one point for about an hour—I figured if I stopped moving she might pass by me. And in that decision to take it slow, I found myself in a long chat with a handful of Cambodian monks.

They spoke basic English, and after the standard pleasantries of my age, marital status, and the number of siblings ( everyone asks you these three questions), I was able to probe them about their education and life.

It was interesting, strange, and fun. They laughed a lot when I said something, I was never sure how much of the laughter was from a lack of comprehension and how much was because they were talking alone with a Western woman.

Once Laura and I reunited we bought some bracelets from the children who had found me and brought me to Laura. Then we took their advice and biked to a sunset spot just down the road.

The sunset temples are set about 15 minutes into the hills, and we dodged slow-moving tourists who were clogging the hiking paths. And even after the long day, somehow we arrived at the spot—and it was perfect—just in time to watch the sun take its last bow.

We explored other areas too—from the Tomb Raider temple to far out and dusty temples. Angkor Wat delivered in terms of fascinating history and a lot to see and explore independently.

What are the best temples at Angkor Wat?

My favorite temples that you should absolutely have on your list—in this order—include: Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Bayon, Srah Srang, Preah Khan, and East Mebon (in that order).

Angkor Wat is the most well-known temple in the complex and is the largest religious monument in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of Khmer architecture.

Ta Prohm is another popular temple in Angkor Wat. It is known for its overgrown jungle setting, with tree roots wrapping around the temple ruins.

Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is a temple that is known for its intricate carvings and delicate red sandstone construction.

Bayon Temple

The Bayon Temple is a Buddhist temple that is known for its massive stone faces that are carved into the temple’s walls.

East Mebon was built in the 10th century and is known for its large central tower and elaborate stone carvings.

Preah Khan is a large temple complex that is known for its maze-like layout and peaceful atmosphere.

Thommanon is a small temple that is located near the entrance to Angkor Thom. It is known for its well-preserved carvings and elegant design.

Pre Rup is a temple mountain that is known for its stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a popular spot for sunset viewing—one of the most popular, in fact.

FAQ About Angkor Wat

When should you visit angkor wat.

The weather in Cambodia is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. The wet season, which runs from May to October, is characterized by heavy rain and high humidity. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is generally more comfortable, with lower humidity and less rainfall.

Also, there are several festivals held in Cambodia throughout the year, including the Water Festival in November and the Cambodian New Year in April. These festivals can be a great time to visit Angkor Wat, as they offer a chance to experience local culture and traditions.

How do you visit the Angkor Temples for sunrise?

Seeing a perfect sunrise or sunset is coveted by Southeast Asian travelers , and even though the temples are crazy-busy, it can be a beautiful experience. Arrive to the temples by 5:30am for sunrise, and between 5:15pm and 6pm for sunset.

For a general sightseeing day, plan on leaving around 8am, so you catch the cooler morning hours to start.

Hot tip : Enter the Angkor complex after 5pm and you don’t need to use a day on your pass. If you time it right, you can watch sunset on your first night, and then use your following day to fully explore.

Angkor Wat by bike vs tuk-tuk, which is better?

Rent a bike for $2/day if you like to ride and/or if you’re on a tight budget. Tuk-tuk drivers cost $20 to $25 for a full day and this is ideal if it’s too hot for bikes, or if you’re venturing to the further temples. 

On my second trip through Angkor Wat, my niece and I booked a day tour with Urban Adventures for our first day exploring, and this was a fascinating and fun way to learn the history and ask all the questions from a local who knew the answers.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Booking.com is a great booking website in Southeast Asia, so start your research there. My niece and I stayed at the Cashew Nut , and the pool is a real highlight—when it’s hot, you’ll be glad for it. Siem Reap is a well-traveled city, so you can find budget dorms for as little as $2/night, but spend in the $15-$25 range and you really get a lot more for your money.

Best guidebook for travelers.

Download a copy of Cambodia: The Temples of Angkor is perfect if you’re keen to know a deep history of the temple complex and you’d like a DIY. Cambodia Lonely Plant and Southeast Asia on a Shoestring Lonely Planet guides are also good resources.

How to be a responsible traveler in Cambodia.

There are a lot of things you should know before you go to Cambodia to make sure you have a responsible, ethical trip. This free Guide to Responsible Travel in Cambodia outlines the best practices of travelers, including how to support Siem Reap’s thriving social enterprise scene, and how to give back and volunteer, too.

How to Plan Your Time in Southeast Asia

📍 Navigate more effectively. Bookaway  is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—it shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on  RentalCars.com .

🛏️  Find great accommodation . Agoda has the widest and most affordable selection in Southeast Asia. It’s part of the Booking.com family, but has better reviews for SEA. You can book hotels, hostels, and even vacation rentals.

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global  is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids.  Here’s why .

Book Tours Ahead of Time I use Get Your Guide to book locally run tours since I can assess the options, read reviews, and lock in a date.

✈️  Book affordable flights. Expedia and Skyscanner are the first places I look for  low-cost flights .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for traveling , gear to keep you safe in Southeast Asia, my favorite travel books , and more.

📖 Read up on any off-the-path activities. Travelfish is among my go-to resources for anything in Southeast Asia. It’s updated far more often than print guidebooks and has extensive local insight and a fairly active forum, too. If you head off-the-path, this should be the first place you check for tips, transport advice, etc.

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Backpackers Guide to Southeast Asia

A free rundown of everything I learned from years backpacking Southeast Asia, and a beginners guide of sorts for anyone traveling through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

Update from the road: I arrived in India and have joined forces with my cousin. I was sad to say adieu to Laura, we had incredible adventures these past two months. Everything from our  surprising, random meeting in Bangkok to tubing to rock climbing and ziplining . I will surely miss that lady. For now, it’s onward to the Indian adventures.

3 thoughts on “A Little Exploring… The History and Fun of Visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia”

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Cambodia again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Yikes! Lost for four hours!!! And I thought getting lost at the Louve in Paris was bad!

Wow! Think of the stories you are going to have to share with your kids!! This is all just amazing!!

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Take a magnificent holiday in northwest Cambodia to explore the ruins of Angkor, the seat of the Khmer kingdom from 9th - 15th century as you book this 3 nights 4 days Siem Reap Angkor Wat tour package . Tailor-made for travellers looking for a compact holiday across Cambodia, this 4 days customizable Cambodia tour package is economical and worth your time and money.

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Arrive in Siem Reap for your 3 nights 4 days Cambodia tour package.

Arrive in Siem Reap, where a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Complete the check-in formalities and enjoy a delectable lunch. Proceed to visit Artisan D’Angkor, a traditional handicraft center which was created in 1999 to help the young people of Cambodia find work in their home villages.

Also visit Wat Thmey, or the Killing Fields which contain a unique glass memorial stupa comprising of the skulls and bones of victims of the Khmer Rouge during the late 1970s. Next up, proceed for a hearty dinner at a local restaurant where you can also enjoy the traditional Apsara Dance Show - an essential component of the Cambodian way of life.

Head back to the hotel for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Siem Reap: Temple hopping in Siem Reap

• Bayon Temple
• Royal Enclosure
• Bakheng Hill

Gear up for temple hopping on Day 2 of your 4 days in Cambodia.

After a nutritious breakfast, proceed to visit the Angkor Thom South Gate. Visit the Bayon Temple, which was built around 1190 AD, made to represent the intersection of heaven and earth. You will also be taken to The Royal Enclosure, the Phimeanakas, and the Leper King Terrace.

Continue your visit to Ta Prohm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An architectural marvel, the temple complex is a sight to behold. After a delectable lunch, resume your sightseeing.

Visit Thommanon, a small and elegant temple located east of the Gate of Victory of Angkor Thom. Also visit Chau Say Tevoda, Ta Keo, and the grand Angkor Wat temple complex. The largest religious monument in the world, the temple is admired for its grandeur and magnificence. Proceed to Bakheng Hill for a mesmerizing view of the sunset. Also visit the Phnom Bakheng temple complex.

Enjoy a buffet dinner along with traditional Apsara Dance Show. You can also visit Pub Street and Angkor Night Market for a taste of the Cambodia nightlife.

Optional: Shopping (charges extra)

Siem Reap: Enchanting trip to the floating village

• Floating Villages
• Tonle Sap Lake

Explore the Floating Village as part of your Cambodia 4 days 3 nights itinerary.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast and gear up to visit the Floating Village on the third day of your Cambodia trip. Take a ride in the traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap Lake and be enchanted by the simple and rustic way of life. You will come across floating villages, towering stilled houses, and huge fish traps; all of which rely on the cycles of rising and falling waters for livelihood.

Relish a wholesome lunch and proceed to the Pouk district. Visit the Angkor Silk Farm where you can learn more about the breeding of silkworms and silk extraction. Also, buy souvenirs for your loved ones.

Come back to the hotel for a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep.

Siem Reap: Departure

• Local market
• Artisans Angkor Workshop

Bid goodbye to Cambodia as your 3 nights 4 days Cambodia tour package concludes.

Relish a healthy breakfast on the final day of your trip. Complete the hotel check-out formalities after which you can visit the local markets and buy souvenirs for your loved ones. Head to the Artisans Angkor workshop, which is known for its local arts and craft. Later, proceed for departure and board your flight back home.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Monoreach angkor hotel

National Road No. 6, Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Air conditioning
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FAQs for Cambodia

What is angkor wat famous for.

The temple used to be the State temple of Suryavarman II, and its grandeur is unmatched among the state temples of other Khmer kings. Surrounded by a moat-like all the temples and cities of the Khmer empire, the Angkor Wat temple and the complex are classic examples of Khmer architecture, and even though nature has reclaimed large parts of the complex and temples, the Angkor wat remains standing tall and has become the symbol of Cambodia.

What are some of the most popular places to visit in Siem Reap?

Some of the most popular attractions that you can visit on your Angkor Wat Cambodia tour package are Angkor Archaeological Park, Angkor National Museum, Bayon Temple, Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, Angkor Archaeological Park, APOPO Visitor Center Cambodia Landmine Museum, Angkor Silk Farm, Angkor Wat in Miniature, Apsaras dance and many more. There will also be various stopover destinations and attractions that you can enjoy during your journey.

What are some of the most popular things to do during the Siem Reap Angkor Wat Cambodia tour package?

Some of the most popular things to do on your Siem Reap Angkor Wat Cambodia tour package are sightseeing, visiting historic landmarks, hiking, and food tours through the ancient city during your stay. Except if you have a distinct fascination for the Angkor sanctuaries and need to see the most that you can, the 3-day tour pass is awesome for sightseeing. It'll give you a good amount of time to enjoy the most well-known temples which incorporate Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom, Angkor Thom, and Banteay Srei. You'll have the opportunity to visit a couple of more and return to Angkor Wat first thing in the morning.

Is it possible to pay in installments for this 3 nights 4 days Cambodia tour package?

Yes. Travel Triangle gives one the liberty to pay in installments for select tour Packages . The traveler can pay a token amount to book the package in advance and the remaining can be settled 15 days prior to the date of departure.

Which are the best places for shopping in Siem Reap?

The popular markets in Siem Reap are:

• Angkor Night Market
• Old Market (Phsar Chas)
• Angkor Handicraft Association
• and Noon Night Market

Is English widely spoken in Cambodia?

The majority of the Cambodian population communicate using the official language which is Khmer. However, one can easily communicate with the locals using English language.

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Angkor Wat Guide – Comprehensive & In Depth 2024

Table of Contents

In this Angkor Wat guide, we will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip in 2024.

We have lived in Siem Reap and visited Angkor Wat many times over the years. With our in-depth local knowledge, we have learned some clever local tips and tricks to make the most of your visit to Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat is intense, challenging, and truly epic. A little research is essential to ensuring a memorable experience. So, if you’re hoping to plan an amazing trip, please do read this article carefully.

In this Angkor Wat Guide, we will show you how to avoid the crowds, find hidden gems, and the best way to get your tickets (avoiding the queues and even getting some extra time in Angkor Wat). 

The tips that we will share in this article are genuinely not available anywhere else online. We are sharing our own unique experience and tips. We will also share plenty of practical information such as prices, locations, opening times, and ticket rules.

GET INSPIRED – Don’t miss the FULL GUIDE to the Best Things to do in Siem Reap

GET PREPARED – Check out this Full and In-depth 3 day itinerary for Siem Reap

VISITING WITH KIDS? – Find out more about Visiting Angkor Wat with Kids

Is it worth visiting Angkor Wat?

If you are visiting Cambodia, then a trip to Angkor Wat should definitely be at the top of your list. This is one of the most significant and impressive attractions in Cambodia and perhaps in the region. Angkor Wat is not just one single temple but an entire complex of temples, lakes, waterways, and buildings (it was originally built as a city rather than a single temple). There really is a lot to see and do in the area.

The temple ruins are very impressive and atmospheric. If you love photography, you will absolutely love Angkor Wat. Of course, there are the classic photo spots in front of the main temple at sunrise, but there are also lots of other hidden gems around the Angkor Wat complex. If you love photography, you could easily spend a full day here taking unique and beautiful snaps.

Even if you’re not interested in photography, exploring Angkor Wat is a lot of fun. You can get lost in a maze of small pathways leading through temples and between ruins. You can see incredible artwork and sculptures as you explore. Oh yeah, and don’t miss the iconic Tomb Raider Temple (Ta Prohm).

The Angkor Wat Entrance ticket has become increasingly expensive over the years, and it is particularly expensive relative to other attractions in Cambodia. However, they charge these prices because they know they can. Even though the ticket is very expensive, we do still think Angkor Wat is well worth the visit. Anyone who has paid to come to Cambodia in the first place should probably budget the additional cost of seeing this unique and stunning wonder of the world.

Historical and cultural significance of Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a UNESCO world heritage site, and it is now recognized as the 8th Wonder of the World. So it really is a big deal. Angkor Wat is a very impressive architectural masterpiece in the heart of Cambodia. This unique temple complex is a testament to the rich culture and history of Southeast Asia. Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century during the height of the Khmer Empire’s success and prosperity. It was once a sprawling city of sandstone towers and intricate carvings dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, and it was later transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary.

The detailed bas-reliefs adorning its walls unveil tales of gods, battles, and celestial realms, offering a glimpse into the beliefs that shaped the region’s identity. The moat and lakes nearby (Neak Poun and Baray lake) are man-made lakes (it’s hard to believe that humans really dug these huge lakes!). Beyond its historical marvels, Angkor Wat holds a profound spiritual significance for modern Cambodians. Many locals visit Angkor Wat to bring offerings, light incense, and meditate.

Where is Angkor Wat located ?

The main Angkor Wat temple is situated around 5 km north of Siem Reap town; however, the Angkor Wat complex is much bigger and extends a further 10 km north. It is also around 15 km across the complex (in the east-west direction). This is just the dimensions of the main Angkor Wat Temple complex. In fact, there are also lots of other historic temples in the region spread around Siem Reap. Many of these additional temples are also included in the Angkor Wat pass. You cannot visit these far-flung temples without an Angkor Wat pass.

What are the best ways to get around Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a relatively large area. If you are planning a one-day trip to see the main temples and attractions (starting and finishing in Siem Reap), the total distance you will travel is likely to be around 35 km – 40 km. So, it is important to plan your transportation carefully. There are several options. The best option depends on your priorities, needs, and budget. Don’t miss our Full and In-depth Guide to The Best Ways to Get Around in Siem Reap .

1 Rent a motorbike and ride

Renting a motorbike is a fun, independent, and intrepid way to see Angkor Wat. It is also one of the most cost-effective ways to explore the area. You can rent a motorbike in Siem Reap town, and motorbike rental typically starts at around $8 per day. When you rent a motorbike, you will need to leave a deposit. We also recommend checking the condition of the bike carefully. Riding a motorbike around Angkor Wat allows a lot of freedom to choose your own pace and pick your own temples. You could even return to Siem Reap for a few hours during the hottest part of the day.

Find out more about Motorbike Rental in Siem Reap

2 Explore by tuk-tuk

Don’t miss the FULL GUIDE – Tuk tuks in Cambodia

The most popular and common way to explore Angkor Wat is to go by tuk-tuk. This is a small cart pulled by a motorbike. If you choose to visit Angkor Wat by tuk-tuk, you will need to arrange your trip with a local driver in Siem Reap. Local drivers are generally very keen to take people to Angkor Wat because this is a full day’s work (and they can earn a lot of money relative to local wages). You will need to speak to a driver a day or two in advance. Before you agree on the final price, you will need to make sure that you discuss all of the details, including pick up time, which temples you would like to visit, and an approximate return time (Consider whether you would like to stay to see the sunset at Angkor Wat).

The exact price depends on how many temples you wish to see and how long you plan to spend exploring Angkor Wat. For a very short day at Angkor Wat, you may be able to find a tuk-tuk for around $10 (a few hours and one or two temples maximum). An average day trip around Angkor Wat is likely to cost around $15. If you are planning a very long day (sunrise & sunset) and you want to see plenty of temples, you should be able to get it for around $20. We recommend bartering to get a fair and reasonable price at the start and then if you are happy with the driver and you wish to pay more, give them an extra tip at the end of the day. This is a great way to show gratitude and also to foster a culture of fair pricing. You can find lots of tuk tuks waiting around pub street .

3 Book a tour

If you are not keen to bargain with a local driver and you’re not comfortable with taking a motorbike, then we recommend booking an Angkor Wat tour. You can book tours online in advance. There are several advantages to booking a tour. Firstly, it is a fixed price, so you don’t need to worry about negotiating for a good deal. Most tours include an English-speaking guide, and they will be able to take you to some of the best places and give you an insight into the culture, history, and significance of the temples that you visit. Most tours also include hotel pick-up and drop-off, which means you can have a very convenient and stress-free trip.

Don’t miss this great value for money, inclusive Angkor Wat tour on Klook

4 Rent a bicycle and ride

The cheapest way to explore Angkor Wat is to rent a bicycle and ride around the area. A few active and intrepid travelers still choose to see Angkor Wat this way; however, it is not common for people to explore by bicycle. If you do choose to ride a bicycle to Angkor Wat, be prepared for a lot of cycling (Remember it is likely to be over 30 km if you want to see the main temples). Cycle carefully on the road to Angkor Wat; this is a relatively busy and fast-moving road. Drivers in Cambodia do not prioritize cyclists and do not allow space when they are passing, so ride carefully and always wear a bike helmet.

How long should you spend at Angkor Wat?

For most people, a one-day trip to Angkor Wat is sufficient to see all of the main temples and immerse yourself in the experience. A one-day pass costs $37. In a single day, you can get all of the iconic photographs and see all of the best bits. If your trip is only a few weeks in length, then you’ll probably want to see Angkor Wat in one day. It is also worth noting that you cannot get a two-day pass for Angkor Wat, and the three-day pass is actually quite expensive ($62).

However, if you have a longer trip or you are very keen to see some of the more remote, unique, and tranquil temples, then you may want to consider getting a three-day pass. There are several more remote temples that would be difficult to visit with a one-day pass (for example, Banteay Srei Temple, Lolei Temple, and Phnom Krom Temple).

Angkor Wat Guide – One Day Angkor Wat Itinerary

If you only have one day to visit Angkor Wat, then we recommend visiting these temples in the following order (anti-clockwise loop):

5.30am – 7.30am: Angkor Thom (sunrise – busy but amazing)

8.00am – 10.00am: Ta Prohm Temple (Tomb Raider Temple)

10.30am – 11.30am: Neak Poan lake temple

11.30am – 1.00pm: Rest and lunch

1.00pm – 2.30pm: Preah Khan

2.30pm – 4.30pm: Bayon (Temple with faces).

If you have the energy, you can also visit Bakheng Temple (popular sunset temple). Visiting the temples in this order means that you will see some of the more impressive temples before the crowds get there (most people do a clockwise loop of the Angkor Wat site).

Three Days in Angkor Wat

If you have three days to visit Angkor Wat, then slow down and take your time. Cramming too many temples into a day can be tiring, and you can get “templed out.” For instance, you could see a sunrise on your first day followed by one or two temples, and then take some rest in the hotter hours of the day. Perhaps return for a sunset or see one of the more distant temples later in the day.

On the second day, visit a few more of the main temples but take a more casual and relaxed pace. Perhaps see the sunset at Phnom Krom – this is much quieter (this is South of Siem Reap and around 45 minutes from the main Angkor Wat complex). On the third day you could visit any temples you have missed on the first few days. If you get a three-day pass, we recommend visiting these temples: East Baray Temple, Baphuon Temple, Pre Rup Temple, Lolei Temple, and Banteay Srei Temple (further away but worth it!). 

How much does it cost to visit Angkor Wat

You can buy your tickets online or at the ticket office in the morning (which opens at 5 am so you can visit for sunrise). A one-day pass costs $37, and a three-day pass costs $62. A one-week pass costs $72. The ticket offices accept card payments. Children under 12 years old do not require a ticket, but you do need to bring a passport to prove their age. Children over 12 years old need a full adult ticket.

What are the opening times at Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is open 7 days a week and every day of the year. The ticket office opens at 5 am so that you can buy a ticket and see the sunrise. Even if you arrive early, it is likely to be quite busy, and you will often need to queue, so if you’re planning to see the sunrise, we recommend arriving before 5 am.

• Ticket Office: 5 am – 5.30 pm (you can buy tickets for the following day after 4.45 pm)
• Angkor Wat and Srassrang Temple (Srah Srang): 5.00 am – 5.30 pm
• Bangheng Temple and Prerup Temple: 5.00 am – 7.00 pm
• Other temples: 7.30 am – 5.30 pm

TOP TIP: You can purchase tickets for the following day after 4.45 pm. This means that you don’t need to queue up in the morning for your ticket. Also, we found that they accepted this ticket on the same evening to see the sunset at Angkor Wat. In other words, you can buy your ticket between 4.45 pm – 5.30 pm, go to see the sunset in Angkor Wat with this ticket, and then have a full day on the following day.

Can you exit and re-enter Angkor Wat on the same day?

If you have a one-day pass, you are allowed to enter and exit the Angkor Wat Temple complex as many times as you like during the day. In fact, if you are planning to see the sunrise and the sunset at Angkor Wat, it may be a good idea to take an hour or two back in Siem Reap so you can get lunch and have a rest during the hottest part of the day. There is no problem doing this. You will just need to make sure that you arrange with your driver (this may add an extra $5 – $10 to the cost). Your ticket will be checked when you arrive at temples. They sometimes check tickets inside temples as well. If you lose your ticket, you will need to pay the full price for a replacement (even if you have proof of purchase).

What is the best place to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat

If you are planning to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, we recommend getting an early start. The best colors can be seen around 30 minutes before sunrise, so if possible, we recommend arriving at the Angkor Wat temple by around 5 am. This may mean a very early start, especially if you have not already sorted out your ticket (remember it is possible to purchase your ticket after 4.45 am the day before your visit). You will probably need to be setting off from Siem Reap by around 4.30 am if you are hoping to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

The most popular and iconic place to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat is directly in front of the main temple (west side of the temple). As you walk down the main pathway to Water Temple, you will see a couple of reflection pools where people gather to take photographs at sunrise. This is the most popular area to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, and therefore it generally gets very crowded even if you arrived very early. So if you are planning to visit the main temple for sunrise, don’t expect a serene and tranquil experience; it is, however, very beautiful.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil and peaceful sunrise experience at Angkor Wat, we recommend exploring Srassrang Temple (Srah Srang), Bangheng Temple, or Prerup Temple (All of these temples are open as early as 5 am).

What is the best place to see the sunset at Angkor Wat

The most popular place to see the sunset at Angkor Wat is Bangheng Temple. This beautiful Temple is situated on a hill allowing stunning views over the flat plains of the Siem Reap district. It is often possible to see beautiful glowing sunsets, and on the clear day, you can see the sun sink below the horizon.

This is a very popular and iconic place to see the sunset, and it does get very crowded up here, so if possible, we recommend arriving early to get a good spot.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil and peaceful sunset experience, then we recommend a visit to Phnom Krom. This is a beautiful Temple Hill located to the south of Siem Reap. You will need to arrange this with your driver, and it is likely to cost a bit more.

This hill is situated around 45 minutes from the Angkor Wat complex. Set off nice and early if you want to see the sunset here. You need to use your Angkor Wat pass to access Phnom Krom, so you do need to do this on the same day as your main Angkor Wat trip.

Is Angkor Wat a religious site?

Yes, Angkor Wat is a site of religious significance, although it was not originally constructed as a Buddhist temple. It is now recognized as a site of spiritual significance to local Buddhists. You will often see local Cambodians visiting Angkor Wat to bring offerings, light incense, and to meditate. You are also likely to see Buddhist monks in the area.

If you are visiting the Angkor Wat complex, you do not need to be concerned about religious or cultural rules. For example, if you are just walking around the Angkor Wat building, there is no specific dress code. However, if you want to visit the Central Tower of Angkor Wat, there is a Buddhist Shrine, and you will need to make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered. We recommend bringing a scarf if you are hoping to explore inside the Angkor Wat temple buildings.

Can you buy food and drinks at Angkor Wat?

You can buy food and drinks at Angkor Wat; however, the range and choice are relatively limited, and food and drinks are also quite expensive in Angkor Wat. A simple meal is likely to cost around twice the price of an equivalent meal in Siem Reap. There are several cafes and restaurants around the Angkor Wat complex, including a small cafe situated next to the main Angkor Wat temple. You can also see lots of locals selling snacks and drinks around the Angkor Wat complex. We recommend bringing plenty of drinking water with you because water is relatively expensive in Angkor Wat (locals may try to charge $2 – $3 for a large bottle of water). Remembering it’s completely acceptable in Cambodian culture, and we do recommend bartering for food and water in Angkor Wat.

Is Angkor Wat accessible to wheelchairs and prams?

Many areas of the Angkor Wat complex are accessible to wheelchairs and prams; however, if you are hoping to explore inside the temple buildings, then you may struggle with a wheelchair or a pram. Most of the temple buildings are only accessible by steep and uneven staircases, and this could be challenging even if there are helpers available. If you are traveling with a baby, we do recommend using a sling or a baby carrier rather than a pram. If you are visiting with a wheelchair, we recommend planning an itinerary that allows you to appreciate the temple buildings by finding viewpoints around the temples. Many of the temples are surrounded by roads and footpaths which allow you to get very beautiful views and photography without needing to enter the building itself.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Angkor Wat Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

212 angkor wat trips. compare tour itineraries from 87 tour companies. 759 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating., popular angkor wat tours.

Angkor Wat & Thailand Essential

• Wander amid the vine-covered courtyards of Angkor
• Visit the glittering Grand Palace of Bangkok
• Get close to gentle Thai elephants in Chiang Mai
• Sunbathe on the golden sandy beaches of Phuket

Glimpse Of Indochina In 15 Days

• Enjoy an overnight cruise in the stunning Halong Bay
• Cycle around the villages of Vietnam and attend a cooking class
• Explore the biggest temples complex in the world, Angkor Wat
• See cascades waterfalls right in the middle of lush jungles

Heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia 10 Days

• Visit the world's largest religious monument complex, Angkor Wat, in Cambodia
• Explore the historical significance in Cu Chi tunnel and cultural diversity of the Mekong Delta
• Fall in love with the beauty of Ha Long Bay and its thousands of islands

Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

• Soak up the exotic charm of Thailand's capital city - Bangkok.
• Interact with the amazing elephants in a way of responsible travel
• Indulge in the extraordinary seascape of Ha Long Bay
• Learn about the turbulent history of Ho Chi Minh City
• Learn about Mekong Delta's farming and fishing traditions

Discover Asia

Spirits Of Vietnam - Cambodia -Thailand In 17 Days

• Enjoy an overnight cruise at the UNESCO World Heritage site
• Take a ride in a traditional Vietnamese unique basket boat
• Explore the largest religious monument in the world - Angkor Wat
• Sit back for a relaxing time at the stunning beaches of Phuket

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia: 18 Days of Splendid Discovery

• Explore the pristine Van Long wetland on a small boat
• Experience the local life and make your own lantern in Hoi An
• Visit the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat
• Witness the unique temples of Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River

Unveiled Cambodia: Khmer Culture and Beach

• Immerse yourself in the rich Khmer culture of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
• Witness the mesmerizing sunrise at the renowned Angkor Wat heritage site.
• Embark on a delightful cycling journey through the picturesque Cambodian countryside.
• Unwind on the picturesque shores of Koh Rong.

All Angkor Wat , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Angkor Wat

Small Group Angkor Wat Tours

Cambodia Adventure

• Visit the Kampot pepper plantations
• Relax and unwind on tropical Koh Rong island
• Board a bicycle rickshaw for a tour through Phnom Penh and along the banks of the Mekong River
• Visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Prison
• Cycle through the countryside of Battambang

10 Days Wonderful Cambodia tour

• Embark on Siem Reap and see the Rolous group of Temples
• Admire the fascinating Khmer temples of Angkor
• Visit Banteay Srei and the “Small Circuit” group
• Cruise on Tonle Sap
• Explore Phnom Penh and Learn the tragic history of the Killing Fields

Cambodia Express

• Begin in Bangkok and finish in Ho Chi Minh City – with plenty of opportunities to further explore these Southeast Asian hotspots, maybe add an extra couple of days to enhance your adventure and indulge in more Thai massage and Vietnamese coffees.
• Let a local expert bring Cambodia’s ancient history to life as you temple-hop at the Angkor complex with your small group – one of South East Asia's most stunning attractions.
• Take a boat tour through the floating village of Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia – and learn about the locals’ unique lifestyle of living on the water.
• Learn the confronting yet important history of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh with a full-day experience.
• Enjoy a trip that’s packed full of experiences, giving you a great insight into Cambodia, all in a short time – perfect for the traveller passing through or those with limited availability.

Best Angkor Wat Tours by Duration

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Top Angkor Wat Attractions & Experiences

Top Angkor Wat Experiences

• Exploring the temples
• Watching the sunset at Phnom Bakheng
• Taking a ride in tuk-tuk
• Looking at the wall art that tells the story of Kurukshetra battles
• Spending a night in Siem Reap
• Meeting a monk
• Seeing the Bayon at Angkor Thom 

Angkor Wat Tours & Travel Guide

Angkor Wat Attractions & Landmarks Guide

The world’s largest religious complex, Cambodia's Angkor Wat (which means “City of Temples”) covers some 500 acres. At one time, 750,000 people were said to live on the site, but it’s been abandoned for centuries.

It was built by a Khmer king in the 12th century as a Hindu temple, and later served as a Buddhist shrine and place of pilgrimage. Its remarkable stone structures -- with spires reaching heavenward and walls lined with bas-reliefs and other artworks -- lie amid the forests near the Cambodian city of Siem Reap.

Visiting Angkor Wat is a top itinerary item for tours to Cambodia , but be prepared for a lot of crowds.

A common misnomer is that Angkor Wat and Angkor are the same thing, when in fact Angkor Wat is just one temple in the enormous ruin city, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, city of Angkor.

Countless temples are strewn throughout the temple complex, and even with several days to spend exploring, it's impossible to see them all. Below we’ve compiled a selection of some of the unmissable temples. You could reasonably see these, plus the crown jewel of Angkor Wat itself, in two days, but if you’re one to prefer taking your time to explore and especially if you enjoy travel photography, you definitely will want more time than that.

The Main Temple of Angkor Wat

The most famous of the Angkor temples, and the one after whom the temple complex is named, Angkor Wat is instantly recognizable. But pictures will not do the temple justice, and the sight of the gigantic towers and sprawling grounds are far more impressive in person. It's worth the effort to make it to the temple by sunrise, to watch the sky change color above the imposing towers. Or better yet, take a ride in a hot air balloon to take in the view from the air.

Built between the years 1130 - 1150, the temple of Angkor Wat is the most famous and well known perhaps because it is still in use today. A Hindu temple designed to represent the home on earth of the gods, its massive scale is truly impressive.

Most historians agree that the temple was used both as a tomb and temple, a fact supported by its western facing carvings and doors, and the bas-reliefs were designed to read in a counterclockwise direction.

To protect this magnificent site, be respectful of areas that are off limits, dress appropriately, and take your time. The many gorgeous carvings along the walls reveal epic stories, myths, and describe a people close to their religion and extremely devoted. Breezing through to check the site off your bucket list will ultimately leave you disappointed and rushed - this is a site which begs to be examined and appreciated for all its historical significance and beauty.

How to Get to Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is actually the large main temple within the ancient city of Angkor, which is what you’ll actually spend more time exploring during your visit. These fascinating ruins became an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, though despite valiant and ongoing efforts to keep them in as good shape as possible, a continuously growing influx of tourists have made protection an enormous challenge.

Tours to Angkor Wat typically leave from Siem Reap, which is about a 20 minute drive away.  There are several ways you can arrange to see the site, including renting a car, renting a bike or motorized scooter, or going by hired tuk-tuk. Walking is not recommended, only because the heat can be intense, and you’ll be walking by multiple moving vehicles going at different speeds, and some places have very little sidewalk.

Renting a car can provide a nice breather between temples as you enjoy a reprieve in the air conditioning. But if you can stand the heat, the cheaper options are nicer as you have less crowds to deal with as you try to park.

There are 3 different passes you can decide between, once you arrive at Angkor. A Day Pass, A Three Day Pass, and a Week Long Pass. (The US dollar is widely accepted throughout Cambodia).

Forget any illusions you may have about Angkor Wat being empty and devoid of other people. It will definitely be full of other tourists exploring the ruins. Even the much lauded sunrise tour, to be among the first to get to the site, is a deceivingly busy activity. Though you may elect for this opportunity, you won’t necessarily be getting to the site when “no one else is there” which is how some tours sell this experience.

What to Wear for Angkor Wat

To visit the temples of Angkor, appropriate and respectful attire is expected. This includes long pants covering the knee, and covered shoulders. There are guards at each temple entrance (they will require you to show your pass, so they can add a punch to it) and they have been known to refuse entry for improper attire.

One major thing to keep in mind is the heat - particularly considering that you will be wearing conservative attire. Given this, try to find clothing that breathes easily, and doesn’t cling. Avoid cotton and other materials that are absorbent and thick.

High humidity is uncomfortable no matter what so anything you can do to minimize feeling icky is helpful - remember, you’ll be outside for the vast majority of your Angkor Wat tour. Make sure you bring a lot of water, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Exploring Angkor requires extensive, very steep stairs, so you’ll want good shoes, ideally with ankle support.   

Cambodia remains fairly warm throughout the year, however there are some differences in wet vs dry seasons. The humidity is the highest during the hot and rainy season, between June and August. This is going to be quite uncomfortable for traveling, especially if you’re not use to humidity. It also coincides with summer in the northern hemisphere, which is one of the busiest travel times of the year, so the crowds will be heavy.

March through May is also quite warm, coming off of the cool season. Temperatures range in the 70s and 80s F, with high, but mostly bearable humidity.

The ideal travel months in terms of weather in Cambodia are November through February. This is the dry season, and you’ll also experience fewer crowds. During this time, temperatures average between high 60s and 70s F, with less humidity.

Temperatures are also cooler between September and November, and it is less humid, but it will most likely be wet and rainy.

Photography Tips for Angkor Wat

The spires, steps, carvings, and countless pathways at Angkor Wat create unbelievable compositions for stunning photographs. Photography enthusiasts, amatuer through to professional will always find something new to capture through the lens at Angkor Wat.

Here are some top tips for getting the best photos out of your Angkor Wat visit:

1. Bring multiple lenses - Angkor is one of those rare destinations that offers incredible variety for the type of photography you want to do. A telephoto lens will help you get up close with the many wall carvings and intricate designs within the temples. While a wide angle will be ideal for capturing the depth and scope of the temples and city.

2. Go on a photography tour  - Especially for enthusiastic amateurs looking to bring their photographs to the next level, a photography tour is the perfect avenue to learn. Not only will you be able to visit incredible sights, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from a professional. And in a place like Angkor, where there are so many small walkways, multiple temples, and multiple views, your guide will know all the best places for photographs, including those that are “hidden.”

3. Lens cloth - in humid weather, like that you will experience in Cambodia, lens fogging is common. While this can create an interesting effect, it may not be the one you intend. Bring your camera out of it’s protective bag a good few minutes before you plan to shoot, and have a lens cloth handy throughout the day.

4. Comfortable neck/shoulder strap - Angkor Wat is full of incredible photo opps, and you will quickly get exhausted with pulling your camera out every 5 seconds. It is also typically very humid, and your generic camera strap may get itchy and uncomfortable in the heat. Fashion yourself a personalized lens strap with any kind of durable, soft, water resistant material to help with the burden of carrying your camera all day long.

5. Filters - Especially if you elect to do the popular sunrise tour at Angkor Wat, consider a filter to help display the subtle color and lighting of the sky as effectively as possible.

6. Practice shooting in shadow . Angkor provides a lot of wonderful opportunities for dramatic contrasts and sharp light shafts. Get to know your camera’s manual settings, and possibly practice with an external flash. You won’t want a strong flash, but one used with a diffuser might help bring out details in your shadowy photographs.

7. Bring a monopod - You will be walking around a lot in the hot sun, and a tripod will get cumbersome. And you don’t really need one for Angkor, as you’ll find many places to place your camera to keep it steady, or use a monopod. You’ll definitely want this option for shooting extended exposures in low light, but for the most part, it should suffice rather than a bulky and heavy tripod.

8. There will be people around . Embrace the fact that there will be a lot of crowds. You can pretty easily manage to get some pictures without people that are tight in portrait style, but your wide shots will almost certainly have people in them.

Angkor’s Other Temples

Angkor Wat is the most famous of the Angkor temples, and the one most people initially visit to see. However upon arriving, it may quickly become apparent that there’s so much else to see, and that Angkor is far more expansive than often thought by first time travelers.

Bayon Temple

The massive stone faces that adorn Bayon temple set it apart from the many temples of Angkor. Take your time exploring the different levels, as there are 214 of these faces to be found. Bayon was built in approximately 1190 AD, a Buddhist temple which incorporates Hindu elements as well.

Take your time as you explore the outer wall of this temples first level. Unique and intricately detailed carvings depict everyday life for the people of the time. As you continue through in a clockwise direction you’ll pass more panels depicting various tasks, important events (such as soldiers going or returning from war), and customs. Certain details seem much unchanged to the way provincial Cambodians live today.

Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm, with its crumbling walls and jungle setting, gives visitors the sense that they have stumbled upon the ruins of a lost city. Gigantic trees entangle themselves among the rocks, and visitors can enjoy exploring and clambering over the massive roots. Some of the best photo opportunities can be found here, as the endlessly fascinating and foreboding theme of nature overcoming man made structures to reclaim the land once again is prevalent. This is also the famous “Tomb Raider Temple” as a famous shot from the entertaining franchise featuring Angelina Jolie took place here.

Built in 1186, Ta Prohm is one of the only Angkor temples to provide inscriptions within the stone walls that give an indication of why it was built, and a record of its inhabitants. It was built in dedication to the mother of Jayavarman VII.

Preah Khan Temple

Ta Prohm can become crowded quickly as it is the more well known of the overgrown temples to see. Preah Khan provides a wonderful alternative where fewer tourists venture. In a similar overgrown style to Ta Prohm, visitors can often enjoy having Preah Khan to themselves and feeling like a true explorer.

This temple, the name of which means “sacred sword” most likely served as the temporary residence of Jayavarman VII while his bigger home was in the process of being built.

Preah Khan was dedicated to over 500 divinites and hosted no less than 18 festivals during the year. While it was active, thousands of people lived and worked here to help maintain the space, as it saw so much buzz and activity.

Prasat Kravan Temple

Though on the smaller end of the Angkor temples, Prasat Kravan packs a punch. Especially when it comes to the beautiful and intricate stone carvings on the walls of its interior. This is a Hindu temple, built in the year 921, unique for the fact that it was not built by or for royalty at the time. It is set apart from the main complex, but it you have extra time during your Angkor exploration, dedicate it to Prasat Kravan.

Phnom Bakheng Temple

Built on a hilltop overlooking the temple complex, Phnom Bakheng is an ideal location from which to watch the sunset. Though make sure you allow enough time to get there early - 4pm is a good bet - as only 300 people are allowed up to the main sunset viewing area at one time. This is strictly enforced for safety as well as preservation. The sunset from this vantage point is well worth it however, so try to calculate it into your Angkor tour.

This was the first temple-mountain built in Angkor, for the ruler   Yasovarman I. It has five tiers and seven levels, representing the seven Hindu heavens.

Angkor Wat Reviews & Ratings

Above our expectation.

It was a marvellous trip for us in Indochina. Everything was above our expectations except for the vegetarian food for my wife. The itinerary was perfectly organised...

Good choice to South East Asia

I will HIGHLY recommend this tour to my family, friends and work colleagues who are thinking about travelling to Vietnam and South East Asia – and will personally re...

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Wow!  I couldn’t have asked for a better trip!  Thank you so much. The cities were fantastic as were the rural and water based adventures. The tours and gu...

Warmest greetings from Australia

We made it back to Australia and our home town safe and sound. It is a three hour drive to my home town from Brisbane and I didn’t think it was safe for me to make ...

Best travel consultant ever

All of the tour guides were brilliant – Tony in Hanoi and Sody in Cambodia were my personal faves. All the guides spoke very good English, were very friendly, court...

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Art is the best guide in Siem Reap. He knows the best way to take you through all the temples... read more

I spend 3 hours with Sam Art in Ankor Vat. I was in this area 2 times before. But Sam Art gave me... read more

Angkor Wat's best tour guide and photographer

Art is not only an amazing tour guide who speaks several languages fluently including English, he is an amazing photographer and encyclopedia of knowledge. The photographs not only featured Angkor Wat in all it's glory but us tourists as well in spectacular poses that we could never have thought of ourselves. So clever the way he captured reflection, light, history, architecture and our adventure all rolled up together. No need to pay for someone else to take your professional pictures.

Art is the best guide in Siem Reap. He knows the best way to take you through all the temples without getting stuck in the big crowds. He is beyond knowledgeable on the history of all the temples and is so friendly. He also has cold water and cool cloths to recharge you after each temple visit. If you visit Siem Reap, Art must be your guide. You will not regret the experience.

I spend 3 hours with Sam Art in Ankor Vat. I was in this area 2 times before. But Sam Art gave me so many new informations about the temple. His english is good and we had a good time together. He is the best guide on my trip right now. All the best from me. Holger from Germany

I had a wonderful day tour of the main temples with Mr Art and Thearo. I was shown all kinds of details I would have otherwise missed, and have a much greater appreciation for the temples. Mr Art knows all the great spots for photos, and is a master of creative panoramas! All in all it was an informative and enjoyable day and I would happily recommend this tour.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Angkor Wat

As Cambodia’s top tourist attraction, Angkor Wat Archaeological Park is home to hundreds of ancient temples and religious structures dotted throughout the 400-sq km site. While Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm remain the most popular, attracting thousands of visitors from across the globe daily, there are many more off the beaten track temples worth leaving the well-trodden trail for and investing in a multi-day pass. Here is our guide to exploring the sacred site.

These days, seeing sunrise at Angkor Wat means jostling the crowds and dodging death by selfie-stick. However, it’s well worth it if you’re lucky enough to catch a beauty, with the sky plunging into a palette of colour as the sun peaks from behind the iconic temple’s spires.

Of course, there is more to the park than just Angkor Wat , with nearby Bayon and Ta Prohm temples and the structures that surround them forming the popular circuit for one-day pass holders. But for those not pushed for time, investing in a three or seven-day pass comes well rewarded, with access to the hundreds of other ancient sites that dot the expansive park.

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Here are some top tips on how to make the most out of your fascinating journey into Cambodia’s intriguing past.

First things first, what pass are you going to purchase? Tickets are sold as one, three and seven-day passes; prices were recently hiked up to $37, $62 and $72, respectively.

The seven-day passes should probably be reserved for those truly hardened history buffs, with one-day passes the most popular, offering enough time to take in the major temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm.

If you fancy getting off the beaten track and heading into the heart of the jungle to explore more ruined temples away from the madding crowds, then a three-day pass may be worth investing in. The three visits can be used up within one week, meaning you don’t get too ‘templed’ out.

Further away temples worth visiting include Banteay Srei, Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, Phnom Krom and Kbal Spean.

So, that’s your tickets sorted, now for how to get around. There are several ways to tour Angkor, with tuk-tuk being the most popular.

You’ll find as soon as you land in the city tuk-tuks are touting for temple business so don’t worry, there’s no shortage of vehicles waiting to take visitors to the temples. As well as picking a driver up from the street, hotels and guesthouses can make arrangements. A tuk-tuk costs about $30, depending on how good your bartering skills are.

Private vehicles and taxis can also take guests around the park, and can be booked via travel agents found throughout Siem Reap , or at your hotel. However, environmentalists have raised concerns about the volume of vehicles entering the park so it’s worth considering the environment and preservation of the site when looking into cars or buses.

Alternatively, hire an electric bike or car from the front of Angkor Wat and the Terrace of Elephants.

Those heading to the more remote temples, however, may find car is the easiest, quickest and most comfortable option to make the journey.

Jumping on a bicycle is another option, with bikes aplenty for hire in Siem Reap city, starting from $1 a day. The ticket gate is about 6km from Siem Reap centre, and don’t forget to pack plenty of water because, while it’s readily available from stalls in the park, you’ll pay more than double once you’re inside. Various tour operators, such as Grasshopper Adventures , offer bike trips through the temples.

If you fancy indulging in the high life, then a more extravagant way of viewing the temples is from above. Helicopter and hot air balloon trips run throughout the park, however, restrictions prevent anything from flying directly above almighty Angkor Wat itself.

To get a guide, or not?

Navigating Angkor Wat can easily be done alone – although without the help of a knowledgeable guide, many details and historic stories will undoubtedly be missed.

Guides can be hired for about $20, either from a tour operator in Siem Reap or at the site itself. Make sure they are registered with the Ministry of Tourism – they will have a license – before hiring them, and tips will be heavily appreciated as wages are relatively low.

If you want to go solo, then it’s worth spending a bit of time doing research, or investing in a decent guidebook – these are sold seemingly around every corner of the temple complex, usually by children. Visitors are strongly encouraged not to buy from kids – a rule that should be applied throughout the country.

There’s no avoiding the crowds if you want to view Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. However, there are ways of lessening the masses if you shake up your itinerary slightly – although you might have to explain this to the tuk-tuk driver, who will switch into autopilot mode.

Firstly, if you want to catch sunrise at Angkor Wat then there’s no way to avoid the masses of people who flock to the lotus lake in front of the temple to catch that iconic shot of the sun rising behind the spires reflected in the still water.

However, if you want to skip the crowds, who will spend the next couple of hours touring around Angkor before visiting Bayon and then Ta Prohm, head straight to Ta Prohm after sunrise, then Bayon, returning to Angkor last.

If you want to enjoy sunset at Angkor, then Phnom Bakheng is a popular spot but, again, that’s where the crowds will be. A quieter location is Pre Rup. It’s worth noting that if you buy a one-day pass after 4.30pm, you can enjoy access to the temples for sunset as well as the whole of the next day.

Regardless of how you choose to visit Angkor and which temples you tick off your list, one thing is for sure: you won’t leave disappointed.

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Where Is Angkor Wat?

Location, Visa, Entrance Fees, and Essential Information

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

What is Angkor Wat?

Plan your trip, how to get to angkor wat, the best time to visit, angkor wat’s must-see temples, what to wear to angkor wat, scams to avoid, photography tips, seeing angkor wat at sunrise.

Located just 3.7 miles outside the bustling Cambodian city of Siem Reap, the Khmer temple complex at Angkor Wat is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, if not the world. Each year, more than two million tourists visit Angkor Archaeological Park, which dates back to the 12th century and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. In 2007, a team of archaeologists realized that Angkor, spread over 402 acres, was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world.

The main Angkor Wat site, the easiest to access, is a bit of a tourist wonderland, while scores of smaller temples and crumbling, unrestored ruins await in the surrounding jungle. From essential information about visas, park entry, and the best times of year to visit to which temples you should see, what to wear, and how to capture the perfect sunrise photos, here's how to make the most of your trip to this unforgettable place.

Built during the early 12th century under the direction of Khmer King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat is considered to be the world’s largest religious monument, a place so important it even makes an appearance at the center of the Cambodian flag. Specifically, it was built to be Earth’s version of Mount Meru , the holy home of Hinduism’s most important deities. Despite sustaining damage during regional conflicts, the site, which consists of more than 72 temples and structures, has survived for centuries and continues to be a major destination for tourists visiting Cambodia.

People come from all over the world to admire the detailed carvings and intricate artistic designs adorning the many temples. Sandstone was quarried and brought down the river on rafts from a sacred mountain 31 miles away, while the temples were built by 300,000 workers with the help of more than 6,000 elephants. The complex spans more than 400 square kilometers and was the capital of the Khmer Empire for several centuries; its name translates to “temple city” in the local Khmer language. Today, you’ll find a number of exquisite Buddhist temples, as well as ancient examples of Khmer architecture and art, and several hydraulic structures including canals, reservoirs, basins, and a moat.

All visitors to Cambodia need a tourist visa , which you can get online ahead of time or upon arrival at the airport. You can also get one as you cross the overland border. Be sure to pay the $30 fee in exact amounts in U.S. dollars, as corrupt officials will ask for more money via fake exchange rates if you try to pay with Thai baht or euros. Note that U.S. dollars are heavily scrutinized by immigration officials and only crisp, new banknotes will be accepted (any with tears or defects may be rejected). You'll also need to provide one or two passport-sized photos for the visa application.

As for entry to Angkor Archaeological Park, you can purchase a one-day pass for $37, a three-day pass for $62, or a seven-day pass for $72; buy them in cash (ATMs are available and U.S. dollars are accepted, though change is provided in Cambodian riel) or with any major credit card except American Express. With so many remote temples and ruins away from the main Angkor Wat tourist site, you'll want at least a three-day pass to fully appreciate the monument without rushing around too much.

To better understand what you're looking at, consider hiring a guide or joining a tour. Ideally, you’ll want to have enough time there to hire an independent guide for one day, then return to your favorite spots to enjoy them without someone rushing you along. Guides are supposed to be officially licensed and can be hired for about $20 per day, though there are plenty of rogue guides around just waiting to intercept business. To be safe, hire someone recommended by your hotel or through a travel agency.

If you prefer to go alone, grab one of the maps or booklets that explain each site. The book "Ancient Angkor," available for sale near Angkor Wat (the airport sells overpriced copies) is well worth the small cost, as its history and insights will enhance your experience. If you hire a driver who doesn’t serve as a guide, confirm where to meet them once you exit a temple—with hundreds of guides waiting outside in tuk-tuks , finding the one you hired can be tricky.

Flying into Siem Reap from Southeast Asian hubs like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur can be pricey but cuts out all manner of scams you'll likely encounter on the road, including dishonest bus companies, taxi rip-offs, and the potential to be overcharged for your visa by corrupt immigration officials. If you must, the bus from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet on the Thai side of the border takes around five hours, depending on traffic. Clearing immigration can take a while and you’ll want to avoid being stuck in the area when the border closes at 10 p.m. (guesthouses are available but are pretty worse for wear). After crossing into Poipet on the Cambodian side, you'll need to take a bus or taxi 2.5 hours to reach Siem Reap.

A popular tourist town in its own right, Siem Reap makes a perfect base for visiting Angkor Wat, which is only about 20 minutes away. While the main site is close enough to reach by bicycle, those less excited about cycling in Cambodia's sticky heat can catch a tuk-tuk , hire a driver for the day, or rent a motorbike to get between temple sites—this option offers the most flexibility, but you'll need to drive with some tenacity .

The best months to visit Angkor Wat are from November to March. After that, heat and humidity build until the rainy season begins sometime in May. You can still travel during the monsoon season , although slogging around in the rain to see outdoor temples isn't as enjoyable. The busiest months are usually December, January, and February, while March and April are unbearably hot and humid, drawing fewer crowds. The weather in Cambodia follows the usual climate in Southeast Asia, hot and dry or hot and wet, and with a side of humidity, so plan to sweat and rehydrate often.

Although choosing from the thousands of Angkor temples dotted throughout Cambodia isn't easy, some are considered more spectacular than others. By far, the most popular temples at Angkor Archaeological Park are Angkor Wat (the main site), Angkor Thom, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, Bayon, Bakong , and Ta Prohm , which was featured in the "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" movie. 

There are two main circuits used by tourists and guides to view the temples. The Small Circuit is a 10-mile loop that takes a full day to explore, starting at Angkor Wat before taking you to Angkor Thom and its South Gate, Bayon , Preah Ngok , Baphuon, Phimeanakas, Sra Srei , the Terrace of Elephants, Victory Gate, Thommanom, Chau Say Thevoda , Hospital Chapel, Ta Keo, Ta Nei, Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei , and Srah Srang . The Large Circuit , which also takes a full day (or several days to explore if you want to take your time), brings you on a 16-mile journey from Phnom Bakheng (near Angkor Wat) to Baksei Chamkrong, Prasat Bei , the South Gate of Angkor Thom , the Terrace of the Leper King, Preah Palilay, Tep Pranam, Preah Pithu , the North Gate of Angkor Thom, Banteay Prei, Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Kroi Ko, Ta Som, East Mebon, Pre Rep , and Prasat Kravan . Which ever circuit you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Check out our article about visiting Angkor Wat’s must-see temples for more tips to enhance your trip.

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, so remember to be respectful in the temples and dress conservatively, keeping your shoulders and knees covered throughout your visit. Avoid wearing skimpy clothing or shirts featuring Hindu or Buddhist religious themes (e.g., Ganesh, Buddha, etc). You’ll be glad you dressed modestly once you see how many monks are roaming the temples. Although flip-flops are the footwear of choice in Southeast Asia , the stairs to the upper levels of temples are steep and dangerous and trails can be slippery, so wear hiking boots if you'll be doing any scrambling. A hat will come in handy for keeping the sun off, however, it should be removed to show respect in some areas. Tattooed individuals need not worry about revealing too much ink, especially if keeping your shoulders and knees covered like everyone else.

Unfortunately, Angkor Wat, like many major tourist magnets around the world, is rife with scams. Be wary of anyone approaching you inside the temples, especially if there aren’t many visitors nearby. Off-duty police officers in uniform sometimes approach tourists, offering information about a particular temple or simply asking for a bribe. Do your best to avoid interactions with them altogether. 

Some scams bank on the fact that tourists don’t know how things work here. Official tuk-tuk and motorbike taxi drivers are required to wear colored vests, so avoid getting transportation from any not wearing an official vest. Once you purchase an entrance pass, you won't need to pay additional entrance costs, so don’t believe anyone asking you for more money at temple entrances or to climb the stairs to the upper levels. Other scams prey on tourists’ desire to help the locals. Don’t allow monks or anyone else to hand you an incense stick, bracelet, or gift, as they will ask for a donation after your interaction. Although purchasing books, postcards, and bracelets from the persistent children hawking them seems like a way to help, doing so perpetuates a nefarious industry (they are forced to sell by people who profit) and isn’t sustainable.

Otherwise, border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are rife with petty scams targeting new arrivals, with many centered around the visa process and which currency you use to pay. Most overland bus rides offered to backpackers from Khao San Road in Bangkok are plagued with scams; some buses have even been known to conveniently "break down" so you’ll be forced to spend a night in an expensive guesthouse until the border reopens the next morning. Other bus companies stop before the actual border at an office or restaurant and force travelers to pay for a visa application (which is free at the actual border). If you find yourself in this situation, firmly state that you will wait until the border to do the visa application yourself.

Because it’s such a popular destination, you’re likely going to have other people in your shot and will have to wait in long lines for photos by certain popular spots (for instance, at a tree that was featured in the "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" movie). Pack a monopod or tripod to capture the perfect photo of Angkor Wat at sunrise, and don't be afraid to play with photographic elements like lighting, shadows, or different points of view to make your travel pics more interesting. Remember to bring extra batteries (or a portable charger for your phone) just in case.

While the main Angkor Wat complex is usually a circus of activity, you may end up having smaller, difficult-to-reach temples like Ta Keo, Neak Pean, Thommanon, Banteay Semre, East Mebon , and Srah Srang practically to yourself. You’ll have much better photo opportunities there with fewer tourists (and signs telling them what not to do) in the background. Keep in mind that unless you're proficient enough with a scooter rental and map, you'll need to hire a guide or driver to reach some of the secondary temple sites.

Viewing Angkor Wat’s magnificent temples at sunrise is an extremely popular activity among visitors, mostly due to the beautiful lighting this time of day offers as well as the fact that the sun is very strong in the afternoon. Buy your tickets the day before to avoid pre-dawn ticket lines. Expect large crowds well into the hundreds or even thousands to gather alongside you, especially at the main Angkor Wat temple, as it’s the most popular viewing point. For an alternate, less crowded spot, head to the nearby Pre Roup, Phnom Bakheng , or Srah Srang temples, which also open at 5 a.m. The rest of the temples don’t actually open until 7:30 a.m., so consider buying some breakfast or coffee from a local vendor and enjoying the moment while you wait.

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A Cambodian adventure to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap

Explore the historical and colourful sights of cambodia’s second-largest city.

A s the gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap might seem like a place you pass through on your way to something more interesting nearby.

• SEE MORE Cambodia: from tenth-century temples to mid-century modern

But this unsuspecting city is the second largest in Cambodia and people have lived here for around 1,200 years. For those travellers willing to spend an extra few days enjoying the surrounding area, there is so much to offer.

A ‘magical experience’ at Angkor Wat

Ok, you can’t go to Siem Reap without visiting the 900-year-old temple that made the town famous, so let’s get that one out of the way first. There are very few things that can make me wake up at 3am, a flight being the main one, but by far the best reason I ever had to set my alarm at that ungodly hour is to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Taking a guide isn’t necessary, but they do know exactly where to find the best views. We arrived in complete darkness and were told to sit on a wall. The lake below us was only visible when a fish broke the surface, creating ripples that reflected in the moonlight, but soon the sky began its journey from deep purple to the warmest pink and the temple’s ancient towers came into view. Watching a fiery sun rise above this site is a magical experience I will remember for the rest of my life. 

Our guide Dalign spent the next four hours showing us around three of the most famous temples, highlighting some of the most interesting bits of history and architecture. Between nuggets of information about Angkor’s history were stories of his own experience growing up locally in the shadow of the Cambodian civil war and the Khmer Rouge. You can book Angkor Wat tours with Journey Cambodia through Get Your Guide .

Panoramic Images/Alamy Stock Photo 

Things to see and do in Siem Reap

Some people travel here just to see Angkor Wat and don’t enjoy the town. That would be a mistake. There’s so much to see and do in Siem Reap. To get around, take a rickshaw tour of the town for approximately $20 for half a day. This will be the best way to travel when it gets hot – and it gets really, really hot.

If you are interested in all things military, or in the history of the Cambodian civil war, then head to the War Museum . On display you’ll find tanks, weapons, grenades, and many other items left behind after the fighting stopped. Unlike other more polished museums, these items are available to touch, hold and really get to grips with, giving a very personal insight into the atrocities that occurred here.

Simon Rinderer/Alamy Stock Photo

The Angkor National Museum  will give you an even deeper understanding of the Angkor Wat temple complex, and it is dedicated to preserving the archaeology of the area, as well as sharing the complex history of the Khmer civilisation that built and lived in it. One of the newest attractions is the Angkor Eye, a 278ft-tall ferris wheel that has panoramic views over the town towards the temples of Angkor.

You also really must spend one evening of your visit at Phare Circus , an extraordinary celebration of Cambodian culture and dance. It was founded in 1994 by nine young men returning from a refugee camp who wanted to help poor young people. The school now has 1,200 students daily, some of whom end up performing at the circus. The energy and talent on stage is incredible, and the audience of all ages were completely engrossed in a story that told of the importance of the rice fields through song and dance. The site has food and performances before the show as well as a shop selling locally made goods.

Peter Erik Forsberg/Alamy Stock Photo

Where to shop

It is very easy to shop in Cambodia , and there are just so many interesting markets and outlets to explore. The Made in Cambodia market is small but stuffed full of gems that you will want to reserve space for in your suitcase, from craft alcohol to home-made jewellery.

Both the Angkor Night Market and the Old Market are open late and situated right in the centre of the city, and you can find pretty much everything in either. Siem Reap is also home to dozens of interesting boutique stores, from the Australian-owned Wild Poppy, to Manava, which sells chic homewares made by Cambodian women.

Artisans Angkor  is a museum, craft studio and shop that gives job opportunities to local people. Helping to revive traditional craftsmanship, we saw how they made glorious silk fabrics, as well as intricate wooden carvings and stonework.

Where to stay

Designed by American architect Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas are located in the leafy French Quarter of Siem Reap near the Royal Gardens, just a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

The resort, which is split into two hotels, prides itself on genuine, personalised service that is high-quality but refreshingly informal. Guests in the pool villas have a private Bensley butler, and the Shinta Mani Spa by Khmer Tonics offers an extensive menu of therapeutic treatments based on traditional and modern healing rituals, using natural, locally sourced products.

The selling point really is the modern and fun interior design, with a monochrome colour scheme and quirky art adorning the walls and halls. Our room was large, with a comfortable king-size bed and sustainable, refillable toiletries. On the ceiling above the bed was a dimly lit picture of Angkor Wat, which was surprisingly nice to look at as I fell asleep.

There are two pools: one is chic and minimalist in a courtyard adorned with greenery and plants, while the other is large and catches the sun all day long. Both have bars serving delicious cocktails to your lounger.

The hotel supports the Shinta Mani Foundation, which helps with education and development of young adults living in the area, and a percentage of every room rate is donated to this. 

Where to eat?

Eating in the hotel might feel like a cop out, but not when the restaurant is as special as this. Kroya by Chef Chanrith is a unique dining experience inspired by the area’s rich heritage. We were treated to six courses of elevated Cambodian cuisine. The chef uses local ingredients and knowledge to create a modern menu inspired by the dishes of his youth, and the result is fragrant, exciting, and delicious. A particular highlight was the Tonlé Sap Lake butter-catfish soup and the sautéed Koh Kong scallops with chilli minced pork. We sat on a swing table over a pond full of koi as tuk-tuks and scooters whizzed past, and our waiter Yaya helped make the experience extra enjoyable.

For more traditional local food try Sambo Khmer restaurant, where the Lok Lak, a spicy beef dish, is a particular speciality. Other must-tries are the amok – steamed, curried fish in a banana leaf parcel – and spring rolls.

You can also keep the budget really low by eating at one of the food trucks that park up by the river each evening. Tables and chairs are available for you to eat your street food in comfort, and you will be surrounded by local people enjoying their dinner.

imageBROKER/Alamy Stock Photo 

Where to drink?

If partying is your aim then Pub Street has to be your destination. The name was originally thought up by backpackers back in the late 2000s, but it is officially called Street 8. Now it is the centre of nightlife in Siem Reap. Crowds throng along a jumping street full of bars, clubs and, peculiarly, fish pedicure places that offer you a beer as you dangle your feet in tanks of water. It is definitely worth seeing. 

If you prefer your evening entertainment to be a little on the lighter side then head down to the river, where bars and restaurants line either side. Sip a cocktail as you enjoy the sunset from one of the many rooftops.

How to get there

Currently, there are no airlines that fly direct from London to Siem Reap, but you can fly via most of the major cities in the region on carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways.

Jaymi McCann was a guest of Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. Rates start from $150 for the Bayon Wing, $165 for Shinta Mani Angkor and $615 for the Bensley Collection Pool Villas. All rates include breakfast and are subject to applicable service charge and government taxes as well as seasonality. Junction of Oum Khun & 14th Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia; shintamani.com  

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Angkor Wat Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to Expect

Located in the northwestern province of Siem Reap in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is an awe-inspiring ancient temple complex that draws visitors worldwide. It is considered one of Southeast Asia's most significant archaeological sites and an essential destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or culture.

This guide will provide all the information you need to plan your trip to Angkor Wat, including how to get there, where to stay, what to see, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Part 1 Where is Angkor Wat?

Angkor Wat is located in Cambodia's northwestern province of Siem Reap , about 5.5 km north of the city center. It is part of the larger Angkor Archaeological Park, which covers an area of over 400 square kilometers and contains dozens of temples and ruins.

Visitors to Angkor Wat can expect to see a vast temple complex, ruins of ancient temples, and intricate carvings. A moat surrounds the complex and features several imposing structures, including the central temple of Angkor Wat, the Bayon Temple, and the Ta Prohm Temple.

One of the most impressive features of Angkor Wat is the intricate carvings that adorn the temple walls. The carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and Khmer history, and many are still in remarkable condition despite being over 800 years old.

Part 2 How to Get to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap?

From boarding countries to Siem Reap: If you travel from neighboring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, or Laos, you can get to Cambodia by air, land, or sea. The most popular way to get to Cambodia from these countries is by bus or minivan. You can also fly from Bangkok, Hanoi, or Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. 

From other countries to Siem Reap: If you're coming from outside Southeast Asia, the easiest way to get to Cambodia is by flying into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. These cities have international airports that serve major cities worldwide. You can also take a bus or train from neighboring countries.

From Siem Reap to Angkor Wat: Siem Reap is the closest city to Angkor Wat and is the base for most visitors exploring the temple complex. There are several ways to get to Angkor Wat from Siem Reap, including:

Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way around Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. You can hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day to take you to the temple complex and wait while you explore. Tuk-tuk drivers usually charge around $15-20 per day, depending on the distance and number of temples you want to visit.

Bike: If you're feeling more adventurous, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap and cycle to Angkor Wat. This cheap option allows you to explore the countryside at your own pace. However, remember that the roads can be busy, and the heat can be intense, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Motorbike: If you have experience riding a motorbike, rent one in Siem Reap and ride to Angkor Wat. This affordable option lets you quickly explore the temple complex and surrounding areas. However, remember that Cambodian roads can be chaotic, and driving a motorbike can be dangerous if you're not experienced.

Car: If you prefer more comfort and convenience, you can hire a car and driver to take you to Angkor Wat. This option is more expensive, but it allows you to travel in air-conditioned comfort and avoid heat and dust. Car rentals start at around $40 per day, depending on the type of car and the distance you want to travel.

If you arrive at Phnom Penh for your first destination in Cambodia, there is also a travel guide for you. Click here to learn more about ways from Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat . 

Part 4 How Do I Plan a Trip to Angkor Wat?

You should plan your trip carefully to make the most of your visit to Angkor Wat. Here are some tips to help you:

How many days are enough for Angkor Wat: While it's possible to see the highlights of Angkor Wat in a single day, most visitors spend at least two or three days exploring the temple complex. This allows you to see more temples, avoid crowds, and take your time exploring.

What to see in Angkor Wat: There are dozens of temples and ruins to see in the Angkor Archaeological Park, but some of the most popular include:

Angkor Wat: The most famous and impressive temple in the complex, with intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Bayon Temple: Known for its many smiling faces and impressive architecture. Ta Prohm Temple: Famous for its jungle setting and the giant trees growing from the ruins.

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Part 5 Tips for Travelers to Angkor Wat

Clothes: Dress modestly when visiting Angkor Wat, as it is a sacred site. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the hot and humid climate.

Accommodations: There are plenty of accommodations in Siem Reap, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Book your accommodations in advance if you're visiting during peak season (November to February).

Safety: Cambodia is a safe country for tourists, but taking precautions is always a good idea. Keep your valuables close and avoid walking alone at night. If you ride a motorbike or bicycle, wear a helmet and drive defensively.

Cultural difference: Respect the local culture and customs when visiting Angkor Wat. This means removing your shoes before entering temples, avoiding touching or leaning on the carvings, and speaking softly and respectfully.

Part 6 Summary

If you plan a trip to Angkor Wat, you're in for a treat. This incredible temple complex is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Khmer people, and it's one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for an adventure, Angkor Wat is a must-see destination.

Plan carefully and respect the local culture and customs to make the most of your trip. Dress modestly, book your accommodations in advance, and take precautions to stay safe. Above all, be open-minded and curious, and you'll have a truly unforgettable experience exploring this fascinating temple complex.

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Explore the mystical gems of Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat sits at Cambodia 's heart as a vast temple complex that has fascinated travelers for centuries. Constructed in the early 12th century, it is a testament to the Khmer Empire's grandeur. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not merely an artifact but a vibrant museum, allowing visitors to journey back in time and explore ancient marvels surrounded by lush jungles.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat: A must-see spectacle

Arrive by 5:00 am to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, a not-to-be-missed spectacle. As dawn breaks, the sky's colors shift from dark to a palette of orange and pink, illuminating the temple's outline. This tranquil scene provides a stunning backdrop for visitors starting their day of exploration and is a highlight of the Angkor experience.

Exploring Bayon Temple: Faces of serenity

Bayon stands out among Angkor's temples with its serene stone faces gazing into eternity from towering spires. Located at the center of Angkor Thom, Bayon was built in the late 12th century and features intricate bas-reliefs depicting historical events and daily life. Walking through this temple feels like stepping into another world, where time stands still among smiling stone faces.

Ta Prohm: Where nature meets history

Ta Prohm offers a unique sight with its ruins intertwined with nature's grasp. Trees grow over and through stone structures, their roots hugging walls and doorways in an embrace that blurs the line between man-made and natural beauty. This temple gained fame from its appearance in movies but visiting it reveals a tranquil yet powerful reminder of nature's persistence.

Biking through ancient ruins: An adventure awaits

For those seeking an active way to explore, renting a bike offers freedom to roam across Angkor's vast complex at your own pace. Cycling allows visitors to appreciate not only the major temples but also smaller ruins hidden away from crowded paths. It's an eco-friendly way to discover secluded spots while enjoying fresh air and stunning landscapes.

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These hidden temples in Cambodia will take you off the beaten path

Avoid the crowds at these lesser known alternatives to Angkor Wat—which include Cambodia’s newest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Nearly 1.4 million people plan to trek to Cambodia ’s 900-year-old Angkor Wat temple complex this year, but 68 miles northeast is a site once considered “the center of the Angkorian world,” says archaeologist Sarah Klassen. Koh Ker , home to Cambodia’s largest pyramid, is the country’s newest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List and one of the nation’s many historically significant archaeological marvels often missed by travelers. Here are four lesser known sites built by the prosperous Khmer Empire during its heyday from the ninth to the 15th centuries.

The rise of Angkor and the Khmer Empire

Founded around A.D. 802, the Khmer Empire grew to become one of the most influential in Southeast Asia, spanning from modern-day Vietnam to Myanmar . It was ruled by a dynasty of powerful god-kings from the capital of Angkor, home to the 400-acre Angkor Wat complex. Featuring elaborately carved spires, elevated towers, covered galleries, and spacious courtyards, the 12th-century “temple-mountain” is one of the world’s largest religious structures and is Cambodia’s most renowned sacred site—so much so that it appears on the nation’s flag.  

“The ability to harness all of the people that would have been required to build something like the big monument at Angkor is really spectacular,” says Klassen, who is the co-director of the Cambodian Archaeological Lidar Initiative and director of the Koh Ker Archaeological Project , adding that these structures are “a testament to the power and wealth” of the civilization.  

( The world’s most remarkable—and little known—dynasty comes to life in south India .)

Due to Southeast Asia’s protracted dry season, a sophisticated system of reservoirs and canals was also integral to governance. “Water management was closely associated and tied to kingship,” says Klassen, who points out that the empire’s failing water system likely contributed to its eventual downfall.  

Best alternatives to Angkor Wat

Prasat Prang, Cambodia’s largest pyramid, is the centerpiece of Koh Ker, a former capital of Angkor. “It’s the only other site to have that [position] other than Angkor itself, but it only lasted for 16 years,” says Klassen. The shift of power back to Angkor is one of the mysteries researchers like Klassen are still investigating about Koh Ker.  

Built by King Jayavarman IV , the 10th-century Shiva complex is known for its abundant linga carvings (short cylindrical, pillar-like symbols of the deity). According to Ea Darith, director of the Department of Monuments and Archaeology at the National Authority for Preah Vihear , more than 20 temples house linga, not only the pyramid.  

Due to its proximity to quarries, everything at Koh Ker—the 115-foot-tall pyramid, lintels, and statues—is more elaborate than those at Angkor. “Big monolithic stones were first used at Koh Ker,” says Darith. Travelers can pair a visit with the nearby Beng Mealea , a 12th-century Hindu complex built in the same style as the Angkor Wat.

Sambor Prei Kuk  

The Sambor Prei Kuk complex features over 180 brick temples with Hindu iconography scattered through a dense forest in eastern Cambodia. “[It] was the head of a network of various pre-Angkorian settlements spread across Cambodia but interconnected by the waterways,” says Siem Reap-based archaeologist David Brotherson.  

( Here’s how World Heritage status helps destinations around the world .)

Three temple groups feature a central tower on a platform surrounded by smaller structures, which Darith says “are considered the highest and biggest brick towers in Cambodia.”  

Preah Vihear

Perched on a dizzying 2,000-foot-high escarpment on the Dângrêk Range at the Thailand border, this 10th-12th-century Shiva temple was a royal pilgrimage site. “It’s the geographic setting that sets it apart completely,” Brotherson says.  

A half-mile-long linear causeway connects five pavilions “built completely out of sandstone,” says Darith, noting that the stone was sourced from quarries on the mountain. Visitors can book a motorcycle ($5) or 4WD pickup truck ($25) for the four mile between the ticket center and the temple.  

Banteay Chhmar  

Built by King Jayavarman VII, the primary temple in this remote 12th-century site is one of Cambodia’s most extensive. It features elements from more famous Buddhist temples, such as Bayon ’s face-towers and narrative bas-reliefs, Ta Prohm ’s wild tree roots, Preah Khan ’s elaborate balustrades, and an intricately carved 32-armed Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva adorning the western wall.  

( Discover 20 of the world’s most beautiful Buddhist temples .)

Brotherson says the strategic western Cambodia location was “to project the royal power authority” to rivals. “It’s largely unrestored,” he adds. “You’re going to have that full-on ‘Tomb Raider’ jungle-temple experience.”

Several companies, such as the Banteay Chhmar Community-Based Tourism group , offer off-the-beaten-path tours to the satellite temples hidden within the jungle.

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