Angkor Wat Guide: Everything I Wish I Knew Before Visiting
One of the most iconic things to do in Cambodia is to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Angkor Wat, located in the ancient Khmer capital city of Angkor. With hundreds of miles to explore and hundreds of tours available, it may seem overwhelming to decide which tour to take, how many days you need, etc. To simplify it all, I have created the ultimate Angkor Wat Guide that includes everything you need to know for an unforgettable and seamless trip.
This Angkor Wat Travel Guide includes ticket details, personal experience, and some key tips that will help you decide what to do with your Angkor Wat Itinerary. I highly suggest having a plan before you arrive; even if you do not follow it entirely, at least you will have a direction. So, let’s get into it then!
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The Angkor Wat Guide
What Is Angkor Wat?
Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire, spanning over 400 square kilometers and containing the remains of one of the largest pre-industrial cities in the world. Today, the Angkor Archaeological Park holds hundreds of structures, including temples, reservoirs, causeways, and ceremonial buildings that reflect the scale and complexity of the empire.
In the 12th century, King Suryavarman II built the largest and most iconic monument that still stands today, Angkor Wat. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, it served religious, political, and cultural purposes, while symbolizing the Khmer Empire’s power, wealth, and architectural achievement. While often referred to as a single temple, Angkor Wat is actually part of a vast temple complex within Angkor, made up of multiple structures, galleries, courtyards, and surrounding temples, all forming the heart of the ancient Angkor city.
Where Should I Stay near Angkor Wat?
I recommend staying in Siem Reap, known as the gateway to Angkor. Siem Reap is a small, walkable city. I suggest staying near Pub Street, the Old French Quarter, Old Market, or Wat Bo Road.
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler:
Best Backpacker/Hostel Option: The Twizt - Lifestyle Hostel & Hotel - I stayed here!
Best Low-Budget: Boutique Indochine d'Angkor or The Urban
Best Mid-Budget: Royal Crown Hotel & Spa or Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
Best Luxury: Viroth's Hotel or Golden Temple Residence
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostel World! You can help support my travel blog by clicking and booking through the links!
How Many Days Do I Need in Angkor Wat?
This depends on your interests, the time you have, and your love of history. For me I had a short stay in Siem Reap (3 days), so I chose to spend one full day exploring the capital city. The day was very long, hot, and tiring with all of the walking. By the end, I was exhausted and ready for bed, leaving much unexplored.
With that in mind, I think the best plan is to spend 1-3 days at Angkor, spreading your visits over a longer period. In other words, do not go on consecutive days. This approach makes the sites less repetitive and allows you to better appreciate the amazing architecture that still stands today. Multiple days will also give you the opportunity to enjoy an Angkor Wat sunrise and sunset.
When is Angkor Wat open?
Most of the temples are open year-round, from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, except for the following:
Angkor Wat and Srah Srang are open from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM for sunrise.
Phnom Bakheng is open from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM for both sunrise and sunset.
Do I Need A Tour Guide for Angkor Wat?
I normally recommend skipping tours, but for Angkor, you need a tour guide. The park is massive, requiring drives between temples. Cell service is limited, and without a guide, you risk getting lost, struggling to find parking, or being unable to look up information on each temple. I think a guide is also worth the extra price to truly understand the history of the temple grounds and unique facts you may not have known otherwise.
How Much Is the Angkor Wat entrance fee?
Most tours are around 15-20 USD per day and include transportation to and from your hotel. If they are this inexpensive, they usually do not include the entrance fee to Angkor Wat.
1-Day Pass: 37 USD
3-Day Pass: 62 USD (valid for 10 days, does not have to be consecutive)
7-Day Pass: 72 USD (valid for 1 month, does not have to be consecutive)
Pro Tip: Want to catch the sunset the night before and the sunrise the following morning? Buy your 1-day pass after 5:00 PM. You will be able to enter in the evening and the following day until 5:00 PM.
Note: Admission passes are non-refundable and non-transferable. The pass owner’s name will be printed on the ticket. All tickets can be presented in either physical or digital form. Children under 12 years old are not required to purchase an entrance ticket but must show their passport as proof. No discounts are offered for groups. Koh Ker temples require a separate admission pass (10 USD).
Does Angkor Wat have A Dress Code?
Yes, the park and its temples are considered sacred sites. The following should be covered: shoulders, knees, and midsections. You will be walking quite a lot, so I suggest wearing comfortable footwear, bringing sunscreen and other items to protect yourself from the sun, and carrying an umbrella during the rainy season (May-October).
Is There Food & Water inside Angkor wat?
Yes, there are many small shops and restaurants, as well as restrooms. Another great thing about guided tours is that most guides know exactly where the best food is and even provide you with water and wipes throughout the day to keep you hydrated and clean from the dust.
Is Angkor Wat Safe?
Yes, especially with a tour guide. The only unsafe aspect of Angkor is the monkeys, so watch out for them! As always, follow normal travel safety practices, like keeping valuables securely in a bag around your front side.
A beautiful entrance way into Angkor Wat.
Should I visit angkor wat For Sunrise Or Sunset?
A sunset view over Angkor Wat’s most famous temple.
The sunset peaking through the temple structures.
For sunrise, you usually start your tour around 4:00/4:30 AM, and when you arrive, it is insanely crowded with unmovable masses of people. Following sunrise, your tour continues until around 1:00-3:00 PM. My recommendation is to consider who you are as a person. The sunrise over Angkor Wat is undoubtedly incredible, but I know that for me, Gina, at 4:30 AM, surrounded by tourists, was not going to be a pretty sight for anyone.
If you want to experience the sunrise in the capital, try Srah Srang, which is also open during this time, or be mentally prepared for the crowds at Angkor Wat.
Sunset was similar. Almost all sunset tours go to Phnom Bakheng at the end of the day. It involves a 15-25 minute hike to the top where the temple sits. For me, there were too many people, and I did not really enjoy my experience. However, if you do not mind a bit of a crowd and can focus on the landscape around you, it is still quite beautiful.
Which Tour & Temples Should I Pick If I Have 1 Day To Explore Angkor?
With over 72 temples throughout Angkor Park, trying to decide which ones to focus on can seem quite stressful. With just one day, I recommend focusing on 3 to 5 temples, depending on your pace. I suggest choosing a tour that includes the following three temples:
Angkor Wat
This is the iconic and most famous temple to visit. Built by King Suryavarman II, it stands today as the largest religious monument.
2. Ta Prohm
This temple is known as the "Tomb Raider" temple because it was featured in the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001).
3. Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom
This was by far my absolute favorite temple to explore. The faces located on the taller pillars are incredible.
Exploring Angkor Wat was a truly unforgettable experience that stands as one of my top travel experiences to this day. I hope this itinerary helps you feel the same about your time there!
General Information on Siem Reap:
Best Time to Visit Siem Reap & Angkor Wat:
November - February (not as hot in these months)
How to Get to Siem Reap/Angkor Wat:
FLYING
You can fly directly to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). I suggest looking at Kiwi.com or Skyscanner.com for the best flight deals.
The airport is located about 50 km from the downtown area. You can book ahead to find cheaper transport options (around 7-10 USD).
Pro Tip: If you arrive later than 9:00 P.M., finding a ride to the downtown area of Siem Reap can be challenging. If you are unable to book ahead, I recommend finding someone from your flight who is also traveling downtown and asking if they want to split the fare (usually around $35).
BUS / SHARED MINIVAN
You can also book one of these options depending on where you are coming from (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos). This is a longer form of travel, but it can be great for those on a backpacker budget. For more information, I recommend searching online based on your origin. 12GoAsia is always great for finding specific companies, or you can check with your accommodation.
Getting Around Siem Reap:
Most of Siem Reap, aside from day tours, is easily walkable. For day trips and farther destinations, I recommend joining one of the many inexpensive guided tours to Angkor Wat and Kampong Phluk Floating Village. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available.
Get an eSIM—so you do not get lost navigating your way. I always use Airalo for my eSims.
Vegan Food Options in Siem Reap:
There was an insane amount of yummy vegan food options in Siem Reap, I could not believe it…. Below I have listed some of my favorites.
Haven (Vegan Options - Restaurant gives back to its community)
Peace Cafe Vegetarian Restaurant (Cute Outdoor Seating)
New Leaf Eatery (Cozy and homey inside)
HeyBong The Healthy Secrets 100% Vegan (Yummy Smoothie Bowls)
Common Grounds Cafe (Yummy Coffee)
The Little Red Fox Espresso Cafe (More Yummy Coffee)
