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Angkor Wat, Cambodia: The Ultimate Temple Guide for First-Time Visitors
- Jenn & Leon
- Jan 20, 2024
- 23 min read
Updated: Jul 4
Angkor Wat is a true wonder of the world, a testament to human ingenuity and devotion.
Its grandeur, intricate carvings, and fascinating history continue to captivate visitors from all corners of the globe.
Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, it is the largest religious monument on the planet, despite not being listed as an 'official' world wonder.
We take a closer look at this barely believable site, which features on Cambodia's flag, one we were humbled and privileged to step foot in.
Visiting Angkor Wat (meaning 'temple city' in Khmer) is like going on a journey through time, and a reminder of the enduring power of faith.
It's a place where history whispers from the stones, and where the echoes of the past resonate with the present.
It is fast becoming one of the most popular ancient sites in the world, with pre-pandemic visitor numbers at a record 2.6 million in a year.
In this post, we will give you the lowdown on all things Angkor Wat, including our highlights, the history, facts, how to get there, where to stay, ticket info, and more.
In This Post...
Travel Resources
Our Angkor Wat Highlights
The first thing we noticed was how vast this complex is.
When you look online, you see the main temple, but it is surrounded by a moat, ponds, and trees that all work to strengthen the main structures that stand in the middle.
Just the bridge across the moat alone is quite the walk, and given that it is a floating bridge, there is no protection from the ever-beating sun.
We visited Angkor Wat twice, once during the day and once for the sunrise.
We would say the sunrise time was better, as we were able to see that first, and then get into the temple before the crowds hit.
It is usually busiest around noon, up until 5 pm, which is bizarre to us as this is also the hottest time of the day.
We were there in March, and temperatures were easily around the 35 - 40 degrees Celsius mark.
In This Section...
⪢ The Moat & Floating Bridge
The bridge leads to the Western Gate known as Ta Reach, which we could not wait to get close to.
We were about to step into the largest religious complex anywhere on Earth; as full-time travellers, that is just about as good as it gets when it comes to cultural exploration!
It was a surprising distance over the moat, and its size certainly seemed enough to deter any invaders.
Although, as we learned later, the moat was not just a military defence, but also incredibly engineered to support the stone foundations of the temple itself.
The ground Angkor Wat was built is fairly soft, and this body of water acts like an underground wall to keep it from sinking. Amazing eh!
⪢ Ta Reach
Within this gate stands an imposing statue of the Hindu god Vishnu. It's known locally as Ta Reach, meaning 'Grandfather Reach'.
Standing tall at five meters, Ta Reach has eight impressive arms, each holding a symbolic object: a conch shell, discus, club, lotus flower, bow, arrow, shield, and sword.
These represent Vishnu's various powers and attributes, like preservation, creation, and protection.
Carved from a single block of sandstone, Ta Reach exudes a sense of ancient grandeur. Its weathered features and serene expression speak of centuries of devotion and prayers whispered at its feet.
It is a sight of regular worship amongst locals, who believe that he possesses a supreme strength and might.
Every year, a ritual is held known as Laeng Ta Reach, to pray for happiness. Annually, locals mark the closure of the rice season in a ceremony there, too.
Ta Reach was once believed to have occupied the temple's central shrine. Even now, it's a revered figure for both Hindus and Buddhists alike.
Pilgrims drape the statue with colorful silk sashes and leave offerings of flowers and food, seeking blessings and guidance.
The air around Ta Reach hums with a palpable energy of devotion and respect.
Ta Reach is not just a beautiful piece of art; it's a cultural icon and a symbol of Cambodian identity. Its image graces everything from banknotes to souvenirs, cementing its place in the nation's heart.
⪢ The Lotus Flower
One of the most obvious thing about not just Angkor Wat but virtually all Khmer temples are the incredible carvings that cover virtually every block of sandstone.
This is both inside and outside of the temples. It is a signature of all Khmer structures, especially the lotus flower symbol, that adorns most ceilings and borders.
In Hinduism, the lotus represents spiritual enlightenment, beauty, fertility, purity, prosperity, and eternity.
It is said that there's a lotus flower in every Hindu's heart, and that when this lotus blooms, the person achieves enlightenment.
In Buddhism, it is associated with purity, spiritual awareness, and faithfulness. This importance is evident in Khmer buildings, as most towers are modelled on the look of a lotus flower.
⪢ Main Causeway
The main causeway leading up to Angkor Wat is a raised platform that runs from the west gate.
There are several exit points along the way, where you can step onto paths that snake across the grass.
Imagine this would have all been surrounded by water back in the heyday of the city, of course.
Water is central to Hindu philosophy as a giver of life and purity, and the moat and ponds were designed to mimic the earthly oceans that surround the world.
⪢ The Northern & Southern Libraries
As you can see from the photo, it was incredibly busy here, and this was only shot at 11 am.
That main causeway can get intense! As you can see in the photo, two structures tee off the causeway after you exit Ta Reach.
These are known as the twin libraries, mysterious structures that have become a source of intense debate amongst archaeologists with regard to their original purpose.
Built almost like a mini-shrine, many Khmer temples included libraries, and most likely, they were a repository of sorts for papers and manuscripts.
The Northern Library, as its name suggests, sits on the north side of the grand entrance causeway leading to Angkor Wat, mirroring the Southern Library on the south side.
The library itself is a rectangular building constructed from sandstone, featuring a cruciform layout with four wings extending from a central chamber.
Unlike the Southern Library, which is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs, the Northern Library's exterior is relatively plain.
This has led some scholars to believe it may have been unfinished, or perhaps served a different purpose than the Southern Library.
The exact function of the Northern Library remains somewhat shrouded in mystery.
While most agree it served some sort of academic or religious purpose, its specific usage is still debated.
Some theories suggest it housed religious texts, ancient manuscripts, or even astronomical instruments.
Adding to the mystery, the library's interior has been heavily damaged over time, making it difficult to reconstruct its original layout and features.
Some archaeological evidence points to the presence of wooden shelves and possibly even a raised platform in the central chamber, further hinting at its potential use for storing and studying texts.
After leaving the library, pretty hot and flustered, we realised we still had the whole temple complex to go. It is challenging, guys!
Do bring plenty of water, and perhaps even a shade or umbrella to block the sun when you are outside. Believe us, you would rather have it than not!
⪢ The Main Temple
Walking inside the main temple was just an unreal feeling. Especially as at the time we did not really know much about it, or the Khmer Empire itself.
We were just learning as we went, and the more we found out, the more fascinated we were. In all honesty, the construction speaks for itself.
Only a highly organised society, one with an established system of social order and hierarchy, could be capable of such incredible engineering and presentation.
There are carvings absolutely everywhere, virtually on every piece of stone. One can only imagine in amazement at how it would have looked when it was first completed!
A great example of the incredible engineering on display here is the cruciform cloister, a set of four 'basins' with two perpendicular galleries that are built in a cross-like design and surrounded by a square.
This design is mimicked on the upper level of the temple, the photo below being that of the ground floor.
Many Hindu temples include a similar type of 'basin' structure, which in its heyday would have been filled with water and was most likely used for bathing.
⪢ The Towers - the Peaks of Mount Meru
The five central towers of Angkor Wat's middle terrace symbolize the peaks of Mount Meru, which, according to Hindu mythology, is the dwelling place of the gods.
The mountain is said to be surrounded by an ocean, and as mentioned earlier, the moat mimics the oceans at the edge of the world.
The tower above the central shrine of Angkor Wat rises 43 m (141 ft) to a height of 65 m (213 ft) above the ground; unlike those of previous temple mountains, the central tower is raised above the surrounding four.
It is believed that King Suryavarman II was buried under the central tower, although despite excavations, this has yet to be proved.
This may, however, explain the orientation of Angkor Wat, which some suggest was originally intended to be a funerary temple.
⪢ Bas-Reliefs
The walls of the outer terraces of Angkor Wat come alive with stories carved in stone – the famous bas-reliefs.
These intricate artworks offer a window into the temple's history, beliefs, and even everyday life.
Epic Hindu myths like the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, the dramatic clash of the Mahabharata's Battle of Kurukshetra, and the graceful elegance of celestial dancers called Apsaras are depicted here in the most spectacular detail.
We did not know much about the myths behind the reliefs, but found out a lot more about them after visiting the history museum in Siem Reap a few days later.
One could spend hours checking these reliefs out. Be it the grandeur of King Suryavarman II's royal procession, or scenes of fishermen casting their nets and children at play, they provide a fascinating glimpse into Angkorian society.
These captivating reliefs are a testament to the skill of Khmer artisans and a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered.
Alongside these reliefs are some 1800 carvings of Asparas and Devatas (spiritual and celestial beings), which are pretty much everywhere else we looked.
⪢ The East Gate
This incredible temple has left a profound impression on us that we will never forget. No matter what way you look at it, this temple is one of the greatest feats of humankind.
We all talk about the pyramids of Giza, but this has to be in the conversation, too.
As we made our way towards the back end of the temple, our minds were just abuzz with the scale and ingenuity of it all.
Just how on earth did they pull all of this off? And how has it endured for so long!
It is amazing to think how much adversity Angkor Wat has gone through, be it the change of religious purpose to war, abandonment, theft, erosion, poor restoration attempts, and lack of tourist control.
It has survived all of those factors and continues to do so, in a way only Angkor can.
We say that because this is the most unique temple of Angkor, which continues to leave a legacy of Khmer achievement that is unrivalled anywhere else in Cambodia or beyond.
We wonder if King Suryavarman and his army of builders knew it would endure like this, and the spark of wonder it creates in all of its millions of visitors. We certainly hope so!
And with that, our visit was over, as we approached the East Gate exit, which is where most tuk-tuk drivers park while waiting for their customers.
By this point, we had easily been there for 3 hours (on our first visit), and with the blazing heat, it is fair to say we were pretty exhausted!
Aside from just the physicality, there is so much to take in here, psychologically and spiritually too.
This is a place of immense power, and if you can feel energy, you will feel it here for sure. Angkor Wat is a place that will never leave you!
⪢ Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Unlike virtually all Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, Angkor Wat faces the sunset to the west.
The east, where the sun rises, is considered sacred as the sun brings with it energy and light.
Why the temple was built this way is widely debated, but regardless of the reason, it makes for an epic morning view. If you can handle getting there on time!
It was a 5 am start for us as it took around 30 minutes to get to the site from our Airbnb.
Once you get there, you still have to walk over the bridge and through the west gate to get to the libraries, which seem to be the best viewing place if you can get a spot.
There are plenty of people around to watch it every day, so the earlier the better!
Fortunately, we were able to grab a coffee before it all started, and we found a good spot in the southern library, too.
You are free to sit on the outer balconies, and it is a great vantage point, being several feet off the ground.
The sunrise certainly did not disappoint, as you can see, and perhaps this is why the builders chose to build it in the direction they did.
The pinks and oranges in the sky are remarkable, and as the sun rises, it sits in the perfect spot between the lotus towers.
It is a sight to behold, and we can't recommend visiting at this time enough. A bonus is that you can still head into the temple (which opens at 5 am), and at that time, or even after the sun has risen, it is slightly cooler and far less busy.
⪢ Cheeky Monkeys!
One thing that you will not avoid anywhere in Angkor is monkeys. Lots of them! While the locals view them as fairly harmless, they can be a bit of a pest.
There are throngs of them living all over the site, an estimated 1500, and they have been becoming a little more aggressive over the years, hissing, stealing, and even biting people at times.
They do tend to congregate by the tuk-tuks as they know where people tend to go. The local drivers are good at moving them on, but do be aware and keep a strong hold of bags and small shiny things if you see any of these cheeky monkeys around!
Check out the history of Angkor Wat in the next section, and keep scrolling to find out more about how to get here, tips for visiting, the temple opening times, ticket information, and more.
The History of Angkor Wat in Cambodia
Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Cambodia, isn't just a majestic temple; it's a portal to a bygone era.
Its sprawling complex, encompassing over 400 hectares, whispers tales of ancient Khmer kings, religious fervor, and architectural brilliance.
To truly understand Angkor Wat is to embark on a journey through time, tracing its evolution from a Hindu monument to a vibrant Buddhist sanctuary.
⪢ The Rise of an Empire
Our story begins in the 9th century, when the Khmer Empire, under the reign of Jayavarman II, embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of Angkor, a new capital city.
This wasn't just any metropolis; it was a physical manifestation of Khmer power and devotion.
Over the next few centuries, successive kings added their architectural masterpieces to the city, each vying to outdo the last in grandeur and scale.
⪢ Suryavarman II's Masterpiece
Enter Suryavarman II, a visionary king who ascended the throne in 1113. Determined to leave his mark on Angkor, he embarked on a project that would dwarf all others: the construction of Angkor Wat.
This wasn't just a temple; it was a microcosm of the universe, meticulously designed to represent Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
For over 30 years, an army of artisans and laborers toiled under the scorching sun, hauling massive sandstone blocks and meticulously carving intricate scenes from Hindu mythology and Khmer history onto the temple walls.
The dedication was immense, fueled by religious fervor and the king's desire to create a lasting legacy.
⪢ A Shift in Faith
By the late 12th century, Angkor witnessed a significant shift. The Khmer Empire embraced Theravada Buddhism, and Angkor Wat transitioned from a Hindu temple to a Buddhist sanctuary.
The intricate bas-reliefs depicting Hindu gods were gradually covered with Buddhist imagery, and the temple's purpose evolved from a place of worship for Vishnu to a center of Buddhist meditation and learning.
⪢ Decline & Rediscovery
The 15th century marked the decline of the Khmer Empire. Angkor was abandoned, overtaken by the jungle, and its magnificent temples slowly succumbed to the ravages of time.
For centuries, Angkor Wat remained a lost city, its secrets buried beneath a verdant canopy.
It wasn't until the 19th century that the world rediscovered this architectural marvel. French explorer Henri Mouhot stumbled upon the ruins in 1860, and his vivid descriptions sparked a renewed interest in Angkor.
Since then, archaeologists and restorationists have worked tirelessly to preserve and restore this ancient wonder, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
⪢ Angkor Wat Today
Today, Angkor Wat is more than just a historical site; it's a living testament to the Khmer people's resilience and artistry.
Monks still reside within the temple complex, carrying on the traditions of their ancestors.
Visitors from all corners of the globe come to marvel at its grandeur, witness the breathtaking sunrise over its towers, and lose themselves in the intricate stories etched onto its walls.
10 Interesting Facts About Angkor Wat
When it comes to Angkor Wat, there are far more than just ten facts to be told!
We have cherry-picked the best of them, but feel free to reach out if you have a gem we could add to the list!
1. It's the World's Largest Religious Monument
Angkor Wat's scale is truly staggering. Its vast complex stretches over 400 hectares (almost 1,000 acres), dwarfing even the Vatican City!
Imagine exploring a temple city larger than Central Park!
2. Built Without Modern Machinery
Construction began in the 9th century and took a whopping 35 years to complete, all without the aid of modern machinery.
Over 300,000 workers and 1,000 elephants hauled an estimated 5 million tons of sandstone, some blocks weighing up to 1,500 kilograms (3,300 pounds).
3. A Dedication to Two Religions
Though originally a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, Angkor Wat transitioned to Buddhism in the late 12th century.
Today, it's a functioning Buddhist temple, welcoming people of all faiths.
4. Symbolic Design
The temple's layout mirrors Mount Meru, the mythical Hindu and Buddhist cosmos.
The five central towers represent the peaks, while the surrounding walls and moat symbolize the surrounding mountains and seas.
5. Hidden Stories in the Walls
Angkor Wat's intricate bas-reliefs tell captivating stories from Hindu mythology and Khmer history.
Scenes from the Ramayana epic and battles fought by Khmer kings adorn the walls, offering a glimpse into the past.
6. Facing the West
Unlike most temples in the region, which face east, Angkor Wat faces west.
This unusual orientation may be linked to its possible use for funerals or its symbolic connection to the setting sun.
7. A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognizing its immense cultural significance, UNESCO designated Angkor Wat a World Heritage Site in 1992.
This designation has helped to preserve and restore the temple complex for future generations.
8. Filming Location for Tomb Raider
Angkor Wat's grandeur wasn't lost on Hollywood. The stunning Ta Prohm temple served as a backdrop for Lara Croft's adventures in the 2001 film "Tomb Raider."
9. Sunrise Spectacle
Witnessing the sunrise over Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience.
As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting its golden rays on the temple's majestic silhouette, it's easy to understand why Angkor Wat is considered one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth.
10. Still an Active Place of Worship
Despite its ancient origins and tourist popularity, Angkor Wat remains a sacred place for Cambodian Buddhists.
Monks reside within the temple complex and continue to practice their faith, ensuring the temple's spiritual significance endures.
How to Get to Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat, the iconic centerpiece of the Angkor Archaeological Park, is located approximately 6 km north of Siem Reap town centre in northwestern Cambodia.
By Tuk-Tuk or Taxi
The most popular way to visit Angkor Wat is by tuk-tuk or taxi.
From Siem Reap, it’s about a 15-minute drive along well-maintained roads.
Tuk-tuk rides usually cost around USD 15 - 20 for a half-day or full-day tour covering Angkor Wat and other temples.
You can negotiate a rate directly with drivers or arrange through your hotel.
By Bicycle
For the adventurous, cycling from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat is possible via flat roads.
The ride is roughly 6 km (3.7 miles) and takes around 30–45 minutes one way.
Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a map or GPS.
By Tour Bus or Shuttle
Many group tours depart from Siem Reap and include transportation, tickets, and guided visits to Angkor Wat and other temples.
This is a convenient option for travelers who prefer an organized itinerary.
GetYourGuide Tour Option
For a hassle-free experience with skip-the-line access and expert guides, consider booking an Angkor Wat tour via GetYourGuide. These tours often include:
● Hotel pickup and drop-off from Siem Reap
● Entry fees included
● Guided exploration of Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples
● Small group sizes for a personalized experience
🔗 Book your Angkor Wat Tour on GetYourGuide
Where to Stay Near Angkor Wat
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Siem Reap hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat and the Angkor Site
⪢ Start Early
Angkor Wat is one of the most popular temples in Angkor, and can be one of the hottest (depending on the season you visit).
It is located at the end of a very long causeway, which has no cover from the sun.
The public areas of the temple are covered in many of the open corridors, but being out in the open is inevitable as you explore.
Try to avoid going during the middle of the day to avoid the peak of the sun.
⪢ Bring Water
It can get hot in the Angkor region, so be sure to bring plenty of water with you and stay hydrated!
⪢ Bring Bug Spray
Mosquitoes are prevalent here, especially during the hot season. If you are prone to bites, bringing repellent can make a big difference.
⪢ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be doing a lot of walking and climbing at Angkor, so wear comfortable shoes.
⪢ Be Respectful
Angkor Wat is a sacred site and active temple, so be sure to be respectful of the temple and its surroundings.
⪢ Dress Appropriately
When visiting Angkor Wat, both men and women should have their shoulders covered, and their knees should be concealed by avoiding shorts or short skirts.
Revealing or tight clothing should be avoided. It's recommended to carry a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders or wrap around the waist if necessary.
Access to certain areas is restricted to those not follow these guidelines.
Hats and sunglasses are acceptable for sun protection, but should be removed when entering the temple.
Adhering to these dress code guidelines shows respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site and helps preserve its historical importance.
⪢ Be Aware of Sellers
With over 2 million visitors a year, Angkor is a vital source of income for the locals.
Many stalls and vendors are very persistent in offering souvenirs and wares. Also, you will often have people come up to you within the temple sites, telling stories or offering to take photographs.
Almost always, they will expect money in return, although they will not mention this first.
⪢ Security
The temple security staff are very kind, but also be aware that if they offer to take photos, they are also looking for some cash too!
⪢ Bring Cash
If you do intend on picking up a local guide, buying souvenirs, or donating money, do remember to bring enough cash.
ATM's are very scarce in this area, and often do not work with international cards. Most local food stands, stores, and restaurants only take cash, too, so be prepared.
Tickets & Opening Times for Angkor Wat
⪢ Ticket Prices
Angkor Wat is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park; entrance is included with your park ticket.
● 1-day pass: USD 37
● 3-day pass: USD 62 (valid within 10 days)
● 7-day pass: USD 72 (valid within 1 month)
Prices are correct at the time of writing (June 2025).
All prices are in United States Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Hours
● Open daily, 5 am – 5.30 pm
● Last entry at 5 pm
Best Time to Visit Angkor Wat
⪢ Optimal Seasons
● Dry Season (November to February): The best time to visit Angkor Wat. The weather is cooler and less humid, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Skies are generally clear, perfect for photography and exploring the extensive temple grounds.
● Shoulder Seasons (March to May and September to October): These months can be hotter and more humid, with temperatures climbing above 35°C (95°F).
However, visiting early mornings or late afternoons can still be enjoyable. The landscape is lush, especially after the rains in September and October.
⪢ Best Time of Day
● Sunrise (around 5:30 am to 6:30 am): Iconic and breathtaking, watching the sun rise behind Angkor Wat’s towers is a must. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
● Early Morning (7 am – 9 am): Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this an ideal window for exploring the temple complex.
● Late Afternoon (3 pm – 5 pm): The soft golden light enhances photography, and many crowds begin to thin out.
⪢ Avoid
● Midday Heat (10 am – 3 pm): Temperatures peak, making outdoor exploration uncomfortable. This is also the busiest time at the temple.
● Wet Season Peak (June to August): Heavy rainfall can disrupt plans, though the rain showers are often short-lived. The temple grounds can become muddy and slippery.
💡 Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent regardless of season.
Other Must-See Temples Near Angkor Wat
Baphuon Temple
The Baphuon Temple is a notable historical site that forms part of Angkor Thom, the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries.
Bayon Temple
This temple is located in the heart of Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire. It is known for its 54 giant faces that are carved into its towers.
Ta Prohm
Famed for the way large trees have intertwined with the ruins, the film "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" brought global attention to Ta Prohm.
Preah Khan
Another temple with a stunning atmosphere, Preah Khan boasts long corridors, intricate carvings, and a sense of exploration. It's located north of Angkor Thom.
Watch the Angkor Sunrise on YouTube
Angkor Wat is indeed a bucket list destination for many people, being the largest spiritual complex on earth!
In this video, we share with you some of our incredible sunrise footage from Angkor along with some tips on how to make your morning and day go a little smoother.
We also show you where to pick up your temple day (or week) pass (you must be present as they take a photo and give you a tangible card).
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world.
Our Experience Rating:
Angkor Wat
This incredible temple has left a profound impression on us that we will NEVER forget.
No matter what way you look at it, this temple is one of the greatest feats of humankind. We all talk about the pyramids of Giza, but this HAS to be in the conversation too.
We must admit, we knew little to nothing about Cambodia and the Khmer Empire before coming here.
Well, that has changed dramatically. The history and achievements here in this fascinating country have both blown our minds and broken our hearts.
FAQ: Angkor Wat – What You Need to Know Before You Go
What is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II.
Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist site and remains an active place of worship.
Where is it located?
It’s situated in the Angkor Archaeological Park, about 6 km north of Siem Reap, Cambodia. The temple is easily reached by tuk-tuk, bike, or guided tour.
Do I need a ticket to visit?
Yes. Angkor Wat is part of the larger Angkor complex, so you’ll need an Angkor Pass:
● 1-day pass: USD 37
● 3-day pass: USD 62 (valid within 10 days)
● 7-day pass: USD 72 (valid within 1 month)
What are the opening hours?
Angkor Wat is open from 5 am to 5:30 pm. Early access allows visitors to experience the famous sunrise behind the temple’s silhouette.
💡 Arrive by 4:45 am if you want a prime sunrise photo spot!
What should I wear?
Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as it is a sacred site. Comfortable shoes are also essential — there’s a lot of walking and uneven ground.
Can I climb the central tower?
Yes, if it’s open. The Bakan Tower offers amazing views but has steep steps and sometimes a queue. Access may be restricted for safety or preservation.
Are guides available?
Yes. You can hire a guide at the entrance or book in advance. They’re incredibly helpful for understanding the mythology, architecture, and Khmer history behind the temple’s carvings.
Is it crowded?
Yes — especially during sunrise and high season (November to February). For fewer people, visit midday (hot but quieter) or explore in reverse order after seeing other temples first.
What should I bring with me?
● Plenty of water (it gets hot!)
● Sunscreen and a hat
● Camera or phone
● Bug spray
● Cash for snacks or tuk-tuks
💡 There are toilets and drink vendors near the outer causeway.
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A mystical place that is a must visit for any traveler. So glad that this place was saved from the jungle and not lost to history!