Siem Reap Temples A Guide to Visiting the Temples of Angkor by JetSettingFools.com

Siem Reap Temples: A Guide To Visiting the Temples of Angkor

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Angkor Wat and the Siem Reap Temples are a bucket list destination and a highlight of any Southeast Asia Itinerary. The ancient temples in Cambodia are absolutely captivating and the massive complex is sprawling. Travelers who want to see the Best Angkor Wat Cambodia Temples need a good plan!

During our first trip to Cambodia, we spent an entire week in Siem Reap – and dedicated 3 days to visiting the temples. Visiting Angkor Wat was, of course, at the top of our list, but we wanted to see all of the famous Siem Reap temples within the complex. 

With careful planning, we crafted the ideal way to visit the Temples of Angkor in Siem Reap province. We are now sharing our Siem Reap Temple Guide to help fellow travelers easily discover the best of of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site!

 

Angkor Wat and Siem Reap Temples: Planning Your Visit

Angkor Wat Temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Planning a Siem Reap Temple Tour is a big undertaking. Travelers are tasked with deciding which temples to see, how many days to spend at the Angkor Wat complex and whether or not to hire a guide. 

Before we get to the list of the best Siem Reap temples to see, we are answering frequently asked questions about planning an Angkor Wat trip. Later in the article, we share essential Angkor Wat facts, including opening hours, tickets and organized tours, and a sample sightseeing itinerary. 

 

Where is Angkor Wat Located?

The first thing travelers need to know about visiting Angkor Wat is where the complex is located! The Siem Reap temple complex sits less than 4 miles from the city center. The drive from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat takes about 20-minutes by car and a little longer by tuk tuk.

 

How Big is the Temple Complex?

Many visitors don’t fully comprehend how expansive the Angkor Archaeological Park is until they arrive – we certainly didn’t! Even when looking at an Angkor map we couldn’t properly judge the enormity of it until we were actually there. It’s the largest religious complex in the world, which was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1992, encompassing more than 400 acres.

 

What are the Best Temples at Siem Reap Angkor Wat?

The three most well-known Cambodian temples of Siem Reap are Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm and Bayan Temple. However, the area is home to more than 1,000 temples. While they are not all worth visiting, there is so much more to see beyond the Big Three (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom Temples and Ta Prohm).

 

Is Angkor Wat a Single Temple? 

Angkor Wat is a single temple…as well as the name for the entire historical complex. When travelers ‘go to Angkor Wat’ they typically tour the entire archaeological park. Throughout this guide, we use the term Angkor Wat to refer both to the temple and the complex as a whole.

 

Should I Hire an Angkor Wat Guide? 

Part of planning how to visit Angkor Wat is deciding whether or not to hire a guide, join an organized tour or complete a self-guided tour. We believe it’s beneficial to hire a private Angkor guide or join an organized tour for at least part of your visit.

There are numerous Angkor Wat tours – including bus, tuk tuk, bicycle, Angkor sunrise and sunset tours. To help you determine the best way to see Angkor Wat on your trip, we share some of the top rated excursions later in the article.  

We hired a guide for our first day exploring the best Angkor Wat temples. On subsequent days of visiting Angkor Wat, we set off with a tuk tuk driver and an Angkor temples list.

 

How To Get to Angkor Wat?

Nearly all of the Siem Reap tours to Angkor Wat include transportation. However, visitors making self-guided plans will need to arrange how to get to Angkor Wat from Siem Reap city center. The best modes of transit are either a car or tuk tuk to Angkor Wat. 

We highly recommend hiring a driver in advance. Hotel staff can help sort the details of getting to Angkor Wat from your accommodations.

 

How To Get Around Angkor Wat Complex? 

As previously stated, the temple complex is expansive. Getting around on foot in unrealistic (especially in the Cambodian heat). Instead, travelers can get from temple to temple by car, tuk tuk or bike. We share more details in the Angkor Tours section later in the article.


 

15 Best Siem Reap Temples To Visit

Statue of Vishnu inside Angkor Wat temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

We are featuring all the best Angkor temples – and provide information and facts about each one. After we highlight the best temples to visit in Siem Reap, we provide a helpful itinerary, along with an Angkor Map of Temples to help others discover the area.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Siem Reap Temple Guide to plan your trip to Cambodia!

 

#1 Angkor Wat

Reflections of Angkor Wat temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is the grandest temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia – and arguably one of the premier religious sites in the world. Even the approach is astounding, as you travel along the expansive (650 foot wide) moat to the long bridge at the Angkor Wat entrance.

Construction of the temple was started by Suryavarman II in the year 1113 and completed by Jayavarman VII in 1150. It took more than 300,000 workers to build Angkor Wat – and they finished the massive structure in less than 40 years. The Angkor Wat architecture is truly astounding!

 

Angkor Wat Exterior

View of Angkor Wat from outside the moat at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Before entering Angkor Wat, visitors should take in the view from the outside, where the five towers and temple are clearly visible. The exterior walls run for more the 2,600 feet – and are covered from top to bottom in intricate carvings. The Angkor Wat bas-relief etchings tell stories of life, the king and the gods.

 

Angkor Wat Interior

Courtyard at Angkor Wat Temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Visitors enter Angkor Wat via a single, straight walkway. The path leads through the gate, past the north and south libraries, between the reflecting pools and into the interior. Just inside the gate is a statue of Vishnu, to whom the temple is dedicated.

Inside Angkor Wat, a steep stairway ascends the towers. Climb up the stairs to the center tower, which houses multiple Angkor Wat Buddha Statues. Although the original Angkor Wat religion was Hindu, parts have been converted into a Buddhist sanctuary. While exploring Angkor Wat, don’t miss the courtyards between the towers. 

 

#2 Angkor Thom 

Churning of the Ocean of Milk bridge at Angkor Thom at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

When sightseeing Cambodia temples in Siem Reap, Angkor Thom is not to be missed! Angkor Thom – which translates to Great City – is home to several sights and is an ideal starting point when visiting the temples of Angkor. Founded in the 12th century by Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom stretches nearly 4 square miles. The entire complex is surrounded by both a wall and a moat. 

South Gate tower of faces at Angkor Thom at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The best entry point is the Angkor Thom South Gate, which is accessed by walking across the bridge through the ‘Churning of the Ocean of Milk’. The sensational bridge features 54 demons on the right and 54 gods on the left. Visitors then pass under a high tower with four imposing faces.

 

#3 Bayon at Angkor Thom: Angkor Wat Faces Temple

Famous Bayon Temple faces at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Bayon Temple, located within Angkor Thom, is one of the most incredible places to visit. Built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom Bayon Temple is best known for its 54 towers and the 216 faces that stare out from the tower walls.

Before entering, examine the bas-reliefs carved on the exterior. Religious stories, fables and history are etched in detail on the stone walls, which have survived surprisingly well over the centuries. 

 

#4 Baphuon Temple 

Long causeway to Baphuon Temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Baphuon is another Angkor Thom temple, which is just a short walk from Bayon. Built in the mid-11th century by Udayadityavarman II – and completed sometime around the year 1060 – the temple is entered by walking down a long causeway. 

Visitors can scamper up steep stairs to the upper tiers of the five-level pyramid. Sitting along the western side of Baphuon is a 200-foot-long Reclining Buddha. It was built directly into the temple wall sometime in the 15th or 16th century.

The carving can be difficult to see – and is almost like an optical illusion. It is one of the many examples of the architectural brilliance involved in the construction of these ancient religious sites.

 

#5 Phimeanakas: Terrace of Elephants and the Leper King

Elephant statues at Terrace of the Elephants in at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Phimeanakas is a Hindu temple that was built at the end of the 10th century by Rajendravarman. The site was constructed in the middle of the royal enclosure (where the palace was located). It is believed to have had a golden spire or dome at one time. Perhaps not nearly as opulent now as it once was, the location in the middle of a forest provides a tranquil and almost mysterious charm to the temple.

Outside the royal enclosure visitors can access two terraces: The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. During ceremonies, the king would have sat on the Terrace of the Elephants amongst three-headed elephants and large lotus flowers.

The adjacent Terrace of the Leper King has a bit of a grimmer story. It was used to cremate the remains of the royal family. The outside walls feature bas-reliefs and on top of the platform is a statue of Yama, the god of Death. Note that the Yama statue is a replica; the original is housed in a Museum in Phnom Penh.

 

#6 Ta Prohm: Tomb Raider Temple

Entrance to Ta Prohm temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Ta Prohm is one of the most popular Siem Reap temples. It was built in the year 1186 by Jayavarman VII – but made famous by the move, Tomb Raider. It’s beauty is not necessarily in the architecture, but rather attributed to how nature has impacted it. The structure is gradually being reclaimed by nature.

Dedicated to the mother of King Javavarman VII, at one time, Ta Prohm had nearly 80,000 people living in or providing services for the temple. That included more than 600 dancers!

Tree roots grow over Ta Prohm temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Now, trees grow on top of the stone buildings, wrapping and digging their roots around and through the rocks. Canopies of leaves shade the grounds and moss clings to stones. The entire complex is enveloped in a hue of green, creating an almost eerie atmosphere.

 

#7 Phnom Bakheng

Remaining towers at Phnom Bakheng at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Built under the direction of Yasovarman I from the year 889 to 910, Phnom Bakheng originally had 108 towers. However, most of the 9th century structures have crumbled and only a few are left standing today.

Historically significant, the hill-topping Phnom Bakheng pre-dates Angkor Wat. It is believed that the intent of this temple was to be the focal point of the new capital.

Ruins of Phnom Bakheng Temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Today it is mostly visited for the incredible views. Watching an Angkor Wat sunset, which is visible from the elevated platforms of Phnom Bakheng, is one of the most popular things to do in Angkor Wat. We skipped the sunset crowds and visited shortly after witnessing an incredible Angkor Wat Sunrise. We practically had the temple to ourselves!

 

#8 Prasat Kravan

Red-brick carvings inside Prasat Kravan temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The modest, red-brick Prasat Kravan was built in the year 921 – either by Harshavarman I or Ishanavarman II. The temple, which is surrounded by a moat, features five towers in a row, facing east.

The most striking element is the interior carvings. What is unique about this Angkor Temple is that the carvings are made on brick rather than stone slabs. It’s a style of bas-reliefs that are very rare in Cambodia. The best-preserved etchings are of Vishnu and Lakshmi.

 

#9 Sra Srang

Temple platform at Sra Srang lake at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Sra Srang temple was built in the mid-10th century by Rajendravarman II – but it is no longer standing. Instead, only the foundation with guarding lions remains at the edge of the reservoir. 

Regardless, it’s still an interesting place to see within the Angkor Wat Temple Complex. The lake, also known as the Pool of Ablutions, is the former royal bathing pond. The entrance to Srah Srang is opposite Banteay Kdei.

 

#10 Banteay Kdei 

Entrance to Banteay Kdei temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Built from the 12th to 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, Banteay Kdei is one of the atmospheric temples to visit in Angkor Wat. Due to a poor choice of building materials, the temple is crumbling. However, the intricate carvings that remain are quite striking. Although it’s being restored, the disrepair is part of its charm; much like Ta Prohm.

A long walkway leads to the center of multiple enclosures. This Buddhist temple was occupied by monks until the 1960s. Inside, bright saffron robes and colorful shrines can be seen throughout.

 

#11 Pre Rup 

Remains of Pre Rup temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The name, Pre Rup, translates to ‘turn the body,’ which has led to the common belief that Pre Rup Temple was used as a crematorium. The mountain site was built in the year 961 by Rajendravarman and the view on the approach is staggering.

Main tower sprouting foliage at Pre Rup temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The towers (now sprouting vegetation) rise from a reddish stone. Between the outer enclosure and the stairs to the inside is a black box. It is debated whether the box was used for cremation or was the base of a statue. One thing is certain: this temple is a hot spot for watching the sunset, as it stays open until 7pm.

 

#12 Eastern Mebon

Tower at Eastern Mebon at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Eastern Mebon was built in the same style as Pre Rup, with the top platforms looking almost identical. Constructed in the 10th century by Rejendravarman, the Hindu temple is dedicated to Shiva, but was built to honor King Rajendravarman’s mother and father.

The intricate carvings over doorways have survived the elements, even though the rest of the building is deteriorating. One of the most identifiable features of East Mebon are the large elephant sculptures that sit at the corners.

 

#13 Ta Som 

The Sacred Fig Tree grows over gate at Ta Som at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The small Ta Som temple was built at the end of the 12th century by Jayavarman VII. It only has one shrine, yet it’s a very popular Siem Reap temple to visit. What garners visitors’ attention is the dazzling gated entrance and outer walls. 

Like Ta Prohm, nature seems to be absorbing this site as well; the sacred fig tree growing over the eastern entrance is a prime example. The main gate features a tower of faces, like the ones at Bayon, which appear to be looking at visitors as they pass through the entrance. 

 

#14 Neak Pean 

Neak Pean island temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The unique island temple of Neak Pean sits in the middle of a square pond. It is surrounded by four smaller ponds that feed into the main pool.

Built in the 12th century by Jayavarman VII, the temple was constructed according to the Hindu belief of balance. It is thought to be modeled on a legendary lake in the Himalayas, Anavatapta. 

The four connected pools are meant to represent Water, Earth, Fire and Wind – and water within the pools was believed to have curing properties. A long boardwalk through swampy marsh leads into Neak Pean.

 

#15 Preah Khan

Entrance to Preah Khan at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Similar to Ta Prohm, Preah Khan once hosted a large community of nearly 100,000 people. Constructed in 1191, it was a dedication by Jayavarman VII to his father. Ta Prohm was dedicated to his mother.

Also, like Ta Prohm, the site has been influenced by the forces of nature, which has left the sprawling site in a state of reclamation. Some of it’s structures have been stolen or demolished – like the headless statues that guard the entrance – but many of the carvings have survived.

The entrance to the main gate is lined with statues (Churning of the Ocean of Milk). The state of Ta Prohm does not diminish it’s magnificence. Much like the entire Temples of Angkor Site, while crumbling, it remains an incredibly impressive attraction and a must-see on any trip to Cambodia!

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Creating an Angkor Wat Itinerary

Entrance bridge to Preah Khan at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Travelers need to consider numerous factors when planning an Angkor Wat Tour Itinerary. The main considerations are time, cost and interest. We determined that at least 3 days are needed to properly explore the magnificent Angor Wat Archaeological Park. 

Although on a budget, we decided that traveling to Siem Reap for the Angkor Wat experience was worth the splurge. In our opinion, it is worth every penny. Still, when planning a Siem Reap Temple Itinerary, it’s important to gauge your interest level.

Personally, we are fascinated by the Angkor Wat history and enthralled by the ancient sites. Three days was the right amount of time for our temple touring, but we met fellow travelers who were content with just one day at Angkor Wat and others who spent 7 days in the complex. 

 

Angkor Wat 3 Days Itinerary

Purple sky reflecting in Left pool at Angkor Wat Sunrise

After carefully considering how to plan our visit, we devised an Angkor Wat 3-day Itinerary that enabled us to see 15 of the best temples. In addition to touring the ancient complex, we still had ample time for relaxation and to see other top Siem Reap tourist attractions.

We started our exploration with a private Siem Reap guide showing us the iconic Angkor Wat as well as Angkor Thom on a day tour. Then we created our own Angkor Temple Tours via tuk tuk for the remaining two days of our Angkor Wat 3 Days Pass.

 

Day 1

Hire a private Angkor Wat Tour Guide for full day of exploration. See the top sights at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, including Ta Prohm and Bayan Temple. 

 

Day 2

Be back at the complex entrance before dawn for Sunrise at Angkor Wat. Next, visit at least one more temple (we suggest Phnom Bakheng), but head back to town by midday for a bit of rest and relaxation. Once recharged, spend the afternoon Sightseeing in Siem Reap.

 

Day 3

Plot out an Angkor Wat plan for visiting temples with a hired tuk tuk driver to get you around. We recommend seeing sights 8 through 15 on our list. Use our Angkor Wat Map (below) to organize your route.

 

Tips for a 2-Day Angkor Trip

Those limited to two days of exploration at Angkor Park can still see a lot in a short amount of time! On Day 1, see the Big 3 Temples. Then combine Days 2 and 3 into one full day of discovery. Although it will be a bit rushed, we think Angkor Wat is worth it!

 

Tips for Planning a DIY Angkor Wat 1 Day Tour

If you are going to visit Angkor Wat in one day only, then we suggest making the most of it! For most, a One Day Angkor Trip will include the Big Three Temples. Start your day early and enjoy the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Then, move on to Angkor Thom sites and Ta Prohm. Next, choose from our above temple list the ones most interesting to you to fill out the rest of the day.


 

Angkor Temples Map

A Siem Reap Temples Map is crucial when planning the best way to visit Angkor Wat. Our Angkor Archaeological Park Map is color-coded to indicate which temples we recommend visiting on Days 1, 2 and 3. It’s the route that we believe provides the best way to explore Angkor Wat. Use this Google Map for an interactive version of the one below.

Map of Siem Reap Temples by JetSettingFools.com


 

Visiting Angkor Wat: Entry Fee and Hours

Touring inside of Baphuon Temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

One of the top considerations when visiting the Siem Reap best temples is the Angkor Wat cost. In addition to the Angkor Wat Fee, you will need to consider the price of guided Angkor tours (if you decide to take one) and the cost for getting to and around Angkor Wat from Siem Reap (if you don’t).

 

Angkor Wat Ticket

There isn’t just one ticket to visit Angkor Wat. There are numerous options when it comes to buying an Angkor ticket and it can get a little confusing. For our itinerary, it is best to purchase the Angkor Wat 3-Day Pass, but there are still a few things you need to know.

First, understand that the Angkor Wat Ticket Office and their Angkor Enterprise online portal are the only places for genuine tickets. Your tour guide or driver will know where to buy Angkor Wat tickets that are official. The Angkor Wat entrance fee is paid at the gate or online – and allows access to all temples. Angkor Wat Ticket Office Opening Hours are from 5:00am to 5:30pm. Visitors can use cash or credit card for tickets. 

 

Ticket Cost and Validity

The Angkor Wat Temple Pass is valid from the date of purchase or selected date when buying online. An Angkor Wat Day Pass cannot be purchased in advance at the ticket office. All tickets are non-refundable. The Angkor Wat prices below are current as of 2024. 

 

1-Day Angkor Wat Ticket Price – $37

The one day Angkor Wat pass is valid for a single day at the temple complex. Tip: When you buy Angkor Wat tickets after 5:00pm, they are valid for the remainder of the day issued as well as the entire following day.

 

3-Day Angkor Temple Pass Cost – $62

The 3-Day Angkor pass allows entry into the complex on 3 different days, they do not have to be consecutively. The 3-day pass is valid for 10 days from the issue date or first entry day if bought online. 

 

7-Day Angkor Pass Fee – $72

The 7-Day Angkor Pass is valid for one month from the issue/first entry date. The visitor can choose any seven days within that period to tour the temples; not consecutive days.

 

Angkor Wat Pass Tips

Even if you plan to visit Angkor Wat in 2 days, the Angkor Wat entry fee for the 3-Day pass is still the better choice. The Angkor Wat Day Pass costs $37 USD – buying an Angkor Wat 1-Day Pass for two days will cost $74. So, purchasing the 3-Day pass at $62 will save $12.

We believe it is best to buy tickets online. This is especially true for those purchasing an Angkor Wat One-Day Pass for sunrise – as you don’t want to be stuck buying tickets when the sun is rising over Angkor Wat! 

 

Angkor Wat Hours

Generally speaking, the Angkor Wat Park Complex is open from 5:30am until 7:00pm. However, opening hours vary by temple and most are only open from 7:30am until 5:30pm. 

Sra Srang and Angkor Wat opening times are earlier for sunrise spectators. These two temples are open from 5:00am to 5:30pm. Phnom Bakheng and Pre Rup are the two temples that are open for both sunrise and sunset. Visitors can access these between 5:00am and 7:00pm. 


 

Angkor Wat Tours

Preserved carving and tree roots at Preah Khan temple at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Private and organized group tours are an excellent way to experience Angkor Wat. There are a seemingly endless number of Siem Reap temple tours – and choosing the right one can be challenging. 

The basic Siem Reap Angkor Wat tour options are a Private Guide, a Small Group Tour or a budget Large Group Day Trip. However, guests can also choose to take a Sunrise Tour, a Full Day Tour or a Sunset Tour. 

Visitors can also choose a tour by mode of transport. There are air-conditioned car tours, open-air tuk-tuk tours and tours by bicycle. Some of the more specific themed trips are Angkor Wat photography tours and seeing Angkor by Helicopter.

 

Why Join an Angkor Wat Temple Tour

There is no right or wrong way for how to see Angkor Wat. That said, there is no doubt that our Angkor Wat experience was substantially enhanced by having a guide.

When we decided to purchase a Angkor Wat 3-Day Tour Pass, we determined that an Angkor Wat One-Day Tour with a Private Guide provided the perfect introduction. On our subsequent trips, we used a Angkor Wat Guide Book to provide additional facts and information. 

 

Best Angkor Wat Tours from Siem Reap

If you decide to visit Angkor with a guide, we recommend reviewing Angkor tours in advance to find the best Siem Reap temples tour for you. To help, we’ve researched some of the top-rated Angkor Tours.

Note that organized tours do not typically include the price of admission. Always review what exactly is included before booking a tour!

 

Private Angkor Wat and Royal Temples Tour

We hired a local Siem Reap tour guide for our first day at Angkor Park. We left our Angkor guidebook in the hotel room and trusted our knowledgeable guide to plan the route and share the history.

What we appreciated about hiring a guide for a private tour is that he was able to take us to places we might have not seen otherwise. He was also extremely helpful in snapping photos of us in scenic spots!

The best private full-day tours feature the top sights at Angkor Archaeological Park. Visitors can hire a private guide with air-conditioned transit (get the price and details). Otherwise, choose the less-expensive option of touring with a private guide by tuk-tuk (check availability). 

 

Angkor Temples Small-Group Tour

On this tour – which is limited to just 12 participants – visitors enjoy a full day tour from Siem Reap to the most iconic temples at Angkor. The price includes pick up and drop off at Siem Reap hotels. Reserve your spot!

 

Angkor Temples Bike Tour

Using two wheels to get around the famous temple complex in Siem Reap is a unique way to see the sights. Spend a full day cycling to the best temples at Angkor Park and then follow your guide to small nearby villages (lunch provided). Read Reviews!

 

Private Angkor Tour with Sunset Viewing

Sunsets are also spectacular at Angkor Wat! Learn the history of Angkor and tour the sites with a knowledgeable guide and stay for sunset at Pre Rup. Book it! 


 

Angkor Wat: Tips for Planning Your Trip

Standing inside Angkor Wat courtyard by towers at Angkor Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Once you decide which Siem Reap temples you want to visit and what to see in Angkor Wat, there are still a few more details to think about. We are sharing a few Siem Reap travel tips and advice for visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia!

 

Angkor Wat Weather

Expect the weather at Angkor Wat and Siem Reap to be hot and humid. During the rainy season – from May to November – you can count on sporadic thunderstorms. Many people think the best time to go to Angkor Wat is in the morning for the cooler weather. However, it’s also the most crowded time. 

 

What To Wear to Angkor Wat

What to wear to Siem Reap temples is a always a concern. Visitors need to wear appropriate temple attire that is non-revealing and covers both the shoulders and knees. However, clothing also needs to be comfortable and suitable for the hot weather. 

We recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes, like these shirts, and capris or temple pants. A good pair of comfortable travel shoes are also essential for touring the temples.

Additionally, you may want to wear sunscreen and a travel hat for protection from the sun’s rays. Of course, insect repellent is a good idea, too!

 

What To Bring to Siem Reap Angkor Temples

Don’t forget a filtered water bottle and a travel umbrella (which can be useful for both shade and downpours) when touring Angkor Wat Siem Reap temples.

Of course, a true travel camera is another necessity! We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens. This set-up takes fantastic photos and the kit comes with loads of accessories, making it an excellent budget camera.

To keep all of your belongings organized, we suggest using a versatile day pack. We prefer these small backpacks with zippered compartments. 

 

How To Get To Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

The closest Angkor Wat airport is the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (REP). Many low-cost-carriers offer cheap flights to Angkor Wat from other SE Asia destinations. Use our advice for finding the Best Prices for Flights – then start your search on SkyScanner.

  • Travel from Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat – There are daily flights from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap; the flight takes 45 minutes. You can also go by bus, with the typical travel time around 6 hours.
  • Travel from Bangkok to Angkor Wat – There are multiple daily flights from Bangkok to Siem Reap. The flight takes a little over an hour. You can also ride a bus for 8 hours from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

 

Where To Stay in Angkor Wat

Those searching for Angkor Wat accommodation have a plethora of options. We suggest using Siem Reap as a base for tours of Angkor Wat. Visitors can find everything from hotels to hostels to guesthouses in Siem Reap. 

Our must-have amenities for hotels in Siem Reap are an included breakfast, a refreshing pool and knowledgeable staff that can help organize guides and transport from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat. 

Before choosing a place to stay in Siem Reap, use our tips for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap. Then begin your search on Booking.com – like we do!

 

Cambodia Travel Insurance

Sometimes regardless of how well you prepare, luggage gets lost, flights cancel and travelers become ill. Trip insurance could help recover the costs when travel goes sideways. If you haven’t already obtained insurance, check the affordable rates and robust coverage at World Nomads

 

Organize Your Trip to Siem Reap

As you begin making plans and reservations, staying organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details of your vacation to Cambodia.

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

 

More Southeast Asia Travel Guides

 

Start planning your trip to Cambodia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

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Siem Reap Temples A Guide to Visiting the Temples near Angkor Wat by JetSettingFools.com

4 thoughts on “Siem Reap Temples: A Guide To Visiting the Temples of Angkor

  1. Anonymous

    Two of my friends have visited the temples (at different times) during the last two years — both taking almost identical close-up pictures of the huge root that envelopes the building. That is such an amazing sight!

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