ANGKOR WAT
10 KM from Siem ReapAngkor Wat is the main temple of the Angkor Archaeological Park and the biggest religious monument in the world. More than 3 million people from all over the world visit Angkor Wat each year. All these visitors provide more than 60% of Siem Reap’s population with a job.
What to do and see at Angkor Wat?
The best way to start your day trip to Angkor Wat is by watching the sunrise in the early morning. It means getting up at 4 am make sure you are at the temples around 5 am. Temperatures start rising fast around 10 am, so arriving early not only gives you a great view, it’s also much more comfortable.
There is only one disadvantage: you will not be the only one who gets up early. Angkor Wat is always crowded, no matter what time you go, Don’t forget to bring your Angkor Pass, which must be visible at all times. Keep in mind that Angkor Wat is a religious monument. Select your clothing accordingly.
How to get to Angkor Wat?
There are different ways to get to the Angkor Archaeological Park , all depending on your preferences. Many visitors hire a tuktuk driver who can also act as a guide.
If you want to experience Angkor Wat by yourself, the cheapest way to get to Angkor Wat is to rent a bicycle for $2- $4 a day or use PassApp or Grab. If you book a tour, transportation will be included in the tour.
How much will it cost?
To visit Angkor Thom you need an Angkor Pass. It allows you entrance to many temples and monuments in and outside the Angkor Archaeological Park.
You can buy an Angkor Pass for 1 day ($37), three days ($62) or 7 days ($72). You can buy the Angkor Pass in Siem Reap and need to bring a photo.
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TEMPLE RULES?
One, three or 7 days Angkor Wat?
The Angkor Archaeological Park is huge and it’s not possible to visit all the main historical monuments in one day. If you are only planning to see Angkor Wat a one day pass will be sufficient.
You can choose to visit Angkor Wat in the morning and one of the other locations, like Angkor Thom or Baphuon, in the afternoon. If you want to visit all important monuments, you will need more days.
Hiring a guide
When you book a tour, a professional guide will accompany you during your visit to Angkor Wat. If you decide to visit the temples by yourself you may want to consider hiring a local guide or tuktuk driver.
Acceptable fee for hiring a tuktuk driver who can accompany you during your visit is between $20 and $30 a day,
Best time of year
The Angkor Archaeological Park can be visited 365 days a year. During the high season, which starts in December it will be more crowded than during the low season.
The best months of the year to visit the temples are definitely August, September, October and the beginning of November. During these months the temperatures are acceptable and since these are low season months, it will not be too crowded.
Practical Angkor Wat tips
Wear a hat or cap during your visit and don’t forget to bring sun creme and a bottle of water. You can buy some food from the local street vendors or bring some snacks and food with you.
There are not many trash bins inside Angkor, so bring a plastic bag to carry your garbage. If you ar not visiting Angkor Wat during the high season, keep in mind that the weather can change rapidly. Select your clothing accordingly.
Where to buy the Angkor Pass?
The only place where you can buy the Angkor Pass is at the official Angkor Pass Ticket Counters. They ar located on the way to Angkor Wat and open between 5 am and 7:30 pm. You need one photo for the pass and it’s advisable you get your pass one day before you start you visit to the different temples.
What you should not do!
There is a strict dress code in and if you are wearing inappropriate clothing you will not be allowed to enter. The basic rule (for all temples) is to cover your knees and shoulders. Tank tops for men and halter-neck tops for ladies are not allowed.
Keep your hands and feet to yourself. The temples are not for climbing, touching or scratching. Smoking is not allowed and the ‘no entry’ signs should be taken seriously.
Useful links
- Angkor Enterprise (official website)