tourism
Updated 2026-09-20 5 min
In short
- ●The Angkor Wat Equinox 2026 takes place on September 21, 22, and 23: three mornings when the rising sun aligns with the temple's central tower.
- ●The Governor of Siem Reap encourages Cambodians and foreign tourists to come photograph the phenomenon from the west side of the temple.
- ●High-attendance event: plan for an Angkor pass, morning transport, and a very early arrival on site.
- ●Visitors already in Siem Reap can organize within a few days; others should book flights and accommodation in advance.
Sept 21-23, 2026
Edition
High turnout
Attendance
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Location
Angkor pass required
Cost
About the Angkor Wat Equinox 2026
Every year around the September equinox, the rising sun aligns with the central tower of Angkor Wat. In 2026, the phenomenon is expected on three consecutive mornings, from September 21 to 23. The Governor of Siem Reap invites Cambodians and foreign visitors to come observe and photograph it.
- Date: September 21, 22, and 23, 2026 (three sunrises).
- Audience: photographers, expats, digital nomads, travelers, and Cambodian residents.
- Location: Angkor Wat, west side, facing the central tower — Siem Reap, Cambodia.
- Group size: high attendance on all three mornings, with peaks on September 22.
- Cost: entry requires a current Angkor pass (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day).
Day's Schedule
The schedule below reflects the usual pace of a sunrise at Angkor Wat during the equinox. Exact sunrise times vary by a few minutes each day.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 4:30 - 5:00 AM | Depart Siem Reap | Tuk-tuk or car to the west entrance; ticket check at the gate. |
| 5:00 - 5:30 AM | Set up on site | Choose your viewpoint: reflecting pool on the left or right of the main path. |
| 5:30 - 6:15 AM | Wait and scout | Adjust tripod, frame the central tower, prepare filters. |
| 6:15 - 6:45 AM | Sunrise and alignment | The sun appears in line with the central tower; short photo window. |
| 6:45 - 8:00 AM | Explore the temple | Visit galleries and bas-reliefs before the heat and crowds. |
| 8:00 - 9:00 AM | Return and breakfast | Head back to town, coffee break or breakfast in Siem Reap. |
How to Join the Next Edition
Access requires a valid Angkor pass. Logistics are best prepared the day before, as tuk-tuk spots and good viewpoints go early.
- Step 1: Confirm the exact dates (September 21, 22, and 23, 2026) and pick the morning you want.
- Step 2: Buy your Angkor pass online or at the official ticket office the day before to avoid the dawn queue.
- Step 3: Book a tuk-tuk or driver the day before and set your departure time (4:30 AM recommended).
- Step 4: Confirm with your accommodation that breakfast or a morning basket is possible before departure.
- Step 5: Arrive at the west entrance at least 45 minutes before sunrise to clear the checkpoint and choose your spot.
- Step 6: Stay flexible: if one side of the pool is packed, the other often offers an equivalent framing.
- Step 7: Plan to return around 8:00 AM and keep the morning free for temple exploration.
What to Bring
- Valid Angkor pass — required to pass the checkpoint at the west entrance.
- Headlamp or small flashlight — the path is dark before sunrise.
- Lightweight tripod — essential for long exposures during the alignment window.
- Wide-angle and telephoto lenses — wide for reflections, tele to isolate the central tower.
- Power bank and spare memory card — three mornings drain batteries quickly.
- Water and snacks — few stalls open before 6:00 AM on site.
- Mosquito repellent — useful around the pools at dawn.
- Covering clothing (shoulders and knees) — respect site rules and stay comfortable in the morning.
Similar Events in Siem Reap
If you enjoy photo meetups and early morning gatherings, here are other options to follow in Siem Reap.
- Daily sunrise at Angkor Wat — same viewpoint, smaller crowds outside the equinox.
- Phnom Bakheng sunset — sunset over the Angkor plain, limited to 300 people per evening.
- Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) — boat races and festivities on the Tonlé Sap, usually in November.
- Night markets and Pub Street — regular evening hangouts for expats and digital nomads.
- Siem Reap expat Facebook and Telegram groups — to keep up with photo outings and community meetups.
Frequently asked questions
What are the exact dates of the Angkor Wat Equinox 2026?
The phenomenon is expected on September 21, 22, and 23, 2026. The sun rises in alignment with the central tower on these three mornings, with slight variation by day.
Do I need a special ticket to see the equinox?
No. Access requires a standard Angkor pass (1, 3, or 7 days). Buy it the day before, online or at the official ticket office, to avoid the dawn wait.
What time should I arrive on site?
Aim to arrive at the west entrance between 5:00 and 5:30 AM, about 45 minutes before sunrise. The best spots around the pools fill up quickly.
How long does the phenomenon last?
The visible alignment window lasts about 20 to 30 minutes around sunrise. The rest of the morning can be spent exploring the temple.
Can I go with family or children?
Yes, but the very early start and dense crowds require planning. Bring water, snacks, and a flashlight for each person, and stay together around the pools.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia