Closure of Angkor Wat's North Entrance from May 18, 2026

tourisme

Updated 2026-05-18 5 min

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In short

●Closure of the north Elephant Path entrance of Angkor Wat from May 18, 2026 for structural repairs.
●Visitors must use alternative entrances (west, south, east).
●Possible impact on tour routes and waiting times.
●No reopening date announced yet.

May 18, 2026

Closure date

North (Elephant Path)

Affected entrance

APSARA National Authority

Authority

Structural repairs

Reason

Immediate closure. The north Elephant Path entrance of Angkor Wat is closed from May 18, 2026.
Structural repairs. The APSARA National Authority (ANA) is undertaking urgent repair work.
Alternative entrances. Visitors can use the west, south, and east entrances.
Impact on visits. Usual routes and waiting times may be altered.
Indefinite duration. No reopening date has been announced.

The closure announcement was made on May 18, 2026 by the APSARA National Authority via local media. Here are the key steps:

May 18, 2026: ANA announces the immediate closure of the north Elephant Path entrance for structural repairs.
May 18, 2026 (morning): Barriers are installed and signage updated.
May 19, 2026: Repair work begins by ANA teams.
To come: ANA will assess the duration of the work and announce a reopening date later.

The closure mainly affects visitors to Angkor Wat. Here is the breakdown of available alternative entrances:

Entrance	Orientation	Main access
West gate	West	Main entrance, access to the western causeway
South gate	South	Access to the temple from the south, nearby parking
East gate	East	Access from Angkor Thom village
North gate (closed)	North	Elephant Path, usually used for cycling or walking visits

Changes to tour routes. Expats who used to enter from the north will have to use another gate, which may lengthen the journey.
Possible increase in waiting times. Other entrances may see higher traffic, especially during peak hours.
Adaptation of guides and tours. Local guides and travel agencies will need to adjust their itineraries.
Impact on photographers. The north entrance offered a unique perspective of the temple at sunrise; photographers will need to find other angles.
Opportunity to discover other entrances. Expats can explore less crowded parts of the site via the south or east gates.

Check open entrances before your visit. Consult the official Angkor website or ANA's social media for updates.
Allow extra time. Plan for an additional 15 to 30 minutes to reach an alternative entrance and queue.
Use a map or GPS app. Locate the west, south, and east entrances on your navigation app.
Avoid peak hours. Alternative entrances are busiest between 8-10am and 3-5pm.
Follow safety instructions. Do not cross barriers and follow staff directions.
Inform your guide or driver. If with a guide, confirm the entrance to use before departure.
Stay informed. Follow ANA's Telegram or Facebook accounts for reopening announcements.

Why is the north Elephant Path entrance closed?

The APSARA National Authority announced necessary structural repairs to ensure visitor safety and site preservation.

What are the alternative entrances?

The west, south, and east entrances remain open. The west entrance is the main and busiest one.

How long will the closure last?

No reopening date has been announced. ANA will inform as soon as possible.

Is my entrance ticket still valid?

Yes, tickets remain valid for all entrances. No price changes are planned.

Is there an impact on guided tours?

Guides will adapt their itineraries. Contact your agency to confirm arrangements.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia