tourism
Updated 2026-09-02 5 min
In short
- ●Event: Observation of the sunrise over the central tower of Angkor Wat during the autumn equinox.
- ●Dates: September 21-23, with the peak on the 22nd.
- ●Organized by: Local authorities and visitors, open to all.
- ●Cost: Included in the entrance ticket to the Angkor Archaeological Park.
- ●Next edition: Every year at the same time.
Annual
Edition
Several thousand
Participants
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Location
Included in ticket
Cost
About the Equinox at Angkor Wat
Every year, during the autumn equinox, the sun rises exactly above the central tower of Angkor Wat, creating a unique spectacle. This event attracts visitors from around the world and offers a perfect opportunity to discover the site in a special atmosphere.
- Date: September 21-23, with the most precise phenomenon on the 22nd.
- Audience: Tourists, expats, photographers, history enthusiasts.
- Location: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
- Group size: Several thousand people on site each morning.
- Cost: Included in the park entrance ticket ($37 for the day, $62 for 3 days).
Day Program
The program is simple: arrive before dawn, find a good spot, and watch the sunrise. Here are the indicative times for a typical morning.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 05:00 | Site opens | The gates of Angkor Wat open to visitors with tickets. |
| 05:30 | Setup | Choose a spot facing the central tower, near the pond or on the ramparts. |
| 06:00 | Sunrise | The sun gradually appears, culminating with the alignment on the tower. |
| 07:00 | Free exploration | Enjoy the soft light to visit the galleries and bas-reliefs. |
| 09:00 | Breakfast | Return to Siem Reap for breakfast at a local café. |
How to Participate in the Next Edition
To experience this unique event, follow these steps.
- Step 1: Check the exact equinox dates on the astronomical calendar (around September 21-23).
- Step 2: Purchase your Angkor entrance ticket in advance, online or at the ticket booths (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day pass).
- Step 3: Book a tuk-tuk or guide to take you to the site before dawn (allow 15-20 minutes from Siem Reap).
- Step 4: Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to find a good spot.
- Step 5: Bring a headlamp to walk in the dark to your spot.
- Step 6: Settle in and enjoy the show.
What to Bring
- Headlamp — to move around safely before dawn.
- Water bottle — stay hydrated while waiting.
- Camera or smartphone — capture the sunrise and alignment.
- Light clothing — it's still warm in the morning, but bring a light layer if you get cold easily.
- Comfortable shoes — you'll walk on uneven paths.
- Hat and sunscreen — the sun gets strong quickly after sunrise.
- Snacks — to tide you over until breakfast.
Similar Events in Siem Reap
If you enjoy natural and cultural events, here are other dates to watch for.
- Spring Equinox at Angkor Wat — the same phenomenon in March, with a different atmosphere.
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) — boat races on the Tonlé Sap in November.
- Festival of the Dead (Pchum Ben) — Buddhist celebration in September-October.
- Angkor Half Marathon — charity run in the heart of the park in December.
- Siem Reap Night Market — every evening, to discover local crafts.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a special ticket for the equinox?
No, the observation is included in the standard Angkor park entrance ticket. You can buy a day pass or a multi-day pass.
What is the best place to see the alignment?
The most popular viewpoint is the pond in front of the west facade of Angkor Wat, which reflects the temple and the sun. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Is the event canceled in case of rain?
The phenomenon occurs every year, but visibility depends on the weather. If the sky is overcast, you won't see the sun, but the temple remains beautiful.
Can I go with children?
Yes, it's a family-friendly experience, but bring warm clothes for the little ones and be prepared to get up very early.
Are guides available on site?
Yes, you can hire an official guide at the entrance or book in advance. They will provide historical explanations and help you find the best spots.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia