Angkor Archaeological Park spans over 400 square kilometres and contains some of the most breathtaking temples ever built by human hands.
25
Temples
UNESCO
World Heritage
$37
1-Day Pass
5:30
AM Sunrise
Angkor is not just a temple. It is a civilisation frozen in stone — a sprawling 400 km² park containing the ruins of over 1,000 temples and structures, of which about 72 major temples are open to visitors. From the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat to the strangler fig-wrapped corridors of Ta Prohm, from the 216 smiling stone faces of Bayon to the pre-Angkorian octagonal towers of Sambor Prei Kuk — this guide covers 25 of the best temples in and around Siem Reap, ranked by architectural significance, visitor experience and accessibility.
We ranked these 25 temples based on architectural significance, visitor experience, and accessibility. Whether you have one day or a full week, this guide will help you plan the perfect Angkor itinerary. Each temple includes GPS coordinates, crowd levels, difficulty ratings, and our honest verdict.
| # | Temple | Circuit | Difficulty | Time | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Angkor Wat | Main | Easy | 2–3h | High |
| 2 | Bayon | Small Circuit | Easy | 1–2h | High |
| 3 | Ta Prohm | Small Circuit | Easy | 1–1.5h | High |
| 4 | Banteay Srei | Outer | Easy | 1–1.5h | Medium |
| 5 | Preah Khan | Grand Circuit | Moderate | 1–2h | Medium |
| 6 | Ta Keo | Small Circuit | Challenging | 30–45min | Low |
| 7 | Banteay Kdei | Small Circuit | Easy | 45min–1h | Low |
| 8 | Pre Rup | Grand Circuit | Moderate | 30–45min | Medium |
| 9 | Phnom Bakheng | Main | Challenging | 1–1.5h | High |
| 10 | South Gate of Angkor Thom | Small Circuit | Easy | 15–30min | Medium |
Temple Map
Top 10 Temples of Angkor
1Angkor Wat
Our verdict: The undisputed masterpiece of Khmer architecture and the largest religious monument on Earth. No trip to Cambodia is complete without it.
Angkor Wat needs no introduction — it is on the Cambodian flag for a reason. Built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, this Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu is the largest religious monument in the world, covering 162.6 hectares. The approach across the 190-metre causeway over the moat is one of the great architectural experiences on Earth. The bas-reliefs along the outer gallery stretch for 800 metres and depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the famous Churning of the Sea of Milk. Arrive at 5:00 AM for sunrise — position yourself to the left of the reflecting pool for the classic silhouette shot. After sunrise, explore the inner galleries and climb to the third level (limited to 100 visitors at a time). The afternoon light from 3:00 to 5:00 PM illuminates the western facade beautifully. Budget at least two to three hours, and bring water — there is very little shade inside.
2Bayon
Our verdict: The temple of 216 smiling stone faces is one of the most mystical and photogenic sites in all of Southeast Asia.
Bayon sits at the exact centre of Angkor Thom and is instantly recognisable for its 54 gothic towers, each carved with four serene, enigmatic faces — 216 faces in total. Built by Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century, Bayon was the last great state temple of the Khmer Empire. The bas-reliefs here are unique because they depict everyday life rather than mythology: market scenes, cockfighting, fishing, and military processions. Visit early morning (7:00 to 8:30 AM) when the light is soft and the crowds are thin — by 9:00 AM, tour buses arrive in waves. The upper terrace, where you stand face-to-face with the giant stone faces, is the highlight. Photography tip: a wide-angle lens captures the faces dramatically against morning clouds.
3Ta Prohm
Our verdict: The famous Tomb Raider temple where nature is slowly reclaiming ancient stone — utterly unforgettable.
Ta Prohm is the temple that made Angelina Jolie famous (or the other way around). Left largely unrestored, this Buddhist monastery is being consumed by enormous silk-cotton and strangler fig trees whose roots cascade over walls and prise apart stone blocks. The effect is hauntingly beautiful — nature and architecture locked in a slow-motion embrace. Built in 1186 by Jayavarman VII for his mother, Ta Prohm once housed 12,640 people and was supported by 3,140 villages. The most photographed spot is the giant root growing over the doorway in the inner gallery — expect a queue. To avoid the worst crowds, arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM. The dinosaur carving on a wall near the east gopura is a fun Easter egg to hunt for.
4Banteay Srei
Our verdict: The jewel of Angkor — intricate pink sandstone carvings unmatched anywhere in the Khmer world.
Banteay Srei is small but perfect. Located 25 kilometres northeast of the main Angkor complex, this 10th-century Hindu temple is carved from pink sandstone with a level of detail that surpasses every other temple in Cambodia. The lintels and pediments feature scenes from Hindu mythology — Ravana shaking Mount Kailasa, Krishna killing the demon Kamsa — with a precision that looks almost machine-made. The temple is compact and can be explored in an hour, but bring a magnifying glass (seriously) to appreciate the miniature carvings. The pink stone glows warmly in morning light. Combine with Banteay Samre on the way back. The 45-minute drive from Siem Reap passes through beautiful countryside — arrange a tuk-tuk for the round trip ($20 to $25).
5Preah Khan
Our verdict: A vast, atmospheric complex that rivals Ta Prohm in beauty but with a fraction of the crowds.
Preah Khan is the temple that archaeology enthusiasts love and casual tourists skip — which is exactly why you should visit. This massive complex, built by Jayavarman VII in 1191, served as a Buddhist university and housed 100,000 officials and servants. The long corridors create dramatic light-and-shadow effects, and the central sanctuary still has a lingam. The two-storey building with round columns (unique in Angkor) is thought to have been a granary or library. Preah Khan is on the Grand Circuit and pairs perfectly with Neak Pean and Ta Som. Allow one to two hours to explore properly — the east entrance, with its avenue of garudas, is the most photogenic approach.
6Ta Keo
Our verdict: An unfinished pyramid temple offering steep climbs and incredible views — for the adventurous.
Ta Keo is the temple that Angkor never finished. Construction was abandoned in the early 11th century, possibly after a lightning strike was interpreted as a bad omen. The result is a raw, undecorated five-tiered pyramid that gives you a visceral sense of how these temples were built — block by enormous block. The climb to the top is steep and exposed (no handrails), but the views from the summit are worth the effort. Ta Keo is on the Small Circuit between Ta Prohm and Thommanon, making it easy to slot into any itinerary. Most visitors pass through quickly, so you will often have the upper levels to yourself. Bring good shoes with grip.
7Banteay Kdei
Our verdict: A peaceful, photogenic monastery that pairs perfectly with the Srah Srang reservoir next door.
Banteay Kdei is the quiet alternative to Ta Prohm — same era, similar style, but without the Tomb Raider fame and the resulting crowds. This Buddhist monastery features beautiful carved devatas (celestial dancers) and long corridors draped with moss. The Hall of Dancers, with its pillars carved with apsaras, is the highlight. Walk through to the east entrance and cross the road to Srah Srang, the royal bathing pool — a beautiful place to sit and watch the sunset reflect on still water. Banteay Kdei is on the Small Circuit and takes 45 minutes to an hour. Japanese archaeologists have been restoring it gradually, and their work reveals stunning details hidden under centuries of jungle growth.
8Pre Rup
Our verdict: A dramatic sunset temple with panoramic views across the jungle canopy from its upper tiers.
Pre Rup is a 10th-century Hindu temple that served as a royal crematorium — its name literally means 'turn the body.' The three tiers of this temple-mountain are built from brick and laterite, giving it a warm, earthy colour that glows golden at sunset. Climb to the top for 360-degree views across the Angkor plain — on clear days you can see the spires of Angkor Wat in the distance. Pre Rup is on the Grand Circuit and is one of the best alternatives to Phnom Bakheng for sunset viewing, with far fewer people. The lion guardians at the base and the brick towers at the summit are excellent photographic subjects. Allow 30 to 45 minutes.
9Phnom Bakheng
Our verdict: The classic Angkor sunset spot — arrive early and be prepared for crowds, but the views are worth it.
Phnom Bakheng is a 9th-century temple-mountain built on a natural hill, making it the highest point in the immediate Angkor area. The view of Angkor Wat from the top at sunset is iconic, but so is the crowd — access is limited to 300 people at a time, and the queue starts forming at 4:00 PM. The 20-minute uphill walk (or elephant ride, now discontinued) leads to a five-tiered pyramid with 108 towers. If you want the sunset view without the stress, try Pre Rup or the balloon ride instead. For photographers, Phnom Bakheng is more interesting at sunrise when you have the platform nearly to yourself. The temple itself, the oldest major structure in the Angkor area, is architecturally significant as the first temple-mountain built at Angkor.
10South Gate of Angkor Thom
Our verdict: The most photographed gateway in Cambodia — the causeway lined with gods and demons is an unforgettable introduction to Angkor Thom.
The South Gate of Angkor Thom is not a standalone temple but rather the grand entrance to the walled city of Angkor Thom, and it deserves its own entry because it is one of the most visually striking structures in the entire park. The approach road is flanked by 54 stone figures on each side — devas (gods) on the left and asuras (demons) on the right — all pulling a giant naga (serpent) in a representation of the Churning of the Sea of Milk. The gateway tower itself features four massive faces of Avalokiteshvara gazing in each cardinal direction. Most visitors drive through without stopping, which is a mistake. Park your tuk-tuk before the causeway and walk the full 200 metres on foot to appreciate the scale and symbolism.
More Temples Worth Visiting
Beyond the top 12 and the hidden gems, the Angkor Archaeological Park and its surroundings contain dozens more temples worth exploring. These 13 additional temples range from tiny jewel-box sanctuaries on the Small Circuit to the pre-Angkorian ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk. Most see very few visitors, offering a peaceful contrast to the main sites.
13Neak Pean
Our verdict: A unique island temple in the middle of a reservoir — serene and mystical, one of Jayavarman VII's most original designs.
Neak Pean is a small Buddhist temple built on an artificial island in the centre of the Jayatataka Baray, a now-dried reservoir on the Grand Circuit. Built by Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century, it represents the mythical Himalayan lake Anavatapta. The temple sits on a circular island surrounded by four smaller ponds, each with a gargoyle-head fountain (human, elephant, horse, lion). You approach via a long wooden boardwalk across the water. It is small and takes only 30 minutes, but the atmosphere is unlike any other Angkor temple. Best visited in the morning when reflections are sharpest. Combined with Ta Som and East Mebon, it forms a natural Grand Circuit trio.
14East Mebon
Our verdict: A beautifully symmetrical 10th-century temple surrounded by stone elephants — a Grand Circuit essential often skipped by tourists.
East Mebon was built in 953 CE by King Rajendravarman as a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It once stood on a now-dried island in the enormous East Baray reservoir. The temple is famous for its life-size stone elephants standing at each corner of the first and second levels, and its perfectly symmetrical five-tower arrangement. The intricate lintels and false doors are among the finest examples of 10th-century Khmer carving. It takes 30 to 45 minutes to explore and is rarely crowded. Located on the Grand Circuit between Pre Rup and Ta Som.
15Ta Som
Our verdict: A peaceful Grand Circuit gem with a strangler fig-covered eastern gate — the most photogenic moment after Ta Prohm.
Ta Som is a small, elegant temple built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, dedicated to his father. Its eastern gopura (entry tower) is almost entirely enveloped by the roots of a massive strangler fig tree, creating one of the most photographed frames in Angkor. The temple follows a flat layout similar to Ta Prohm and Banteay Kdei but on a smaller scale. You can explore it in 30 minutes. It sits at the eastern end of the Grand Circuit and sees very few visitors compared to the main temples. Combine with Neak Pean and East Mebon for a complete Grand Circuit loop.
16Thommanon
Our verdict: A tiny jewel-box temple with exquisite carvings — easily visited as a quick stop on the Small Circuit.
Thommanon is a small but exquisitely decorated Hindu temple built in the early 12th century during the reign of Suryavarman II, the same king who built Angkor Wat. It sits just east of the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom, directly facing its twin temple Chau Say Tevoda. Despite its small size, the quality of its devata (female deity) carvings rivals Angkor Wat itself. Restored by the EFEO (French School of the Far East), it is in excellent condition. A 20-minute visit is enough, and it makes a perfect pair with Chau Say Tevoda directly across the road.
17Chau Say Tevoda
Our verdict: The mirror twin of Thommanon — a beautifully restored small temple that most visitors walk right past.
Chau Say Tevoda sits directly across the road from Thommanon and was built in the same period (early 12th century). It was dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva. After years of neglect and near-total collapse, it was meticulously restored by a Chinese team and reopened in 2012. The temple features fine pediments depicting Hindu mythology and elegant devata figures. It takes about 20 minutes to visit and sees almost no crowds despite sitting right on the main Small Circuit road. Visit both Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda together — the pair takes under an hour.
18Banteay Samré
Our verdict: A well-preserved outer temple with a beautiful moat and galleries — one of the most underrated Angkor experiences.
Banteay Samre is a Hindu temple from the early 12th century, built in the same style as Angkor Wat but far from the main circuits. Named after the Samre people (an ancient ethnic group), it features an inner courtyard enclosed by covered galleries, a raised central sanctuary, and a moat that still holds water during the rainy season. The carvings are remarkably well-preserved thanks to a complete anastylosis restoration. Located about 5 kilometres east of the East Baray, it sees very few visitors and offers a peaceful, unhurried experience. Allow 45 minutes to an hour.
19Srah Srang
Our verdict: A peaceful royal bathing pool facing Banteay Kdei — the best alternative sunrise spot with almost no crowds.
Srah Srang is a large reservoir (700 by 300 metres) built in the 10th century and later modified by Jayavarman VII. A sandstone landing stage with naga balustrades faces east, making it a stunning alternative sunrise location with far fewer visitors than Angkor Wat. The water reflects the sky beautifully at dawn. Locals still use the reservoir for bathing and fishing. It sits directly east of Banteay Kdei and takes only 20 minutes to enjoy. Combine with Banteay Kdei and Prasat Kravan for a quiet Small Circuit detour.
20Bakong
Our verdict: The oldest and largest pyramid of the Roluos Group — the birthplace of classical Khmer architecture.
Bakong is the centrepiece of the Roluos Group, a cluster of the oldest surviving Angkor-era temples located 13 kilometres east of Siem Reap. Built in 881 CE by King Indravarman I, it was the first temple-mountain built in sandstone and served as the state temple of the capital Hariharalaya. The five-tier pyramid is topped by a single tower and surrounded by eight smaller brick towers decorated with stucco. Stone elephants guard the corners. It set the architectural blueprint that would evolve into Angkor Wat 250 years later. Allow 45 minutes to explore. Combine with Preah Ko and Lolei for a complete Roluos morning trip.
21Preah Ko
Our verdict: Six graceful brick towers with the oldest surviving Angkor inscriptions — a must for history enthusiasts.
Preah Ko (Sacred Bull) was the first temple built at the Roluos Group in 879 CE, dedicated by Indravarman I to his ancestors and to Shiva. The six brick towers are arranged in two rows and still retain fragments of their original stucco decoration — some of the oldest decorative plasterwork in the Angkor region. Sacred bulls (nandi) line the approach. The temple is compact and takes about 30 minutes. It is located just south of Bakong in the Roluos Group, 13 kilometres from Siem Reap town. Almost no tourists visit, making it a wonderfully peaceful experience.
22Lolei
Our verdict: The last of the Roluos Group temples, built on a now-drained reservoir island — a quiet footnote to Angkor's origins.
Lolei was built in 893 CE by Yasovarman I on an island in the middle of the Indratataka Baray (now dried up). Its four brick towers are dedicated to the king's parents and grandparents. The carvings on the door lintels are remarkably detailed for their age and include fine Sanskrit inscriptions. A modern Buddhist monastery now occupies the grounds, giving the site a lived-in atmosphere. It takes 20 to 30 minutes to explore and is the northernmost temple of the Roluos Group. Visit all three Roluos temples in a single morning trip from Siem Reap.
23Prasat Kravan
Our verdict: The only Angkor temple with brick bas-reliefs — five small towers with unique interior carvings of Vishnu.
Prasat Kravan is a small Hindu temple built in 921 CE, notable for being the only Angkor temple with bas-reliefs carved directly into the brick walls of its interior. The five brick towers stand in a north-south row. The central tower contains a remarkable carving of Vishnu striding across the ocean, while the northernmost tower features carvings of Lakshmi. The temple was restored by the French in the 1960s using original and replacement bricks (marked with CA for conservation). Located on the Small Circuit between Ta Prohm and Srah Srang, it takes only 15 to 20 minutes but offers something completely unique.
24Sambor Prei Kuk
Our verdict: A pre-Angkorian UNESCO site 3 hours from Siem Reap — the oldest temple complex in Cambodia and a fascinating day trip.
Sambor Prei Kuk is Cambodia's second UNESCO World Heritage Site (inscribed 2017), predating Angkor by several centuries. Built in the 7th century as Isanapura, the capital of the Chenla Empire, it contains over 100 temples in three main groups scattered through the forest. The octagonal temples and flying palace carvings are unique in Southeast Asian architecture. Located about 200 kilometres from Siem Reap (3 hours by car via Kampong Thom), it makes a rewarding day trip for those with an extra day. Facilities are basic but a local guide is available on site. Allow 2 to 3 hours for the main groups.
25Phimeanakas
Our verdict: A hidden pyramid inside Angkor Thom's Royal Palace compound — a steep climb rewarded with views over the jungle canopy.
Phimeanakas is a small three-tiered pyramid temple inside the Royal Palace compound of Angkor Thom, built in the late 10th century by Rajendravarman and later modified by Jayavarman VII. According to legend, the Khmer king was required to sleep in the golden tower atop the temple each night with a naga spirit — failure to appear meant disaster for the kingdom. The steep climb to the top offers views across the jungle and the surrounding palace walls. It is easily missed because visitors rush past on the way to Baphuon or the Terrace of the Elephants. Allow 20 to 30 minutes and combine with the Royal Palace bathing pools nearby.
Suggested Itineraries
11-Day Itinerary — The Essentials
5:00 AM — Arrive at Angkor Wat for sunrise (buy pass from 5:00 AM). Watch the sunrise from the left side of the reflecting pool. 6:30 AM — Explore Angkor Wat interior and climb to the third level. 8:30 AM — Drive to South Gate of Angkor Thom, walk the causeway on foot. 9:00 AM — Bayon temple (the faces). 10:30 AM — Baphuon and Terrace of the Elephants (quick walk-through). 11:30 AM — Lunch break at one of the restaurants near Angkor Thom (or packed lunch). 1:00 PM — Ta Prohm (the Tomb Raider temple). 2:30 PM — Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang (peaceful, uncrowded). 4:00 PM — Ta Keo (optional, for adventurous climbers). 5:00 PM — Sunset at Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng (arrive early for Bakheng). This packs in the six essential temples in a single day. Start early and hydrate constantly.
22-Day Itinerary — The Complete Experience
Day 1 — Small Circuit: Follow the 1-day itinerary above but at a relaxed pace. Spend more time at Angkor Wat (full 3 hours) and Ta Prohm. Skip Ta Keo if tired. Sunset at Phnom Bakheng. Day 2 — Grand Circuit + Banteay Srei: 6:00 AM — Preah Khan (atmospheric in morning light). 8:00 AM — Neak Pean (island temple, 20 minutes). 8:30 AM — Ta Som (quiet, photogenic eastern gate with tree roots). 9:30 AM — East Mebon (elephant sculptures). 10:00 AM — Pre Rup (quick visit in morning light). 10:30 AM — Drive to Banteay Srei (45 minutes). 11:30 AM — Banteay Srei (the pink sandstone jewel). 1:00 PM — Lunch and return to Siem Reap. Afternoon free for pool or massage. This itinerary covers all 12 main temples comfortably across two days.
33-Day Itinerary — The Explorer's Route
Day 1 — Small Circuit: Same as Day 1 of the 2-day itinerary. Day 2 — Grand Circuit: Same as Day 2 of the 2-day itinerary, without Banteay Srei. Day 3 — Outer Temples: 6:00 AM — Depart for Beng Mealea (1.5 hours). 8:00 AM — Explore Beng Mealea with a local guide ($5). 10:00 AM — Continue to Koh Ker (1 hour further). 11:30 AM — Climb Prasat Thom pyramid, explore the scattered forest temples. 1:00 PM — Picnic lunch (bring your own — no restaurants). 2:00 PM — Return drive to Siem Reap (2.5 hours). This is the ultimate Angkor experience — three days covering both the iconic landmarks and the remote wilderness temples that most visitors never see.
Budget Breakdown — What It Really Costs
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angkor Pass (1 day) | $37 | $37 | $37 |
| Transport | $15 (tuk-tuk) | $35 (AC car) | $80 (private guide + car) |
| Lunch | $3–5 | $8–15 | $25–40 |
| Water & Snacks | $2 | $5 | $10 |
| Guide (optional) | $0 | $25 | $50+ |
| Sunrise scarf/shirt | $2 (market) | $0 (own clothes) | $0 (own clothes) |
| TOTAL per day | $59–61 | $110–117 | $202–217 |
Best Time to Visit — Month by Month
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Cool & dry, 25–32°C | Peak season | Best |
| February | Dry & warm, 26–34°C | Peak season | Best |
| March | Hot, 28–36°C | Moderate | Good |
| April | Very hot, 29–38°C | Low season | Avoid |
| May | Hot, first rains, 28–36°C | Low season | Avoid |
| June | Rainy, 27–34°C | Low season | Avoid |
| July | Rainy, 27–33°C | Low season | Avoid |
| August | Rainy, 27–33°C | Low season | Avoid |
| September | Rainy, green jungle, 27–32°C | Very low | Good |
| October | Late rains, lush, 26–32°C | Low | Good |
| November | Cool, dry starts, 25–31°C | Rising | Best |
| December | Cool & dry, 24–30°C | Peak season | Best |
Tickets, Hours & Dress Code
The Angkor Pass is the single ticket for the entire Archaeological Park. Prices in 2026: 1-day pass $37, 3-day pass $62 (valid for 10 days), 7-day pass $72 (valid for a month). Buy tickets at the official Angkor Enterprise ticket office on Apsara Road — it opens at 5:00 AM for sunrise visitors.
Payment by cash (USD) or card. Your photo is taken and printed on the pass. Children under 12 enter free.
Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered at Angkor Wat's upper level and some other temples — bring a scarf or light shirt. The park opens at 5:00 AM (for sunrise at Angkor Wat) and closes at 5:30 PM. Beng Mealea and Koh Ker are now included in the main pass.
Keep your pass with you at all times — inspectors check at every temple entrance.
How to Get There & Get Around
Tuk-tuk is the classic Angkor experience: $15 to $20 per day for the Small Circuit, $25 to $30 for the Grand Circuit, $35 to $45 for outer temples like Banteay Srei. Your driver waits at each temple. Negotiate the price and itinerary before departure.
Private car with driver and AC costs $35 to $50 per day — worth it in the hot season (March to May) when temperatures hit 40 degrees. E-bikes and electric scooters ($8 to $15 per day) are increasingly popular and allowed inside the park. Regular bicycles ($3 to $5 per day from your hotel) work well for the Small Circuit (17 km loop) but are exhausting for the Grand Circuit.
Minivan tours ($15 to $25 per person) are the budget option but offer no flexibility. Tip your tuk-tuk driver $3 to $5 if they do a good job — they wake up at 4:30 AM for sunrise tours. Book through your hotel or a reputable operator.
Small Circuit vs Grand Circuit
The Small Circuit (Petit Circuit) is a 17-kilometre loop covering Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom (South Gate, Bayon, Baphuon, Terrace of the Elephants), Ta Keo, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei. This is the essential one-day route and includes the three most famous temples. The Grand Circuit (Grand Circuit) adds 26 kilometres and includes Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup.
It is best done on a second day or combined with the Small Circuit if you start at sunrise and skip a few stops. The Outer Circuit covers temples beyond the main park: Banteay Srei (25 km north), Beng Mealea (65 km east), and Koh Ker (120 km northeast). These require a full day each.
Most visitors do the Small Circuit on Day 1 and Grand Circuit on Day 2. If you only have one day, do the Small Circuit with an early start — you will see the Big Three (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm) and several smaller gems.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat — The Complete Guide
Watching the sun rise behind the five towers of Angkor Wat is one of the great travel experiences on Earth. Sunrise times vary from 5:30 AM (December) to 6:00 AM (June). Arrive at the ticket office by 5:00 AM — it opens specifically for sunrise visitors.
Enter through the main western gate and walk straight to the reflecting pool. Position yourself to the left of the pool for the classic reflection shot. The best sunrise months are November to February when skies are clearest.
Equinox dates (March 21 and September 23) are special: the sun rises directly behind the central tower. Bring a tripod for long exposures and a headlamp for the dark walk in. After the sunrise crowd disperses (around 6:30 AM), you will have Angkor Wat nearly to yourself for the next hour.
Avoid the right side of the pool which gets overcrowded with tour groups. The entire experience from arrival to post-sunrise exploration takes about three hours.
Photography Guide — Best Shots at Each Temple
Angkor Wat is best photographed at sunrise (reflection in the moat) and late afternoon (golden light on the western facade). Bayon demands a wide-angle lens for the faces — shoot from the upper terrace at 7:00 AM when the light is soft. Ta Prohm is a natural-light paradise: the tree roots over doorways create dramatic frames, and the dappled jungle light is most beautiful before 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM.
Banteay Srei's pink sandstone glows in morning light — bring a macro lens for the incredible detail work. Pre Rup and Phnom Bakheng offer sunset panoramas — a telephoto lens captures Angkor Wat's silhouette from Pre Rup's upper platform. For Beng Mealea, a wide-angle lens captures the scale of the collapsed galleries.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited inside the park. Tripods are allowed but not inside the central galleries of Angkor Wat. Always carry lens cloths — humidity fogs lenses constantly.
Visiting Temples with Kids
Angkor with children is absolutely doable if you plan around their energy levels. Start with Angkor Wat at sunrise — kids love the early adventure and the moat is mesmerising. Bayon is a hit with children because of the giant stone faces (it feels like a giant puzzle).
Ta Prohm is the ultimate kids' temple — the tree roots look like something from a fantasy movie, and finding the dinosaur carving is a great scavenger hunt. Skip Ta Keo (too steep) and Phnom Bakheng (too crowded and hot). Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang are calm and shaded.
For the tuk-tuk ride, bring snacks, water, sunscreen (SPF 50 minimum), hats, and a portable fan. Most children under 8 will be done after three temples, so pick the Big Three and call it a day. Pack a midday break at your hotel pool.
Children under 12 enter free. Toilet facilities exist at major temples but bring wet wipes.
Scams, Safety & Common Mistakes
The Angkor temples are generally very safe, but a few scams persist. Beware of unofficial guides who approach at temple entrances claiming you need a guide — you do not. Children selling postcards and bracelets can be persistent: a firm 'no thank you' works.
Never buy antiquities or old stones — they are either fake or illegally looted, and export is a serious criminal offence. Watch your step inside temples: uneven stones, steep stairs without railings, and slippery moss are the real dangers. Bring a headlamp if you visit at sunrise — the paths are dark.
Stay hydrated: heat exhaustion is common, especially in March to May when temperatures exceed 38 degrees Celsius. Apply sunscreen every two hours. Monkey encounters at Angkor Wat are common — do not feed them and secure your belongings.
The biggest tourist mistake is trying to see too many temples in one day and ending up exhausted and temple-fatigued by noon. Less is more.
A Brief History of Angkor
The Khmer Empire was founded in 802 CE when Jayavarman II declared himself universal monarch on Phnom Kulen, north of present-day Siem Reap. Over the next six centuries, successive kings built increasingly ambitious temple-mountains as symbols of their divine authority. Yasovarman I moved the capital to Angkor in 889 CE and built the first baray (reservoir).
Suryavarman II built Angkor Wat in the early 12th century as his state temple and eventual mausoleum — it remains the largest religious building ever constructed. Jayavarman VII, the last great builder-king, converted the empire to Buddhism and built Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan and dozens of hospitals and rest houses across the empire. After his death, the empire slowly declined.
Ayutthaya (Siam) sacked Angkor in 1431, and the capital moved south to Phnom Penh. The temples were never entirely abandoned — Angkor Wat was maintained by Buddhist monks — but the jungle reclaimed most of the complex. French explorer Henri Mouhot brought Angkor to Western attention in 1860, and restoration has continued ever since under French, Cambodian and international teams.
About the author
Stephane Jambu
Siem Reap Resident & Travel Writer
Stephane Jambu has lived in Siem Reap for years and has explored the temples of Angkor in every season and at every hour. From pre-dawn sunrise sessions to rainy-season solitude at Beng Mealea, his guides are based on hundreds of personal visits — not quick tourist stops.
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50+ Things to DoFrequently Asked Questions
How much does the Angkor Pass cost?
The 1-day pass costs $37, the 3-day pass costs $62 (valid over 10 days), and the 7-day pass costs $72 (valid over 1 month). Children under 12 enter free. Buy at the Angkor Enterprise ticket office on Apsara Road.
What time does Angkor Wat open?
The park opens at 5:00 AM for sunrise visitors. The ticket office also opens at 5:00 AM. The park closes at 5:30 PM. You must enter before the closing time.
Is a guide necessary?
Not strictly necessary, but a good guide transforms the experience by explaining the symbolism, history and hidden details you would otherwise miss. Budget $25 to $50 for a full-day licensed guide. Book through your hotel or a reputable agency.
What should I wear to the temples?
Shoulders and knees must be covered at Angkor Wat's upper level and several other temples. Bring a lightweight long-sleeved shirt or scarf. Comfortable walking shoes with grip are essential — sandals are not recommended for steep temples like Ta Keo and Pre Rup.
Can I use a drone at Angkor?
No. Drone photography is strictly prohibited throughout the Angkor Archaeological Park. Penalties include confiscation of equipment and fines. No exceptions for any permit or license.
How many days do I need?
One day covers the essentials (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm). Two days allow a comfortable pace with the Grand Circuit and Banteay Srei. Three days add the outer temples (Beng Mealea, Koh Ker) for the ultimate experience. Most visitors find two days ideal.
Is Angkor suitable for wheelchair users?
Angkor Wat's ground level and the South Gate causeway are relatively accessible. Bayon and Ta Prohm have uneven terrain. Upper levels of most temples are not wheelchair accessible. Contact a tour operator specialising in accessible travel for a customised itinerary.
When is the best time to visit?
November to February offers the best combination of cool temperatures, dry weather and manageable crowds. December and January are peak season. September and October are underrated: the jungle is lush and green, and you will have many temples to yourself.
Can I buy the pass online?
As of 2026, the Angkor Pass must be purchased in person at the Angkor Enterprise ticket office on Apsara Road. They accept cash (USD) and major credit cards. Your photo is taken on the spot.
Is the sunrise worth it?
Absolutely yes. The silhouette of Angkor Wat's five towers reflected in the moat at dawn is one of the most iconic images in travel. Arrive by 5:15 AM and position yourself left of the reflecting pool for the best angle.
How much should I tip a tuk-tuk driver?
For a full-day temple tour, $3 to $5 on top of the agreed fare is standard and appreciated. Drivers wake up at 4:30 AM for sunrise tours and wait at every temple. If they provided exceptional service, $5 to $10 is generous.
Can I re-enter the park on a 1-day pass?
Yes. The 1-day pass is valid for the entire day from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM. You can exit and re-enter as many times as you like. Many visitors return to town for lunch and come back for the afternoon.
Is Beng Mealea included in the Angkor Pass?
Yes, since 2020 Beng Mealea has been included in the main Angkor Pass at no extra charge. Koh Ker is also included. Previously, each required a separate $5 ticket.
Where can I eat near the temples?
Several restaurants are clustered near Angkor Thom and along the road between temples. Prices are tourist-level ($5 to $10 for a meal). For better value, eat in Siem Reap before or after your temple visit. Many tuk-tuk drivers know good local spots.
What about the rainy season?
The rainy season (June to October) brings afternoon thunderstorms but mornings are usually dry. The upside: fewer tourists, lush green jungle, full moats for reflections, and dramatic cloud formations for photography. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof bag for your camera.