Sunrise at Angkor Wat: A Magical Experience

If you are looking for a memorable way to start your day in Siem Reap, you should not miss the opportunity to witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat, the largest and most magnificent temple in the world. The sight of the sun rising behind the iconic towers of Angkor Wat is truly breathtaking and unforgettable.

But how can you make the most of this experience? Here are some tips and suggestions to help you plan your visit and enjoy the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

When to go

The best time to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat is during the dry season, from November to May, when the sky is clear and the weather is pleasant. However, you can still enjoy the sunrise during the rainy season, from June to October, as the clouds can create dramatic effects and colors.

The sunrise time varies throughout the year, but it is usually between 5:30 am and 6:30 am. You can check the exact time online or ask your hotel staff.

How to get there

To enter the Angkor Archaeological Park, you need to buy a ticket, which costs $37 for one day, $62 for three days, or $72 for seven days. You can buy the ticket at the official ticket office, which opens at 5:00 am, or online at Angkor Enterprise.

If you don’t have the ticket, you should leave your hotel by 4:30 am to avoid the long queues at the ticket office. If you already have the ticket, you can leave by 5:00 am and head straight to Angkor Wat.

You can get to Angkor Wat by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or car. The tuk-tuk is the most popular and convenient option, as it can accommodate up to four people and costs around $25 for the whole day. You can arrange the tuk-tuk with your hotel or find one on the street. The bicycle is a cheaper and eco-friendly option, but it requires more physical effort and time. You can rent a bicycle for around $7 per day from many shops in Siem Reap. The car is the most comfortable and expensive option, as it can fit up to seven people and costs around $40 - $60 for the whole day. You can book a car with a driver through your hotel or a travel agency.

Where to watch

The best spot to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat is in front of the main entrance, where you can see the reflection of the temple and the sun in the moat. However, this spot is also the most crowded, so you should arrive early and find a good position. Alternatively, you can watch the sunrise from the left or right side of the temple, where you can get a different perspective and avoid the crowds.

What to bring

To enjoy the sunrise at Angkor Wat, you should bring the following items:

• Your ticket, which you need to show at the entrance.

• A flashlight or a phone with a flashlight, which you need to navigate the dark temple grounds.

• A warm jacket or a scarf, which you need to keep warm in the chilly morning.

• A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, which you need to protect yourself from the sun.

• A camera or a phone with a camera, which you need to capture the stunning views.

• A bottle of water and some snacks, which you need to stay hydrated and energized.

• A mosquitoes repellent, which to keep your self protected from the insects.

What to do after

After watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat, you have several options to continue your exploration of the Angkor Archaeological Park. You can either stay at Angkor Wat and visit the temple complex, which opens at 6:00 am, or you can move on to other nearby temples, such as Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, or Banteay Srei. You can also return to your hotel for breakfast and rest, and come back later in the day.

Whatever you choose to do, you will surely have a wonderful and unforgettable experience of seeing the sunrise at Angkor Wat. It is one of the most magical and rewarding things to do in Siem Reap, and you should not miss it.