Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Mention Cambodia and instantly one thing comes to mind,  Angkor Wat. Located in Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s most iconic and world-renowned landmark. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before gradually transforming into a Buddhist site. Angkor Wat holds the title of the largest religious monument in the world. In fact, it is Angkor Wat that has firmly placed Cambodia on the map as one of the top travel destinations and a must-see world tourist attraction (BOROBUDUR TEMPLE INDONESIA).

Rightly so, a "wonder of Southeast Asia," a "man-made wonder," and a "must-see ancient wonder." It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year.

Arriving and Staying in Siem Reap

For some tourists, Cambodia and Vietnam (WHAT TO DO IN HO CHI MINH CITY) are included together in one tour. For others, the journey may be solely to Cambodia. Arrivals are usually via the Siem Reap, Angkor International Airport (SAI), located about 45 km from Angkor Wat.

 

There are various accommodation options in Siem Reap city, though not directly next to Angkor Wat. It all depends on your budget. Most tourist hotels are based in Siem Reap city, offering a wide range of choices, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The city is about 6 to 8 km from the temple complex, making it a convenient base for visitors (AYUTTHAYA THAILAND TOUR).

 

Purchasing Angkor Wat Pass

Angkor pass can be purchased online via the official Angkor Enterprise portal. You may choose from:

1-day pass

3-day pass

7-day pass

 

These passes can be booked up to 30 days in advance, with no additional fees and at the same price as in-person purchases. After payment, you’ll receive a digital PDF ticket, which can be shown on your phone, printing is optional.

 

Alternatively, tickets can be bought in person at the Angkor Ticket Office, located about 4 km from Siem Reap town center, open daily from around 4:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Touring Angkor Wat
Visitors who choose the one-day tour typically start in the morning. You enter the temple complex by walking along paths lined with stone sculptures on both sides. During the hot season, the air can be quite dusty. Immediately, you’ll be struck by the sight before you, the five iconic towers soaring into the sky. It’s a powerful and unforgettable view that words can hardly capture.

 

With only one day to explore, the focus is on moving steadily through the vast Angkor Wat complex - pausing to admire details, take photos, and fully discover the temple’s grandeur.

From Angkor Wat, the walk leads to Angkor Thom, the walled city built by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century. Here you’ll find remarkable landmarks such as:

Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces

Terrace of the Leper King, famous for its intricate carvings

Baphuon, an impressive pyramidal temple offering stunning views

Fans of adventure movies will recognize this area as the filming location for Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

There is generally a break for lunch. After that, the walk continues to Bakan, the top level of Angkor Wat’s central tower. You cross a long causeway over the moat, then climb steep steps through three levels of the temple to reach the central platform with the five towers.

 

Bakan stands about 42 meters high and represents Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. From the top, you can view ancient carvings and statues up close, and take in wide views of the temple and its surroundings. The climb is steep but worth it for the unique perspective on the temple’s design, an absolutely fulfilling experience.

Bakheng Mountain: Sunset Watching
One of the final stops is Bakheng Mountain for sunset viewing. It involves another uphill walk, followed by a wait at the base of a steep staircase. Visitors are allowed up in small groups due to limited space at the top. By the time you reach the summit, the area is usually crowded, and you'll need to find a spot among the others.

 

As the sun sets behind Angkor Wat, the temple complex glows in the golden light, a striking view that rewards the effort. It’s a fitting end to the day.

A one-day tour of Angkor Wat is physically demanding. It includes long stretches of walking and steep climbs. By the end, you're likely covered in dust, your belongings too. A good wash and rest are not just welcome, they're necessary.