Guide to Visiting Angkor Wat in 1 Days – Everything You Need To Know

Angkor Wat is a magnificent temple complex in Cambodia, holding the title of the world’s largest religious monument by area. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, it served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before transitioning to a Buddhist site.

Here’s a guide to visiting Angkor Wat in 1 Day:

Planning:

• Tickets: Purchase your pass in advance (1-day, 3-day, or week-long options) to avoid queues. Consider a multi-day pass if you have extra time, as Angkor Wat is just one of many temples.
• Start Early: Aim for a pre-dawn (4:30 am) start to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, or arrive by 7:30 am for regular hours.
• Temple hopping: Decide on your itinerary beforehand. Here’s a suggestion with a mix of popular temples and hidden gems:

Itinerary:

• Morning:

  • Angkor Wat Sunrise (Optional): Witness the majestic temple bathed in golden light. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Ta Prohm Temple: The “Tomb Raider temple” overrun by trees, offering a unique and atmospheric exploration.
  • Banteay Kdei Temple: A smaller but serene complex with intricate carvings.
  • Pre Rup Temple (Optional): Offers panoramic views from its hilltop location, great for sunrise or sunset.

• Afternoon:

  • Lunch Break: Take a break in Siem Reap or enjoy a picnic lunch near a temple.
  • East Mebon (Optional): A remote temple on an island accessible by boat, offering a glimpse into a quieter Angkor.
  • Ta Som Temple: Similar to Ta Prohm but less crowded, with giant fig trees entwined around the structure.
  • Neak Pean: A small but interesting temple representing a miniature floating city on a lake.
  • Preah Khan Temple: A grand monastery with a network of corridors and courtyards to explore.
  • Angkor Thom (Optional): The fortified city with the famous Bayon Temple featuring hundreds of smiling faces.
    • Bayon Temple: An impressive and unique temple with multiple faces carved into its towers.
    • Elephant Terraces and South Gate: Remnants of the grand royal city.

• Evening (Optional):

  • Sunset at Phnom Bakheng (Optional): A popular spot for sunset views over the Angkor Wat plains. Be prepared for crowds.
  • Angkor Wat at Night (limited schedule): Experience a different perspective with special light shows on select evenings (check schedules).

Tips:

• Dress modestly: Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples.
• Comfortable shoes: There’s a lot of walking involved.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential.
• Hydration: Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot afternoon.
• Respectful behavior: Be mindful of the sacred nature of the temples.

This is a jam-packed itinerary, so prioritize what interests you most and adjust based on your pace and preferences. Remember, Angkor Wat is vast and deserves time to explore. Enjoy your Angkor adventure!