Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a must-see destination full of amazing ancient temples and breathtaking landscapes. Millions of people have journeyed there to experience one of the world's most spectacular ancient sites.
If this has been your dream or you've been seeking an adventure - this Angkor Wat travel guide will show you all that the wondrous city has to offer! From delving into its deep cultural history, exploring majestic 12th-century architecture, tasting traditional Khmer cuisine, and meeting friendly locals, these are experiences like no other!
Things to See and Do in Angkor Wat
1. Visit the Grand Palace
Get a glimpse of the grandeur and beauty of Angkor Wat with a visit to its palace. This 12th-century Khmer structure comprises intricate temples, sculptures, and bas-reliefs.
2. Tour the South Gate
Explore the mysterious south gate of Angkor Wat. The imposing entranceway will captivate travelers as they enter one of the world’s most impressive ancient sites.
3. Climb Phnom Bakheng
Enjoy magnificent views over Angkor from atop this hilltop temple outside Siem Reap city limits. Climb during sunset for stunning views!
4. Trek Bayon Temple
Discover the unique architecture of this shrine-like temple built in the late 12th/early 13th centuries. This sandstone structure has 54 towers and 216 faces carved into it.
5. Stroll Sras Srang
Stroll around this artificial lake, known as the “royal bath." Boats, monuments, and pavilions can all be found here – making it a great spot for photos!
6. Marvel at Ta Prohm
This ornately decorated temple is one of Angkor’s most popular attractions due to its crumbling ruins juxtaposed with thick jungle foliage. An absolute must-see!
7. Tour Angkor Thom
Explore this ancient city which served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. This walled city has many impressive monuments, including Bayon Temple and Baphuon.
8. Explore Beng Mealea
Venture deep into the jungle to uncover this hidden gem! The overgrown temple ruins here are unlike anything you’ve seen before – explore its mysteries today!
9. Shop Night Market
Browse through Angkor Wat's bustling night market for some amazing finds, such as traditional clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs! A great place to pick up a unique gift or two.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Sample some of Cambodia's delicious local cuisine while in Angkor Wat. Try dishes like amok (a curried fish dish) and bai sach chrouk (pork and rice). So yummy! This Angkor Wat travel guide will ensure you make the most of your time in this wondrous city. With so much to explore, experience, taste, and see – there is something for everyone here! Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Money-Saving Tips
- Use the Angkor Pass - get a discounted entrance fee with this multi-day pass.
- Take advantage of free admission to public parks and markets in Siem Reap.
- Opt for public transportation when possible instead of taxis or tuk-tuks.
- Bring your water bottle and snacks to save money on drinks and food while sightseeing.
- Look out for local deals and discounts at shops and restaurants throughout the city!
- Consider staying in a budget hostel or guesthouse to save on accommodation costs.
- Travel during low season periods for cheaper flights and packages.
- Buy souvenirs from local markets instead of tourist shops to get better deals.
- Avoid expensive restaurants, bars, and nightclubs - plenty of great places with affordable prices!
- Use your time wisely - plan an efficient itinerary to make the most out of every day and not waste money on unnecessary activities! With these money-saving tips, enjoying Angkor Wat without breaking the bank is possible!
Typical Costs
Accommodation
Accommodation in Angkor Wat can vary greatly depending on your budget. You can expect to pay anywhere from $7-USD 25 per night for a basic room in a guesthouse and up to USD 100+ for luxurious resorts.
Transportation
Tuk-tuks are the most popular way of getting around Siem Reap, with fares costing between $2-USD 5 per ride. Taxis are also available at a fixed rate, usually starting at around USD 15.
Food
Khmer cuisine is delicious and affordable, with dishes such as amok costing only about $1-2 USD per plate. Western food is significantly more expensive, averaging around $5-10 USD per meal.
Activities
Entrance fees to the Angkor Wat temple complex cost USD 37 for a one-day pass, or you can purchase a three-day pass for USD 62. Other activities, such as boat tours and elephant rides, usually cost around $20-USD 30 per person.
Suggested Budget
For a budget stay in Angkor Wat, you should spend around $50-75 USD daily. This will cover accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. If your budget allows, you can easily upgrade to nicer hotels and restaurants for a more luxurious experience!
How to Stay Safe
Angkor Wat is a popular tourist destination, and taking the necessary safety precautions is important. Here are some tips for staying safe while in Angkor Wat:
1. Be aware of your surroundings at all times - avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of potential scams or pickpockets.
2. Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the temple complex – the grounds can get slippery after rainfall, so make sure you have good traction on your shoes.
3. Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen – temperatures can reach up to 37°C (99°F) during Cambodia’s hot season, so stay hydrated!
4. Keep an eye on your belongings – pickpockets can be common in crowded areas, so keep your valuables close.
5. Don’t accept food or drinks from strangers – it could be a scam, and you should never take chances with your safety.
6. Be respectful of the culture - behave appropriately at all times and dress modestly when visiting temples or sacred sites.
7. Make copies of important documents - such as your passport and ID card, and keep them safe along with other valuables like cash and credit cards.
8. Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable hotels – this helps reduce the risk of being targeted by scammers who may try to target you when using ATMs if you are alone.
9. Take a taxi after dark – it’s better to be safe than sorry, so try to take a taxi rather than walk around at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
FAQs
Q: What is Angkor Wat?
A: Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a complex of sacred ancient temples built by the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 12th centuries. It is considered one of South-East Asia's most important archaeological sites and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q: How do I get to Angkor Wat?
A: The easiest way to get to Siem Reap, where Angkor Wat is located, is by plane. Direct flights are from Bangkok, Phnom Penh (Cambodia's capital), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), and other Southeast Asian cities. You can also take a bus or a boat from other cities in Cambodia.
Q: What is there to do besides visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap?
A: Siem Reap has plenty of activities and attractions besides Angkor Wat. There are countless beautiful landscapes to explore, such as Tonle Sap Lake, Beng Mealea Temple, Kulen Mountain National Park, and Preah Vihear Province. You can also go night markets shopping, take a cooking class to learn how to make delicious traditional Khmer dishes and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is much to explore in Siem Reap and its surrounding area. Angkor Wat is one of the world's most spectacular ancient sites, with an incredible amount of culture and history waiting to be discovered! Use this Angkor Wat travel guide for a truly unforgettable journey!
