Exploring Angkor Complex Temples and Sunset Tours in Siem Reap

Located in the north-western corner of Cambodia, Siem Reap is a gem of a town surrounded by lush green forests and ancient ruins. Each year, this town welcomes visitors from around the world who come to experience the historical wonder of Angkor Wat and the nearby temples.

Angkor Wat, one of the most remarkable complexes of religious monuments in the world, is a major tourist draw for Siem Reap. At this temple complex, you will find well-preserved structures, intricate artwork, and quaint outdoor spaces. The entire complex is filled with a beautiful aura that transports you back to the days of kings and queens.

To get you started on the perfect Angkor Wat experience, here are some tips to make exploring the Angkor Complex temples more enjoyable:

Tips for Exploring the Angkor Complex Temples

• Plan your visit to ensure you make the most out of it. There are more than a thousand temples spread over a wide area, so it is impossible to see all of them in one visit.
• Use the Abbey Resort’s Angkor guide to plan your visit. This useful website has all you need to know about the entry fees, opening times, essential facts, cultural information, and tips on what to wear.
• Choose your preferred method of exploring – there are several ways to explore the temples. You could hire a tuk-tuk driver to take you around, rent a bicycle or scooter, or even take a helicopter ride.
• Bring water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized.
• Leave enough time for exploration – you would not want to rush through this unique experience as you never know which corner of the temple complex will end up becoming your favorite spot.

Now that you’ve planned your route, here’s how to prepare for the actual visit:

Getting Ready for The Visit

• Wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the weather conditions and closed footwear.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellant.
• Make sure you have enough drinking water and snacks.
• Get a guidebook or a map and also make sure to have back up batteries on your phone or camera in case it runs out.
• Take lots of photographs and make sure to have an appropriate memory card installed so you don’t miss out on any picture-perfect moments.

Apart from exploring the temples, you may also want to add unique experiences such as a sunset tour to your stay in Siem Reap. With colorful skies, tranquil temples, and impressive silhouettes, an Angkor sunset tour makes for a delightful experience.

Angkor Sunset Tour

The sunset tour of Angkor gives you a chance to view some of Siem Reap’s most breathtaking sights, including the iconic Banteay Srei. These tours typically start around 4 PM and end by 8 PM as all the action happens around dusk.

During a sunset tour, travelers usually visit spots like Phnom Bakheng hilltop temple and Ta Prohm temple which have been made famous by the Hollywood film ‘Tomb Raider.’ A sunset tour has a special charm and visitors would be able to get some great pictures here with the setting sun in the background. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a sunset tour with professional photography and video capabilities included.

The best way to get the most out of a sunset tour is to book with an experienced operator who knows all the angles for great pictures. At GetYourGuide, travelers can book an experienced tour guide who will take them to some great spots while they explore Angkor Wat during sunset time.

After all the sightseeing activities are done, visitors may also want to spend some time at Pub Street enjoying local delicacies and drinks. For those who are looking for a bit more excitement in Siem Reap, there are options like ATV rides or helicopter tours that can provide an equal amount of thrill.

Exploring Angkor Complex Temples and experiencing a sunset tour is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that can be thoroughly enjoyed only when done right. Taking some time out to plan ahead and book an experienced tour guide will make sure that travelers get the best out of their visit and make memories that will last a lifetime. So book your adventure now!

An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap: Exploring Angkor Complex Temples and Sunset Tours

Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Its most famous attraction is the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws millions of visitors every year. But beyond the temples, this city has so much more to offer. Here is an insider’s guide to the hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make a visit to Siem Reap unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Angkor Wat temple complex is the most famous attraction in Siem Reap, there are many other hidden gems that only locals know about. One of these is the Cambodia Landmine Museum, which tells the story of how landmines have affected the Cambodian people, and showcases the work being done to remove them. Another hidden gem is the Phare Circus, a locally-run circus that features performers who are all former street children. The shows are a mix of acrobatics, dance, and live music.

Another lesser-known attraction is the Tonle Sap Lake, which is the largest lake in Southeast Asia. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and see floating villages, where the houses and shops are built on top of rafts and bamboo stilts. The lake is also home to a unique ecosystem and a diverse array of aquatic life.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

Cambodian cuisine is a delicious mix of Southeast Asian and French influences. One must-try dish is Amok, a steamed coconut fish curry served in banana leaves. The vibrant local markets are the best place to sample Cambodian street food, such as nom banh chok (rice noodles with fish curry) and banh xeo (savory crepes filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts).

For a unique dining experience, head to the temples at nightfall and indulge in a traditional Khmer barbecue dinner. Situated amidst the temples and lush greenery, enjoy the serene and peaceful surroundings as you feast on yummy Cambodian fare.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, and Music

The Cambodian people have a rich cultural heritage that is exemplified in their festivals, art, and music. The most important festival in Cambodia is the Khmer New Year celebration, which takes place in April and features street parades, traditional games, and religious ceremonies. Another popular festival is the Water Festival or Bon Om Tuk in November, which celebrates Cambodia’s connection with the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers.

The traditional arts of pottery, stone carving, and silk weaving have been used to make handicrafts and artwork that are unique to Cambodia. The Angkor Handicraft Association is a great place to browse and buy local crafts, and also offers workshops where visitors can try their hand at these traditional crafts.

Cambodian music is a blend of traditional instruments and modern influences. The best place to witness this is at a traditional dance performance, like the Apsara Dance Show, which features dancers dressed in traditional Khmer costumes, accompanied by live music.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Siem Reap has a rich and tragic history that dates back to the Khmer Rouge regime. The best place to learn about this is at the Cambodia Landmine Museum and also the War Museum, located in the opposite direction of Angkor. Along with this, visit Banteay Srei temple, which is known for its exquisite carvings and intricate architecture.

Another fascinating historical site is the Banteay Kdei temple, which is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a monk who was buried alive in its walls. Take a guided tour of the temple during the day and hear the captivating stories of its past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience Siem Reap like a local, rent a bike and explore the nearby villages. The rural landscapes and traditional houses provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Another unique experience is to take a hot air balloon ride over the Angkor temple complex at sunrise, witness the temples in the morning light from a height.

Lastly, visit the Preah Kahn temple, a massive ancient ruin that is slowly being reclaimed by the jungle. The temple is less crowded than the other temples, giving visitors the chance to explore and take in its majesty in peace.

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a land of hidden gems, cultural experiences, and unmatched beauty. With this insider’s guide, experience the city through the eyes of a local, and take home unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.