How to Plan Your Angkor Wat Chronological 3days Tours with Sunrise and Sunset in Siem Reap

If you’re planning to visit Siem Reap, then it’s a must to include Angkor Wat in your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest religious monument in the world and boasts of fascinating architecture and cultural significance. However, planning a tour of Angkor Wat can be quite overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. That’s why we suggest this 3-day tour that covers all the hidden gems of the area with the added bonus of seeing the sunrise and sunset over the temples. In this post, you’ll learn how to plan your trip and what to expect during your journey.

Overview

This 3-day tour takes you on a chronological journey through the Angkor Wat temples, starting from the early Angkor period to the Bayon period. The tour is inclusive of air-conditioned transport, bottled water, all taxes and fees, a local spiritual shrine and Buddhist pagoda exploration, lunch, and breakfast. You’ll have an experienced English-speaking tour guide to take you through the history and significance behind each temple you visit. The sunrise and sunset are the cherry on top of your trip, as you’ll be able to see the temples in their full glory during these times.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• Lunch
• Breakfast
• A local spiritual shrine and Buddhist pagoda exploration
• All taxes and fees

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points are available at several central locations in Siem Reap, and the pickup time starts as early as 4:30 AM. To ensure they can pick you up at your accommodation, inform the tour operator of your address when you book.

Alternatively, you can also select a pickup point when booking. Whichever method you choose, ensure you’re ready and waiting for the pickup at the agreed time.

What to Expect

On the first day, you’ll be taken on a trip through the early Angkor period temples, such as Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei. The second day is all about Bayon and Angkor Thom, including the much talked about Angkor Thom Gate. On the last day, you’ll visit the Angkor Wat temple and watch the sunrise over the temple. After that, you’ll head back for breakfast, and head back later to watch the sunset over the temple.

Since the tour covers many temples, be prepared to do a lot of walking and climbing. If you’re not comfortable walking for long distances or have mobility issues, this tour may not be suitable for you.

Additional Info

Before booking, please note the following:

• Confirmation will be received at the time you book
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and surfaces are equipped for wheelchairs
• Infants must sit on laps
• Travelers should have moderate physical fitness
• Kindly let the operator know if you have any special requirements

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the start of the trip, and a full refund is available for cancellations before then. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour, you won’t receive a refund. Additionally, changes to the tour aren’t allowed less than 24 hours before the tour.

Booking

You can book the tour by visiting the viator website or clicking the link provided.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is an exceptional city, known for its rich heritage, ancient temples, and natural beauty. This city has it all – from historical sites to cultural experiences, outdoor activities to culinary delights. However, as a first-timer, you might have several questions about what things to do, when to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and more. In this post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap to help you plan a memorable trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to February, during the dry season. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. You can enjoy outdoor activities without any inconvenience during this time. The high season also sees several cultural events, including the Water festival and the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon, which are a treat for the tourists. However, you can expect to pay a premium for accommodation and tours during this peak season.

2. How do I get to Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is accessible via air, road, and water. The most convenient way to get here is by air, as Siem Reap International Airport (REP) is well-connected to several international destinations. You can also take a taxi or bus from Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city, which is around 300 km away from Siem Reap. If you are coming from Thailand, you can take a bus from Bangkok or a boat from the border town of Poipet.

3. What are the must-visit temples in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is famous for the Angkor Archaeological Park, which houses several ancient temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. You can purchase a one-day or multi-day pass to explore the park. Apart from the main temples, you can also visit the Roluos Group of Temples, which are older than the Angkor temples and have a unique historical significance.

4. What are the outdoor activities to do in Siem Reap?

Apart from temple hopping, you can indulge in several outdoor activities in Siem Reap. You can take a bike ride through the countryside and explore the rice fields and villages. You can go on a sunset cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake and witness the floating villages. You can also go on a hot air balloon ride or zip-lining to get a bird’s eye view of the city. If you are an adventure junkie, you can try your hand at quad biking, horse riding, or even explore the temples on a helicopter ride.

5. What are the local delicacies to try in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a vibrant food scene, with several restaurants and food stalls offering local and international cuisine. Some of the must-try local delicacies include fish amok, a steamed fish curry in coconut milk, and served in a banana leaf bowl, Khmer red curry, which is a meat curry made with lemongrass, turmeric, and galangal, and Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with rice and a fried egg on top. You can also try the street food, which includes grilled meat skewers, fried rice, and noodle dishes.

6. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the country, including Siem Reap. You can exchange dollars at several money changers and banks in the city. However, it is recommended to carry small denominations of riel for day-to-day purchases and tipping.

7. What is the dress code for visiting the temples in Siem Reap?

As the temples in Siem Reap are sacred sites, it is recommended to dress appropriately. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and wear clothing that covers their knees. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothes, as it might offend the locals and other tourists. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as you will need to walk a lot while exploring the temples.

8. What are the best areas to stay in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has several accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. The most popular areas to stay in are the Old Market area, where you can find several restaurants and pubs, the Pub Street area, which is the nightlife hub of the city, and the Wat Bo area, which is a peaceful neighborhood with several boutique hotels. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season, to avoid any inconvenience.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is an awe-inspiring destination that will captivate you with its historical treasures, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. We hope this post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap and helps you plan a memorable trip. Remember to respect the local culture and customs, stay hydrated, and carry sunscreen and insect repellant while exploring the city. Happy travels!