How to Plan Your Siem Reap Tour to Witness Angkor Wat Sunrise

Siem Reap is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia with Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, as its star attraction. And there is no better way to explore Angkor Wat than to witness its magnificent sunrise. This incredible experience will leave you speechless and create unforgettable memories. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to plan your tour to experience the stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Siem Reap for the sunrise tour is in the dry season, from October to April, when the climate is moderate and temperatures are cooler. During this period, you will be able to witness the full glory of the sunrise at Angkor Wat with clear skies and vivid colors. The sunrise usually begins around 5:30 am, so it’s best to arrive at the temple around 4:30 to secure your spot.

Step 2: Book Your Sunrise Tour

To have a hassle-free tour, it’s best to book your Siem Reap sunrise tour online in advance. This tour offered by GetYourGuide is a perfect choice for those who want to experience the best of the Angkor Wat sunrise, explore the surrounding temples and learn about the rich history of the Khmer Empire.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

On the day of your tour, make sure you wear comfortable clothing and footwear as there will be a lot of walking and climbing involved. Bring along a charged smartphone or camera to capture the breathtaking views of the sunrise and the temple complex. However, note that you are not allowed to bring shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, or consume alcohol and drugs inside the temple complex.

Step 4: Start Your Tour Early

Your guide and driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Siem Reap around 4:30 in the morning to take you to the entrance of the Angkor Archaeological Park. After purchasing your temple pass, you will make your way to the best spot to watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat.

Step 5: Watch the Sun Rise over Angkor Wat

When the sun starts to rise behind Angkor Wat, the temple complex will slowly illuminate with stunning shades of orange, pink and gold. Your guide will provide you with interesting facts and insights about Angkor Wat and the Khmer Empire while you enjoy the incredible sunrise. This remarkable experience is perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture some of the most stunning pictures.

Step 6: Explore the Surrounding Temples

After watching the sunrise, your Siem Reap tour will proceed to explore the surrounding temples. Bayon Temple and Banteay Kdei are among some of the notable temples that you will have the chance to explore with an experienced guide. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the intricate carvings and religious history associated with each temple. The walk around the temple complex is peaceful and green, with a refreshing breeze in the morning, making it a perfect morning walk.

Step 7: Return to Siem Reap

After a leisurely walk around the temple complex, your driver and guide will take you back to Siem Reap where you can relax or explore more of the city on your own.

Book Your Tour Now

Watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat is a must-see experience for everyone who visits Siem Reap. With proper planning and booking, you can have an unforgettable and hassle-free journey that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So book your tour now for an adventure that you won’t forget! Book Your Tour Here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Siem Reap

Siem Reap, located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, is a famous tourist destination known for the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex. This city has a lot to offer visitors in terms of history, culture, food, and other attractions. If you are planning a trip to Siem Reap, you may have some questions in mind. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap:

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

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and less humid, making it more comfortable to explore the temples and other attractions. The wet season, which runs from May to October, can be hot and humid, with frequent rainstorms that can sometimes make it difficult to get around.

2. How do I get to Siem Reap?

The easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by plane. Siem Reap International Airport is located about 10 kilometers from the city center and is served by several airlines, including Cambodia Angkor Air, Thai Airways, and Vietnam Airlines. You can also take a bus or a taxi from Phnom Penh, which is about a 6-hour drive away.

3. What are the top attractions in Siem Reap?

The top attraction in Siem Reap is the Angkor Wat temple complex, which includes dozens of ancient temples and ruins. Other popular attractions include the Siem Reap Art Center Market, the Angkor National Museum, and the Phare, the Cambodian Circus. You can also visit the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake.

4. What is the dress code for visiting the temples?

Visitors to the temples are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing or clothing with offensive slogans or graphics. If you are unsure what to wear, you can rent a sarong or scarf at the entrance to the temples.

5. What is the local currency in Siem Reap?

The local currency in Siem Reap is the Cambodian Riel, but US dollars are widely accepted, and many places quote prices in both currencies. You can exchange money at banks or exchange offices in the city, or you can withdraw cash from ATMs. Most major credit cards are also accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.

6. What is the food like in Siem Reap?

The food in Siem Reap is diverse and delicious, with influences from Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisine. Some popular dishes include Amok, a fish curry cooked in coconut milk, and Lok Lak, stir-fried beef served with rice and a tangy dipping sauce. There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available, and you can find street food stalls and restaurants at all price points.

7. Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?

Siem Reap is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like any popular tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to avoid theft or scams. Be cautious when using ATM machines, and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. It is also a good idea to stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone in remote areas.

8. What is the nightlife like in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Pub Street is the main hub for nightlife in Siem Reap, with a variety of bars and restaurants offering everything from live music to craft beer. There are also some quieter rooftop bars and lounges where you can enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset over the city.

9. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?

Cambodia is a predominantly Buddhist country, and visitors are expected to show respect for local customs and beliefs. This means removing your shoes before entering homes or temples, speaking in a quiet voice, and not touching or pointing at religious statues or icons. It is also considered rude to use your feet to point or touch objects, so try to keep your feet on the ground when sitting or standing.

10. How do I get around Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to travel further afield, you can take a tuk-tuk, which is a motorcycle-drawn carriage that is a popular mode of transportation in Cambodia. You can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike if you are comfortable riding in traffic. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but they can be more expensive than tuk-tuks.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a famous town located in northwestern Cambodia, known for being the gateway to the world-renowned Angkor Wat temple complex. In this guide, we will explore some of the best things to do in Siem Reap and help you plan your perfect trip.

1. Visit Angkor Wat and its Surrounding Temples

No visit to Siem Reap would be complete without exploring the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest religious monument in the world, consisting of a vast network of temples, bridges, and canals. Make sure to allocate at least one full day to explore the main temples such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a bicycle to visit each temple, and we recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.

2. Explore the Siem Reap Night Markets

Siem Reap’s night markets offer an excellent opportunity to indulge in some authentic Cambodian food and shop for unique souvenirs. The Angkor Night Market and the Made in Cambodia Market are two of the most famous markets in Siem Reap, located just a few blocks from each other. These markets open after sunset and offer a great variety of street food, handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Bargaining is essential when shopping at these markets, so make sure to negotiate a fair price.

3. Enjoy a Traditional Apsara Dance Show

The Apsara dance is a traditional folk dance in Cambodia that dates back to the Angkor era. Many restaurants and hotels in Siem Reap offer dinner and dance shows, giving visitors a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Cambodian dance and music. The performances usually include live music, traditional costumes, and intricate dance routines that depict mythical stories of ancient Cambodia. We recommend the Phare, The Cambodian Circus, which offers a unique twist on the traditional Apsara dance and combines elements of theater, circus, and music.

4. Explore the Tonle Sap Lake

The Tonle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and is home to some of Cambodia’s most unique natural wonders. The lake is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is famous for its floating villages, stilted homes, and the floating market. The best way to explore the lake is by a guided boat tour, which will take you through different communities and offer insights into the lives of locals who live on and around the lake.

5. Visit the War Museum Cambodia

If you are interested in learning about Cambodia’s tumultuous history, a visit to the War Museum is a must-do. The museum exhibits various weapons and vehicles used during the Khmer Rouge regime, including tanks, landmines, and guns. You can take a guided tour of the museum, which includes a briefing on the political history of Cambodia and the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum is open every day, and the entrance fee includes a guided tour.

6. Take a Cambodian Cooking Class

Cambodian cuisine is often overlooked, but it has a rich and unique flavor profile that is worth exploring. Many cooking schools in Siem Reap offer classes where visitors can learn to make classic Cambodian dishes such as fish amok and beef lok lak. The classes are held in a fun and relaxed environment, and you get to eat what you cook. We recommend taking a cooking class with the Sugar Palm Restaurant, which offers a personalized experience that includes a trip to the local market to buy ingredients.

7. Visit the Artisans Angkor Silk Farm

If you are interested in traditional handicrafts, a visit to Artisans Angkor is a must-see. The silk farm produces high-quality silk textiles using traditional techniques, and you can witness every stage of the silk-making process from raising the silkworms to harvesting the silk cocoons. You can also purchase handmade textiles and souvenirs made by local artisans at their on-site workshop.

Book Your Tour Now

Siem Reap is a town that offers a wide range of activities to suit all tastes and interests. From exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to indulging in Cambodian cuisine and cultural experiences, Siem Reap is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. We hope this guide has provided some valuable insights and tips to help you plan your perfect trip to Siem Reap.