How to Get to Angkor Wat? It’s Super Easy to Get to Angkor Wat, Cambodia

In a land of wonders, Angkor Wat stands above other attractions in Cambodia as the country’s premiere attraction. The ancient temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage site attracts 2.6 million tourists a year. Its popularity has led to a great supporting infrastructure for visitors, making getting there very easy. There is nowhere else like Angkor Wat in the world!

Where Is Angkor Wat Located in Cambodia?

Angkor Wat is part of Angkor Archaeological Park, a 400 km² area that includes the iconic temple city and other archaeological ruins. It is located in Siem Reap Province in northwestern Cambodia. Siem Reap city, the capital of the province, is only 5.5 km away to the south.

The entire site is home to more than just the Angkor Wat temple complex. Visitors can also explore numerous other temples, such as Banteay Srei, and a forested area with ruins and carvings.

Look at the specific location of Angkor Wat in Cambodia

What Is the Best Way to Visit Angkor Wat from Siem Reap Downtown?

There are many convenient options for getting to Angkor Wat from downtown Siem Reap.

Taxis are a convenient option that can be booked for a whole day, covering the return journey as well. You can expect to spend $20 to $30 per day. The drive from downtown Siem Reap only takes around 20 minutes. More luxurious private cars and vans can also be hired at a higher cost.

Tuk-tuks are popular options for their lower cost and local flavor. A full-day tuk-tuk can be arranged for around $15. They are conveniently available everywhere, but you’ll want to make sure there is good weather for the open-air ride.

Being so close to the city, it’s also possible to cycle to Angkor Wat. Standard bicycles can be rented for $3 to $6 per day. It takes 20-30 minutes to cycle there. A bike is also a great way to explore the larger area of Angkor Archaeological Park. The Grand Circuit route, which travels around the major temples, is 26 km long. It can be done as a leisurely ride during a day tour.

Angkor Wat Tuk-tuks

How to Get to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the City Where Angkor Wat Is Located?

The most common way to arrive in Siem Reap is by flying from a nearby departure point. Daily direct flights are available to Siem Reap International Airport from many regional cities, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Bangkok, Kunming, and Luang Prabang. Domestic connections from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville are also available.

Siem Reap can also be reached by road from many other cities in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. Tour buses, private cars, and taxis can make the overland journey. It is an opportunity to see more of the countryside, but it takes considerably longer. A bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes around 6 hours, compared to 45 minutes by flight.

It is also possible to take a ferry on the Tonle Sap River to Siem Reap. Tickets from Phnom Penh cost between $18 and $25. It is a leisurely journey that takes 4-6 hours and gives a unique perspective of the local landscapes. 

Siem Reap International Airport

Is One Day Enough to See the Angkor Wat?

One day is enough to focus on the main highlights of Angkor Wat. If you set out early by car or tuk-tuk, you can arrive in time to catch the beautiful sunrise at the temple complex. In one day, you can see the iconic temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm if you don’t linger too long at each spot.

Two to three days is recommended for a more in-depth experience. With more time, you can see lesser-known but still stunning temples like Preah Khan and Prasat Kravan. Going through Angkor Wat at a slower pace gives you more time to appreciate the intricate details of the architecture and a chance to wander the site, exploring any areas that catch your interest.

4 Days to Explore Cambodia’s Cultural Heart: Siem Reap

Siem Reap

More Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat

1. November to February is considered the best time to visit Angkor Wat. The weather is less hot during these months, and there is less chance of rain.
2. Sunrise and sunset are both worth seeing at Angkor Wat. The sunrise is usually between 5:30 and 6:00, and the famous sunrise photo location can be crowded, so get there early.
3. Buy tickets in advance. One-day passes cost $37, and three-day passes are $62.
4. Understand Angkor Wat dress codes. Dress modestly as much as you can . Shoulders and knees should be covered to respect local customs.
5. Sun protection is essential when out exploring all day. Wear a hat and sunglasses, and put on high-SPF sunscreen.
6. Get the most out of your trip by booking a tour with an experienced guide. Our local guides are experienced and knowledgeable and will make sure you see the hidden gems at Angkor Wat. 

Conclusion

Angkor Wat is one of the most convenient destinations in Cambodia and a must-see for any visitor to the country. Easily accessible from Siem Reap, you can easily spend a few days exploring the area as part of a Cambodia tour or see the highlights as part of a larger tour of Southeast Asia.

We have a full range of Angkor Wat tours to suit all travelers or contact us to start planning your personalized tour of this unique cultural and historic attraction.