When traveling to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the first thing that comes to mind. Do you recognize that feeling? For me, I immediately thought of the iconic scenes from Tomb Raider. Those mysterious images of temples completely overgrown by giant trees were filmed there. How special is that? Enormous trees that have woven themselves like giant tentacles over ancient temples, as if nature has created its own work of art.
I bought a two-day ticket and that was exactly what I needed to truly understand this magical place. It gave me enough time not only to visit the main temples but also to fully absorb the atmosphere and ancient history. What an impressive experience!
My Stay in Siem Reap
During my three-day exploration, I stayed in a luxury hotel. After weeks of traveling without seeing a decent swimming pool, this was a welcome luxury. The 12 and 20-hour bus rides had taken their toll, and I had neglected myself a bit by drinking too little water. I even felt it in my kidneys.
The hotel, the spa, and a good hamburger were therefore doubly enjoyable! Looking for the perfect accommodation in Siem Reap? Check out the best hotels near Angkor Wat on Booking.com
About Angkor Archaeological Park
Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The vast area where the temples are located covers no less than 400 square kilometers and is known as the Angkor Archaeological Park. Here you’ll find numerous impressive temples and remains of capitals from the Khmer Empire, dating from the 9th to the 15th century. UNESCO has placed many of these historically important temples on the World Heritage List.
What many people don’t know: the temples represent different religions, both Hindu and Buddhist. Unfortunately, these two faiths have not always coexisted peacefully. As a result, many Buddha and Hindu statues have been destroyed or beheaded over the centuries, something you can still see today.
Tickets and Planning for Angkor Wat
You can choose from different ticket options:
- 1-day ticket: Perfect for a quick introduction
- 2-day ticket: Ideal for seeing the main highlights (my recommendation!)
- 3-day ticket: Valid within a five-day period, for those who want to explore every corner
I chose the 2-day ticket and used two intensive days with a guide and group. The first day with a larger group, the second day with a smaller, more intimate group. Do you also want to visit the temples with an experienced guide? I definitely recommend it for at least one day. Book your Angkor Wat tour via GetYourGuide →
Day 1: Through the Gate of Angkor Thom
Our first day began at the imposing gate of Angkor Thom. This was immediately our first real introduction to the temple complex. Before passing through the gate, you come across many gatekeepers standing on both sides of the road. According to our guide, they used to protect the city.
Once inside, we were surrounded by ancient temples, including the impressive Bayon and Baphuon. We also visited the Terrace of Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Our guide rattled on about dates and historical facts. Honestly, it’s impossible to remember everything, and for me, it’s not always equally interesting to know all the details.
What I do find important is getting a general picture of what happened here. After that, I mainly want to be carried away by the beautiful, ancient architecture and marvel at all the imposing structures that still stand here.
Visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia – Siem Reap
Ta Prohm: The Tomb Raider Temple
The temple I will definitely not forget is Ta Prohm. You probably know it too, because this is THE temple that was used in the movie Tomb Raider. Everyone recognizes those iconic images of temples completely overgrown with giant trees, as if nature is slowly swallowing them up.
It was amazing to walk around here. The complex is bigger and higher than I had imagined. What an incredible area! These temples were hidden from the outside world for centuries. So long, in fact, that the trees had almost completely swallowed them before they were rediscovered.
Want to discover Ta Prohm and other hidden temples? Check out the best temple tours here →
Spiritual Moments at the Temples
At all temples, you’ll find beautiful, large Buddha statues where visitors can bring offerings. Most statues are draped in orange cloths, something you see throughout Asia. I always think it’s such a beautiful sight. I burned incense there and received a red woven bracelet as a token. I wore that bracelet with pride for the rest of my two-month journey.
Angkor Wat: The Highlight
A long, straight road led us to the iconic Angkor Wat. Water lay on both sides, allowing you to take beautiful reflective photos. Our guide, of course, knew exactly where we should stand to capture the perfect reflection in the water. Before we went inside, he took a photo of everyone at that special spot.
Of course, it’s very touristy, but admit it: it does make for a stunning photo!
From Angkor Wat, you have a breathtaking view over the surrounding jungle. In some places, you even see hot air balloons floating above the area, making it all even more fairytale-like.
Sunset at Phnom Bakheng
We ended the first day with a spectacular sunset at Phnom Bakheng. Our guide had told us that the sunset there would be phenomenal. He nervously checked the time all afternoon, because he didn’t want to arrive too late but also not too early, which would mean waiting endlessly.
When we finally started the climb, there was a guard halfway up. He was stopping everyone because there were already too many people at the top. We patiently stood in line waiting. It was already getting dark and some people gave up in frustration.
Fortunately, people kept coming down, so gradually more people were allowed to go up. Slowly we got closer. At the very last moment, when I really thought it wasn’t going to happen anymore, the stairs suddenly opened and everyone was allowed to go up after all.
The wait was more than worth it!
Tip: Want an organized Angkor Wat 1-day tour with sunset? Check out the Angkor Wat 1-day + sunset tours here →
Day 2: Banteay Srei and Tonle Sap
On the second day, I went out again with the group and guide. This day was all about a special temple a bit further away and a completely different experience: visiting a floating village.
Banteay Srei: The Jewel of Khmer Art
One of the highlights of this day was definitely Banteay Srei, also known as the “Temple of Women” or the “Pink Temple”. This temple is located about 25-30 kilometers northeast of the main Angkor area, so it was a bit of a drive, but it was worth every kilometer!
The temple owes its nickname to the extraordinarily fine and detailed decorations. Legend has it that these are so refined and precise that they could only have been made by women’s hands. What makes Banteay Srei truly unique is the use of pink sandstone. This soft material was perfect for creating the intricate ornaments you see everywhere here.
The temple is relatively small compared to Angkor Wat, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty and detail. Every inch seems covered with beautiful reliefs of Hindu gods and mythological stories. The pink color of the stone in the sunlight gave it all something magical.
Want to visit Banteay Srei? It’s a bit further to drive, but absolutely worth it! Book your tour to Banteay Srei here →
Sunset on Tonle Sap Lake
We ended our second day with something completely different from temples: a visit to Tonle Sap Lake. This vast lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, is fascinating because of the floating villages where entire communities live on the water.
We sailed to one of these floating villages and it was surreal to see how complete houses, schools, and even shops float on the water. The people here live their entire lives on the lake, their homes moving with the rise and fall of the water level throughout the seasons.
The sunset on the lake was of a completely different beauty than that at the temples. The water turned golden orange and reflected the sky like a giant mirror. The silhouettes of the floating houses and fishing boats gave it all something peaceful and timeless. It was the perfect ending to three unforgettable days in Angkor.
Want to visit the floating villages too? Check out tours to Tonle Sap here →
Want to read more about my experience in the floating village? Check out my article: Floating City on Tonle Sap Lake
Practical Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat
General Tips
- Take a guide for at least one day so you hear the history and reach hidden spots you wouldn’t find on your own
- Choose a 2-day ticket if you want to see the main temples and highlights – this gives you enough time without having to rush
- Bring plenty of water – it can get quite hot, especially midday
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll walk much more than you think
- Bring a sarong or scarf for temples where covered shoulders and knees are required, and as protection against the sun
Best Time to Visit
The best period to visit Angkor Wat is from November to March, during the dry season. It’s cooler then and more pleasant for walking. Avoid April and May if possible, when it can be extremely hot.
Booking Tours and Activities
For the best experience, I recommend booking your tours in advance:
By booking ahead, you ensure you have a guaranteed spot at popular sunrise and sunset tours, and often get better prices too.
My Personal Hotel Tips for Siem Reap?
- Smaller budget? Choose Onederz Hostel with a lovely pool in the heart of the center
- Enjoy a pool in a beautiful garden with afternoon tea at The Jungle
- Or choose The Community with a pool in a green oasis – 10 minutes drive from Angkor Wat
- Going for full luxury this time? The Golden Temple Residence & Spa
Want to read some more about Cambodia?
- Floating city near Siem Reap
- Visiting the Killing Fields, Phnom Penh
- My Visit at Freedom Island on Koh Rong Samloem
- Bolaven Plateau Complete Guide – Pakse, Laos
- Explore Don Khone, One of the Four Thousand Islands – Laos