Siem Reap Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)

The most epic sunrise of my life ☀️

Catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat is an absolute must-do. Picture the sky lighting up with incredible colors over those iconic temples – it’s like stepping into a dream. Sure, it means an early wake-up, but it’s beyond worth it for that serene, awe-inspiring moment. As the sun rises, Angkor Wat comes alive in a whole new light, literally. It’s peaceful, even with others around, because everyone’s just soaking in the beauty. After sunrise, the crowds and heat pick up, so you get to enjoy the magic in a cooler, quieter setting. That early alarm is a small price for a memory that sticks with you forever. It’s more than a sight; it’s an experience. #freehotelstay #Cambodia

The World's Largest Temple - Angkor Wat in Cambodia (Part 1)

Angkor Wat, also known as the Small Angkor (Angkor Wat), is located in a rectangular area within the small circuit. Don't be fooled by the word 'small' in its name; on the contrary, Angkor Wat is the largest temple in the world, measuring 1,500 meters in length and 1,300 meters in width, covering an area of about 200 hectares. Angkor Wat is considered a symbol of Cambodia and is also one of the earliest examples of Khmer architecture, witnessing the glorious era of the Khmer Empire. The name 'Angkor Wat' translates to 'Capital Temple' in the Khmer language, indicating its significance. In 1992, Cambodia was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and in 2007, it defeated more than fifty other candidates in the global vote for the New Seven Wonders, advancing to the final twenty-one. Construction of Angkor Wat began in 1113 and took a full 37 years to complete, with the effort of the entire nation at that time. Whether in design, layout, intricacy, or scale, it can rival any of the world's most outstanding architectural works and is one of the must-visit attractions in Angkor. The outer perimeter of Angkor Wat features a 5.7-kilometer-long moat that surrounds the Small Angkor, symbolizing the ocean around the land; the rectangular inner city part of Angkor Wat measures 1,500 meters by 1,300 meters, symbolizing the Himalayas; the temple's central area has five main towers representing the five sacred mountains of Hinduism, with the central and tallest tower standing at 65 meters, symbolizing Mount Meru, the center of the world. The tips of the towers represent heaven, the dwelling place of the deities; the five main towers are situated on top of a three-tiered rectangular gallery, stacked layer upon layer like a pyramid, symbolizing the elements of earth, water, and wind at the location of Mount Meru. Inside the temple, there are nearly two thousand Apsara carvings and a large number of carvings depicting Hindu mythological stories, none of which are identical, all are masterpieces of extraordinary craftsmanship. To visit Angkor Wat, one must first cross the moat, which is filled with water from the Siem Reap River. In addition to serving a defensive purpose, the moat was also used for irrigation during the dry season and flood relief during the rainy season. While crossing the moat, take a moment to notice the carvings on both sides of the bridge, which tell the Hindu creation myth of the churning of the Ocean of Milk. After crossing the moat, visitors reach the largest central western gate of the Small Angkor, which has five gates divided according to different ranks, and the middle gate was only accessible to the king at that time. Now, all tourists can pass through this gate and experience the feeling of being a king. It is worth mentioning that among the nearly two thousand Apsara carvings within Angkor Wat, only one has a slight smile with visible teeth, located near the western gate; visitors can try to find it if they have the chance (I didn't manage to find it). Exiting the western gate leads to a straight central causeway leading to the temple of Angkor, nearly 500 meters long and nearly 10 meters wide, very imposing. On both sides, there are libraries, a common feature in many temples of Angkor. Directly in front of the libraries are two pools, which were once used for bathing before worship by the people, and now the pool on the left has become the famous Lotus Pond for watching the sunrise. The Lotus Pond is always popular because the water perfectly reflects the temple's silhouette, a common image on Cambodian postcards, especially before sunrise each day, when this spot becomes a coveted location for photographers and tourists alike. In the next part, we will continue to introduce the main hall of Angkor Wat - the first, second, and third galleries, and we will also share tips for watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Please stay tuned.

You should visit Angkor Wat at least once in your lifetime, to witness the lost empire

One of the seven wonders of the world, Angkor Wat, Even if it's the second visit, it still feels incredibly mysterious Whether it's the tree hole where Zhou Muyun hides her secrets in 'In the Mood for Love', Or the mysterious East where the heroine of 'Tomb Raider' travels through time and space, The lost empire, a thousand years of shock at a glance. - Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, usually has three regular tour routes: 'Small Circle', 'Big Circle', 'Outer Circle'. ✅Small Circle Small Circuit Tours Angkor Wat (Sunrise)➡️Thommanon➡️ChauSay Tevoda ➡️Takeo-Tablon Temple➡️Angkor Wat or Bakheng Mountain (Sunset). - ✅Big Circle Big/Grand Circuit Tours Royal Bath (Sunrise)➡️Banteay Kdei➡️Prasat Kravan➡️East Mebon➡️Ta Som➡️Neak Pean➡️Preah Khan. - ✅Outer Circle Out Side the Angkor Area Tours Banteay Samré➡️Queen's Palace➡️Kbal Spean➡️Beng Mealea➡️Roluos Group. - 🎫One-day ticket is $37 per person, three-day ticket is $62 per person (can visit any three days within a week), seven-day ticket is $72 per person (can visit any seven days within a month); children under 12 and Cambodian residents are free. - 🛺You can rent a car for sightseeing, or choose to ride, tutu car is very cheap, can accommodate four people, the driver is very familiar with all the attractions of Angkor Wat, if you haven't done your homework, you can let the driver arrange the tour route, except for the sunrise of Little Angkor and the sunset of Bakheng Mountain, the others are not much different.

The largest tree roots!

The tree roots at Angkor Wat in Cambodia intertwine with ancient stones, creating a mesmerizing and mystical sight. Towering silk cotton and strangler fig trees have grown amidst the temple ruins, their roots snaking over centuries-old structures. The most famous example is the Ta Prohm temple, where massive roots engulf the walls and courtyards, showcasing the relentless force of nature reclaiming the man-made. This harmonious blend of architecture and nature has become an iconic symbol of Angkor Wat. The intricate dance between stone and root tells a silent story of time, resilience, and the perpetual cycle of life in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. #tripstars

Sunrise trip to Angkor Wat 🏜️🏜️

#exploreasia Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and the largest / most spectacular religious monument in the world. It was built by the Khmer King in 12th century, around the year 1110-1150, making Angkor Wat almost 900 years old. (Equal to the era of Song Dynasty in China - the year of General Yue Fei was born) If you are a sunrise lover, then this is the spot for youJust book a trip with the local tour guide and they will pick you up in the early morning to visit the temple. Some useful tips: 1. Go to the temple as early as possible. Angkor Wat opens at 5 am but better leaves the hotel earlier to get a nice spot for photo taking. 2. Inform hotel 1 day in advanced if you hotel booking in inclusive of meal so that the staff can arrange a breakfast box to you before departure. 3. Remember to wear the clothes covering your shoulder and knees a a respect to their culture. Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Temples around Siem Reap 💕

Angkor Wat and all the other temples in Siem Reap are just magnificent and I couldn’t help myself posing random pictures in front of these ancient architectures. We had booked a group tour and met a lot of people from my country and it was amazing . This trip was very special for me because I finally visited the place that I had only seen in books when I was in elementary and high school. I love the Cambodian people such welcoming and respectful. #Cambodia #siemreapcambodia #summer #trip #temples #siemreap #instatravel

Incredible Siem Reap Cambodia ✨😍🇰🇭🙌🏼

I have recently traveled to Siem Reap Cambodia and explored Angkor Wat and other incredible stunning temples, such as Ta Prohm Temple (Tomb Raider) honestly, I have never ever seen as stunning temples as the ones in Cambodia, it is highly recommended. 🙌🏼 I also went to the biggest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia - Tonle Sap Lake. In my 8 days there, I had an amazing time to interact with the friendly locals, I guess this beautiful city will be my go-to hideaway place, it’s so close from Bangkok, I’m sure I’m gonna be back one day. I booked my flight from Trip and as early as now, I have been checking flights going back there. 🛫 Have you been here before? 😉 #timetotravel #cambodia #siemreap #angkorwat #bayontemple #templerun #taprohm

Largest Religious Ground in the World

Angkor Wat is a must-visit in Siem Reap,Cambodia This historical HUGE Buddhist temple is built during the 12th Century is also preserved under the UNESCO Heritage. Very amazed on how people during that era manage to build this, in this area you really can see all the little details of the Buddhist culture. Please do not feed the wild monkeys at the area. Some extra information: The temple is open from 5am onwards for people to grab the opportunity to catch the sunrise at around 5:45am, best spot to get a sunrise photo will be at “The reflecting pond” outside Angkor wat. Ticket price: $37USD for a 1 day pass Opening hours: 5am-5:30pm Address: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia #unescoheritage #cambodia #siemreap #youtohbindou

Whispers of Tranquility: Preah Ang Kok Thlok

Amidst the realm of ancient grace, Preah Ang Kok Thlok, a sacred space, Southwest of Bayon's grand embrace, Where whispers of time weave their trace. Beneath the sky's serene expanse, Monk chants in rhythm, a sacred dance, Children's laughter, a joyful trance, In this haven, life's symphony enchants. Incense weaves tales of devotion pure, A fragrant tapestry, memories endure, Amongst the temple's walls, so sure, I find solace, my spirit to reassure. In Preah Ang Kok Thlok's tranquil embrace, Where past and present interlace, I find serenity, a sacred grace, A timeless journey, a cherished place. #2023travelwish #travel #mytripvlog #境外遊 #buddhist #temple

✨ Exploring the Ruins of Bayon Temple

#wecreate The unique Bayon Temple was constructed during King Jayavarman VII's reign. It is the only Buddhist state temple and the last to be built in the Khmer Empire. Bayon Temple is located in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, which was the symbolic center of the Khmer empire. Exploring Bayon Temple can be quite tough on the knees as the tour involves lots of narrow corridors, steep flights of stairs and towers. Depending on your pace, it takes about about 45 minutes to see all of it. It can get a little crowded so the best time to visit is in the early morning. 🚨 Beware of some imposter monks lingering outside the temple complex though. They will lure tourists in to recite a "few lines of prayers for good luck", then require you to pay a minimum of $10. #bayontemple #siemreap #cambodia

Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple is located in Siem Reap. The weather is cool and breezy when we visited the place. The tranquil stone faces of Bayon are some of the most recognizable images from the Angkor Archeological Park, and missing the opportunity to see them in person would be an absolute crime. In fact, Bayon is considered one of the “big three” sites that every visitor to Angkor should see – the other two being Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm. #FilipinoInSiemReap #CoupleGoals #Asian #UrbranTrip #MyTripStory

❤️ Bayon temple - temple with many faces ❤️

#valentinescape The Bayon Temple is considered one of the most recognizable temples in Cambodia. The temple is known for its massive stone faces that adorn the towers, each of which has a serene expression and distinctive features. We were told by the guide that the faces represented the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteshvara. Listening to the stories of the carvings and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from daily life and battles was interesting. A visit to the Bayon Temple is a must for anyone interested in Cambodian history and culture. #cambodia #siemreap #bayontemple

Ta Prohm: Jungle temple enveloped by nature

Ta Prohm Temple is a small but atmospheric temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. It was built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, and is dedicated to his father, Dharanindravarman II. The temple is located in a remote area of the park, and is relatively untouched by restoration efforts. This gives it a wild and overgrown feel, with trees and other vegetation growing freely among the ruins. #siemreapmoments #taprohm #siemreaptrip

Tomb Raider Temple

Ta Prohm is the modern name of a temple near the city of Siem Reap, Cambodia, approximately one kilometre east of Angkor Thom and on the southern edge of the East Baray. It was built in the Bayon style largely in the late 12th century and early 13th century. The temple was built without mortar and, after it was abandoned, trees took root in the loosened stones. The trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings have made it one of the most popular temples with visitors to the area. It has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1992. Almost 80,000 people were required to live in or visit the temple, including over 2,700 officials and 615 dancers. #ruins #trees #magnificent

Incredible Siem Reap Cambodia ✨😍🇰🇭🙌🏼

I have recently traveled to Siem Reap Cambodia and explored Angkor Wat and other incredible stunning temples, such as Ta Prohm Temple (Tomb Raider) honestly, I have never ever seen as stunning temples as the ones in Cambodia, it is highly recommended. 🙌🏼 I also went to the biggest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia - Tonle Sap Lake. In my 8 days there, I had an amazing time to interact with the friendly locals, I guess this beautiful city will be my go-to hideaway place, it’s so close from Bangkok, I’m sure I’m gonna be back one day. I booked my flight from Trip and as early as now, I have been checking flights going back there. 🛫 Have you been here before? 😉 #timetotravel #cambodia #siemreap #angkorwat #bayontemple #templerun #taprohm

Ta Prohm

Attractions - Ta Prohm was built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII to dedicate to Mahayana Buddhism. This temple is about 13 km from Siem Reap city. The original name of Ta Prohm is Rajavihara. The temple of Ta Prohm was used as a location in the film Tomb Raider. Although the film took visual liberties with other Angkorian temples, its scenes of Ta Prohm were quite faithful to the temple's actual appearance, and made use of its eerie qualities Due to the magnificence of the architecture combined with some large natural trees that grow over the temple, the reputation of this temple is really famous and attracts many tourists to visit this temple every day. Getting There - Ta Prohm is a temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park along the main road of Angkor small circuit tour, which is different from other temples because of the large trees growing around some parts of the temple, creating a spectacular view. Hotels - yes at town Food & Restaurants - yes Shopping - yes

Banteay Srei - Shiva Temple in Cambodia

Banteay Srei or Banteay Srey is a 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Located in the area of Angkor, it lies near the hill of Phnom Dei, 25 km north-east of the main group of temples that once belonged to the medieval capitals of Yasodharapura and Angkor Thom. Banteay Srei is built largely of red sandstone, a medium that lends itself to the elaborate decorative wall carvings which are still observable today. The buildings themselves are miniature in scale, unusually so when measured by the standards of Angkorian construction. #architecture #lordshiva #hindutemple #hindu #religiousculture #cambodia #travel

It’s such a beautiful landscape #triplocal

The stone color is really different from other temples, we visited at the first day tour. The temple was built with red and pink color and carved with many legend of Mahabharata from south India. Visit in early morning is the best and we had tour guide he explained us from place to place with the pics on the wall of temple. #givethanks #givethanks

[Buddhist Footprint] @ Cambodia Queen's Palace means "woman's castle", which is supposed to be constructed and carved by women. Unlike most of the Angkor monuments, which use blue sandstone, the Queen's Palace is built with Khmer-specific red clay. The colors are extremely beautiful, and the carvings are kept intact. It is a unique and exquisite building in Angkor's monuments. Known as "Angkor Art Gems".