Angkor Archaeological Park

Stretching over 400 km², Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of several capitals of the Khmer Empire, including the largest pre-industrial city in the world. The most famous are the Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.

Angkor is hot and sticky throughout the year. The peak season is November to February, when the weather is dry and temperatures are coolest (25-30°C). March to May is brutally hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C. June to October is the rainy season; outlying temples can become muddy but crowds are smaller.

Angkor is about 20 minutes north of central Siem Reap by car or motorbike. See the Siem Reap article for details on getting to the town.

Non-Cambodian visitors must purchase an Angkor Pass: 1-day (US$37), 3-day (US$62), or 7-day (US$72) as of Mar 2024. Passes can be paid by credit card or cash (USD or riel). The 3-day pass is valid for any 3 days within a week, 7-day for any 7 days within a month. Children under 12 free with passport. Passes issued after 17:00 are valid for the next day without counting as a day. Purchase only at the official APSARA ticket office.

Options include tour buses (US$25–70/day), cars with drivers (US$45–50/day including guide), motorbikes with drivers (US$6–8/day), tuk-tuks (US$15 for main temples, US$20–30 for outlying), and bicycles (US$3–4 per day). Bicycle rental is cheap and easy in Siem Reap. Motorbike rental without driver is discouraged but possible.

The temples are categorized into Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, Little Circuit, Big Circuit, Roluos Group, and Outlying Temples. Guides can be hired for about US$20 a day. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Key temples include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and Banteay Srey.

Small noodle shops near major attractions offer meals for US$4–7 (higher than elsewhere), but bargaining can bring prices down, especially in low season to US$1 per dish. Fresh fruit like pineapples and mangoes cost about US$1. Soft drinks and water cost US$1–2. The modern Angkor Cafe near Angkor Wat's entrance offers good food for US$3–5 with air conditioning.

There are no accommodations within the park and camping is not permitted. Most visitors stay in Siem Reap, which has a range of options from guest houses to hotels.

Motorcycle and tuk-tuk drivers must wear numbered vests. Beware of off-duty police officers offering guiding services and overcharging. Avoid accepting incense from strangers who may demand donations. Women should avoid traveling alone, especially after dark and in secluded temples. Rape has been reported. Monkeys may bite, so do not feed or approach them.

Temples are hot and sunny; bring sunblock and stay hydrated. The uppermost level of Angkor Wat has very steep staircases. Malaria is not endemic but seek medical advice before travel. Do not feed monkeys.

These are still holy spaces. Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees. As of May 2019, a ban on exposed shoulders is strictly enforced for the uppermost level of Angkor Wat. Scarves are not accepted. Some temples have active shrines; be respectful.

Souvenirs are sold in front of all temples. Bargain but not too hard, as many sellers live within the park. The guidebook 'Ancient Angkor' (cover US$27.95) is sold by vendors for as little as US$1. Black Garuda shop near Old Market donates to land mine victims.