Are you planning your trip to Cambodia? Visiting the temples of Angkor is a must-do and magical experience. In this updated guide, Iâll tell you everything you need to know to visit the temples of Angkor in Cambodia: prices, schedules, transportation, which temples to see, useful tips, and more.
On this post you will find:
What are the Angkor temples?
The famous Angkor Wat
The Angkor complex of Hindu and Buddhist temples is located on the outskirts of Siem Reap, in northern Cambodia. It was the capital of the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 15th centuries, and it became one of the largest cities in the world at its time. There are more than 100 temples throughout the complex, from the most famous ones like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, to hidden gems deep in the jungle. Angkor Wat is the best known because it is the main and best-preserved temple.
In 1992, Angkor was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architecture, sculptures, and religious symbolism (Hindu and Buddhist) make it an essential destination for any traveler in Southeast Asia.
How much does it cost to enter the Angkor temples? (Updated prices for 2025)
Angkor Wat
There are three types of passes depending on how many days you want to visit the temples:
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1-day pass: $37 USD
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3-day pass (valid for 10 consecutive days): $62 USD
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7-day pass (valid for 1 month): $72 USD
Only cash payments in US dollars are accepted.
Tickets must be used on consecutive days. One day is enough to see the main temples, three days is a good amount to explore more at a relaxed pace, and seven days may seem like too muchâbut of course, it all depends on the visitorâs preferences.
Passes are purchased at the main entrance of the complex, where they will take your photo and then give you the entrance ticket. You need to keep this ticket safe, as it will be requested at the entrance of many temples. I recommend arriving early, as there is usually a long line to buy tickets.
How to get to Angkor
The distances between temples are large, so itâs not possible to explore everything on foot. These are the best ways to get around:
đ˛ Bicycle
Ideal if you have time (a minimum of the 3-day pass). Some hotels rent them or offer them for free.
đş Tuk-Tuk
The most popular way to get around Angkor is by tuk-tuk. You can easily hire one in the city or through your hotel. This was the option I chose to visit the temples in one day.
- Price: $15 to $30 USD per day (you should negotiate the price in advance).
- Tip: Ask if the driver is also a guide. Some speak English or Spanish.
đ Guided tour of Angkor
There are many group or private tour options available. Here are a few:
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Small-Group Sunrise or Sunset Tour: Experience a magical sunrise over Angkor Wat (or opt for sunset) with early hotel pickup, followed by guided visits to iconic temples like Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei. Click here for more info.
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Private Full-Day Tour & Night Show: a tour with a private guide. It includes air-conditioned private vehicle throughout the day, lunch at a restaurant, entry to The Labyrinth immersive show and personalized guiding. Click here for more info.
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Where to stay in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the base for visiting Angkor. Itâs a city with accommodation options for every budget. Here are some recommended hotels for different price ranges:
- $ – Onederz Hostel Siem Reap: A comfortable and clean hostel located three blocks from Pub Street. It offers shared rooms for 12, 6, or 4 people (starting at USD $7), and also has private rooms. The hostel features a pool. Check out updated prices and more details.
- $$ – Maison 557: A lovely hotel just steps from Pub Street. The price per night for a double room is around USD $70 and includes breakfast. The hotel has two outdoor swimming pools. Check out updated prices and more details.
- $$$ – Empress Residence Resort and Spa: If you’re looking for a more luxurious and elegant stay, this 5-star hotel is ideal. It offers spacious rooms, a pool, buffet breakfast, spa, and gym. Itâs close to the Angkor Wat temples and has excellent ratings on booking. Check out updated prices and more details.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat, is it worth it?
Watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat is one of the most famous experiences in Southeast Asia. The sky turns orange as the temple reflects on the water… it’s incredible and beautiful, but also one of the most crowded moments. Everyone goes at that time, and in my opinion, some of the magic is lost. Maybe I didnât catch one of the best sunrises either, but after doing it and seeing SO many people in the same place, I donât think watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat is essential.
My recommendation: if youâre looking for a quieter experience, go early to visit other temples and enjoy Angkor Wat later in the day, when there are fewer tourists.
Recommended circuits in Angkor
Each temple is different and has something unique that sets it apart. Remember that Angkor was originally a Hindu complex and later Buddhist, so youâll see different Hindu gods carved into the temple walls as well as Buddha statues. Every corner holds something magical, and itâs amazing to think about how a civilization built all of this so many years ago.
There are two main circuits, which are marked in the photo:
Short Circuit (red):
This route allows you to see a large part of the complex, including temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Elephants Terrace, and Ta Prohm, along with several smaller temples. Ideal if you’re visiting for 1 or 2 days.
Long Circuit (green):
With nearly 30 km of distance, the long circuit also takes you to temples that are farther away, such as Neak Pean, Pre Rup, and others. Recommended if you have the 3-day or 7-day pass.
You can try different combinations and routes to avoid the largest crowds, but the reality is that Angkor is one of the most visited sites in the world, and itâs very unlikely that you’ll ever have a temple all to yourself.
