You should spend at least 3 days exploring the temples of Angkor Wat. Honestly speaking, every time we visit, and we visit often, we can’t believe how many people rush through the nicest temples on the planet.
We are talking about 400 acres (160 hectares) of lush green forests with old massive trees, 70 temples and hundreds of remains to visit. Angkor is a journey through nature, history, architecture and culture like no other. We have prepared a map with our complete itinerary (end of post).
*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Angkor Wat 3 Day Itinerary:
Day 1 – Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom
Angkor Wat
Our Angkor Wat 3 day itinerary begins with the two grandest ancient Cambodian temples you will ever see in your life: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. We still remember the first time we visited them over 20 years ago.
You’ll need your passport to buy the 3 day ticket. From the entrance, it’s a short drive under massive trees until you get to Angkor. Prepare to be dazzled and prepare your camera. You won’t believe your eyes.
We usually spend at least 2 hours in awe exploring every single gallery. Cross the Rainbow Bridge, and stop at the two libraries. Walk to the end of the temple, and don’t forget to check Ta Loek Gopura Temple.
Angkor Thom: Bayon
On your way to Bayon, stop in Phnom Bakheng (the best place to watch the sunset), Baksei Chamkrong, and Prasat Bei. From there, go to the incredible Tonle Om gate and notice the statues guarding it.
The 12th Century Bayon temple has over 200 smiling stone faces! You can spend hours admiring them. Do not skip the library and Pre Ang Koke Thloke shrine.
Angkor Thom: Baphuon
You can walk from Bayon to Baphuon in minutes. Wat Preah Ngkok is in between. Locals visit the massive Buddha to pray. You will see monks living in the monastery.
Baphuon is a pyramid like temple with intricate carvings and statues. We always take our time and climb to the top. The views from there over the jungle and other temples will take your breath away.
Day 2 – The Small Circuit
Banteay Kdey
Spend your second day doing the Small Circuit. As soon as you enter the park, you will turn west and enter a fairly big area with massive temples east of Angkor Thom.
Your first stop is Banteay Kdey. The unrestored temple with its long corridors is a sight to behold. The 12th Century Srah Srang Water Reservoir is in front. It’s a great spot for pictures.
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is a short distance north of Banteay Kdey. On your way there, check out the minor structures and temples next to the road. Enter Ta Prhom through the stunning East Gate.
Huge banyan trees arise from Ta Prohm, their roots covering the stone faces. To us, this is the most atmospheric temple. Movie buffs will recognize it from the Lara Croft movie.
Ta Keo
Exit Ta Prhom through the western gate and walk north to Prasat Ta Keo, one of our favorite temples. You can climb to the top and enjoy unforgettable views.
Visit the temples around Ta Keo: Ta Nei, Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon. We love them because they are quiet and surrounded by lush green nature. You will see ancient tall trees all around.
The Rest of Angkor Thom
Finish your second day exploring the rest of Angkor Thom. To access the area go through the Victory Gate. It’s one of the four royal gates, Angkor’s finest. Be sure to stop and check both sides.
You’ve got several structures to visit. We strongly recommend Phimeanakas and Prasat Preah Palilay. However, our favorite is the one and only Terrace of The Elephants. Its statues and carvings will take your breath away.
Day 3 – The Grand Circuit
Preah Khan
We always do the Grand Circuit backwards, beginning in Prasat Preah Khan, the biggest, and ending in Pre Rup, another great spot for sunsets. Thus, head directly to Prasat Preah Khan.
Preah Khan is one of the largest temples in Angkor. Not only that, but its carvings are gorgeous. Look for the giant stone garudas, and visit every pagoda and structure, including the northern gate.
Neak Poan
Your next stop is Neak Poan. This one is unique because it’s in on an island in the middle of a lake full of lotus flowers. Besides, it’s never crowded.
The walk across the lake and around the island is an attraction in itself. We usually walk around the island, admiring the trees and plants. Though small, the temple is cool. On your way to the next temple stop in Ta Som.
Eastern Mebon – Baray
Eastern Mebon is one of the oldest temples in Angkor. It’s also the one with the nicest elephant statues. You can climb up the temple and enjoy epic views.
There are big elephant statues in the corner of platforms 2 and 3. The garudas are pretty impressive too. Explore the forest that surrounds the temple.
Pre Rup
Pre Rup is a great place to catch the sunset. It’s big and resembles Angkor Wat. Though the temple itself is in ruins, the towers are intact.
You need time to explore Pre Rup. Notice that it’s done in red stone. You can climb to the top. Though the park closes at 5:30, nobody will force you out.
How Many Days are Ideal for Angkor Wat
We are obsessed with Angkor Wat so much, that the last time we went to Cambodia we spent an entire month in Seam Reap just to visit the temples constantly.
However, you may be wondering how many days are needed in Angkor Wat to cover the basics. We strongly recommend buying the 7 day ticket. However, 3 days are enough.
If you only have 2 days, buy the 1 day ticket between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM on the first day. Go early the next day and follow day 1 of our 3 day Angkor Wat itinerary. If you still have time visit the rest of Angkor Thom.
How to Visit the Temples of Angkor Wat
The best way to visit Angkor Wat is with our friend Borey and his super comfortable tuk tuk. We met 10 years ago and every time we visit we love him a little more.
He will take you everywhere, wait for you with cold water and an umbrella, and give you the best tips. Some friends have visited biking. Too hard for us! We don’t recommend taking tours. Too fast and crowded!
Tips for Visiting the Temples
Visit Angkor with a tuk tuk. You will have a place to rest, discover new places, and never get lost. Take a hat, sunscreen and an umbrella. Bring your passport to purchase the ticket. You don’t need it the following days.
Dress lightly but respectfully since you may want to visit a local temple. You can also bring food. We like stopping at the local restaurants and stalls next to the temples to eat and relax in a hammock.
Avoid flip flops, it can be slippery. Bring socks so you won’t burn when you take your shoes off. Riding elephants is not our thing. Enjoy the monkeys from a distance, they are wild.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
The best hotel in Siem Reap is Templation. We love it! It’s the closest luxury hotel to the temples. It’s got a spectacular garden, a huge pool, a top notch onsite restaurant, and plush rooms.
Another fantastic option is the FCC Angkor, one of the best places to stay in Siem Reap. It was the house of the French Governor during colonial times. The trees are 200 years old!
Beyond Angkor Wat
Let us brag a little bit. Cambodia combines our two biggest passions: architecture and nature. Thus, we visited the temples of Koh Ker, Preah Vihear, Banteay Chhmar, Preah Khan, and Sambor Prei Kuk.
Each temple is unique, outstanding, and for sure worth your time. Another of our favorite places is Kratie, on the banks of the mighty Mekong. We once spent 10 days in Kratie. From there you can go to Koh Trong Island.
Angkor Wat Map
Източник за тази статия
Наши спонсори са:
Български трактори на добри цени при изключително качество
