SIEM REAP & ANGKOR WAT:
YOUR COMPLETE TRAVEL ITINERARY
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Siem Reap, Cambodia is a must-see destination if you visit Cambodia, known for its temples and the UNESCO heritage complex of Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat is exactly the main reason why I chose it as my second destination after Phnom Penh, but it is not the only thing this city has to offer. In addition to its temples, Siem Reap is known for its vibrant atmosphere and nightlife and a more vibe than the capital Phnom Penh.
HOW TO GET TO SIEM REAP FROM PHNOM PENH:
Traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by bus is one of the most affordable and convenient options. Several reputable bus companies like Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer comfortable and air-conditioned rides. Personally, I chose, for the second time, to rely on the renowned company Giant Ibis, trying for the first time a sleeper bus, departing early in the morning when it was still dark outside to arrive in the heart of Siem Reap in broad daylight. It was my first time taking a sleeper bus, and it was a great experience and super comfortable. The journey is about 5 or 6 hours and the price varies from about 10 to 15 dollars. The buses offer snacks, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, or, in the case of a sleeper bus, private and comfortable beds, and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Cambodian countryside.
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN SIEM REAP:
Pub Street:
This street comes to life at night and is a great way to experience Siem Reap's nightlife, it is mostly frequented by tourists as it is lined with small restaurants and pubs with a much western taste. But I think it is worth a visit just for the lights and the general vibe.
Night Market:
Within walking distance from Pub Street is the Night Market, where you can shop or simply stroll among the stalls selling local Cambodian handicrafts and observe how some of its artifacts are handmade by artisans.
Old Market:
Located in the heart of Siem Reap between Pub Street and the riverside, it is a vibrant market that offers the chance to experience and observe the daily life of Cambodians while wandering among local handicrafts and fresh products. It is a market full of life, colors, and scents
VISITING ANGKOR WAT: A MUST-SEE EXPERIENCE:
The main reason for my visit to Siem Reap was Angkor Wat.
I grew up watching Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider movies, especially the latter, I was fascinated by the scenes among the ruins of ancient temples and solemn-looking monks, only much later did I discover that it was located in Cambodia and it was none other than Angkor Wat, since then it has become a bucket list destination, and when many years later I finally had the chance to visit it was a dream come true.
But let's get to us, in this guide I will guide you on how to get the most out of your visit to this enormous historical and architectural complex.
Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Siem Reap and a symbol of Cambodia. Built in the early 12th century, it took 30 years to complete its massive construction. This massive temple complex features intricate carvings, towering spires, and breathtaking views.
TIPS FOR VISITING ANGKOR WAT:
SUNSET VISIT: Arrive early in the morning or stay until sunset for an iconic view of the temple, sadly I didn’t take my own advice but I'm sure it would be worth it. If you are looking for a tour check this one.
DRESS MODESTLY: Angkor Wat remains a spiritual site to this day so cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
STAY HYDRATED: This is perhaps the most important, the temple grounds are vast, and the heat can be intense.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN: Think about bringing an umbrella to protect yourself from the scorching sun.
RENT A TUK TUK OR A GUIDE: if you think you can visit this complex without a vehicle, think again. Renting a tuk-tuk driver is the best choice if you do not have a scooter, normally the price is around 19 dollars for the whole day.
Practical Tips:
Entrance Fees: Angkor Pass costs $37 for one day, and $62 for three days. Avoid wasting time queuing, and buy your ticket online on the official website of Angkor Wat, you will be asked to show it at the entrance of several temples. You can keep it on your phone always at hand.
TRANSPORT: Tuk-tuks are the easiest and most affordable way to get around.
CURRENCY: US dollars are widely accepted. Make sure they are in very good condition or they will not be accepted.
HOW TO VISIT ANGKOR WAT:
It is important to know that the Angkor Wat complex can be divided into what is commonly called the Small Circuit and the Gran Circuit. Visiting the entire complex could take days so I recommend you choose a circuit based on how many days you have and on your budget. The Small Circuit, which is the one I opted for and which took me about 5 or 6 hours to complete, is the one that includes the most known temples, including the one that made an appearance in the Tomb Raider movie.
You can rely on a tuk-tuk driver as in my case.
I leave you a list of the major temples that you will most likely visit in the Small Circuit, but if you rely on a driver he will already know where to take you and will wait patiently for you to finish your visit to each temple before driving you to the next.
Bayon Temple; Angkor Wat; Ta Prohm Temple; Banteay Kdei and a few more that I don’t recall the name of. Be sure to check out my youtube video for an even more in-depth guide on what to expect.
If you want to avoid the hassle to look for a tour and you prefer to rely on a professional guide you can think to either book a private tour here or a normal one here
I believe that a visit to Angkor Wat is absolutely worth it no matter the time to get there, it is one of those destinations, of those places rich in history, that are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The moment I set foot on the soil of this complex I got really emotional. Walking among its ruins, absorbing its atmosphere, observing the intricate carvings and drawings, watching the monks, with their orange rob, in stark contrast to the bleak of the stones going along daily activities, and imagining how these temples must have been at the peak of their splendor is truly an experience that will leave you speechless.
