Sunrise to Sunset: Exploring Angkor’s Temples in a Day

Exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples is a must-do experience for any visitor to Cambodia. This comprehensive day tour promises an immersive journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage, from the awe-inspiring sunrise at Angkor Wat to the breathtaking sunset over Bakheng Mountain. Along the way, travelers will discover the enchanting Ta Prohm, the majestic Bayon Temple, and the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei. With a mix of historical insights, local culinary delights, and stunning landscapes, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the captivating world of Angkor.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 14-hour tour covering Angkor’s iconic temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Angkor Thom, and Banteay Srei.
• Witness the stunning sunrise over Angkor Wat, followed by a local Cambodian breakfast and in-depth exploration of the temples.
• Experience the grandeur of Angkor Thom, featuring the awe-inspiring Bayon Temple with its enigmatic stone faces.
• Visit Banteay Srei, renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings and exquisite bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology.
• Conclude the day with a breathtaking sunset view from Bakheng Mountain, overlooking the Angkor complex.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 14-hour tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Angkor’s renowned temples, starting with a sunrise visit to the iconic Angkor Wat.

Priced from €76.14 per person, the tour includes a local breakfast, guided visits to the Tomb Raider’s Ta Prohm, the impressive Angkor Thom, and the intricately-carved Banteay Srei.

Guests will also witness the stunning sunset over Angkor Wat from Bakheng Mountain.

The tour package covers transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring essential items like sunscreen and insect repellent.

With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this comprehensive Angkor experience is an excellent choice for visitors to Siem Reap.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors begin their day at Angkor Wat, witnessing the sunrise over the world’s largest religious monument. After a local breakfast, they explore the Tomb Raider temple, Ta Prohm, with its massive tree-entwined ruins. Entering Angkor Thom through the impressive Victory Gate, they visit the Bayon Temple, known for its 54 towers and over 200 smiling stone faces. Following a relaxing lunch, they discover the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei, the "Jewel of Khmer Art," and the well-preserved Banteay Samre. The day culminates with a stunning sunset view over Angkor Wat from Bakheng Mountain.

Itinerary Highlights
Sunrise at Angkor Wat	Ta Prohm Temple	Angkor Thom Victory Gate	Bayon Temple	Sunset at Bakheng Mountain

Angkor Wat Sunrise

At the first light of dawn, guests arrive at Angkor Wat to witness the sun’s brilliant display as it rises over the world’s largest religious monument.

Capturing the perfect moment is a coveted experience, as the temple’s stunning silhouette is reflected in the tranquil moat. Guests must arrive early, as the site grows increasingly crowded as the sun climbs higher.

Once the sun has fully risen, the tour moves on to enjoy a local breakfast nearby, fueling up for the day’s exploration of Angkor’s magnificent temples.

Breakfast and Temples

After witnessing the magical sunrise at Angkor Wat, the tour group heads to a nearby restaurant for a local Cambodian breakfast.

Fueled by hearty dishes like noodle soups and rice dishes, the group sets out to explore the iconic Ta Prohm temple, also known as the "Tomb Raider" temple. Here, they wander amidst the towering trees and ancient ruins, marveling at the natural and man-made wonders.

Next, they enter the impressive gates of Angkor Thom and visit the Bayon Temple, recognizable by its enigmatic stone faces.

Lunch provides a chance to recharge before continuing the temple exploration at Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre, where intricate carvings and well-preserved structures captivate the visitors.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Angkor Thom and Bayon

From the impressive Victory Gate, visitors enter the walled city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire.

Within this ancient city lies the captivating Bayon Temple, known for its 54 towers and over 200 smiling stone faces. Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate carvings and marvel at the serene expressions of the carved faces.

• The temple’s unique architectural style, blending Hindu and Buddhist elements, is a testament to the cultural richness of the Khmer civilization.

Wandering through the temple, visitors can discover hidden nooks and crannies, each revealing new details and architectural surprises.

The Bayon’s imposing presence and the serenity of its stone faces create a truly mesmerizing experience, transporting visitors back in time.

Lunch and Banteay Srei

Following the tour’s exploration of Angkor Thom and the captivating Bayon Temple, visitors then enjoy a well-earned lunch break.

This provides a chance to recharge and sample authentic Khmer cuisine in a local setting.

The tour then continues to Banteay Srei, a temple renowned for its intricate carvings in pink sandstone.

This "Jewel of Khmer Art" features exquisite bas-reliefs depicting Hindu deities and scenes from the Ramayana epic.

Travelers marvel at the temple’s remarkably well-preserved state and the exceptional craftsmanship of its detailed ornamentation.

Exploring Banteay Srei offers a deeper appreciation for the artistic achievements of the Khmer civilization.

Banteay Samre Exploration

Upon concluding their exploration of the captivating Banteay Srei temple, the tour group next ventures to the lesser-known but equally impressive Banteay Samre.

This temple, dating back to the early 12th century, is known for its well-preserved carvings and intricate architectural details.

Visitors can admire:

• The symmetrical layout and harmonious proportions of the temple
• Exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology
• The temple’s unique sandstone construction, which has withstood the elements for centuries

As the group wanders through the serene and uncrowded site, they gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic mastery of the Khmer builders and the enduring legacy of Angkor’s temples.

Sunset at Bakheng Mountain

The tour culminates with a breathtaking sunset at Bakheng Mountain, a prime vantage point overlooking the Angkor Wat temple complex and the surrounding jungle.

Guests ascend the steep hill on foot or by elephant to reach the top, where they can relax and take in the stunning panoramic views.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky erupts in a vibrant display of colors, casting a warm glow over the ancient ruins below.

It’s a serene and awe-inspiring end to a day of exploring Angkor’s rich cultural heritage.

Travelers are left with lasting memories of this magical moment in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation From Siem Reap Airport Included in the Package?

The tour package includes free pickup and drop-off at city hotels in Siem Reap, but does not cover transportation from the Siem Reap airport to the hotel. Guests are responsible for arranging their own airport transfers.

Can We Visit the Temples at Our Own Pace During the Tour?

No, the tour has a set itinerary and schedule that the group follows together. Visitors can’t explore the temples at their own pace during this guided day tour. The guide will lead the group through the key sites on a fixed timeline.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified in the provided information. The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees, but the exact group size is not mentioned.

Are Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options Available for the Lunch?

The tour does not explicitly mention vegetarian or halal meal options for the lunch. However, as a popular tourist attraction, it’s likely that the tour provider can accommodate dietary requirements if requested in advance.

Can We Rent Additional Equipment Like Walking Sticks or Cameras?

While the tour package doesn’t include rental equipment, visitors can rent walking sticks, cameras, and other gear from local vendors at the temples. These can enhance the experience and make exploring the sites more comfortable.

Sum Up

From the stunning Angkor Wat sunrise to the breathtaking sunset at Bakheng Mountain, this immersive journey through Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors will explore the enchanting ruins, marvel at the intricate carvings, and savor local culinary delights – a perfect blend of history, artistry, and lasting memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: