Visiting Angkor Wat in One Day (2026)

Visiting Angkor Wat in one day is entirely possible, we share everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.

After leaving the hotel at 4.30 am to catch the beautiful sunrise over Angkor Wat, we spent a day exploring the fascinating and expansive complex of the UNESCO World Heritage site; this is one of the best things to do in Siem Reap and a reason for visiting the area.

Our hotel, The Villa Siem Reap, was able to organise a tuk-tuk driver to pick us up and spend the whole morning driving us around the complex. There are other options if you don’t fancy this option.

Angkor Wat in One Day

How to visit Angkor Wat?

• Cycling – If you want a challenge and the independence of exploring the ruins at your own leisure, rent a bike and explore Angkor Wat in one day on bike. There are bike rentals around the centre of Siem Reap and many hostels and hotels rent bikes too. Just be prepared for the heat; bring plenty of water and wear a hat.
• Tour groups – Tuk-tuk drivers often can share some history and knowledge but most likely won’t be able to offer full tours or explanations of the temple. If you don’t mind exploring with a group, think about visiting with a tour group. Viator offers a variety of tours (including private options) or get yourself a great deal on Get Your Guide.
• Tuk-tuk – As we mention above, we personally find a Tuk-tuk is the best way to explore Angkor Wat in one day, especially if you only have one day to see the ruins. Speak with your hostel/hotel or head into Pub Street the night before you want a tour and speak with the hotels in this area.

When to visit Angkor Wat?

• Sunrise is my favourite time to visit but it can get busy. Get there at 5.30 am, watch the sunrise then hold back for the crowds to visit disperse.
• The 3-day pass may be the best option if you are looking to fully explore Angkor Wat. You can see the highlights of the complex within one day; especially if you are there for sunrise but 3 days gives you adequate time to explore at your own leisure.
• Sunset is also a good option but you will want to explore the ruins before sunset and finish off your time watching the sunset – the complex can get dark quickly.
• Weekdays are always better days to explore most attractions but personally, we found there wasn’t much difference between a weekday and the weekend. If you can, you are better off planning your visit in Cambodia’s off-peak season from May to September.

How to get Angkor Wat tickets?

Tickets for Angkor Wat in one day must be purchased at the entrance to the complex. Some hotels, taxi drivers or tour vendors may suggest they can get a cheaper ticket for you but avoid these and purchase directly from the complex.

We found a gap in the row of people opposite the temple, next to a small lake – ideal for those gorgeous reflection shots. As the super organised person I am, I settled down on the lake edge and munched on a cereal bar whilst Calum set up his tripod and camera. Unfortunately, we visited on a bit of a murky day but did manage to get some nice shots.

Once you have got your fill of the Angkor Wat temple, head back to the entrance where you’ll be whisked off by your tuk-tuk driver (hence the need to book a tuk-tuk driver for the whole morning) Bayon Temple.

This is perhaps my favourite temple in this collection of ruins one our Angkor Wat in one day itinerary, with gloriously carved faces into the stone temple. Climb to the top for some great pictures but be careful of the crumbling stone around the edges of the temple.

Next, you can head to Preah Khan temple, Thommanom and Chau Say Thevoda temple – they aren’t as impressive or expansive as the first two but usually tend to be a bit quieter.

Then head to Ta Prohm Temple, made famous from its appearance in the Tomb Raider movie. Here you will find a natural jungle growing around, within and on top of this ancient temple. Again, this place allows for some great photo opportunities but is often very busy and it can be difficult to navigate through the crowd, pillars and walkways.

What to pack for Angkor Wat?

• Sun lotion – If you burn as we do, stock up on the small lotions that you can easily slip into your backpack; the is essential for your Angkor Wat in one day.
• Hat – There is a theme here, it is hot and there is very little shade around the ruins. Wear a hat or cap to protect your head.
• Battery pack – We found the heat and consistent photos zapped our phone battery. We always bring along a battery pack for longer days.
• Tripod – Not essential but you can get some amazing time-lapse video shots and long exposure shots; particularly during sunrise or sunset.
• Mosquito repellent – There are so many mosquitos in this complex so prepare and get spraying. If you aren’t a fan of repellent, use lemon shampoo and shower gel; I find this always keeps the bugs away.
• Water – There are some stalls around the complex selling drinks and snacks but these are few and far between. Bring along water and stay hydrated.

What to wear for Angkor Wat?

Angkor Wat is a sacred Buddhist site, so modest clothing is required:

• Shoulders must be covered – no sleeveless tops, tank tops, or spaghetti straps.
• Knees must be covered – avoid shorts, mini skirts, or ripped jeans.
• No transparent clothing – sheer fabrics are not acceptable.
• No slogans or graphics that could be considered disrespectful.

Visitors who are not dressed appropriately may be denied entry to certain temples (especially the upper levels of Angkor Wat itself).

What to Wear (for Comfort & Respect)

• Sunglasses and sunscreen – essential for daytime visits.
• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton or linen) – One Cambodia travel tips is that it is hot and humid year-round.
• Loose-fitting pants or long skirts – comfortable for walking and temple climbing.
• T-shirts or blouses with sleeves – short sleeves are fine as long as shoulders are covered.
• A lightweight scarf or shawl – handy for covering shoulders when entering temples.
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals – you’ll walk and climb a lot; avoid flip-flops.
• Hat or cap – to protect from the sun.

Angkor Wat in One Day Itinerary

5:00 AM – Sunrise at Angkor Wat

• Arrive at the temple complex by 5:00 AM to catch the sunrise over Angkor Wat’s towers reflected in the moat to start your Angkor Wat in one day itinerary.
• Best viewing spots: in front of the North Reflecting Pool (less crowded than the south).
• After sunrise, explore inside Angkor Wat before the crowds build:
  • Bas-reliefs (epic carvings of Hindu legends)
  • Central sanctuary and Bakan Tower (if open) for panoramic views

Tip: Bring a flashlight and cover your knees/shoulders to enter sacred areas.

7:30 AM – Breakfast Break

• Eat at one of the nearby cafes or stalls just outside the temple.
• Many tuk-tuk drivers will suggest good local spots for noodle soup, omelettes, or iced coffee.

8:30 AM – Visit Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple

• Head north to Angkor Thom, the ancient walled city.
• Enter through the South Gate, one of the most photogenic spots.
• Visit Bayon Temple, famous for its 216 smiling stone faces of King Jayavarman VII.
• Don’t miss nearby highlights:
  • Baphuon Temple (steep but rewarding climb)
  • Terrace of the Elephants
  • Terrace of the Leper King

11:30 AM – Ta Prohm (the Tomb Raider Temple)

• Visit Ta Prohm, where tree roots intertwine dramatically with the ruins.
• It’s partially unrestored, creating that iconic “jungle temple” feel.
• This site is busiest around midday, but still a must-see.

12:30 PM – Lunch & Rest

• Take a break at one of the local restaurants near Srah Srang or Ta Prohm area.
• Enjoy Cambodian dishes like amok (coconut curry) or fried rice with fresh fruit shakes.
• If it’s hot, rest during the peak sun hours (12–2 PM).

2:30 PM – Preah Khan or Banteay Kdei

• Choose one depending on your energy:
  • Preah Khan – larger and more atmospheric, with maze-like corridors.
  • Banteay Kdei – quieter, smaller, and close to Srah Srang lake.

4:30 PM – Sunset at Phnom Bakheng or Srah Srang

• Phnom Bakheng Hill offers sweeping views of Angkor Wat at sunset (arrive early; limited access).
• Alternatively, Srah Srang lake is peaceful and less crowded for sunset photos.

6:30 PM – Return to Siem Reap

• Head back to your hotel to rest or enjoy dinner in Siem Reap’s Pub Street area.

Tips for a Smooth Day in Angkor Wat

• Buy your pass the day before (after 5 PM) to skip morning queues.
  • One-day pass: $37 USD
• Hire a tuk-tuk driver (about $25–35 USD/day) or rent a bicycle/e-bike.
• Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and temple-appropriate clothing.
• Start early — most temples close by 5:30 PM.

Angkor Wat in One Day

Angkor Wat in One Day

• What time should I arrive at Angkor Wat?
  Arrive by 5:00 AM to catch the iconic sunrise over the temple’s towers. The park opens at 5:00 AM, and early arrival helps you secure a good photo spot.

• How much is the Angkor Wat entrance fee?
  The 1-day pass costs $37 USD per person. You can buy it at the official ticket office on the road to the temple, or after 5 PM the day before (which lets you enter for sunset that evening).

• Do I need a guide for Angkor Wat?
  A guide isn’t mandatory but highly recommended for first-time visitors. A local guide can explain the history, carvings, and symbolism of each temple. Expect to pay around $25–40 USD for a half or full day. Cambodia is one of the cheapest places to travel in the world, so this will be one of the most expensive days compared to the rest of your days in Siem Reap.

• What is the best way to get around the temples?
  Most travelers hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day (around $25–35 USD). It’s comfortable and convenient, with shade between temple stops. You can also rent a bicycle or e-bike, but note the distances can be long in the heat.

• What should I wear to Angkor Wat?
  Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are best for the heat. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing.

• Can I visit all the temples in one day?
  No, the Angkor Archaeological Park is huge. In one day, focus on the “small circuit” route:
  • Angkor Wat (sunrise)
  • Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple
  • Ta Prohm
  • Banteay Kdei or Preah Khan (afternoon)
  • Sunset at Phnom Bakheng or Srah Srang

• What time do the temples close?
  Most temples close by 5:30 PM, except Angkor Wat and Phnom Bakheng, which close at 5:30–6:00 PMdepending on daylight.

• Is sunrise or sunset better at Angkor Wat?
  Sunrise is more famous for its golden reflections on the moat. Sunset is quieter and beautiful at spots like Phnom Bakheng or Srah Srang lake.

• Can I use a drone at Angkor Wat?
  No, drones are not allowed without special permission from APSARA (the authority managing the park).

• Where can I eat during the day?
  There are plenty of small restaurants and stalls near Srah Srang and Ta Prohm serving local dishes like Khmer curry, fried noodles, and fruit shakes.

• Is it worth visiting during the rainy season?
  Yes! The rainy season (May–October) means fewer crowds, lush green scenery, and dramatic clouds for photos. Just bring a rain poncho and expect short afternoon showers.

• How long should I plan to stay at each temple?
  • Angkor Wat – 2 hours
  • Bayon & Angkor Thom – 1.5 hours
  • Ta Prohm – 1 hour
  • Preah Khan or Banteay Kdei – 45 minutes
  • Sunset stop – 30–45 minutes