Every year, a million visitors come from all over the world to experience the mystery and wonder of Angkor Archaeological Park. They come as a visit offers adventure, wonder and a journey back in time to the ninth century. This is when Angkor emerged as a major seat of power which lasted until the capital city was abandoned in the 15th century. Most of the complex that visitors can see today was built in the 13th century, and the 287 temples are in various picturesque states of decay. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is massive, covering 202 hectares, and because of its large size and number of temples, it's worth allowing two or three days here. You can buy a ticket for one day which covers the whole site, but you wouldn't be able to see many of the temples in that time the two or three day tickets are a better choice if you can spare the time.When planning your visit, there are two main routes to choose from: the Small Circuit or the Grand Circuit. The Small Circuit is 17 kilometres long and it covers all the major landmarks. The Grand Circuit is 26 kilometres long and you will see a larger number of temples if you choose to do this. The three most famous temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm, and these are likely to be busy all year round with visitors. Angkor Wat temple is the largest religious landmark in the world: if you can face getting up early, the temple looks particularly atmospheric at sunrise.Cambodia's heat and humidity make it more appealing to visit during the winter season, when temperatures are lower. March is usually the hottest time of year, but be prepared for lots of rain if you visit between June and October.There are many options for getting to Angkor Archaeological Park: you could rent a bicycle, hire a motorbike, take a tuk-tuk or hop on a tour bus. Once you're in the park, you can even hire an elephant to do the hard work for you...
Angkor Archaeological Park Tours and Activities
Visit Angkor Archaeological Park
Tours & day trips
See all 985 activitiesOpens in new tabSmall-Group Explore Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour with Guide from Siem Reap
Shopping & fashion
See all 11 activitiesOpens in new tabSiem Reap: Evening food Tour Guided and Unique Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 445 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Angkor Wat Tour from Siem Reap
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 130 activitiesOpens in new tabSiem Reap: Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers
Classes & workshops
See all 47 activitiesOpens in new tabSiem Reap: Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers
Reviews of Angkor Archaeological Park
4/5 - Good
A bit expansive
5/5 - Excellent
If hiring a tuk tuk and doing the short circuit, start at the furthest temple north and work back to avoid the crowds.
4/5 - Good
Wear good walking shoes. It can be tricky on uneven paving and stairs. There is so much more than Angkor Wat, it is only one of many different temples and ruins.
Popular places to visit
Chau Say Tevoda
Learn about the local history of Siem Reap when you spend time at Chau Say Tevoda. Discover the breathtaking sunrises and temples in this culturally rich area.
Ta Prohm Temple
Nature and human endeavour combine here to create one of the world's most atmospheric temples.
Bayon Temple
Experience Southeast Asia's 'Mona Lisa' at this grand and beautiful temple.
Elephant Terraces
You can learn about the history of Siem Reap when you stop by Elephant Terraces. Discover the area's breathtaking sunrises and temples.
Terrace of the Leper King
Learn about the local history of Siem Reap with a stop at Terrace of the Leper King. Discover the area's breathtaking sunrises or seek out its local tours.
Angkor Baphuon
Learn about the local history of Siem Reap when you spend time at Angkor Baphuon. Discover the area's breathtaking sunrises and temples.