Angkor Wat Sunrise - Everything You Need To Know

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat is one of the most important and well-preserved sites in the world today and is well worth a visit despite the crowds. Thousands of tourists flock to Angkor Wat every day to witness the breathtaking Angkor Wat sunrise and take that iconic photo, while some pause to find peace and quiet.

We have compiled 10 perfect sunrise Angkor Wat locations for you to check out, whether you are looking for a peaceful way to start the day, a distinctive photo to preserve your trip to Siem Reap's historic temples or an exciting getaway from the city. Admire the golden, ethereal light of the morning sun as it covers lotus fields, temples, rice paddies, and communities. The early wake-up call will be more than compensated for by the vistas.

Is Sunrise At Angkor Wat Worth It?

It is worthwhile to check out if you are currently backpacking, taking a gap year, or exploring Southeast Asia and happen to be near the capital city of Phnom Penh. For good reason, Cambodia is on many people's bucket lists, and you will not be let down. Yes, we got it that Cambodia appears to be a laid-back country, but is sunrise at Angkor Wat worth it?

It can be peaceful and even mystical to watch the sunrise at the world's largest religious monument. It amazes and inspires you. The lost city of Angkor will be in front of you, and you will be charged to investigate human history. Watching the sunrise over the temple in the Cambodian forest is a magical experience. Few people in your lifetime will have the good fortune to see this show. So we say, "Go!" See the dawn and get the complete lunch deal. You will quickly discover why Angkor Wat is the national symbol and the symbol of Cambodia.

Watching the sunrise in Angkor Wat is a magical experience

What Time Is Sunrise At Angkor Wat?

You must arrive early at the temple. It is an excellent idea to leave your hotel by 4:45 am or sooner because the Angkor Wat temple opens at 5 am. You will have a good location to observe and capture the sunrise at Angkor Wat if you get up early. Additionally, you will be able to take pictures of Angkor Wat without the masses obstructing your view, even if the sun has not yet risen.

Best Time to Watch the Sunrise in Angkor Wat

The dry season, which runs from early December to March, is the ideal time of year to witness the dawn. These months have the best temperatures and the least amount of precipitation, making for pleasant and moderate weather. But since it is high season, it is the busiest time of year.

Best Spots For Sunrise Angkor Wat View

If you're looking for the perfect spot where to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, then there are many locations for you.

You can capture that iconic shot or simply soak in the peaceful moment. Once you have taken as many photos as you need in one spot, move about and take pictures from all angles to get a fresh perspective or mood.

In front of Angkor Wat Temple

The best spot for sunrise Angkor Wat is in front of the reflecting pond in front of the Angkor Wat Temple. Be prepared for crowds.

With its symmetrical view of Angkor Wat and its towers flanked by tall palm trees, the reflecting ponds in front of the temple provide an unspoiled reflection and the ideal frame for you. Because the temple faces west, the sun rises magnificently behind the imposing spires, whose shadows are exquisitely reflected in the placid waters. Finding a place in the crowded front row may be challenging because this location is popular with tourists.

Make sure you arrive on time and secure a location to witness Angkor Wat at sunrise as the temple gates open at 5:00 AM. It would be challenging to acquire the ideal image because of the throng of tourists surrounding you.

The best spot for sunrise Angkor Wat is in front of Angkor Wat Temple

Pre Rup

Pre Rup, also known as the Pyramid Temple, is a three-story building that was once used as a royal cremation. This 1,200-year-old temple, which is composed of sandstones and laterites, is one of the oldest structures of Angkor Wat. At sunrise, it glows red and orange. The golden hour at 5:30 AM offers a breathtaking panoramic vista by the gentle, warm light.

Pre Rup is located 14 kilometers from Siem Reap and farther from the town, close to Phnom Bakheng. To provide visitors with the ideal sunrise experience, the temple offers a variety of different viewpoints.

Pre Rup is a place for Angkor Wat sunrise

Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng is the first major temple built at Angkor Wat in the early 10th century. The location offers you a sense of the heyday of the Khmer Empire, even if today there are only the ruins left. The temple, which is 70 meters high, is a popular destination for dawn seekers. For a tropical view of lush forests, charming landscapes, and the nearby temples shrouded in morning mist, hike to the summit of Phnom Bakheng.

Only 300 visitors can enter the temple at once due to its small size. Therefore, as soon as you come, make sure to get in line. The temple's exterior and interior both offer views of the sunrise Angkor Wat.

Visit: Sunset in Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng, which is 70 meters high, is a popular destination for dawn seekers

East Mebon

A man-made island in the middle of Baray Reservoir, East Mebon has a similar architecturally attractive structure to Pre Rup. This Hindu island temple in Mebon dates back to the 10th century and was devoted to Rajendravarman II's parents. The temple's entrance is embellished with enormous stone elephants and exquisite decorations.

You might not see many people at sunrise at East Mebon because it is a less well-known location and a little farther away from the other locations. However,  the sunrise from the summit of East Mebon Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Bayon Temple

The Bayon Temple was the final stone building constructed by the Khmer Temple, and it stands squarely in the middle of Angkor Thom. The temple's 37 towers, which showcase 216 distinct stone smiling faces of the well-known Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, are its most notable features.  Along with bas-reliefs that portray significant historical events, the temple's outer walls are carved with elaborate designs.

With the golden light softly cascading over the happy faces, the temple, which faces east, provides a breathtaking morning view. The Angkor Wat sunrise spot is located in the center and may be reached from each of the cardinal points' gates.

Srah Srang

Kavindrarimathana excavated the Srah Srang reservoir around the middle of the 10th century, and Jayavarman VII made modifications to it in the year 1200. This 900-year-old lake, which is still filled with water today, was once utilized as a royal bathing pool and is situated directly across from Banteay Kdei temple.

With the serene trees' reflections over the lake and the sunrise's orangish pink tones, Srah Srang provides the most beautiful sunrise views. Head to the opposite end of Srah Srang towards Pre Rup to avoid crowds.

Head to the opposite end of Srah Srang towards Pre Rup to avoid crowds

Some Useful Tips To See Angkor Wat Sunrise

When your alarm clock goes off, is not it convenient to have everything you need ready to go? Make sure you pack everything you will need before the sun rises to avoid ruining your mood. You can bring everything you will need for the day, including your entrance tickets, sunscreen, cameras, and a bottle of water. In this manner, you will be able to get out of bed in the morning, put on your clothing, get your bag, and be ready to go right away!

It is not permitted to wear attire that reveals your shoulders and knees. Remember, this is a historic place of worship. You should always keep your knees and shoulders covered. Dress appropriately to show respect for the culture.

It is advisable that you either bring your own breakfast box or ask your hotel to make it for you. Breakfast is also available in Angkor Park. You can enjoy a quick breakfast before touring other sites because the local eateries open early.

Don’t forget to tour the temple while it is still cool and low after you have seen the sunrise in Angkor Wat. Because of its size and beauty, Angkor Wat is a pleasant place to explore. Other parts of the temple are also open for you to explore.

After the sunrise in Angkor Wat, explore nearby temples like Ta Prohm, with its famous tree roots growing over ancient ruins, or the iconic Bayon Temple, known for its stone faces. You can also visit Srah Srang, a peaceful reservoir, or take a hot air balloon ride for stunning aerial views of the temples. These activities let you experience the beauty and history of Angkor while avoiding the midday heat.

After all, we believe that knowing the sunrise Angkor Wat time is the most important tip. Make sure you check the weather forecast ahead of time to ensure a successful Angkor sunrise. You can go to the Google machine and type in, “What time is the sunrise at Angkor Wat tomorrow?” Any day can be typed in as your plan. As a result, the sunrise for the following day will appear.

Purchase Tickets in Advance

We strongly recommend purchasing the ticket a day or two in advance if you do not want things to get complex because it might be really advantageous. You will not rush yourself at the last minute, for example. You can therefore carefully plan or handle things at your own speed. Additionally, purchasing your tickets in advance will spare you the trouble of getting up even earlier. In this manner, you will not have to worry about arriving on time.

The ticket office is open from 5 am to 5:30 pm, while Angkor Park is open daily from 5 am to 7 pm. One-day admission to Angkor Wat costs $37, three-day admission costs $62, and a week-long admission costs $72. You can also pay with a card and purchase tickets online. You must visit the office in the heart of Siem Reap to buy the tickets.

Best way to reach Angkor Wat

The best way to reach Angkor Wat is from the city of Siem Reap, which is just 6 kilometers away. Most travelers opt for tuk-tuks, a popular and affordable mode of transport, taking around 20 minutes to get to the temple. You can also hire a car or bicycle if you prefer more flexibility. For those who enjoy adventure, joining an Angkor Wat sunrise bike tour is a fantastic way to explore the area while witnessing the magical sunrise.

Conclusion

An iconic representation of Cambodia is the Angkor Wat temple complex. Angkor Wat is probably the main reason you are visiting Cambodia, and over half of all foreign visitors come to see the ancient remains there each year!

Seeing the Angkor Wat sunrise is an amazing experience that blends historical significance with natural beauty. With careful planning and consideration of timing and locations, you can ensure that your visit will be memorable and fulfilling.

The breathtaking sight of dawn breaking over one of humanity's greatest architectural achievements will leave an indelible mark on your travel memories—one that you will cherish long after you leave Cambodia's shores.

As you plan your journey to Cambodia, there’s so much more to explore beyond Angkor Wat. Make sure to include the majestic temples, vibrant markets, and pristine coastlines in your travel itinerary. To enter Cambodia, you will need a visa. Luckily, applying for a Cambodia eVisa is a straightforward process that can be completed online via our Cambodia Immigration Services website. Start your journey now and discover the wonders of Cambodia with ease.