The Base to Explore the Temples of Angkor

Siem Reap in northern Cambodia is home to the Angkor Archaeological Park - a 400 square kilometer historical site that includes Angkor Wat, 71 other major temples, and hundreds of smaller ruins. It’s a small city that’s built up largely around tourism (with about 50% of jobs being tourism related), leaving it a backpacker epicenter of Southeast Asia and a really cool place to spend time. I’d give yourself at least three full days (four nights) to enjoy all the sites.

To explore the Angkor Archaelogical Park, you can either rent a motorbike or schedule a tour with a Tuk Tuk driver. We did both - and I think both are fun and offer a similar experience. Below, I’m going to list out what I think are the best places to visit in Siem Reap and Angkor.

Catch a Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, is a massive Hindu-Buddhist temple known for its traditional Khmer temple-mountain architectural style. It’s easily the most famous site in Cambodia and even adorns the Cambodian flag.

Most tourists start their day at 4:30AM to catch the beautiful sunrise over Angkor Wat, basing themselves in front of the reflective pools in front of the temple. To be honest, I think the sunrise and the initial view of Angkor Wat are the most magnificent things about the temple - and that it’s most striking from a distance. You’ll need a couple of hours to explore the entire structure - but I don’t think anything inside is particularly memorable. The most gorgeous detail work of Angkor will be found at other temples.

Mark Bayon Temple as Your Favorite

After Angkor Wat, head to Angkor Thom - an ancient walled city. Here, you’ll see what is most people’s favorite destination in Angkor - Bayon Temple. Its intricate carvings of smiling faces are mesmerizing.

Take in the Jungle Temple Vibes of Ta Prohm

Famous for its feature in Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm is remarkable for the way it has been reclaimed by nature. With trees growing out of the ruins, the “Tomb Raider Temple” is a really fun place to spend a couple of hours.

Enjoy a Bit of All the Architectural Styles at Preah Kahn

The temples of Angkor have notably distinct architectural styles - making each a unique place to explore. What I liked about the large Preah Kahn was that it had elements from many of the temples we visited - including a long row of chambers, intricate carvings, beautiful stone statues, and sections that have become overgrown by nature. While it’s hard to say any single thing that makes me recommend Preah Kahn as a must visit, my overall experience there was really good.

Take a Quiet Moment in Neal Poan

The last temple I’ll mark as a must visit is the water temple - Neal Poan. The actual temple here is small and unremarkable. What makes it such a pleasant visit is that it’s located in the middle of a beautiful manmade lake - and the nature around the temple is beautiful and tranquil. It’s a nice break between the other large temple complexes.

Temple Hop Until You’re Sick of It

With 72 major temples and hundreds of smaller sites, the Angkor Archaeological Park can keep you occupied for weeks. Some of the other noteworthy destinations areTa Nei Temple, Khmock Gate (Gate of the Dead), Ta Kav Gate (West Gate of Angkor Thom), Banteay Kdei, Eastern Mebon, and Pre Rup Temple. There’s also an 8 mile nature walk along the walls of Angkor Thom, with the 2 mile stretch along the northwest corridor being the most remarkable.

Just Enjoy Siem Reap

Siem Reap is one of my favorite cities in Southeast Asia. It’s bohemian, livable, and just fucking cool. If you’re looking to drink, head to the busy Pub Street. If you’re looking to shop, go to the Old Market or one of the night markets (Noon Night Market, Angkor Night Market or Siem Reap Art Centre Night Market). If you just want to take a relaxing stroll, walk along the Siem Reap River.

I promise if you just go for long, aimless walks through Siem Reap, you will find something to love.

Other Things to Do

Siem Reap is a place I think tourists could easily spend weeks. If you find yourself with some extra time, here are some other common things to do:

Head to Another Jungle Temple: About a three hour drive northwest of Siem Reap, you’ll find Koh Ker. Older than Angkor, this temple complex is famed for its stepped pyramid temple in the middle of the jungle. It feels like something you’d find in Mexico or Central America.
Go the a Museum: The Angkor National Museum offers insights into the Khmer Empire and its archaeological treasures.
Take a Nature Break: Northwest of Siem Reap, you can take a day trip to Kulen Mountain. There you can hike, swim in waterfalls, see the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas, or explore Wat Preah Ang Thom.

Whatever you choose to do in Siem Reap, I’m sure you’re going to love it. It’s easily one of my favorite places I’ve ever been.

Play Tomb Raider in Siem Reap