2-Day Local Family Experience: Angkor Wat Sightseeing & Culinary Delights

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

2 days

Towers with faces
The monks in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap
Side view of Ta Kou
Temple complex Siem Reap
Sunrise at Angkor Wat

About Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Experience the mystical allure of Angkor Wat, Cambodia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient temple complex, the largest religious monument in the world, showcases the architectural genius of the Khmer Empire. Marvel at the intricate bas-reliefs and the iconic lotus-bud towers that symbolize the cosmic world in Hindu mythology. Explore the surrounding Angkor Archaeological Park, home to the enchanting Bayon Temple and the overgrown Ta Prohm, a testament to nature's power. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor traditional Khmer cuisine, and witness a mesmerizing Apsara dance performance. Angkor Wat promises a journey back in time, a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't forget to take family photos with the iconic lotus-bud towers in the background.

Lunch

Enjoy a local Cambodian lunch. Try the famous Amok, a coconut curry usually served with fish, and wash it down with some refreshing sugar cane juice.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. Explore the Bayon Temple, known for its giant stone faces, and the Terrace of the Elephants.

Dinner

Dine on traditional Khmer cuisine for dinner. Try the popular dish Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef served with a tangy lime and pepper sauce.

Evening

End your day with a traditional Apsara Dance Show. This classical Khmer performance is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to Ta Prohm, a temple famous for the trees growing out of its ruins. This temple was also featured in the movie Tomb Raider.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the Khmer noodle soup, a popular Cambodian dish.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Its red sandstone walls are beautifully carved with intricate designs.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner of traditional Cambodian barbecue. Grilled meats and vegetables are served with a variety of sauces for a flavorful meal.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake. Witness the floating villages and the unique way of life of the local people.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Angkor Wat

1
Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Angkor Thom

2
Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, is a fortified city featuring many beautiful and historically significant structures. The most notable of these is the Bayon Temple, known for its multitude of serene and massive stone faces. Other attractions include the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the Baphuon temple.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Bayon Temple

3
Bayon Temple

The Bayon is a richly decorated Khmer temple at Angkor in Cambodia. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century as the state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, the Bayon stands at the centre of Jayavarman's capital, Angkor Thom.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Terrace of the Elephants

4
Terrace of the Elephants

The Terrace of the Elephants is part of the walled city of Angkor Thom. The terrace was used by Angkor's king Jayavarman VII as a platform from which to view his victorious returning army.

Attractions
Monuments
Apsara Dance Show

5
Apsara Dance Show

Apsara Dance Show is a traditional Khmer performance that is a must-see in Cambodia. The dancers wear elaborate costumes and move with grace and precision, telling stories with their hands and feet.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Ta Prohm

6
Ta Prohm

A temple at Angkor, Siem Reap Province, a photogenic and atmospheric maze of trees growing out of temple ruins amidst the jungle.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Banteay Srei

7
Banteay Srei

A 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, known for its beautiful red sandstone carvings.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Tonle Sap Lake

8
Tonle Sap Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia that has a unique flow change. It is also an important commercial resource, providing more than half of the fish consumed in Cambodia.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Amok Trei

Amok Trei

A traditional Cambodian dish, Amok Trei is a steamed, curried fish, typically served in banana leaves. It's a must-try for visitors to Angkor Wat as it reflects the rich culinary tradition of the region.

Prahok

Prahok

Prahok is a fermented fish paste that is a staple in Cambodian cuisine. It's often used as a seasoning or a condiment, and it's a unique taste of the local food culture near Angkor Wat.

Nom Banh Chok

Nom Banh Chok

Often referred to as 'Khmer noodles', Nom Banh Chok is a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia. It's a noodle dish served with a fish-based green curry gravy, and it's a common sight in the local markets around Angkor Wat.

Bai Sach Chrouk

Bai Sach Chrouk

Another popular breakfast dish, Bai Sach Chrouk is grilled pork served with rice. It's a simple, yet flavorful dish that is a staple in the local cuisine of the Angkor Wat region.

Lap Khmer

Lap Khmer

Lap Khmer is a lime-marinated Khmer beef salad. It's a refreshing dish that showcases the fresh, vibrant flavors of Cambodian cuisine, making it a must-try for visitors to Angkor Wat.

Kuy Teav

Kuy Teav

Kuy Teav is a noodle soup made from pork or beef bones and rice vermicelli. It's a popular street food in Cambodia, and a comforting, hearty dish to try after a day of exploring Angkor Wat.

Cha Houy Teuk

Cha Houy Teuk

Cha Houy Teuk is a Cambodian jelly dessert, often brightly colored and served with coconut milk. It's a fun, sweet treat to try while visiting Angkor Wat.

Num Pang

Num Pang

Num Pang is the Cambodian version of a sandwich. It's typically filled with meat, vegetables, and a chili sauce, making it a delicious, quick meal to grab while touring Angkor Wat.

Angkor Beer

Angkor Beer

Angkor Beer is a popular local beer in Cambodia. It's a refreshing lager that is perfect for cooling down after a day of exploring Angkor Wat.

Sraa Tram

Sraa Tram

Sraa Tram, or sticky rice wine, is a traditional Cambodian alcoholic beverage. It's a unique drink to try while visiting Angkor Wat, offering a taste of the local culture.

Tuk-a-loc

Tuk-a-loc

Tuk-a-loc is a popular Cambodian drink made from blended fruits, sweetened condensed milk, and crushed ice. It's a refreshing, sweet drink to enjoy while exploring Angkor Wat.

Kampot Pepper Crab

Kampot Pepper Crab

Kampot Pepper Crab is a famous Cambodian dish made with fresh crab and locally grown Kampot pepper. This dish is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Angkor Wat.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Angkor Wat, Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this period, the weather is less humid and cooler, making it more comfortable to explore the vast temple complex. The skies are also clearer, providing excellent conditions for photography. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder months of October or April.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year

January 7

Sun

Victory over Genocide Day

March 8

Fri

International Women Day

April 13

Sat

Khmer New Year Day (Day 1)

April 14

Sun

Khmer New Year Day (Day 2)

April 15

Mon

Khmer New Year Day (Day 3)

April 16

Tue

Khmer New Year Day (Day 4)

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 14

Tue

King's Birthday

May 22

Wed

Visak Bochea Day

May 26

Sun

Royal Plowing Ceremony

September 24

Tue

Constitutional Day

October 1

Tue

Pchum Ben Festival

October 2

Wed

Pchum Ben Festival

October 3

Thu

Pchum Ben Festival

October 15

Tue

Commemoration Day of King's Father

October 29

Tue

King's Coronation Day

November 9

Sat

Independence Day

November 14

Thu

Water Festival Ceremony (Day 1)

November 15

Fri

Water Festival Ceremony (Day 2)

November 16

Sat

Water Festival Ceremony (Day 3)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Bicycling is a popular way to get around Angkor Wat. It allows you to explore the site at your own pace and is environmentally friendly. Bicycles can be rented from numerous places in Siem Reap.

Tuk-tuks are a common form of transport in Cambodia. They can be hired for the day to take you around the Angkor Wat complex. The drivers often have a good knowledge of the area and can provide useful insights.

Hiring a car with a driver is another option for getting around Angkor Wat. This can be a more comfortable choice, especially during the hot season. Drivers usually speak English and can provide valuable information about the temples.

Motorbikes are available for rent in Siem Reap. However, please note that tourists are not allowed to drive motorbikes within the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Elephant rides used to be a popular way to get around Angkor Wat, but they have been discontinued due to animal welfare concerns.

Walking is a great way to explore the temples at a leisurely pace. However, the distances between the temples can be quite large, so this method is best suited for those who enjoy long walks.

Ridesharing services like Grab are available in Siem Reap. You can use these services to get to Angkor Wat and around the city. However, they are not allowed within the Angkor Archaeological Park itself.

There are no public buses that go directly to Angkor Wat, but there are shuttle buses from Siem Reap airport and from various hotels in the city. These can be a cost-effective way to reach the site.

For a unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat. This is a seasonal activity, typically available from December to March, and offers stunning views of the temples and surrounding landscape.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency KHR

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 118; Police: 117

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type CPower socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Angkor Wat, Cambodia as a first time visitor

1

Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so respect the site and do not touch or climb on the ancient structures.

2

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season, from November to March, when temperatures are more manageable (68°F-86°F or 20°C-30°C).

3

The site opens at 5:00 AM, and it's recommended to arrive early to avoid the crowds and to witness the sunrise over the temples.

4

Dress appropriately when visiting Angkor Wat. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

5

You will need to purchase an admission pass to enter the Angkor Archaeological Park. Passes are available for one day, three days, or seven days.

6

It's advisable to hire a local guide to fully understand the history and significance of the site. Guides can be hired at the entrance or booked in advance.

7

Stay hydrated and wear sun protection. The Cambodian sun can be intense, especially during the dry season.

8

Be aware of potential scams. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid giving money to child beggars.

9

The site is vast and can be tiring to explore on foot. Consider renting a bicycle, hiring a tuk-tuk, or joining a tour bus.

10

There are no ATMs within the Angkor Archaeological Park, so bring enough cash for your needs throughout the day.

11

Restrooms are available at the Angkor Wat complex, but they may not be up to Western standards. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

12

Food and drinks are available from vendors outside the temple complex, but prices can be higher than in Siem Reap town.

13

Avoid touching or feeding the monkeys that roam around the site. They can be aggressive and carry diseases.

14

There is no Wi-Fi at the site, so download any maps or information you need beforehand.

15

If you're planning to take a lot of photos, bring extra batteries or a portable charger as there are no charging facilities at the site.

16

Be respectful during your visit. Avoid loud noises and maintain a respectful distance from monks and religious ceremonies.

17

Mosquito repellent is a must, especially during the rainy season (May to October).

18

If you're visiting during the rainy season, bring a raincoat or umbrella as sudden showers are common.

19

The site can get crowded, especially during peak season (November to February). Plan your visit during weekdays or off-peak months for a less crowded experience.

20

Lastly, remember to take your time and enjoy the experience. Angkor Wat is a place of immense historical and cultural significance, and it's worth taking the time to appreciate its beauty and grandeur.

Basic Khmer to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

សួស្តី

suosdei

Greeting someone

Goodbye

លាហើយ

leah hoy

Leaving someone

Thank you

អរគុណ

orkun

Showing appreciation

Yes

បាទ

baat

Agreeing with someone

No

ទេ

te

Disagreeing with someone

Please

សូម

suom

Making a request

Sorry

សុំទោស

som tos

Apologizing

I don't understand

ខ្ញុំមិនយល់

knhom min yul

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

អ្នកនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសទេ?

neak niyeay pheasa anglis te?

When you need to communicate in English

How much?

តម្លៃប៉ុន្មាន?

tlai ponman?

When you want to know the price of something

Where is...?

...នៅណា?

... nov naa?

When you are looking for a place

I need help

ខ្ញុំត្រូវការជំនួយ

knhom trov kar chomnuah

When you need assistance

Bathroom

បង្គន់

bangkon

When you need to find a restroom

Food

អាហារ

aahaar

When you are hungry

Water

ទឹក

tuk

When you are thirsty

Good

ល្អ

l'ah

Complimenting something

Bad

មិនល្អ

min l'ah

Expressing dissatisfaction

Excuse me

សុំទោស

som tos

Getting someone's attention

I'm lost

ខ្ញុំបាត់បង់

knhom bat bong

When you can't find your way

Help

ជំនួយ

chomnuah

When you need assistance

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Rain jacket

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Driver's license

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Local currency

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of Angkor Wat

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Tissues

  • Wet wipes

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notebook and pen

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Angkor Wat, Cambodia, it's crucial to consider the weather as it can significantly impact your experience. Cambodia generally experiences a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons - the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season, from November to April, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, the weather is hot but not excessively so, with temperatures typically ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). This is the best time for sightseeing as the skies are clear and the chance of rainfall is minimal. However, it's also the busiest time of the year, so expect larger crowds. The rainy season, from May to October, is characterized by high humidity and frequent rain showers. Temperatures during this period usually range from 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C). While the rain might deter some visitors, it also brings lush greenery and fewer tourists, offering a different, more tranquil experience. The rain usually falls in the afternoon, so you can still enjoy your morning explorations. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to start your day early to avoid the midday heat. Also, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you're visiting during the rainy season, don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Lastly, keep an eye on the local weather forecast during your stay to plan your activities accordingly. Enjoy your trip to the magnificent Angkor Wat!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 21°

January is a popular month for tourists due to the cooler temperatures and low rainfall. It's a great time to explore the temples without the crowds of peak season.

February

32° / 22°

February sees a slight increase in temperature but remains relatively cool. It's a good time to visit as the weather is still comfortable and the tourist crowds are not at their peak.

March

34° / 24°

March marks the beginning of the hot season in Cambodia. The heat can be intense, so it's important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.

April

35° / 25°

April is the hottest month in Cambodia, with temperatures often reaching 35 degrees. Despite the heat, it's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

May

35° / 25°

May sees the start of the rainy season, but the showers are usually short and can be a welcome relief from the heat. The rain also brings out the lush greenery of the temples.

June

34° / 24°

June is in the middle of the rainy season, but don't let that put you off. The rain is usually in short bursts and the temples are less crowded.

July

34° / 24°

July is a good time to visit if you don't mind a bit of rain. The showers are usually short and the temperatures are more comfortable than in the hot season.

August

34° / 24°

August is similar to July, with short bursts of rain and comfortable temperatures. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

September

34° / 24°

September is the wettest month in Cambodia, but the rain is usually in short bursts. The temples are less crowded and the rain brings out the lush greenery of the temples.

October

34° / 24°

October sees the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the cooler season. It's a good time to visit as the weather is comfortable and the tourist crowds are not at their peak.

November

32° / 22°

November is a popular month for tourists due to the cooler temperatures and low rainfall. It's a great time to explore the temples without the crowds of peak season.

December

31° / 21°

December is the coolest month in Cambodia, making it a popular time for tourists. The weather is comfortable and the temples are less crowded.

Did you know?

Did you know that Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, covering an area of about 162.6 hectares?

1 of 10

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