Capturing a sunrise at Angkor Wat is something akin to a rite of passage for anyone visiting Cambodia. It’s a tradition set in stone, an event that’s hard to skip, and believe me, you wouldn’t want to.
But here’s the catch – it’s not as straightforward as waking up early and showing up. An Angkor Wat sunrise demands a little bit of planning and some insider know-how to make the most out of a trip.
As you might notice however, the clouds had rolled in after sunrise quite quickly so most of my shots around Angkor Wat has a cloudy mood, though I would say it adds much more drama to the photos, and dare I say, makes them even look better!
Don’t worry though! In this article, I’m going to share all the details to make your Angkor Wat sunrise a piece of cake. From insider tips, sunrise spots, photo tips and best times to visit, I’ve got you covered.
You can also find bonus tips on how to beat the crowds, plus a few alternative sunrise spots within Angkor Park that aren’t on everyone’s radar. Interested? Read on!
What is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is not just a temple; it’s a city in its own right. The English translation literally means “City of Temples!” It’s a colossal architectural marvel that has stood the test of time, often being referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World.
Built in the first half of the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, but over time, it transitioned into a Theravada Buddhist site.
Its grandeur is unrivaled – covering an area of around 402 acres, the complex is a blend of temples, bas-reliefs adorned with carvings of celestial beings and epic tales from Hinduism such as the Ramayana.
If you’re interested, you can learn all the facts, history, and symbolism of Angkor Wat through here.
Where is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is located in the heart of Cambodia. This ancient temple complex sits approximately 5.5 km (3.4 mi) north of Siem Reap and just a bit south of Angkor Thom. It’s part of the larger Angkor Archaeological Park, which covers a vast area of 400 sq km (around 154 sq mi).
Location: Angkor Wat
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
What to Know About Angkor Wat:
- There’s more to Angkor Wat than just the main temple, explore the moats, the jungles, and the surrounding buildings.
- You can technically enter earlier through a side entrance that’s different from the main bridge’s entrance.
- The time to climb up the towers of Angkor Wat is a bit later than the opening so stick around longer to see the best views in the house.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a very small town and you can find most places close to each other and all within 15 – 30 minutes from Angkor Archaelogical Park. Here are some of my recommendations:
Best Hotels in Siem Reap
- Han & Daniel Villa Boutique – this is where we personally stayed and what can I say except that it was a blast! The location is conveniently located near most of the sites that we went to around town such as the Phare Circus and the e-bike rental shop. The rooms were spacious and a good bathroom. The beds were great too. They had parking spaces for our bikes with an in-house restaurant for whenever we were lazy to get food outside. Daniel kindly helped us with a lot of stuff too such as an airport pick-up, airport drop-off, and helping us get tickets to Angkor Archaeological Park. The best part was the pool which we were taking a dip in every day!
- Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel – offers an outdoor pool, free private parking, and a range of services including room service, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi. The rooms are air-conditioned, with a desk, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom.
- Damrei Residence & Spa – offer a flat-screen TV, and a seating area. You can enjoy the garden or city views while relaxing with a cup of tea. All rooms have a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary toiletries.
Best Hostels in Siem Reap
- Onederz Hostel Siem Reap – a clean, comfortable, and friendly place to stay. With its well-designed layout and premium amenities, including three swimming pools, this hostel offers a high-quality experience.
- Mad Monkey Siem Reap – offers a range of room options, a fantastic pool, and an incredible bar and restaurant serving both local and Western cuisine. At Mad Monkey, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow fun-loving travelers from all around the globe.
- Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap – featuring a Khmer-chic inspired design, Lub d Siem Reap boasts a swimming pool with a swim-up pool bar, inviting lounging areas, and a games area with a pool table and Pacman arcade game. You can indulge in all-day breakfast, expertly brewed coffee at The PumpHouse, and quick snacks from the Grab & Go counter.
How to Visit Angkor Wat for Sunrise
There are several ways to visit Angkor Wat for sunrise, here’s how:
- E-bike: Using the e-bike is the best way to reach Angkor Wat for sunrise if you’re traveling solo or with a friend. This is how we did it and it was absolutely seamless. The e-bikes in Siem Reap are like scooters so you will reach Angkor Wat in about 20 – 30 minutes, park it and head straight on. You can read more about renting e-bikes here or you can read about our journey to catch the sunrise in Angkor Wat here.
Cost: 10 USD per day
- Tuktuk: The classic way to reach Angkor Wat is via Tuktuk, it’s not as adventerous as zooming through the jungles at dawn with an e-bike but you can rest assured that the driver knows the way. It’s also a bit more expensive than an e-bike. You’ll have to arrange one yourself and agree on a meeting time and place.
Cost: 15 USD – 21 USD plus an additional 3 USD for sunrise or sunset
- Tour: For a hassle-free experience, you can join a guided tour that usually includes a hotel pick-up. There are plenty of sunrise tours available that also include a visit to other nearby sites. The plus side is you’ll be getting plenty of information as you explore the temples. You can join one here.
Is Sunrise at Angkor Wat Worth It?
Absolutely! Seeing the sunrise at Angkor Wat is a once in a lifetime experience. As the dawn breaks, the sky gently shifts from an inky black to soft pastel hues. The silhouette of Angkor Wat, reflected in the still waters of the pond in front, against the backdrop of the rising sun, is truly a magnificent sight to behold.
It’s serene, breathtaking, and provides a mystical atmosphere that’s really hard to put into words. Basically, what I’m saying is just go for it!
As you watch the sunrise, casting its breathtakingly beautiful hues on the majestic Angkor Wat, you’ll be grateful you made the extra effort. After all, it’s not every day you get to witness such a spectacle.
9 Tips to See the Angkor Wat Sunrise
1. Check the Weather
First and foremost, the most important thing to do is to check the weather, I like to use Accuweather to get a clear idea of what the weather will look like. Don’t just look at face value forecast if the day will be cloudy or rainy, rather look at the forecast by the hour which Accuweather provides. Also take into consideration cloud cover, as too much or too little clouds can have a drastic influence.
Another great way is to ask the locals, they would know better though it’s better to ask third-parties rather than asking any random tuk-tuk driver as they will most likely say yes even if there might not be one that day.
2. Know the Sunrise Time
Depending on the time of year, the sunrises at different times. it could be as early as 5:30 AM or as late as 6:30 AM. That 1 hour difference can make or break the whole experience. It’s crucial to check the sunrise time for the specific day of your visit. You can consult Accuweather which also displays the sunrise and sunset times or simply ask the locals or the staff at your accomodation.
3. Buy Tickets in Advance
Buying your tickets in advance can save you precious time on your sunrise visit. If you’re going to line up in the morning then chances are you might miss out on a good spot already.
Angkor Wat tickets are sold at the official ticket center, located on the road to Angkor Wat, which opens from 5:00 AM. However, lines can be long and time-consuming, especially in the early morning hours when everyone is rushing to catch the sunrise.
You’ll need your passport to buy your ticket and tickets come in one-day (37 USD), three-day (62 USD) and seven-day (72 USD) increments. You need to keep your ticket safe and on you at all times, as you’ll need to show it at various checkpoints and at each temple entrance.
4. Scout the Place Beforehand
The ticket center is open until 5:30 PM and any tickets purchased after 5:00 PM are also valid for the next day. This means you can buy your ticket, do a little sunset temple exploration (the guards should not punch a hole in your pass), and then be ready bright and early for your sunrise visit without having to worry about ticket lines.
You can explore Angkor Wat until its closing time at 5:30 PM. Aside from catching the sunset, this is also a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with the layout of the land and to identify potential sunrise viewing spots. Look for areas that offer a clear line of sight to the east, where the sun will rise though I’ll also be providing the best sunrise spots further down below.
5. Prepare Your Things the Night Before
Setting your alarm early for an Angkor Wat sunrise is already challenging, so you don’t want to add to the stress by rushing to gather your things in the morning. Preparing everything the night before will streamline your morning routine and help ensure you don’t forget anything.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Clothing: Pack a light scarf or a hat to protect from the sun once it gets hotter.
- Tickets: Make sure your entrance pass is in your bag. It’s no fun getting all the way there and realizing you’ve left your ticket at the hotel.
- Camera Equipment: If you’re planning to take photos, charge your camera batteries and empty your memory cards. Pack extra batteries and cards just in case. Don’t forget your tripod if you plan to use one.
- Food and Drink: It can be a long morning with barely any time for breakfast, you can bring a snack and some water. There are also several stalls selling food and drinks near the temple which we went to after exploring Angkor Wat.
- Other Essentials: Pack bug spray, sunscreen, a portable phone charger, and any other essentials you might need.
6. Get the Dresscode Right
One thing that can really ruin your sunrise experience is showing up to Angkor Wat only to be turned away because of improper attire. The temples of Angkor are sacred religious sites, so a certain level of modesty is required when it comes to your clothing. You can technically explore the lower grounds in shorts but you can’t go to the higher terraces if you’re not covering the knees, even for the guys.
Angkor Wat Dress Code:
Cover your shoulders: Bare shoulders are a no-no at Angkor Wat. Opt for a t-shirt, blouse, or lightweight long-sleeved top that covers your shoulders. If you’re wearing a tank top, make sure you have a scarf or shawl to cover up.
Keep your knees hidden: You should also wear clothes that cover your knees. This means long shorts, capris, skirts, or lightweight pants.
7. Be There Before Opening Time
The gates to Angkor Wat may open at 5:00 AM, but don’t think that’s the time you should be rolling up to the entrance. If you’re set on capturing that dreamy sunrise, you’ll need to be there a good bit earlier. Why, you ask?
First, you’ll be avoiding the queues that begin to form at the entrance as opening time nears. And trust me, you’re not the only eager sunrise-chaser, so those lines can get quite long!
Second, it’s all about nabbing that prime spot. The best places to view the sunrise are snatched up quickly by the early birds. I’m talking about arriving at around 4:30 AM (if not earlier), depending on how much of a stickler you are for the perfect vantage point and beating the crowds.
8. Enter from Rainbow Bridge
Most people will make a beeline for the main entrance, which is directly facing the temple. It’s the most obvious route, but it also tends to be the most crowded. For a slightly quieter, more serene experience, consider entering from the lesser known Rainbow Bridge.
In our case, the main entrace was actually even closed that day so we had to make up for lost time by running towards Rainbow Bridge!
The Rainbow Bridge is situated to the right of the main entrance as you face the temple. All you need to do is head straight and you’ll end up in the reflection ponds which is closer from Rainbow Bridge in the first place.
9. Learn Photography Composition
Getting to the right spot is one thing but taking home an epic sunrise photo is a whole different affair. Understanding a bit about photography composition can make a world of difference. You can read more about that here.
If you’re looking to capture a shot that stands out from the crowd, I recommend “getting down low.” Everyone tends to shoot at chest level but when you change your angle of view by getting closer to the ground (and to the water), you can create a sense of “balance” between the elements that make up your shot.
Here are a few tips to make the most of this approach:
Get low: Rather than shooting from eye level, try positioning your camera closer to the ground. This can add a sense of depth to your photos, making the temple appear more imposing.
Layering: When you’re shooting low, you have a chance to incorporate interesting foreground elements into your shots. Reflections in the water, flowers (which you can only see if you’re shooting from below), or even the silhouette of other spectators can add layers and depth to your composition.
Rule of Thirds: Use the rule of thirds to balance your composition. Try to place the rising sun at one of the intersection points in the grid. The temple, on the other hand, could fill one of the vertical sections. You can read more about the Rule of Thirds here.
Patience: Good photography often requires patience. Don’t rush to take your shot. Also don’t leave immediately once you think you got your shot! Wait for the perfect moment when the light, color, and composition come together.
Practice: Try out different angles, settings, and compositions. Don’t just stick to one position, the more you experiment, the more you’ll understand what works and what doesn’t.
Angkor Wat Sunrise Spots
There are a couple of spots to catch the sunrise in Angkor Wat, we will be discussing each and you can refer to the map above for the corresponding number. If you’re coming from Rainbow Bridge, you can take your picks easily.
1. Left Reflecting Pond
The Left Reflecting Pond is the first go-to spot for many early birds and it’s easy to understand why. It’s where you can get that classic Angkor Wat sunrise shot. The iconic temple silhouette reflected perfectly in the tranquil water, while the sunrise slowly lights up the sky… it’s nothing short of magical!
Here, you’ll be located to the left of the central walkway as you face the temple – hence the name. The pond themselves provides an almost mirror-like surface, all thanks to the engineering of the Khmer. They sure know how to enjoy their own works!
Bear in mind though, its reputation for stunning views is no secret and it will get crowded! To claim a prime spot, arriving extra early is key. This is the time for your patience and preparedness to pay off. You’ll want to be in the left portion of the pool to get the clear unobstructed shot of Angkor Wat.
If you’re too late, you can go further to the right side of the pond or go to the Right Reflecting Pond instead.
2. Right Reflecting Pond
The Right Reflecting Pond is a close second to the Left Reflecting Pond. We ended up here that day because the left reflecting pond was under renovation.
Located, as you might guess, to the right of the central walkway as you face the temple, this area offers a slightly different angle but with more palm trees to contend with so you’ll have to get creative with framing your shots. It’s still an equally enchanting view of the temple!
While the crowds tend to be slightly smaller here compared to the Left Reflecting Pond, it’s by no means a secret spot both ponds are just a couple of steps away from each other so crowds can quickly grow on both sides.
3. Central Causeway
If you fancy a straight-on, symmetrical view of the majestic Angkor Wat, the Central Causeway is your spot. It offers a beautiful balance while providing an unobstructed view of the temple in all its glory.
The Central Causeway, a long, straight path that leads directly to the main entrance of Angkor Wat, can provide a truly epic view as the sun begins to rise.
In fact, the Central Causeway is a favored spot for photographers during the equinox which is when the sun rises perfectly aligned with the central tower of Angkor Wat. You can find more about the equinox below.
4. Northern Library
The Northern Library also presents a unique perspective for the sunrise. While this location is not as popular as the reflecting ponds or the central causeway, it’s an appealing alternative if you’re looking to escape the bigger crowds and still enjoy a beautiful view (or if you can out of places to shoot from).
Located within the inner enclosure of Angkor Wat, the Northern Library faces towards the main templ. You can get a bit of elevation here by climbing to its upper terraces for a much better shot.
5. Southern Library
The Southern Library is another quieter, less crowded spot. Just like its northern counterpart, the Southern Library provides a fascinating backdrop to the rising sun.
While the Libraries may not provide that classic, symmetrical sunrise shot that the reflecting ponds offer, it does provide a unique perspective.
So, if you’re after a sunrise experience that’s a little off the beaten track but equally mesmerizing, the Southern Library is definitely worth considering!
How Long is the Sunrise at Angkor Wat?
Generally speaking, you should plan for the entire experience to last around an hour to an hour and a half. Stick around a bit more to catch that golden hour lighting or watch the hues change further.
The actual moment when the sun begins to peek over the horizon usually happens between 5:30 to 6:00 AM, depending on the season. However, the entire event, from the first break of dawn, through the sun’s full ascension, creates a long play of light and shadows which can continue until 7:00 to 7:30 AM.
How to Beat the Crowds at Angkor Wat
That’s what we’d all like to know, eh? Throughout my 4 days of exploring Angkor Park, I’ve learned how to avoid the crowds as you can see from most of my shots. Here’s how you can do that too:
Early Bird Gets the View: The simplest and most effective strategy is to arrive before the crowds. As mentioned before, try to get to Angkor Wat before 5:00 AM (or even earlier if you can manage). This will allow you to stake out a prime viewing spot for the sunrise.
Off-Peak Visits: Consider visiting Angkor Wat during off-peak seasons. Tourism is usually slower during the months of May to October, due to the wet season. Sure, you might encounter a few showers, but you’ll also have more of the temple to yourself. We were actually there during June and didn’t see much rain at all!
Go Against the Crowd: While most people enter through the main western gate (after watching the sunrise), you could consider using the less crowded eastern gate for a more peaceful exploration of the temple complex. I recommend going off-route, go to the opposite direction of where the crowd is flowing from so you’ll have portions of the temple to yourself.
Know Your Priorities: If seeing Angkor Wat without the crowds is more important to you than catching the sunrise, you can go later in the morning (around 8 – 10 AM) or in the afternoon as many tour groups have moved on to other temples by then.
Hire a Good Guide: A knowledgeable local guide can offer invaluable advice on the best times to visit certain areas of the complex and may know a few hidden corners away from the crowds. You can find plenty at GetYourGuide.
Spread Out Your Visit: Angkor Wat is massive – take advantage of its size to escape the crowds. While the main structures may be busy, some of the outer areas are often less crowded.
Catch the Sunset: Finally, my best advise would be to go for an Angkor Wat sunset instead. While sunrise at Angkor Wat is very popular, sunset is less so. You can come later in the afternoon to watch the sunset and enjoy the temple in the golden evening light, with fewer people around to boot!
Alternative Sunrise Spots in Angkor Park
1. Pre Rup
Pre Rup is an awesome spot if you’re looking to capture a less conventional sunrise in Angkor. This ancient Hindu temple is less crowded during the early morning hours. On the contrary, Pre Rup is actually most popular during sunset!
Pre Rup is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Angkor Wat. But let me tell you, the sunrise view from here is every bit as enchanting. The temple is made up of richly hued laterite and brick, and as the first rays of the sun hit the structures, they take on a warm, golden glow that is quite mesmerizing!
2. Phnom Bakheng
Phnom Bakheng is another stellar spot sitting atop a hill, it’s not only one of the most ancient temples in the Angkor region, but it also offers an incredible panorama of the surrounding jungles.
Although Phnom Bakheng is also more well-known for sunset views, the sunrise view is a lesser-known gem. It’s worth noting, though, that the climb up to the temple is a bit of a hike, and the path can be a little rough.
Make sure you’ve got good shoes on and take the path on the right which is the easier man-made route. Take a flashlight to help navigate the path in the pre-dawn darkness. You’ll probably be the only ones there!
3. Srah Srang
Srah Srang is a man-made reservoir located in the Angkor complex, and it can make for a breathtakingly beautiful sunrise with a much larger body of water and reflection!
Srah Srang is a much more chill experience as compared to the previous two and even Angkor Wat. You’ll just find a spot along the steps leading down to the water, sit back and relax as the sun paints the sky and still-waters with all the hues.
There’s also an air of quiet contemplation here that feels really special, I often found myself relaxing here as we went around Angkor Park.
4. Eastern Mebon
Eastern Mebon is something of a sister temple to Pre Rup, they are both similar in size and structure. The Eastern Mebon once stood as an artificial island in the middle of the Eastern Baray reservoir. Today, the reservoir is dry, but the temple remains, offering an unusual stage for the sunrise.
When is the Equinox Sunrise at Angkor Wat?
The equinox sunrise at Angkor Wat occurs twice a year around late March and late September which are the Spring and Autumn equinoxes respectively. During these times, the sun rises directly in line with the central tower of Angkor Wat, creating a super rare phenomenon.
The Central Causeway is the place to be during this time but the crowds can get insane more than any other day of the year.
What is the Best Season for Sunrise Photos at Angkor Wat?
The dry season, which runs from November to April, is often considered the best time for capturing those perfect sunrise shots. During these months, clear skies and predictable weather offer a great backdrop for the sun’s morning glow. January to April is especially good, as the humidity is lower, and the clarity of the skies can be quite remarkable.
However, the rainy season, typically from May to October, presents its own unique charm. Post-rainfall mornings often reveal dramatic cloud formations, creating the perfect setting for the rising sun.
Plus, the rains make the surrounding landscape lush and fill up the ponds to their brim. This fullness offers fantastic reflective views of the temple. Also, if you’re lucky, you might even spot blossoming lotus flowers during this time!
Bear in mind, though, the rainy season may also bring days when cloud cover obscures the sunrise.
Recently, the addition of irrigation sprinklers and pumps for the ponds at Angkor Wat means that no matter when you visit, you’re likely to find picturesque scenes!
Plan Your Trip to Siem Reap | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
