Angkor wat
Angkor wat which translates to “Temple City” is located 5.5 kilometers north of Siem Reap in Cambodia. This temple city was built in the early 12th century in the classical style of Khmer architecture. It was converted from personal mausoleum to Buddhist temple toward the end of the 12th century. It is the largest religious structure by land area. Over the years many groups have sought to restore the site and by the 1990s it started to become a very popular tourist destination. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
How to get there
The most direct way to get to Angkor Wat is by reaching Siem Reap which will be your base for exploration. The fastest way is by flying into Siem Reap International Airport. If already traveling in Cambodia this city is easily accessible from other cities. If you are heading to Siem Reap from Bangkok there are buses that bring you to Aranyaprathet on the Thai side of the border and then you will need to take a tuk-tuk into Cambodia. From this border town called Poipet you can catch another bus to Siem Reap.
United States citizens will need to pay for a travel visa on entry. Currently, this fee is $30 and it is best to bring new (no tears or defects) and exact change for your visa on arrival. The tourist visa is good for 30 days.
How to get around
Being that Angkor Wat is only 5.5 kilometers from Siem Reap you will easily be able to get there. You can rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk or knowledgeable driver for a tour. You can also rent a motorbike or scooter to get around, but you should feel comfortable navigating the roads.
where to stay
You will be staying in Siem Reap and there are several various types of accommodation to fit your budget and taste. In general, the closer you stay to Old Market in the city center the better. There is a pub street which is known for its nightlife and restaurants.
When to visit
The best time to visit is between December and February when it is generally drier. The rainy season is generally from May through October and it is generally the hottest from April through June. However, if you come off peak time you will have the benefit of less tourists and more affordable accommodation.
Entrance Fees
Once you are going to visit the site you have the option of three types of tickets: one-day, three-day and seven-day pass. You will need to carry your pass on you each day you visit and if you lose it or are unable to show it there can be fines. I would strongly encourage you to consider getting the three-day pass so you can really take advantage of all the ruins and some more remote sites within the complex. The current cost is $37 for one-day, $62 for three-day and $72 for seven-day pass.
temples not to miss
You will be awe inspired by all the magnificent temples and how different they are. If you hire a guide you will learn even more tips but there are also plenty of guides out there to tell you which ones not to miss. Ta Prohm, Baphuon, Bayon, and Angkor Wat are of my favorites. For Sunrise you must go to Angkor Wat itself and the best place to view sunset is at Phnom Bakheng.
