Joanna James
There are many other attractions deserving of praise, but Angkor Wat, with its historical brilliance, keeps appearing on lists of suggested things to do in Cambodia. Here are some tips for visiting.
It’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance. For example, if you get to Siem Reap today, buy the ticket for the following day. This is because there’s always a long queue at the ticket booth, with people vying to buy a ticket to enter the temple. By the time you’ve managed to buy a ticket, you will likely be massively exhausted. The ticket counter is open from 5 AM to 4:30 PM, but people flock there earlier than 5 AM. When buying the ticket, they’ll snap a picture of you to compare with your passport. Tickets are available for varying durations, from one day to three days to seven days. If you can, go for the longest duration, as there’s so much to see at Angkor Wat.
Siem Reap is one of the most visited destinations in Cambodia, and it’s loved by all. To cater to the large number of tourists, the city offers a plethora of accommodation options. Some of them are located close to Angkor, as it’s the main attraction. It’s best to stay near the temple complex, especially if you intend to return to the temple more than once. Do your research and find a place that suits your needs. Among the Angkor Wat hotels are five-star options such as FCC Angkor Siem Reap.
It can be quite hot, but Angkor Wat is a temple, so remember to dress respectfully. Your clothes should cover your shoulders and knees. It’s more than just a stunning place for photos; it’s a holy site, so mind your behaviour. Stick to breathable materials like linen to avoid discomfort.
Visit early in the morning to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise, a gorgeous sight that’ll never leave your mind. You’ll need to wake up a bit earlier if you want to find a good spot, though. It’s one of the most popular sites in Cambodia, and crowds start gathering early in the morning. Set your alarm for 5 AM so that you can get here in time for the sunrise. Staying close by would really help, too.
Angkor Wat has become home to monkeys, and they’re all around the temple. While they’re quite adorable and cute to look at, some of them can be quite vicious, especially if there’s food involved. They might try to snatch it from you, so keep a close eye on your snacks and drinks.
You might end up spending the whole day exploring the temple. During that time, you’re bound to get hungry. You won’t find a large number of dining options nearby, but there are a few restaurants serving good food. Cambodian cuisine centres around the use of fresh veggies, and rice and noodles are staples. Amok, a classic Khmer dish made with creamy coconut milk, spices, and veggies, is a must-try. Lok-lak is also a must-try.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
