Visit the Temples of Angkor: full guide

How to visit the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap? Discover 6 ideas to contemplate this unique site in the world with a new eye!

The archaeological site of Angkor is no longer present. He is an associate of Cambodia and lives in the collective imagination with a special intensity. His temples are the vivid witnesses of a civilization that is now missing: the Khmer Empire. Powerful, ingenious and refined, it was a time when it radiates throughout Asia. If this era is now over, going through its remains promises you an extraordinary immersion. Visit the province of Siem Reap to discover this invaluable medieval treasure! In this article, you will discover 6 ideas to succeed your visit and not miss the magic of the place.

The temples of Angkor in a few words

The archaeological site of Angkor is located in the tropical forests north of the Tonlé Sap, along the town of Siem Reap. This huge complex consists of many vestiges, which testify to the greatness of the Khmer Empire. We are then between the 9th and 15th century and Angkor is the imperial capital. This incredible city counts at its peak almost a million inhabitants! However, the reasons for its collapse remain mysterious.

Visiting the temples of Angkor makes it possible to grasp the full power and complexity of the Khmer Empire. You will discover many vestiges, including art dazzled by its beauty and refinement. The stones mix in a lush jungle, which seems to want to stifle a sulphurous past. It’s like you discovered the ruins yourself. This unique atmosphere reinforces immersion. On your way, you will cross Hindu and Buddhist temples. Among them, the most famous, Angkor Vat , is considered the eighth wonder of the world.

1. Guided tour

For you, there is no question of visiting the temples of Angkor without accompaniment? Would you like to know all the details? So we recommend the guided tour. This is the ideal solution to understand the historical, cultural, social and religious complexity of the city.

But how to find a good guide to visit the temples of Angkor? Indeed, the archaeological site does not provide for official guided tours. So you'll have to find one by your own means. The safest option remains to contact travel agencies and dedicated associations . You can enjoy the knowledge of certified tourist guides. But you can also do your research on the internet and trust the opinions of internet users. In any case, prefer local guides.

You can also rent a audioguide to Siem Reap with specialized companies. A good idea to make the visit at its own pace!

How much does it cost?

• Guide francophone : between 40 and 50 € / day ;
• English-speaking Guide : between 30 and 40 € / day ;
• Audioguide : between 4 and 8 € / day.

2. The bike ride

Do you want to visit the temples of Angkor in total autonomy? Go to your rhythm, get out of the beaten paths... Of course, it is possible to make the visit on foot. However, the site is huge and the sun hits hard. If you're in search of freedom, turn to bike rental instead from Siem Reap .

The bike is an economic and ecological solution. Quiet, it allows you to enjoy the sounds of the Angkorian jungle. Indeed, the cry of monkeys, the singing of birds and the burning of insects also participate in immersion! However, Cambodia’s heat and humidity can be deterrent. If you can be tempted to rent a scooter, know that it has been banned for a few years. In theory at least, because you will still cross motorcyclists on the site. However, we advise you to opt for an electric bike.

How much does it cost?

• Bicycle rental : about 2 € / day ;
• Electric bike rental : between 5 and 10 € / day.

You can negotiate prices if you want to rent the bike several days.

How do I know more about Angkor’s history if you visit the site in autonomy?

We advise you to start your visit with a tour Musée national d’Angkor . It exhibits superb pieces, found mainly on the archaeological site. This will allow you to learn more about the city before discovering it. Browse freely the various pieces of the museum, which chronologically retrace the history of the Khmer Empire.

You will also find many books about Angkor. You will even have the opportunity to buy them on site, including "Angkor, Khmer City" by Claude Jacques. A very good book that is usually sold less than five euros.

3. The tuk-tuk tower

The tuk-tuk tower offers a balance between the first two ideas. Indeed, it allows you to be quite free, since it is you who decide where to go. But it also allows you to be accompanied during the visit! Of course, the tuk-tuk drivers are not tourist guides. However, some are very familiar with the history of the site. They will guide you to visit the temples of Angkor. Finally, the tuk-tuk can take you directly from your hotel temples.

Which tuk-tuk driver contact and how to choose? You can do your research on travel forums . Many Internet users share the contacts of drivers they enjoyed the services. You will find French and English-speaking drivers without problems.

How much does it cost?

• Small circuit : between 10 and 15 €;
• Grand circuit : between 15 and 20 €.

4. The balloon flight

Why not take height to appreciate the splendour of the city? A hot air balloon tour will allow you to embrace the entire site in a look. An unusual way to visit the temples of Angkor, which makes you close the clouds! More silent companions than the crowd of tourists, whose experience is usually offered by Angkor Balloon . The balloon flight will remain engraved in your memories, a real time of escape during your trip to Cambodia. You will even have the opportunity to contemplate the beautiful Cambodian countryside around. A tip: focus on sunset ...

Some agencies also offer helicopter flights, but we do not recommend this option. In addition to being extremely polluting, it does not have much interest. Indeed, it is forbidden to fly over the temples. So you'll just bypass them...

How much does it cost?

Here are the rates for a hot air balloon ride (approximately 10 minutes ) :

• Adult : between 15 and 20 €;
• Child : between 5 and 10 €.

5. The sunrise or sunset on Angkor Vat

Enjoying the sunrise or sunset on Angkor Vat is a must. The purple and saffron sky then rests on the delicate silhouette of the temple, offering a spectacular landscape. If you want to punctuate your stay with a romantic breath, it is not to be missed! In spite of the time, the crowd is many to come to contemplate the show. Don't expect to find yourself alone. However, there are spots that help avoid the crowd a little. The best thing is to get on site for autonomy.

Council : temptation is great, but don't visit Angkor Vat just after sunrise! He'll be crowded. Better come back later.

6. Events in Angkor

The archaeological site of Angkor is sometimes the theatre of events. These are golden occasions to visit the temples of Angkor otherwise. They then embody a particular, less artificial atmosphere. The Khmers reappropriate the place. Observing this sudden animation blooming among the old stones offers an abyss between ancient and contemporary culture. Photography Festival, dance shows, religious festivals... If you are lucky to visit the site on the right dates, enjoy it!

Calendar of events in Angkor

Here are the main events that take place on the site of Angkor:

• Angkor Sankranta : from 13 to 16 April, it is the Khmer New Year, or Bon Chaul Chhnam. Festivities take place on the site of Angkor;
• Visak Bochea : in May, it is the Buddha’s feast. The monks then perform torch processions on the site of Angkor Vat;
• Pchum Ben In September, the Khmers celebrate the ancestors' feast. Many Buddhist monks then go to the temples of Angkor;
• Bon Om Touk : In November, the water festival is also celebrated in Angkor. There you will see parades or irony races in the doves of Angkor Vat;
• Angkor Photo Festival : from late November to early December, workshops and photographic exhibitions highlight Khmer artists;
• Semi-marathon international d’Angkor Vat : it takes place every year in December. Thousands of international athletes run among the remains of the temples. The funds are intended for solidarity works.