Begin your day filled with wonder as the sun slowly rises over the majestic and awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, casting a golden glow over this ancient masterpiece. This iconic half-day tour guides you through the most renowned and captivating temples of the Angkor complex, including the enigmatic smiling stone faces of Bayon and the mysterious, jungle-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm. It offers the perfect and unforgettable introduction to the vast and historic Angkor site, immersing you in its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage.
π Angkor Sunrise Tour Plan β Half Day
Start Time: 4:30 AM
Duration: ~5β6 hours
Best For: First-time visitors, photographers, early risers
β Tour Highlights
- Angkor Wat at sunrise π
- Bayon Temple πΏ (famous for smiling stone faces)
- Ta Prohm Temple π³ (Tomb Raider temple)
- Optional stop at Banteay Kdei or small hidden temples
π Itinerary Timeline
Time | Activity |
---|---|
4:30 AM | Hotel pickup by tuk-tuk/car/van |
5:00 AM | Arrive at Angkor Wat ticket booth (if no ticket yet) |
5:15 AM | Get to Angkor Wat before sunrise β best photo spot by the pond |
5:45β6:15 AM | Watch sunrise at Angkor Wat (crowd forms early) |
6:30β7:30 AM | Explore Angkor Wat interior and galleries |
7:45β8:30 AM | Visit Bayon Temple (giant stone faces in Angkor Thom) |
8:45β9:15 AM | Visit Ta Prohm Temple (tree roots, jungle vibe) |
9:30 AM | Return to hotel (optional stop for breakfast/coffee) |
π Transport Options & Prices
Transport | Price (approx.) | Capacity | Note |
---|---|---|---|
Tuk-tuk | $18β22 | 1β3 pax | Classic & budget-friendly |
Private Car | $35β45 | 1β3 pax | AC, comfortable for early morning |
Van | $50β60 | 4β10 pax | Good for families/groups |
π‘ Driver will wait at each stop. You can add a licensed temple guide for ~$25β35.
ποΈ Tickets & Fees
- Angkor Pass Required:
- 1-Day Pass: $37 USD/person
- Can be bought the day before or early morning before entering
π₯€ Whatβs Included (if youβre offering this as a tour)
β
Pickup & drop-off at hotel
β
English-speaking driver
β
Cold water & wet towels
β
Flexible route
β Excludes temple pass & guide
π§³ What to Bring
- Angkor Pass or passport (to buy ticket)
- Flashlight or phone light (before sunrise)
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Water bottle (refill at vehicle)
- Camera or phone for photos
- Modest clothing (cover shoulders/knees)
πΈ Photography Tips
- Arrive before 5:15 AM for good pond-side spot
- Use a tripod or lean on the railing for sunrise shots
- Best reflection photos if skies are clear
π Optional Upgrades
- Add breakfast stop at a local restaurant ($5β8)
- Include licensed temple guide ($25β35 per group)
- Add late-morning visit to Banteay Kdei or Srah Srang (+$5β10)