I’m currently based in Phnom Penh and since Angkor Wat is just a few hours away by bus from the city, we headed over there last weekend. Not my first time there but still, the temples of Angkor Archeological Park never ceases to amaze and mystify me.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is considered the main temple, and it is a great example of classical Khmer (Cambodian) art. It has also become a symbol of the country and is even featured in the Cambodian national flag.
The most common mistake people make about Angkor Wat is thinking that it is the only temple in Siem Reap Cambodia. It’s not, it may be the most popular and the most massive but it is just one of the hundreds of temples you can see there. One even has the danger of being templed out after seeing too many of them. But still, the park is one of the wonders of the world. A reason why its almost always jampacked with tourists all year round.
Gate to Angkor Thom Temples
The Bayon Temple
The city of Siem Reap is the gateway to the temples of Angkor. It is a highly accessible city, lots of transportation options and if you’re worried about places to stay, don’t be. From uber luxurious to the backpacker’s budget choice, the small city has a lot to offer with amenities to suit even the most discerning of travelers. Siem Reap also has its own international airport so you can fly directly from Bangkok, Laos, Vietnam, Singapore and Phnom Penh.
About the weather and health essentials, the park is located in a dense tropical forest so the danger of malaria is present so best be safe and have those anti-malaria stuff. And since this is the tropics, the weather is hot and can get sticky, so prepare suitable clothes, sunblock, and bring lots of water when touring the temples.
Gallery Among the Angkor Thom Ruins
A guidebook would come in really handy if you don’t want to hire a guide. It’s really a good idea to understand more about the temples as you visit them otherwise it’ll just turn out to be some huge pile of rocks as you move along.
Old Market Souvenir Shops, Siem Reap Cambodia
Fees and Costs. You will be needing transportation to go around the temples. You can either hire a tuk-tuk for a day ($15), air conditioned cars and buses are also available at slightly higher prices. Park entrance comes at $20 (1-day), $40 (3-days) and $60 (1-week). These can be bought at the park entrance not anywhere else.
Alley Street, lined with galleries, shops, restaurants and bars
If you are an archeological buff or have an interest in art, architecture, history etc, a 1-day pass wouldn’t be enough as there is just too much to see. And my best advice – plan ahead. Have an temple itinerary in mind so you wouldn’t miss important spots.
@ Siem Reap Night Market
And if you get too tired, then Siem Reap has a lot to offer in terms of dining and entertainment options. Pub Street and Alley Street near the old market is brimming with restaurant with authentic international cuisine at super affordable prices. Draft beer costs only $.50!!! the whole day. Spa’s and massage services are plentiful you’ll be spoiled for choice, but if its something new you want, try this..
Super ticklish fish massage..
