Angkor Wat, Cambodia-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Ancient City

Morning

  • Angkor Wat: Start your day by watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic temples in the complex. Explore the temple’s intricate carvings, bas-reliefs, and towers.
  • Tickets: Purchase a 1-day pass ($37) or 3-day pass ($62) at the ticket office.

Afternoon

  • Bayon Temple: Visit Bayon Temple, known for its mysterious smiling faces carved into the stone. Explore the temple’s narrow corridors and climb to the top for panoramic views.
  • Lunch: Head to The Sugar Palm restaurant near Bayon Temple for delicious Khmer cuisine ( approx. $10-$15 per meal).

Evening

  • Phnom Bakheng: Watch the sunset from Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple with stunning views of Angkor Wat.
  • Dinner: Try Khmer Kitchen, a local restaurant serving traditional dishes like Fish Amok and Nom Banh Chok (approx. $5-$10 per meal).
  • Accommodation: Stay at Siem Reap Hostel or Mad Monkey Hostel, both offering dorms and private rooms, with prices starting from $10.

Things to Know

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated.
  • Be respectful of the temples and local culture.

Transportation

  • Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day (approx. $20-$30) or rent a bike (approx. $5-$10 per day).
  • Consider hiring a guide (approx. $30-$50 per day) to provide insight into the history and significance of the temples.

Day 2: Discovering More Temples

Morning

  • Ta Prohm: Explore Ta Prohm, a temple overgrown with jungle vines and massive tree roots.
  • Lunch: Eat at Try Me, a local restaurant near Ta Prohm serving Khmer dishes (approx. $5-$10 per meal).

Afternoon

  • Banteay Srei: Visit Banteay Srei, a pink sandstone temple known for its intricate carvings and bas-reliefs.
  • Landmine Museum: Stop by the Landmine Museum to learn about Cambodia’s history with landmines and the efforts to clear them.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Mie Cafe, serving a mix of Khmer and international dishes (approx. $10-$20 per meal).
  • Night Market: Explore the Night Market, where you can find souvenirs, try street food, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Floating Villages and Local Life

Morning

  • Tonle Sap Lake: Take a boat trip to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
  • Floating Villages: Visit floating villages like Kompong Phluk or Chong Kneas to see how local people live on the water.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Eat at a local restaurant near the lake, serving fish dishes and other Khmer cuisine (approx. $5-$10 per meal).
  • Artisans d’Angkor: Visit Artisans d’Angkor, a workshop where local artisans create traditional crafts like woodcarvings and silk products.

Evening

  • Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Red Piano, a restaurant serving Khmer dishes with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $15-$25 per meal).
  • Departure: Head back to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure flight.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Be prepared for crowds and heat.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • Try to avoid giving money or sweets to children, as it can create dependence on tourism.
  • Consider a hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat (approx. $300-$400 per person).
  • Take a Cooking Class to learn how to prepare Khmer dishes (approx. $20-$30 per person).

I hope you enjoy your trip to Angkor Wat, Cambodia!