The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events

The Equinox Angkor is a special solar phenomenon that occurs twice a year at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The first event, called the Vernal Equinox, typically occurs between March 21st and 23rd from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM. The second event, known as the Autumnal Equinox, usually takes place in September.

The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events, attracting tourists from around the globe as well as local Cambodians. During these events, thousands of visitors gather in front of the western entrance of the Angkor Wat temple, waiting to witness and capture photos of the breathtaking sunrise.

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Khmer New Year, also known as “Choul Chnam Thmey,” meaning entering the new year, is a national holiday hosted by Cambodians annually. It is the season when Cambodians have free time from harvesting rice and other agricultural commodities. The event is Cambodia’s largest event and lasts three days, on the 13th, 14th, or 15th of April (in a specific year, it could be on the 14th to 16th of April).

Cambodian New Year is celebrated just like other Asian New Year Festivals that blend history with religious practices, emphasizing and commemorating the seniors and ancestors. While there are merriments with traditional meals and beverages, the three days are packed with Buddhist compliance centered on performing gratitude, sending offerings to deceased family members, and contributing to those in need. The following preparations are exclusively made for the Khmer New Year.

As of 2024, travelers visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia, have multiple official options for purchasing the mandatory Angkor Ticket Pass. The primary and longest-standing sales point is the Angkor Enterprise Main Ticket Office, located approximately 4 km from downtown Siem Reap along Road 60. This office operates from 5:00 AM until 5:30 PM daily, catering to early visitors heading for sunrise at Angkor Wat. However, in a move to improve convenience for tourists, authorities have introduced a second official ticket counter at Heritage Walk Mall, a modern shopping and dining complex situated just minutes away from the popular Pub Street area. This secondary outlet, open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, provides the same services as the main office but in a more central, air-conditioned environment with generally shorter queues—making it an excellent choice for those staying in the city center who wish to avoid the morning rush at the primary location.

 

For tech-savvy travelers, the official online ticket portal https://www.angkorenterprise.gov.kh allows advance purchase of passes, which can be presented as QR codes at temple entrances. This digital option is particularly useful for avoiding lines entirely. Pricing remains consistent across all sales channels: $37 for a 1-day pass, $62 for a 3-day pass (valid for 10 days, with any three days of entry), and $72 for a 7-day pass (valid for a month, with any seven days of entry). Children under 12 enter free but must present a passport or ID for verification.

 

A critical requirement for all pass purchases is the on-the-spot photograph taken at the time of issuance, which is embedded into the ticket to prevent transferability. Visitors should also note that passes are non-refundable and must be kept intact throughout their stay, as frequent checks occur at temple entrances. For those planning to witness the iconic Angkor Wat sunrise (with gates opening at 5:00 AM), purchasing the pass the day before is strongly advised to bypass morning ticket office delays. Additionally, while the Heritage Walk Mall offers extended accessibility, it’s worth confirming its hours during holidays or special events, as adjustments may occur.

 

With these options, travelers can choose the most suitable method based on their itinerary—whether prioritizing convenience, avoiding crowds, or securing tickets in advance for a seamless experience at one of the world’s most magnificent heritage sites.

As the first stars appear over the ancient temples of Angkor, join us for an unforgettable celebration of light, hope, and renewal. From April 14–16, 2025, the west moat of Angkor Wat will transform into a shimmering dreamscape for our magical Lantern Floating Ceremony**—the crown jewel of **Angkor Sankranta’s Khmer New Year festivities.

Imagine this: The warm glow of countless lanterns reflecting on still waters, the scent of frangipani in the evening air, and the soft murmur of prayers and laughter as thousands come together in celebration. This is your moment to write your hopes on paper, light your lantern with care, and release it to join this radiant dance of light**—each flickering flame carrying dreams for the coming year.

More than just a beautiful spectacle, this **centuries-old tradition represents the enduring spirit of Cambodia. As your lantern drifts peacefully across the water, you’ll be surrounded by the timeless grandeur of Angkor Wat, where ancient stones whisper stories of the past while we celebrate the future.

Why Attend?
✔️ Experience one of Cambodia’s most breathtaking cultural events
✔️ Participate in a profound, meditative ritual of renewal
✔️ Create lasting memories with loved ones under the stars
✔️ Immerse yourself in the magic of Khmer New Year at its most spectacular

Special Tips:
– Arrive before sunset to secure the best spot and watch the transformation from day to night
– Wear comfortable, respectful clothing in light colors (perfect for photos!)
– Bring a camera—you’ll want to capture every luminous moment

Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers like grains of temple sand. Whether you’re seeking spiritual connection, cultural immersion, or simply one of the most beautiful nights of your life, Angkor Sankranta 2025 awaits.

Your lantern is waiting. Your moment is now.
Join us for this extraordinary celebration where ancient traditions meet new beginnings. 🪔✨

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