Best Place to watch Sunset in Siem Reap

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Siem Reap is witnessing the sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat Temple—an awe-inspiring moment that draws visitors from around the world. As early as 4:30 AM, travelers begin gathering in front of the temple, often near the northern reflection pool, which is widely considered the best spot to capture the perfect silhouette of Angkor Wat’s five lotus-shaped towers mirrored in the still water. This location offers a magical view as the sky transitions from deep blue to soft pink and golden orange, with the temple gradually illuminated by the rising sun behind it. For photographers, arriving even earlier—around 4:00 AM—ensures the best front-row view, as the area fills quickly, especially during peak season. While Angkor Wat is the most popular sunrise destination, those looking for a quieter experience might opt for Srah Srang, also known as the Royal Bathing Pool. With its wide-open view and fewer crowds, it offers a peaceful and scenic alternative. No matter which location you choose, watching the sunrise in Siem Reap is not just a photo opportunity—it’s a moment of wonder and reflection, where history, nature, and spirituality converge in a truly breathtaking way. Be sure to bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for an early start to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

When visiting Angkor Wat in 2025, choosing the right transportation can enhance your overall experience, and the good news is there’s something for every budget and travel style. For comfort and flexibility, hiring a private Tuk-Tuk is one of the most popular choices, costing around $15 to $25 USD per day, with a small extra fee for sunrise tours. It’s a scenic and authentic way to explore the temples while staying cool with the breeze and occasional cold water provided by the driver. For those seeking more comfort—especially families or couples—private cars with drivers are available for $35 to $60 USD per day, offering air-conditioning and a smoother ride across longer distances. If you prefer a more guided experience, group tours typically cost $25 to $40 USD per person, while private guided tours with a vehicle can range from $60 to $120 USD, depending on the level of service and number of travelers. Adventurous and budget-conscious travelers might enjoy bicycle rentals, which cost only $2 to $5 USD per day, or e-bikes for around $10 to $15 USD, providing a more sustainable and flexible way to roam the park—though the heat and long distances should be considered. Motorbike rentals are another option at about $8 to $15 USD, but keep in mind that riding them inside the Angkor complex is restricted for tourists. For eco-conscious visitors, electric tuk-tuks or small EV cars are becoming more common, priced around $25 to $40 USD per day, and offer a quieter, greener way to travel. No matter which mode you choose, it’s best to start early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds—and always carry water, sunscreen, and a sense of wonder.

Cambodia, known for its warmth and hospitality, invites visitors to experience its rich cultural heritage with respect and awareness. Before embarking on your journey to this Kingdom of Wonder, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local customs and practices to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit.

When traveling in Cambodia, it is crucial to seek permission before taking photographs of Cambodian people or monks, as this demonstrates respect for their privacy and cultural practices. In places of worship, such as pagodas or temples, it is customary to remove your shoes and dress modestly, covering your upper arms and legs while removing hats. This practice also extends to entering someone’s home, where removing your shoes is a sign of respect. A respectful greeting involves a slight bow with your hands pressed together at the chest, known as the “Sampeah.” If you are invited to dine at a Cambodian family’s home, bringing a small gift, such as fruit, dessert, or flowers, is considered polite. Additionally, when attending a Cambodian wedding, it is customary to bring cash as a wedding gift. At the dining table, if using a toothpick, cover your mouth with one hand to maintain propriety. Business cards should be exchanged with both hands, and they should also be received in the same manner.

Conversely, there are several important DON’Ts to observe while in Cambodia. Do not use your feet to point at someone or touch a Cambodian person’s head, as both actions are considered disrespectful. If you are a guest at a meal, wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Women should avoid touching male monks or handing items directly to them, as this is not permissible. It is also advised to keep public displays of affection to a minimum, as overt displays may be viewed as inappropriate.

In terms of commonsense practices, ensure that you do not litter and contribute to keeping the community clean and safe. Proper disposal of plastic bags is essential to avoid environmental hazards.

When it comes to what to wear, Cambodia’s weather is categorized into the wet season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). For the dry season, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing is recommended due to the hot and humid conditions. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are advisable for outdoor activities like hiking or trekking, and a hat and sunglasses are useful for sun protection. During the rainy season, packing a light rain poncho or a sturdy umbrella is practical, along with a light jacket or cardigan for the cooler months of December and January. When visiting outdoor temples, including Angkor Wat, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable, but shoes and hats should be removed at the entrance. For more formal sites like the Silver Pagoda within the Royal Palace grounds, dress more formally: gentlemen should wear long trousers, and ladies should opt for long trousers or skirts while keeping their shoulders covered.

For your trip, be sure to bring photocopies of your passport and at least two passport-size photographs. Carry cash in denominations of US$1, $10, $20, and $50, and consider packing a folding umbrella or lightweight rain poncho if traveling during the rainy season. Zip lock bags are handy for keeping items fresh and dry. Most importantly, bring an adventurous spirit to fully embrace and enjoy the diverse experiences Cambodia has to offer.