Sea Festival 2024

Sunrise watching at Angkor Wat Temple is one of the most popular activities in Siem Reap. An extraordinary natural event called the Angkor Equinox occurs in March and September, providing visitors with a unique and awe-inspiring experience. During these equinoxes, the sun rises directly over the summit of the central Angkor Wat tower, creating a breathtaking sight.

In March, the people in the Northern Hemisphere often have mixed feelings about the changing weather, but they eagerly anticipate the Equinox. Known as the March Equinox, Spring Equinox, or Vernal Equinox, this event marks the beginning of spring in the Western calendar. The second equinox, occurring in September, is called the Autumn Equinox.

In Cambodia, the equinoxes in March and September are especially significant. Visitors to Angkor Wat can witness the sun rising over the central tower of the temple around the 20th of each month. This spectacular natural phenomenon, combined with the temple’s sophisticated astronomical architecture, makes these equinox days a remarkable event known as the Angkor Equinox (សមរាត្រីនៅប្រាសាទអង្គរវត្ត).

Discover the Art of Khmer Ceramics During Your Stay in Siem Reap

Khmer ceramics are more than just beautiful pottery—they are a vibrant part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage. During your stay at Sokchea Angkor Hotel, you’ll have the chance to dive into this ancient art form and experience its magic firsthand. Just a short trip from the hotel, you can visit local workshops or the Khmer Ceramics Center, where talented artisans craft stunning pieces using techniques that have been perfected over centuries.

At these workshops, you’ll witness the artistry behind each creation, learn about the fascinating history of Khmer ceramics, and even get the chance to roll up your sleeves and create your own masterpiece.  It’s a hands-on, immersive experience that’s perfect for travelers of all ages-whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking to try something new.

Pro Tip: Our friendly hotel staff is always ready to help you plan your visit to the best ceramic workshops in Siem Reap. Let us guide you to an unforgettable cultural adventure!

Take Home a Piece of Cambodia: Souvenir Shopping Guide

What better way to remember your trip to Cambodia than with a piece of its rich cultural heritage? Khmer ceramics are the perfect souvenir—beautiful, meaningful, and uniquely Cambodian. From elegant tea sets and bowls to intricate decorative pieces, these handcrafted items are a testament to the skill and creativity of local artisans. During your stay at Sokchea Angkor Hotel, our concierge team is here to help you find the best places to shop for authentic Khmer ceramics. Whether you’re looking for a small keepsake or a stunning centerpiece for your home, we’ll guide you to trusted local shops and markets where you can find high-quality, handmade treasures. Did you know? By purchasing Khmer ceramics, you’re not just taking home a beautiful souvenir—you’re also supporting local artisans and helping to preserve Cambodia’s traditional crafts for future generations.

Call to Action: Ready to find the perfect piece? Ask our concierge for personalized recommendations on where to buy the best Khmer ceramics and other unique souvenirs in Siem Reap. We’re here to make your shopping experience seamless and enjoyable!

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.