The Perfect Angkor Wat 2-Day Itinerary: From Sunrise to Sunset

Are you aware that Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, covering an incredible 402 acres? That’s nearly as big as 300 football fields! When I first learned this fact, I knew that trying to rush through this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site in a single day would be a terrible mistake. Trust me, I’ve made plenty of travel blunders in my time, but giving Angkor Wat at least two full days was one of my smartest decisions. In this guide, I’ll share my perfect Angkor Wat 2-day itinerary, complete with all the tips I wish someone had told me before my first visit.

Planning Your 2-Day Angkor Wat Adventure: Essential Tips Before You Go

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, let’s cover some crucial planning advice. I learned these lessons the hard way, so you don’t have to!

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season, between November and March. I’ve been there during the rainy season too, and while those moody, cloud-filled skies create dramatic backdrops for photos, trudging through mud and getting caught in sudden downpours isn’t fun. My first visit was in February, and the weather was perfect—warm days with minimal rain and manageable humidity.

When it comes to tickets, you’ve got three options: a 1-day pass ($37), a 3-day pass ($62), or a 7-day pass ($72). For this 2-day itinerary, the 3-day pass makes the most sense and offers the best value. I initially thought I’d save money with two 1-day passes, but that was bad math on my part! The ticket office opens at 5 AM, which is perfect if you’re planning to catch the sunrise on your first day. Don’t forget they’ll take your photo for the pass, so be prepared for an early morning selfie!

Packing smart made a huge difference in my temple-exploring experience. Must-brings include a hat with a brim (the sun is INTENSE), sunscreen (reapply often!), mosquito repellent, a small towel for sweat, comfortable walking shoes, and a water bottle. I once wore new sandals thinking they’d be fine for “just walking around” and regretted it within hours. The temple complex is massive, with uneven pathways and numerous stairs—your feet will thank you for proper support.

For getting around, you’ve got several options. Most visitors hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day, which costs about $15-25 depending on your route and negotiation skills. I was terrible at bargaining my first time and definitely overpaid! Another option is renting a bicycle, which gives you more freedom but can be exhausting in the heat. E-bikes are becoming more popular too. If you’re in a group of 3-4, hiring an air-conditioned car might be worth the extra cost, especially during the hottest months.

One of my biggest regrets from my first visit was not hiring a guide. On my second trip, I splurged on a knowledgeable local guide, and it transformed my experience! The stories, historical context, and hidden symbols he pointed out brought the temples to life in a way my solo wandering with a guidebook never could. Expect to pay $25-40 for a good English-speaking guide for the day.

Day 1 at Angkor Wat: The Small Circuit and Main Temple Complex

Day one is all about hitting the highlight temples on what’s known as the “Small Circuit.” This route covers the most famous structures while managing temple fatigue (yes, that’s a real thing!).

Your day should start painfully early, around 4:30 AM, to catch the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat. I’m not naturally a morning person, but I promise this is worth dragging yourself out of bed for! My first attempt at catching the sunrise was a bit of a disaster—I forgot my flashlight and nearly fell into a reflecting pool in the dark. Learn from my mistake and bring a small light to navigate the pre-dawn pathways!

Position yourself at the left reflecting pool (it’s usually less crowded) about an hour before sunrise to secure a spot. As the sky lightens and the temple silhouette emerges, reflected perfectly in the still waters, you’ll understand why so many travelers make this dawn pilgrimage. I still get goosebumps thinking about my first Angkor sunrise!

After the sun is up, most tourists head to breakfast, but here’s my sneaky tip: this is the PERFECT time to explore the main Angkor Wat temple itself! I once had entire corridors all to myself by zigging when others zagged. The famous bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics and historical battles circle the entire first level and deserve at least an hour of your attention. Don’t rush this part—the details are incredible, with over 3,000 heavenly nymphs (apsaras) carved into the walls, each with unique details.

By mid-morning, you’ll be ready for a break. The food stalls near the main entrance offer decent local options, but they’re pricey by Cambodian standards. I usually pack some snacks and have a light meal here before continuing. If you’re like me and turn into a grumpy mess without regular food, planning your meals is crucial!

In the afternoon, head to Angkor Thom, the ancient walled city with the enigmatic Bayon Temple at its center. Those massive stone faces (216 of them!) seem to follow you wherever you go. I missed them completely on my first visit because I was rushing—don’t make the same mistake! Take time to wander the upper terrace and play with different angles for photos. The lighting here is best in the early afternoon when shadows create definition on the face carvings.

As the day cools slightly, make your way to Ta Prohm, famously featured in the Tomb Raider movie. The massive tree roots growing over the temple ruins create an atmosphere that feels like something out of an adventure film. This spot gets incredibly crowded, but I discovered that most tour groups visit between 1-3 PM. By arriving around 3:30 PM, I had a much more peaceful experience. The moss-covered stones and strangler fig trees make this my favorite temple for photography.

For sunset on day one, skip the overcrowded Phnom Bakheng hill and head to Pre Rup temple instead. You’ll thank me when you’re not fighting hundreds of other tourists for viewing space! The warm, golden light hitting the reddish stones of Pre Rup creates a magical atmosphere to end your first day of exploration.

Day 2 at Angkor Wat: The Grand Circuit and Hidden Gems

After an intense first day, your second day explores the wider “Grand Circuit” and some truly special outlying temples. This is where most visitors miss out, but where some of my favorite memories were made!

Start the morning with a visit to Preah Khan, a massive, less-restored complex that gives you a better sense of what the first European explorers might have encountered. I love this temple for its authentic feel and the way nature and architecture intertwine. The Hall of Dancers has incredible carvings, and the two-story structure with round columns is unique in Khmer architecture. When I visited early in the morning, I encountered a local monk who blessed me with a red string bracelet—one of those unexpected travel moments I’ll never forget.

Next, visit the small but unique Neak Pean, a water temple built on an artificial island. It’s nothing like the other temples you’ve seen so far, which makes it refreshing when temple fatigue starts setting in. The central basin represents the mythical Lake Anavatapta, believed to cure all illness. During rainy season, the causeway to the temple is partially submerged, creating a stunning mirror effect that’s perfect for photos.

For lunch on day two, I recommend bringing portable food or stopping at one of the small restaurants near the Grand Circuit route. I once tried a local place where an elderly woman made the most amazing fish amok (Cambodian curry) in a banana leaf. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond tourist menus—some of my best meals have been from humble roadside spots!

The afternoon of day two should be devoted to Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women,” located about 25 km from the main temple complex. This extra journey is absolutely worth it! The pink sandstone temple features the most intricate carvings in the entire Angkor region, with details so fine it’s hard to believe they were made in the 10th century. The temple is relatively small, but I spent nearly two hours here, mesmerized by the craftsmanship. The late afternoon light brings out the warm rose tones of the stone and makes for gorgeous photos.

If you’re not completely templed-out and have energy left, consider a side trip to Kbal Spean, where you can see intricate carvings in the riverbed itself—known as the “River of a Thousand Lingas.” This requires a moderate 1.5 km hike through the jungle, which was a welcome change of pace for me after days of temple exploration. Just be aware that this site closes earlier than the main temples (4:30 PM), so time your visit accordingly.

For your final sunset, I suggest Srah Srang, a large baray (reservoir) with a beautiful terrace. Watching the sun go down over the ancient water engineering project, with fewer crowds than at the main temples, offers a peaceful conclusion to your Angkor experience. I brought some local fruit and water to enjoy while sitting on the terrace steps, reflecting on everything I’d seen. It was honestly one of the most peaceful moments of my entire Southeast Asia journey.

If you’re interested for more in-depth ancient civilization exploration beyond Cambodia, check out my detailed Ancient Civilization Trip Guide where I share strategies for visiting historical sites around the world with the same care and appreciation I brought to Angkor Wat.

Soaring Above the Temples: The Angkor Balloon Experience

One of the absolute highlights of my Angkor adventure was taking a tethered balloon ride at sunset—something I hadn’t planned but ended up being one of my most memorable experiences. Just a couple kilometers south of Angkor Wat is a giant helium balloon that takes visitors up to 100 meters above the landscape, offering a truly bird’s-eye view of the entire archaeological park.

I stumbled across this attraction by accident when searching op Tripadvisor. After a full day of ground-level exploration, the chance to see the temples from above was too tempting to pass up. The balloon operates from early morning until sunset, but I specifically timed my visit for the final ascent of the day.

The experience isn’t cheap—around $25 for a 10-15 minute ride—but the perspective it provides is absolutely worth it! As our balloon gently rose above the treetops, the entire layout of Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples came into view. I could finally appreciate the perfect symmetry and immense scale of the complex in a way that’s impossible from the ground. I remember me and my friends arrived just in time for the latest ride, luckily there were not many people attending the latest ride.

What made it truly magical was watching the sunset paint the sky in vivid oranges and pinks while the ancient stones below glowed golden in the fading light. From this height, I could see how the temples were positioned in relation to each other and understand the massive scale of the ancient Khmer civilization.

The balloon is tethered, so it doesn’t travel horizontally—just straight up and down—but the 360-degree views are spectacular. I recommend bringing a zoom lens if you’re into photography, as you can capture unique angles of the main temples that most visitors never see.

One practical tip: check the weather before booking. On very windy days, the balloon doesn’t operate, and even on moderately windy days, the ride can be shortened. I got lucky with a perfectly still evening, which allowed us to stay at maximum height for several minutes to soak in the view.

For anyone spending two days at Angkor, I’d suggest scheduling this balloon experience at the end of your first day. It gives you a comprehensive overview that helps you appreciate the details you’ll explore on day two even more. Plus, that sunset view over Angkor Wat’s iconic spires? Absolutely beautiful.

Fascinating Facts About Angkor Wat

When I first visited Angkor Wat, I was constantly positively suprised as our guide shared incredible facts about this massive complex. Let me share some of the most mind-blowing tidbits that made my appreciation for this place even bigger.

• Angkor Wat was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before later being converted to a Buddhist temple in the late 12th century. I found it fascinating to spot elements of both religions throughout the complex!
• The entire Angkor Archaeological Park covers over 400 square kilometers—that’s larger than modern-day Paris! No wonder my feet were so tired by the end of each day.
• The main temple’s construction used more stone than all the Egyptian pyramids combined. When our guide told us this, I couldn’t believe it until I saw the sheer scale of the place.
• Angkor Wat is perfectly aligned with astronomical events—the sun rises directly over the central tower during the spring equinox. I wasn’t lucky enough to witness this alignment, but the photos I’ve seen are spectacular.
• The bas-reliefs along the walls of Angkor Wat run for more than half a mile and tell stories from Hindu mythology and historical events. I spent hours tracing these narratives with my fingers, marveling at the details.
• The temple appears on Cambodia’s national flag, making it one of the few national flags to feature a monument. My Cambodian guide pointed this out with immense pride.
• Archaeologists have discovered that Angkor was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world, with an elaborate infrastructure system including canals, highways, and low-density housing spread across the landscape.
• The smiling faces of Bayon Temple are believed to represent King Jayavarman VII, the Khmer king who ordered its construction. There are over 200 of these massive stone faces throughout the temple!
• Ta Prohm was left largely as it was found, with massive tree roots growing through the structures, to demonstrate how nature reclaimed the city after it was abandoned in the 15th century.
• The entire complex was “lost” to the Western world until French naturalist Henri Mouhot publicized it in his travel writings in 1860. It was never actually lost to locals, who continued to worship at various temples throughout the centuries.

Where to Stay for Your Angkor Wat 2 Day Itinerary

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your temple exploration experience. Trust me, after a full day of climbing temple stairs in the heat, you’ll want a comfortable place to recover!

Most visitors stay in Siem Reap, which ranges from about 6-8 km from the main Angkor complex, depending on which part of town you choose. The Old Market/Pub Street area is the tourist hub with endless restaurants and shops. On my first visit, I stayed in the Marirath Boutique Hotel a bit away from the centre and the pub street, which is nice because you will not be bothered by the noise. The hotel is located in an old colonial building which is beautiful.

For budget travelers, the Wat Bo area offers great value. I stayed at a guesthouse here for $15 a night that included breakfast and free bicycle use. The family who ran it packed me a temple lunch one day at no extra charge—this kind of hospitality is what I love about Cambodia!

Mid-range options are plentiful along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard (the road to Angkor) and in the French Quarter. I’ve stayed at hotels in both areas and preferred the French Quarter for its quieter atmosphere and colonial architecture. Expect to pay $40-80 per night for comfortable rooms with pools—and believe me, that pool is worth every penny after a day of temple-hopping!

For a splurge, consider one of the luxury hotels like Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor or Park Hyatt Siem Reap.

When choosing accommodation, prioritize a place with reliable air conditioning, good shower pressure (to wash off the temple dust), and a convenient location. I also recommend checking if they offer breakfast starting at 4 AM for sunrise visitors—many places in Siem Reap accommodate early risers heading to the temples.

Eating Your Way Through Siem Reap During Your Temple Exploration

Exploring temples works up an appetite, and luckily, Cambodian cuisine is delicious! I found myself constantly hungry after hours of walking, and discovering local dishes became a highlight of my trip.

You absolutely must try fish amok, Cambodia’s national dish—a coconut curry steamed in banana leaves. I became slightly obsessed with it and conducted an unofficial “best amok” competition among different restaurants. Khmer red curry, lok lak (stir-fried beef), and fresh spring rolls are other staples worth seeking out.

Near the temples, your options are more limited and pricier. The restaurants clustered around the major temples cater to tourists with both Western and Cambodian options. I found these convenient but not particularly special. My strategy was to have a huge breakfast, pack snacks, and then enjoy a proper meal back in Siem Reap each evening.

In Siem Reap itself, Pub Street and the surrounding area offer endless dining options. Cuisine Wat Damnak serves elevated Cambodian cuisine that blew me away, while Marum trains disadvantaged youth in restaurant skills and serves creative local dishes. For something more casual, the night market food stalls offer inexpensive eats—I tried crispy insects here (yes, really!) on a dare and was surprised by the savory flavor.

Staying hydrated is crucial when temple-hopping. I went through at least 2-3 liters of water daily. Coconut water sold by vendors outside the temples is both refreshing and provides electrolytes. My friend made the rookie mistake of not drinking enough on my first day and ended up with a pounding headache by evening—lesson learned!

For those with dietary restrictions, Siem Reap has become increasingly accommodating. I traveled with a vegetarian friend who found plenty of options, particularly at restaurants in the tourist areas. Communicating food allergies can be more challenging, so consider learning relevant phrases or carrying translation cards if you have serious restrictions.

Making the Most of Your 2 Days at Angkor Wat: Insider Tips

After my trip to Angkor, I’ve collected some hard-won wisdom that I wish someone had shared with me before my first trip.

Avoiding crowds makes a massive difference in your experience. The main temples are most peaceful before 9 AM and after 3 PM when tour buses are less frequent. I had Ta Prohm almost to myself by arriving at 7 AM, while the previous day it had been so crowded I could barely move! Another strategy is to visit temples in reverse order from most itineraries—when everyone else is at Bayon, head to Preah Khan instead.

For photography, the “golden hours” around sunrise and sunset provide the most flattering light, but midday can work well too if you focus on interior shots where harsh sunlight doesn’t reach. I always carry a lightweight travel tripod for low-light temple interiors. One mistake I made was not bringing enough memory cards—you’ll take WAY more photos than you expect!

Cultural etiquette is important when visiting these sacred sites. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered (they enforce this at the main Angkor Wat temple). I saw several tourists denied entry until they purchased scarves from conveniently located vendors! Remove hats and shoes when entering active shrines, and be respectful of monks and worshippers you encounter.

The Cambodian heat can be overwhelming, especially from March to May when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F (35°C). I learned to pace myself, taking frequent breaks in shaded areas. The temples themselves provide good shelter, with cool stone corridors offering relief from the sun. Don’t try to see everything—quality over quantity made my second visit much more enjoyable than my rushed first trip.

Some of my favorite off-the-beaten-path viewing spots include the upper terrace of Baphuon temple for a sweeping view of the forest canopy, the eastern side of Angkor Wat for morning photography without crowds, and the stone bridge near Thommanon temple, where I once watched a stunning rainbow form after a brief shower. These lesser-known viewpoints provided some of my most magical Angkor moments.

Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Angkor Experience

After two full days exploring this incredible ancient city, you’ll have seen the highlights of Angkor while also discovering some of its hidden treasures. From watching the sunrise behind those iconic spires to feeling the cool stone walls of Ta Prohm beneath your fingers, these experiences will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Remember that while this 2-day Angkor Wat itinerary provides a solid framework, the best journeys leave room for spontaneity and personal interests. History buffs might spend more time examining bas-reliefs, while photographers might adjust the schedule to capture optimal lighting. The beauty of having two full days is the flexibility to follow your curiosity.

As you explore these ancient temples, remember they aren’t just tourist attractions but sacred sites with deep cultural and spiritual significance. The conservation efforts at Angkor are ongoing, and responsible tourism helps preserve these treasures for future generations. I found that learning about the restoration work gave me an even greater appreciation for what I was seeing.

I’d love to hear about your own Angkor adventures! Did you discover a temple or viewpoint not mentioned here? Have a fantastic local restaurant recommendation? Share your experiences in the comments below and help fellow travelers create their own perfect Angkor Wat 2 day itinerary.

Useful Resources for Your Angkor Wat Trip

• Official Angkor Enterprise Website: The best place for up-to-date information on ticket prices, opening hours, and conservation notices. I checked this before every visit as rules occasionally change.
• Ancient Angkor by Claude Jacques: This comprehensive guidebook was my constant companion. Its detailed temple explanations and historical context added tremendous depth to my visits.
• Siem Reap Food Tour: Beyond their guided tours, their website offers free resources on local cuisine. I discovered some amazing meals thanks to their recommendations.
• Simply Learn Khmer App: Learning a few basic phrases enhanced my interactions with locals and showed respect for Cambodian culture.
• Angkor Photography Guide by Trey Ratcliff: This website offers specific advice on the best times and spots for photography at each major temple.
• APSARA National Authority: The official conservation organization for Angkor. Following their updates gave me fascinating insights into the ongoing restoration work happening throughout the complex.
• Grab App: I used this to arrange tuk-tuk drivers in advance and compare prices.