The capital of the Khmer Empire, which once dominated much of Southeast Asia, was the ancient Cambodian metropolis of Angkor Wat. However, only after creating magnificent temples and other structures that were for hundreds of years reclaimed by the jungle. This civilization did not last forever.

The surrounding 400-acre complex of Angkor Wat was constructed in the 12th century. The empire, which spanned Thailand to Vietnam and Southern China, was more significant than the Byzantine Empire. Its state temple was located there. In the 1840s, the temples were “rediscovered,” and since they have become a well-liked tourist destination.

How to get around Angkor

You can travel to and from Angkor Wat (as well as within the complex) using one of two methods:

Rental of a bicycle: Renting a bike is an excellent method to tour the complex, costing about USD 5 per day. Be ready to cycle for many hours in the heat if you select this approach.

Rental drivers and tuk-tuks: These may be located all over the place, and if you can’t find one, your hostel or hotel should be able to assist you (though they are everywhere). Drivers have space for three to four passengers and cost about USD 25 per day.

Best time to visit

Angkor Wat is open all year round, but no matter where you go, the weather will be beautiful, there will be fewer tourists, or it will be hot and muggy and wet. However, the best time to travel is during the dry season if the weather is your main concern (from late November to early April).

The finest months for weather are December and January, but these are also the busiest. There might be extreme heat and high humidity in April and May. In April, the daily average high is 31°C (88°F).

The monsoon season lasts from late May or early June through the end of October, with September and October being the hottest months. Try to time your trip to one of the shoulder months.

Dress code for temple

If you don’t follow the strict clothing code, you might not be allowed admission to Angkor Wat. After numerous instances of nude photography, the clothing code has been aggressively enforced in recent years.

Angkor is a spiritual, religious place that the Cambodian people are incredibly proud of, and it is crucial to keep that in mind. It’s disrespectful to the community not to dress appropriately.

By the Angkor visitor code of behavior, it is forbidden to enter sacred spaces wearing revealing apparel, including shorts and skirts higher than the knees and bare shoulders. Although both men and women must abide by these guidelines, they are more frequently applied to women.

Where to stay

You can enter Angkor Wat through Siem Reap, where you will also stay to visit the temples. It is about 5 km from Angkor Wat and offers a range of lodging options, from premium hotels to party hostels and everything in between.

If you’re only staying the night, lodging is less of a concern. Still, if you’re staying longer to take advantage of the 3-day pass, your lodging decision will significantly affect your experience.

Budget: A bed at a hostel dormitory ranges from about $2 to $5 for a private room with a fan and a cold shower.

Mid-range: A double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning start at about $20 at guesthouses.

High-end: Most luxury hotels will include breakfast and a pool area, starting at $50 or more.