Dec 13, 2018 — The city of Angkor is an essential stop for any traveler visiting Cambodge. The former capital of the Khmer empire showcases architecture that echoes the history of this remarkable civilization. Angkor Wat stands unrivaled in the world. The temple takes pride of place among a series of structures, each more remarkable than the last. Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Preah Khan captivate and inspire through their singular character. Yet tourist masses can sometimes present a challenge. Certain hours are better suited for peaceful exploration during your pilgrimage. Varying by temple, they allow you to organize a circuit perfectly tailored to your needs.

The orientation of the temples is a crucial factor for understanding the flows—sometimes exasperating—of tourist crowds. Consider the sun's position. And this is no accident. Yet commercial pressures can, in essence, play tricks. The sublimity of Angkor Wat, oriented east to west, at both twilight hours of the day is inseparable from overwhelming crowds. But stepping away from this aesthetic optimization takes nothing away from the splendid character of this temple. The visit is instead graced with a remarkable tranquility.

The Best Times to Visit

Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and Banteay Srei rank among the most sought-after temples at the Angkor archaeological site. The goal here is to combine serenity with pleasure. During high season, temperatures can soar in direct sunlight. This is not unbearably unpleasant, as the climate is very dry, but it can pose problems for those who struggle with sustained heat. Angkor Wat is literally overrun from 6:00 to 7:00 a.m. and from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The experience is ideal, for the most determined, starting at 5:00 a.m. The crisp morning air is perfect both for appreciating the first rays of sunlight within these majestic walls and for climbing the towers—completely clear terrain without being overwhelmed by heat.

Angkor Wat at sunrise

As for Bayon, the tourist influx is nearly one-directional. Its structure, cleared of all vegetation, lends itself well to a morning visit. The temple is generally crowded from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. Yet this wide exposure can allow for a pleasant end-of-day experience in this edifice, bathed in twilight hues.

Bayon temple at sunset

As a general rule, the city of Angkor empties between noon and 2:00 p.m. This is when all temples become easier to access. Large tourist groups return to Siem Reap for lunch. This is the opportune moment, for those for whom heat poses no problem, to visit as many sites as possible—Angkor Wat and Bayon, why not. For others, no cause for concern. The Angkor site abounds with natural spaces. Should hunger strike, the areas around Ta Prohm and Preah Khan temples are ideal for a quick bite. While respecting the natural environment, of course. These two edifices are nestled in the heart of cool, shaded forests. You can explore them peacefully one after the other. The aforementioned natural areas are perfect for appreciating the Khmer city during the hottest hours of the day.

Ta Prohm temple is entirely integrated into the natural landscape

Do not hesitate to prepare your visit thoroughly. Arm yourself beforehand with a map and chart your route. Imagine alternative scenarios in case of setbacks to make the most of your adventure. The Angkor site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, contains more than 40 temples to explore—you have an embarrassment of riches.

Thibault Bourru

Thibault Bourru — A passionate lover of literature and Asia, Thibault shares his experiences through his writing.