Angkor Wat, located in Cambodia, is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring temple complexes, known for its architectural brilliance and spiritual significance. Originally built in 1150 CE as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it was later converted into a Buddhist shrine by the end of the 12th century. Spanning over 162.6 hectares (402 acres), Angkor Wat stands as the largest religious monument in the world.
Today, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction, welcoming over 2.5 million visitors annually.
Angkor Wat Temple Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Angkor Wat |
| Location | Siem Reap, Cambodia |
| Affiliation | Initially Hindu (Vishnu); later Buddhist |
| Built By | King Suryavarman II |
| Established Year | Circa 1150 CE |
| Empire | Khmer Empire |
| Architecture Style | Khmer – Combination of Temple Mountain & Galleried Temple |
| Language Meaning | “Angkor Wat” = City of Temples (in Khmer) |
| Managed By | Government of Cambodia |
| UNESCO Site | Yes (Declared in 1992) |
Angkor Wat Temple Timings 2025
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 05:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
🕓 Recommended Time to Visit: Early morning hours around sunrise (for best lighting and cooler temperatures).
Entry Pass & Ticket Price in 2025
All international tourists must purchase an Angkor Pass to enter the temple premises. This ticket covers entry to Angkor Wat and other major temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
| Ticket Type | Price (USD) | Validity Period | Photo Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Pass | $37 | Valid for 1 calendar day | Yes |
| 3-Day Pass | $62 | Valid for 10 days (flexible use of 3 days) | Yes |
| 7-Day Pass | $72 | Valid for 1 month (flexible use of 7 days) | Yes |
🎫 Note: Photos are taken at the time of purchase and printed on the pass. Travel agencies often include these passes in packaged tours.
How to Book Angkor Wat Tickets?
You can book your Angkor Wat entry passes in the following ways:
Online Booking:
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Use travel portals or authorized Cambodian tourism websites.
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Pay via Credit/Debit card.
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Receive a digital pass or e-ticket (photo ID needed on arrival).
On-site Booking:
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Visit the official Angkor Ticket Booth (located 4 km from Siem Reap town).
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Open daily from 4:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
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Accepts cash and cards.
💡 A portion of ticket revenue is donated to Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital, so your visit contributes to a noble cause.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Visiting
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Dress Modestly: Knees and shoulders must be covered.
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Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages (recommended for understanding temple history).
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Best Time to Visit: November to February (cooler, drier months).
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Facilities: Restrooms, food vendors, and drinking water stations are available at the site.
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Photography Tip: Sunrise at the front pond offers the most iconic photo of Angkor Wat.
FAQs
Q: Can I visit Angkor Wat without a ticket?
No. All foreign visitors need to purchase an Angkor Pass for entry.
Q: Is the ticket valid for multiple temples?
Yes. The pass includes access to other temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Q: Do children need a ticket?
Children under 12 years of age can enter for free (with passport proof).
Q: Is there a dress code?
Yes. Proper attire covering shoulders and knees is mandatory to respect temple sanctity.
Q: How long should I spend at Angkor Wat?
Plan for at least 3–5 hours, though enthusiasts may spend a full day exploring.