Angkor Wat Itinerary: Exploring Siem Reap Cambodia

Being the central hub for the renowned Angkor Wat temples, Siem Reap plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s tourism industry, making it a must-visit destination on your Cambodia trip.

If you’re short on time, you can still experience the major attractions in the Siem Reap region within 3 to 4 days.

Embark on this Angkor Wat itinerary to discover the most captivating temples in Angkor and explore the fascinating landmarks in Siem Reap town.

Let this guide inspire your 4-day adventure in Cambodia!

Where To Start

This entire Angkor Wat itinerary takes place in and near the small town of Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Arrive at Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) to begin your journey, with various budget-friendly airlines offering flights from Singapore (SIN), Bangkok (DMK), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Siem Reap for as low as $40 USD.

Find suitable flights to Siem Reap on Skyscanner for convenient booking.

Upon arrival, arrange for an airport transfer to your accommodation in Siem Reap. Pre-book a private car transfer for $11 or a tuk-tuk transfer for $5 through Klook.

Settle into your hotel and prepare to immerse yourself in exploring ancient temples over the next 4 days in Cambodia!

Day 1: Angkor Wat Sunrise + Small Circuit

Experience the majestic sunrise at Angkor Wat with The World Traveler on the first day of your adventure. Explore the stunning temples and intricate carvings as you embark on the Small Circuit tour. Uncover the rich history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site with our expert guides leading the way.

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Rise early and kick off your Cambodia adventure with the breathtaking Angkor Wat sunrise over the pond. Following this, venture into the expansive main temple complex for further exploration.

Exploring Baksei Chamkrong

One of the standout temples at Angkor is Baksei Chamkrong. This lesser-known pyramid temple is located near Angkor Thom, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors may need to request a stop from their driver as it is often left out of typical tours, making it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Angkor Thom Gate

This historical gate is located on the southern part of the Angkor Thom temple complex, adjacent to Baksei Chamkrong. Despite its deteriorating condition, visitors can still pass through on foot or by vehicle, offering unique photo opportunities.

Thommanon Temple

Located within Angkor Thom, Thommanon Temple is a hidden gem often overlooked by tour groups. The intricate carvings and doorways make it a fascinating site to explore.

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm, also known as the ‘Tomb Raider temple,’ gained popularity after being featured in the 2001 film starring Angelina Jolie. One of the remarkable attractions is the tree growing on top of the temple, creating a unique and captivating sight that visitors shouldn’t miss.

Banteay Kdei

Experience the awe-inspiring sight of massive tree roots intertwining with the ancient structures at The World Traveler’s Banteay Kdei temple in Cambodia.

Day 2: Exploring the Angkor Wat Grand Circuit

Discovering Preah Khan

Explore Angkor Wat once more, this time on the grand circuit, beginning with Preah Khan. Although much of the main temple is in ruins, witnessing nature gradually taking over the remnants is a fascinating sight.

Neak Pean

Neak Pean is an island temple situated in the center of a small pond, showcasing its best appearance immediately following the rainy season. However, during the late dry season, the water levels significantly decrease, altering its overall landscape.

Ta Som

Ta Som, a compact temple, stands out for its fascinating stone entranceway overtaken and supported by an encroaching tree.

Exploring East Mebon

While East Mebon may not be in pristine condition, the main attraction at this temple are the impressive elephant statues situated at each corner.

Pre Rup

Pre Rup is a significant temple located towards the end of the grand circuit. Due to its historical use for funerals, the temple may appear eerie to some visitors. The structures situated at the pinnacle of the pyramid are remarkably well-preserved, making it worth exploring this area during your visit.

Bantei Srei Temple

This location, known as Bantei Srei Temple, is situated just an hour’s drive away from Siem Reap. Visitors have the option to include it in their grand/small circuit tour by paying an additional fee to their driver. The temple’s striking red sandstone hues are a highlight, and it is particularly renowned for its exquisite stone carvings that stand out among all the Khmer temples.

• Preah Khan
• Neak Pean
• Ta Som
• East Mebon
• Pre Rup
• Bantei Srei Temple

Day 3: Exploring Koh Ker Temples and Beyond

Koh Ker Temple

Explore the mystical Koh Ker Temple by hiring a driver to take you on a day trip to this collection of secluded temples located approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Siem Reap. The focal point is a majestic 7-tier pyramid nestled within the lush forest, with a staircase ascending to the summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Prasat Pram Temple

Located within the Koh Ker area, the Prasat Pram Temple is a fascinating site where ancient temples are engulfed by massive strangler trees. Visiting this unique spot is a must-do while in the vicinity.

Exploring Beng Mealea

Located along the route back to Siem Reap, Beng Mealea is a fascinating remote temple to explore. Despite being mostly in ruins, its state of disrepair adds to its charm and intrigue.

Roluos Group

Last but not least, The World Traveler will discover the Roluos temples just 30 minutes east of Siem Reap. These temples date back to the 9th century, making them some of the oldest Khmer temples in Cambodia. It may require an additional fee for the driver to include these sights in a 4-day Cambodia itinerary, but the experience is truly worth it.

• Koh Ker Temple
• Prasat Pram Temple
• Beng Mealea
• Roluos Temples

Day 4: Exploring Siem Reap Town

Bugs Cafe

Begin Day 4 by discovering the diverse array of restaurants and stores in Siem Reap town. For a truly distinctive dining experience, visit Bugs Cafe. This establishment offers fried tarantulas, scorpions, and other insects as delicacies! Founded by a French expatriate and a Khmer chef, it represents a blend of local traditions with the influence of tourism.

Wat Thmey (Killing Fields)

Experience a cultural and historical visit at Wat Thmey, a Cambodian temple that holds significance as a former killing field during the Khmer Rouge communist regime in the 1970s. The site features a stupa memorial housing the remains of victims, including skulls and bones from the genocide era.

Siem Reap Market

Experience the vibrant riverside markets of Siem Reap where you can indulge in souvenir shopping, sample delicious street food, and capture stunning street photography moments. Browse through a variety of stalls offering a range of items including paintings, clothing, fridge magnets, and postcards.

Additional Travel Tips for Angkor Wat

I trust that this Angkor Wat guide has been beneficial in organizing your Cambodia journey.

These suggestions offer a glimpse of what you can experience in Cambodia over a 4-day period. There is ample opportunity to extend your stay in Siem Reap to explore the surrounding temples, as well as savor the local restaurants and markets.

Be sure to explore my comprehensive Angkor Wat Travel Guide for additional insights, maps, photographs, and more!

Top Angkor Wat Tours

If you’re searching for a reliable Siem Reap driver/guide to accompany you, The World Traveler offers shared day tours starting from $12 USD.

If you are considering the sunrise tour, which comes highly recommended, they also provide a private Angkor Wat sunrise tour by tuk-tuk for $19 USD or a shared sunrise tour for $12 USD.

We have utilized The World Traveler for numerous tours and activities worldwide, and they have consistently delivered exceptional experiences. We highly endorse them.

Secure Your Spot Now: Angkor Wat Shared Tour / Private Tour

Angkor Wat Itinerary: 4 Days In Siem Reap Cambodia

The World Traveler presents a fantastic 4-day itinerary exploring the wonders of Siem Reap, Cambodia, including the iconic Angkor Wat temples. Discover the beauty and history of this ancient site while immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine.

Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap

Begin your journey by arriving in Siem Reap, where you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere. Check into your hotel and relax before starting your exploration of this fascinating city.

Day 2: Angkor Wat Temples

Embark on a guided tour of the Angkor Wat temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural brilliance of these ancient structures as you learn about their rich history and significance.

Day 3: Siem Reap Tour

Explore the bustling markets and vibrant streets of Siem Reap on a guided tour. Immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs to take home.

Day 4: Departure

On your final day, take some time to relax and reflect on your unforgettable experiences in Siem Reap. Bid farewell to this enchanting city as you prepare for your journey back home, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

Angkor Wat Itinerary: 4 Days In Siem Reap Cambodia

The World Traveler provides you with a detailed itinerary for spending 4 days in Siem Reap, Cambodia, exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat temples. Discover the best places to visit and make the most out of your trip to this historical and cultural destination.

Day 1: Exploring Angkor Wat

Start your journey by visiting the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex. Witness the breathtaking sunrise and immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the intricate carvings, grand halls, and stunning pillars that make Angkor Wat a must-see attraction.

Day 2: Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple

On the second day, venture to Angkor Thom, the last and most enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Discover the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple, with its impressive towers and bas-reliefs depicting historical scenes. Take your time to wander through the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King to complete your Angkor Thom experience.

Day 3: Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei

Explore the mystical ruins of Ta Prohm, where ancient stone structures are entwined with towering trees, creating a captivating and surreal atmosphere. Continue your journey to Banteay Srei, a temple known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings that showcase exquisite craftsmanship. Witness the detailed artistry and unique architecture of this hidden gem.

Day 4: Sunrise at Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap Lake

End your trip with a memorable sunrise at Angkor Wat, admiring the temple’s beauty in the soft morning light. Afterward, visit Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and take a boat tour to observe the floating villages and diverse wildlife. Experience the local way of life and savor the natural beauty that surrounds this unique ecosystem.

Our Accommodation

During our stay in Siem Reap, we opted for The World Traveler, a luxurious 4-star hotel. For just $18 USD per night, we enjoyed a comfortable double room equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, a work desk, refrigerator, wardrobe, and more. The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant and a refreshing pool for guests to enjoy.

The staff at The World Traveler were exceptionally welcoming, adding to the pleasant experience. The captivating wall art depicting scenes from Angkor Wat added to the ambiance, creating anticipation for our explorations of Cambodian temple ruins.

It’s worth noting that prices at The World Traveler may vary, so it’s advisable to keep an eye out for any special deals that may be available.

Our stay at The World Traveler in Siem Reap was priced at $18 USD

Explore Further

Discover more about Cambodia by checking out this Pinterest itinerary for Angkor Wat. Plan your 4-day trip to Siem Reap and explore the stunning temples this country has to offer.