Top 5 Tips for Siem Reap

The temples of Angkor were every bit as impressive as I imagined, but the experience was also hotter and more exhausting than expected! Here are a few tips to help you plan a smoother, more enjoyable trip to Siem Reap.

1. Buy Your Angkor Pass in Advance

You’ll need an Angkor Pass to enter the temples in Angkor Archaeological Park. Passes can be purchased online or at the official ticket office, but not at the temples themselves. Most tours don’t include the pass, so buy in advance to save time. Also keep your pass safe, as it will be checked at every site.

2. Plan Around the Heat

Siem Reap is hot and humid year-round, and the midday sun can be brutal. We visited some temples in the afternoon as part of the two temple tours that we did, and I just wanted to return to the air conditioned car ASAP rather than take my time exploring. Try limiting outdoor activities to early morning or late afternoon, and leave the middle of the day for rest or indoor activities.

3. Mix Up Temple Visits

Temple fatigue is real! Siem Reap has dozens of fascinating temples, but after two full days we were ready for a change of scenery. To keep things fresh, balance temple visits with other experiences.

4. Recharge With a Massage

Massages in Siem Reap are both affordable and plentiful. A traditional Khmer massage is the perfect way to unwind after a long morning of exploring and to escape from the heat.

5. Protect Against Mosquitos

Mosquitos are common, especially around the temples and in rural areas. Bring insect repellent and wear long, lightweight clothing for protection.