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How to plan 3 days in Siem Reap for the Angkor temples

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Spend three days exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park by purchasing a three-day temple pass and hiring a private tuk-tuk driver for the duration of your trip. Focus your time on the 'Big Three'—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm—while mixing in smaller, outer temples to avoid the heaviest crowds.

Budget
60-80 dollars per day
Duration
3 days
Best Time
November to February
Visa Required
Yes; e-Visa or Visa on Arrival is standard for most nationalities.

Step by step

  1. Buy your Angkor Pass online

    Purchase your 3-day pass ($62 USD) through the official Angkor Enterprise website. Digital passes are accepted at all temple gates, saving you time standing in line at the physical ticket office.

  2. Hire a tuk-tuk driver

    Secure a driver for all three days ($15–$20 USD per day). Ask your accommodation to recommend one, or use a local booking app like PassApp. Having the same driver ensures they know where to meet you after you exit different temple gates.

  3. Set your start time early

    Be at the gates by 5:00 AM for sunrise or no later than 7:30 AM to beat the tour buses. Take a midday break back at your hotel from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM to avoid the peak heat and temple fatigue.

Questions people ask

Can I cycle to the temples?

You can, but it is not recommended. The distance between temples is significant, and the heat in Cambodia is extreme. Stick to a tuk-tuk.

Do I need to tip my tuk-tuk driver?

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. $2–$5 extra per day is a kind gesture for a good driver.

Details
Expect to spend $62 for the 3-day pass, $20/day for a private tuk-tuk, $20/day for meals, and $15/night for decent guesthouse accommodation.
Daily Spend
60-80 dollars

Packing

  • Lightweight linen or breathable synthetic clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
  • Sturdy walking sandals or broken-in sneakers with good grip for climbing stone stairs.
  • A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses.
  • A small portable fan or cooling towel for the midday humidity.

Itinerary

  • 1 — Phnom Bakheng for sunset (arrive by 4:00 PM to secure a spot). — Angkor Wat for sunrise, followed by the main complex before the crowds peak. — Angkor Thom, focusing on the faces of Bayon Temple. — Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees; strict dress codes are enforced at these sites.
  • 2 — Dinner in Pub Street or the Night Market area. — Ta Prohm (the 'Tomb Raider' temple) early to avoid the crush of people. — Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang. — Bring at least 2 liters of water per person; temple climbing is dehydrating.
  • 3 — A traditional Apsara dance performance or a quiet meal. — Banteay Srei, located 35km away, known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. — Preah Khan or Neak Pean on the way back to the city. — The drive to Banteay Srei is dusty; wear sunglasses and consider a light scarf to cover your face.