Ultimate Angkor Wat Tour Checklist

August 29, 2024
6:57 am

Journey Cambodia’s Ultimate Angkor Wat Tour Checklist – 12 Steps to Prepare

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime at Angkor Wat? We bet you are! But hold on, intrepid explorer. Before you set off to uncover the secrets of this ancient wonder, there are a few things you need to know. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

Our team at Journey Cambodia has put together the ultimate checklist to make sure you’re prepared for an unforgettable Angkor Wat experience. We’re talking insider tips, must-know info, and a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your way to temple bliss. Trust us, with this checklist in hand, you’ll be ready to take on Angkor Wat like a pro!

Related Tours:

Editor’s Note: This article was last updated on August 27, 2024, by our local Siem Reap experts. We regularly revise our content to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information for your Angkor Wat adventure.

Here’s your 12-step checklist to prepare for an amazing Angkor Wat tour:

Choose the right tour for you: We’ve got options galore! Whether you want to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, explore the temple’s hidden gems, or venture into the Cambodian countryside, we have a tour that’s perfect for you.
Check your travel dates: Make sure your travel dates align with your chosen tour. Some tours have specific departure times and dates, so double-check to avoid any mix-ups.
Book your tour in advance: Don’t leave it to chance! Book your tour ahead of time to secure your spot. Our tours can fill up fast, especially during peak season.
Arrange your transportation: Getting to Angkor Wat is a breeze. We offer hotel pickups for most of our tours, so just let us know where you’re staying, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Get your temple pass: To enter Angkor Wat, you’ll need a temple pass. Don’t worry, we can help you get one! Just send us your recent photo, and we’ll take care of the rest. Easy peasy!
Dress appropriately: Angkor Wat is a sacred site, so make sure to dress respectfully. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid any revealing clothing. Trust us, you’ll be much more comfortable too!
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear shoes that are up for the challenge. Leave the flip-flops at home and opt for some sturdy walking shoes instead.
Stay hydrated: Cambodia can get hot, hot, hot! Make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. Don’t worry, we’ll provide some too!
Protect yourself from the sun: Slather on that sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring some shades. The sun can be intense, so make sure you’re protected.
Bring some cash: While we take care of most expenses, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for any extras like snacks, souvenirs, or tips.
Don’t forget your camera: Trust us, you’re going to want to capture every moment of this incredible experience. Charge up those batteries and bring an extra memory card, just in case!
Get ready for an adventure: Angkor Wat is a magical place, full of history, beauty, and wonder. Get ready to be amazed, inspired, and maybe even a little bit sweaty. But hey, that’s all part of the adventure!

Now that you’ve got your checklist, it’s time to dive a little deeper. Let’s explore some of these points in more detail, shall we?

Banteay Srei and Grand Circuit Heritage Tour

Choosing the Right Tour

With so many incredible tours to choose from, how do you pick the perfect one for you? Here are a few things to consider:

What do you want to see? Are you dreaming of watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat? Or maybe you want to explore some of the lesser-known temples? Think about what you really want to experience, and choose a tour that aligns with your interests.
How much time do you have? Some of our tours are half-day adventures, while others are full-day explorations. Make sure to pick a tour that fits your schedule and energy levels.
What’s your budget? We offer tours at various price points, so there’s something for every budget. Don’t forget to factor in extras like temple passes, meals, and souvenirs.

If you’re still not sure which tour is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team. We’re always happy to help you find the perfect fit!

Getting Your Temple Pass

To enter the Angkor Archaeological Park, you’ll need a temple pass. But don’t worry, getting one is a breeze! Here’s how it works:

Send us your recent photo. Make sure it’s a clear shot of your face against a plain background. A selfie will do just fine!
We’ll take care of the rest. Our team will process your temple pass and have it ready for you when you arrive.
Show your pass at the entrance. Your temple pass will be a mobile ticket, so you can just show it on your smartphone. No need to print anything out!

It’s that simple! Just remember, temple passes are non-refundable, so make sure you’re certain of your travel dates before purchasing.

https://ticket.angkorenterprise.gov.kh/auth/login?returnUrl=%2Fpurchases

What to Wear

Angkor Wat is a sacred site, so it’s important to dress respectfully. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

Cover your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women. Avoid tank tops, short shorts, and anything too revealing.
Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen are great choices for Cambodia’s hot and humid climate.
Leave the swimwear at home. Even if you’re visiting during the rainy season, Angkor Wat is not the place for a bikini or swim trunks.
Opt for comfortable, sturdy shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven surfaces. Choose shoes that provide good support and traction.

Remember, dressing appropriately not only shows respect for the local culture but also ensures your own comfort throughout the day.

Staying Hydrated and Sun-Safe

Cambodia’s tropical climate can be intense, especially if you’re not used to the heat and humidity. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool, hydrated, and sun-safe:

Bring a refillable water bottle. We provide water on all of our tours, but it’s always a good idea to have your own bottle to sip from throughout the day.
Slather on the sunscreen. Choose a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply it every few hours, especially if you’re sweating a lot.
Wear a hat and sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face and neck from the sun, while sunglasses will shield your eyes from the glare.
Take breaks in the shade. Angkor Wat has plenty of shady spots where you can rest and cool off. Don’t be afraid to take a breather when you need it!

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your Angkor Wat adventure without wilting in the heat.

Capturing the Moment

Trust us, you’re going to want to document every moment of your Angkor Wat experience. The temples are so breathtakingly beautiful, you’ll be reaching for your camera at every turn. Here are a few tips to help you capture the magic:

Charge your batteries. Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged before you set out. Bring a spare battery or portable charger if you have one.
Bring extra memory cards. There’s nothing worse than running out of space mid-tour. Bring an extra memory card (or two!) to ensure you never miss a shot.
Play with perspective. Angkor Wat is a massive complex, so don’t be afraid to play with perspective to capture its scale. Get low, climb high, and experiment with different angles.
Be respectful. While it’s okay to take photos inside the temples, be mindful of any signs or rules regarding photography. And of course, always be respectful of other visitors and worshippers.
Put the camera down sometimes. As tempting as it is to document every moment, don’t forget to put the camera down and just be present. Take in the sights, sounds, and sensations of Angkor Wat with your own eyes and ears.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a stunning visual record of your Angkor Wat adventure.

Full Day Temple of Angkor

Immerse Yourself in History

Angkor Wat is more than just a pretty face. It’s a living, breathing testament to Cambodia’s rich history and culture. To fully appreciate the significance of this incredible site, it helps to have a little context. Here’s a quick timeline of Angkor Wat’s history:

9th-12th century: The Khmer Empire builds a series of capital cities in the Angkor area, including Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat.
12th century: King Suryavarman II constructs Angkor Wat as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. It’s believed to have taken around 30 years to build.
Late 12th century: Angkor Wat transitions from a Hindu temple to a Buddhist one, as Buddhism becomes more widespread in Cambodia.
15th century: The Khmer Empire falls, and Angkor Wat is abandoned. The temple falls into disrepair and is slowly reclaimed by the jungle.
19th century: European explorers “rediscover” Angkor Wat, sparking a renewed interest in the site.
20th century-present: Angkor Wat undergoes extensive restoration and becomes a major tourist attraction. In 1992, it’s declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Of course, this is just a brief overview of Angkor Wat’s long and complex history. To dive deeper, consider joining one of our guided tours, where our knowledgeable guides will share even more fascinating stories and insights about this incredible place.

The Journey Cambodia Difference

At Journey Cambodia, we’re more than just a tour company. We’re a team of local experts, passionate about sharing the beauty and wonder of our homeland with the world. Here are just a few things that set us apart:

Local expertise: Our guides are all locals, born and raised in Siem Reap. They know Angkor Wat inside and out and are eager to share their knowledge and stories with you.
Personalized service: We believe that every traveler is unique, with their own interests, needs, and preferences. That’s why we offer a range of tours and services that can be customized to suit you.
Responsible tourism: We’re committed to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Angkor Wat for generations to come. That means operating in an environmentally and socially responsible way, and giving back to the local community whenever we can.
Unbeatable value: We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the magic of Angkor Wat. That’s why we strive to offer competitive prices and unbeatable value on all of our tours.

When you choose Journey Cambodia, you’re not just booking a tour. You’re embarking on an unforgettable adventure, with a team of locals by your side every step of the way.

So there you have it, folks! Your ultimate checklist for preparing for an Angkor Wat tour with Journey Cambodia. We hope this guide has gotten you even more excited for your upcoming adventure. Remember, our team is always here to help, so if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Now, go forth and explore! Angkor Wat awaits, and we can’t wait to show you all its wonders. See you soon, intrepid traveler!

Ultimate Angkor Wat Tour Checklist