Angkor Wat Tours and Tickets

The best months to visit Angkor Wat are between November and April, the dry season in Cambodia. Heat and humidity plummet during this period, which makes exploring the sprawling archaeological complex far more comfortable. For better deals and fewer crowds, visit after the peak holiday season in February or March.

You don't need a tour guide for Angkor Wat, but you must buy an Angkor Wat ticket in the form of the Angkor Pass. However, exploring with a guide means you’ll be party to important historical and cultural information contextualizing the ruins. Tours often include transport between the temples, which are pretty far apart.

Yes, there is a dress code at Angkor Wat. The archaeological complex is one of Cambodia’s most sacred sites, so you must wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees. While at some temples in Southeast Asia, it’s acceptable to cover your shoulders with a scarf, you'll need to wear a full t-shirt when exploring Angkor Wat.

One of Cambodia’s most iconic activities is visiting Angkor Wat at sunrise when the temple looks most magical. However, this is the most crowded time to visit the temple, so if you want to explore the site with fewer people, visit during the late afternoon and stay to watch the sunrise at one of the temples. Avoid midday when the sun reaches its peak.

Here are some handy things to know about Angkor Wat: Head to the complex early to avoid the midday heat; wear respectful clothing that covers your knees and shoulders; take a tuk-tuk between temples to save time; don't smoke in the complex; take plenty of water as shade is limited.

Yes, you should book an Angkor Wat tour in advance to ensure you get a spot on the experience that best suits you. Tours also take care of your Angkor Pass, which you can’t buy online and can only purchase from the ticket office on the day of your visit.