Bangkok to Angkor Wat: Worthy? How to Plan?

Dreaming of visiting Angkor Wat while you're in Bangkok? It's easier to explore the world's most renowned archaeological sites than you might think.

In this guide, we'll show you how to plan it effectively.

Visiting Angkor Wat from Bangkok: Worthy or Not?

Absolutely. Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, offers an unparalleled look at ancient Khmer architecture and history. It is a treat, with intricate carvings and stunning views at sunrise and sunset.

To well explore these awe-inspiring temples, you're suggested to allocate 3 days in Angkor Wat.

If your time is very limited, consider visiting Ayutthaya instead. Just a 1-hour drive from Bangkok, it offers impressive ruins that provide a similar sense of historical grandeur, though on a smaller scale.

How to Travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap?

When traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap, you have two main options: flying or driving.

Flying is the fastest and most convenient. Air Asia and Bangkok Airways offer direct flights that take about 1 to 1.5 hours and cost from US$60 to US$100 one-way.

If you prefer traveling by land, be ready for a TIME-CONSUMING journey of 7 to 12 hours, including time to cross the border of Poipet. A door-to-door private transfer costs around US$100+ per person. Alternatively, you could also find budget-friendly buses from the city center or airport at US$25 to US$50 one-way, but it would take more time.

How to Get from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat?

Angkor Wat is just a 20-minute drive from the center of Siem Reap and an hour from the airport.

Cycling to Angkor Wat is the cheapest option from downtown, taking about 40 minutes. But it could be exhausting in the Cambodian heat (over 30°C/86°F year-round), especially after exploring the temples on foot. Moreover, a 25-km-long road trip for beginners or a 45-km-long route for experienced bikers awaits after reaching the ticket center.

Tuk tuks offer a fun alternative without the effort of pedaling. It helps save travel times between sites (from 30 minutes to 1 hour). But it's still hot and bumpy, and you would need to watch out for drivers who might overcharge tourists.

A private, air-conditioned car with a local guide offers a hassle-free and cool way to explore this historical gem. Your guide would also help unveil the secrets behind the temple complex and enhance local interaction.

For a reliable arrangement, book your own transport with your hotel or creditable agents (like us).

How Many Days Do You Need in Angkor Wat and Siem Reap?

Is a 1-Day Trip from Bangkok to Angkor Wat Possible?

A day trip from Bangkok to Angkor Wat is possible but can be extremely stressful. To make it work, You'd need to start around 3 or 4 am, visit key sites like Angkor Wat, and Ta Prohm, and return to Bangkok late at night, around 11 pm or midnight. Whether by flight or private transfer, it's a long, exhausting journey.

A much better option is to stay in Siem Reap for three days. This allows you to explore the main temples at a leisurely pace and also discover lesser-known sites.

If you have more time, you could extend your trip to see other parts of Cambodia, like its capital—Phnom Penh.

A Classic 3-Day Angkor Wat Itinerary

This itinerary would show you the best of Siem Reap from temples to local life.

Angkor Wat is vast, with numerous temples to explore. Some of the key attractions require up to three hours to fully appreciate. We recommend visiting 3–5 of the most iconic temples each day for a relaxed pace. Below is a carefully designed 3-day itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

• Day 1: The Best of Angkor Wat—Small Circuit

Today, you'll mainly focus on Angkor Thom, the largest complex of Khmer ruins.

In this complex, walk through the statues-lined Angkor Thom South Gate, appreciate the smiling faces of Bayon Temple, and climb up some steep stairways of Baphoun to take in panoramic views. Besides, don't miss the intricately carved statues and bas-reliefs at the Terrace of Temple Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King.

• Day 2: Jungle Temples and Bakheng Temple Sunset

If you can get up early, catch the sunrise at the largest and most iconic Angkor Wat.

After that, see unique brick carvings at Prasat Kravan, capture classic scenes of the movie Tomb Raider at Ta Prohm, visit the Royal Bath of Srah Srang, and go through the well-preserved corridors and towers of the peaceful Banteay Kdei temple.

Conclude your day with a sunset from Bakheng temple, which offers panoramic views of Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle.

• Day 3: The Ancient Roluos Group and Beyond

On your final day, venture further to some less-beaten temples and see the floating village of Tonle Sap Lake.

Check out the most exquisite carvings at Banteay Srei, which is also known as the "Jewel of Khmer Art". For a serene and atmospheric exploration, Beng Mealea is worth a visit, where nature has taken over.

Then get an up-close view of local life at Tonle Sap Lake. You could take a boat ride to see the floating village or simply enjoy a sunset drink near the lake.

If you have more time...

If you have more time, you could extend your trip to Phnom Penh, its capital city. You could say hi to locals by taking a cyclo trip around the city and experience its cultural heritage via a blessing ceremony held by local monks. The Killing Fields and Genocide Museum also reveals its dark history.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap?

Staying in the city center is best to have easy access to plenty of great dining and shopping options, as well as convenient nightlife.

For a luxury stay with beautiful views, consider Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas—perfect for a romantic and exclusive experience. If you're traveling with family, Treeline Urban Resort is a great choice, offering spacious family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

For a comfortable mid-range hotel, Khmer Mansion Residence is a stylish choice at the best value.

All hotels recommended feature pools for you to escape from the heat. If you're too busy to book a hotel, travel with our one-stop Siem Reap tour! With a long-term relationship with local hotels, we could offer you the best agent rate, too.

How Much Is a Tour from Bangkok to Angkor Wat?

Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap is surprisingly affordable, especially with Southeast Asia's budget-friendly travel costs.

Flights from Bangkok to Siem Reap usually range from $60 to $100 one-way. A Cambodian visa is required to enter Siem Reap, which costs $30.

Upon arrival, you could expect the expenses listed below:

• Transfers: If you're planning to visit Angkor Wat and other temples, a full-day private transfer generally costs around US$30 to US$50. If you don't mind bumpy and hot tuk-tuk rides, the cost would decrease to below US$15.
• Attractions: Tickets are available as one-day (US$37), three-day (US$62), and seven-day passes ($72). Prepare an extra US$50 at least for some special activities, like a hot balloon ride, an Angkor Zipline and a quad bike ride.
• Meals: Street food and local restaurants offer dishes for US$2 to US$5, while mid-range dining is about US$10 to US$20 per meal. Fine dining options are available for around $30 or more per meal.
• Hotels: You could expect a mid-range hotel at about US$70–US$100 per room per night, while a 5-star hotel costs more than US$150 per room per night.

Therefore, if you prefer hassle-free travel, you could expect a day trip from/to Bangkok for at least US$220 per person and a 3-day tour for US$500.

What Is the Best Month to Visit Angkor Wat?

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is from November to February. During these months, the weather is the coolest, with temperatures around 30 °C (86 °F). With rare rainfall, you could have the best photography opportunities and enjoy outdoor adventures.

From March to May, the heat intensifies, with temperatures peaking at 35°C (95°F). The lack of shade within Angkor Wat could make exploring more tiring, so it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

The rainy season begins in late May and peaks in September, tapering off by late October. Afternoon showers cool things down but could make some temple paths slippery or even flooded.

If you visit during the hot or rainy season, you would likely find better deals on hotels and flights. The fewer tourists also mean a more relaxed and peaceful experience.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Siem Reap from Bangkok? 

When crossing from Thailand to Cambodia, most nationalities, including US, UK and Australia, can get a visa on arrival, which costs US$30. Just bring the exact amount in cash, and no other currency or card accepted. They'll take your photo at the border, so no need to worry about bringing one. Besides, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six more months.

If you're going back to Thailand after the tour, travelers from developed visa-free countries don't need to apply for any permits again, including Americans, British and Australians. But others have to apply for a re-entry permit. According to some feedback, a day trip to Siem Reap might lead to being denied entry to Thailand on the same day.

What to Wear for a Visit to Angkor Wat

In Siem Reap, temples are sacred sites. So wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect when visiting Angkor Wat.

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best suited to the tropical weather there. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the temples.

Currency

Though the Cambodian currency is the riel, locals also accept US dollars. Both currencies are used alongside each other and are interchangeable. You can obtain cash from a bank or an ATM downtown, but not in a rural area.

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