A Complete Guide to Buying Angkor Wat Tickets and Avoiding the Queues
When visiting Siem Reap, securing your Angkor Pass is often the first item on your itinerary. This ticket grants access to the Angkor Archaeological Park, home to the iconic Angkor Wat and numerous other breathtaking temples, ruins, and palaces.
This comprehensive guide covers:
- How to purchase your Angkor Wat tickets online or in person.
- Tips for maximizing your experience, saving money, and avoiding crowds.
Whether you’re planning a one-day visit or a week-long exploration, this guide ensures you’re fully prepared to make the most of your trip to Angkor.
Is Angkor Wat Open?
Yes, Angkor Archaeological Park is open to tourists. Cambodia has been fully open to international travelers since November 2021, making now a great time to visit. The temples remain less crowded than in pre-pandemic years, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience the site more intimately while supporting local businesses.
Angkor Wat Ticket Prices (2023)
Three types of Angkor Passes are available:
Ticket Type | Direct Price | Online Agent Price |
1 Day Pass | $37 | $59.89 |
3 Day Pass | $62 | $91.35 |
7 Day Pass | $72 | $103.85 |
- Free Entry: Children under 12 (passport required) and Cambodian nationals.
- Special Pricing: Available for foreign residents holding a 2-year Cambodian visa.
Pro Tip: Carry your Angkor Pass at all times, as tickets are checked frequently. Consider bringing a 7.5×10 cm lanyard holder to keep your pass safe and easily accessible.
Understanding Angkor Pass Validity
- 1 Day Pass: Valid for 5 days from the date of entry.
- 3 Day Pass: Valid for 10 days (non-consecutive).
- 7 Day Pass: Valid for 30 days (non-consecutive).
You do not need to use multi-day passes on consecutive days. Guards will punch your ticket at the checkpoint for each entry. Ensure all visits occur before the pass’s expiry date.
Choosing the Right Angkor Pass
The pass you choose depends on your travel plans:
- 1 Day Pass: Ideal for a quick visit, but time will be limited.
- 3 Day Pass: Perfect for exploring the highlights and a few lesser-known temples at a relaxed pace. This is the best value for most travelers.
- 7 Day Pass: Great for history enthusiasts or those who prefer a slower exploration.
Pro Tip: For a sunrise visit, buy your pass the day before. The ticket office opens at 5:00 AM, but you’ll need extra time to get to the site and secure a good viewing spot.
How to Buy Angkor Wat Tickets
Option 1: In-Person at the Angkor Ticket Office
Located on Apsara Road, 5 km from central Siem Reap, the official ticket office operates from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
- Pros:
- Lowest price, with no additional fees.
- Cons:
- Requires a trip to the office and possibly waiting in line.
Payment options include cash (USD, Cambodian riel, Thai baht, or Euro) or credit/debit cards. Be prepared: Change is only given in Cambodian riel.
Option 2: Online Ticket Purchase
You can buy tickets via the Angkor Enterprise Portal or authorized agents like Green Era Travel.
- Pros:
- Skip the ticket office.
- Tickets are delivered to your hotel the evening before.
- Cons:
- Agent purchases incur extra fees.
For online purchases, upload a recent headshot for your ticket and pay via card. Tickets bought online are non-refundable.
Essential Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat
- Plan Your Sunrise Visit: Arrive early to beat the crowds. Ensure you already have your ticket to save time.
- Pack Smart:
- A lanyard for your pass.
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Sunscreen and lightweight clothing for sun protection.
- A scarf to cover shoulders when entering pagodas.
- Take a Midday Break: The heat can be intense. Many travelers return to their hotels to rest before exploring again later in the day.
- Respect Local Guidelines: Professional photography or drone usage requires a permit from APSARA.
Frequently Asked Questions about Angkor Wat
- Can I visit Angkor on non-consecutive days?
Yes, multi-day passes allow flexible usage within their validity period. - Are tickets refundable or transferable?
No, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. - Do I need my passport?
Only children under 12 require a passport as proof of age for free entry. - What temples are included?
The pass covers dozens of temples, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and more. Separate tickets are required for Phnom Kulen and Koh Ker.
Angkor Wat is more than just a bucket-list destination. With the right preparation and knowledge, your visit can be an unforgettable journey into Cambodia’s rich history and culture.
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