Being a 1,000 year-old temple complex not far from the city of Siem Reap in the north central part of Cambodia, Angkor Wat, which provides visitors with a glimpse into the past, as well as magnificent architecture and scenery, is one of the most stunning tourist attractions in the charming country. Due to the turbulent political history of Cambodia, Angkor Wat was off limits to international travelers for many years. Even though Cambodia’s political situation has stabilized, remnants, in the form of landmines still remain among other problems. With fully paved roads and an airport nearby, travel to the area has become considerably easier. Indochina tours Cambodia
Visas and Ports of Entry
Cambodia visa -source: internet
No matter what way in which you are going to Cambodia, it is a must to get a visa. For tourism visas, there is an online e-Visa program offered by the Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The tourist visa is valid for a 30-day stay and for three months from the date of issue. To apply online, you should upload a digital passport-size photo. The international airports at Siem Reap and Phnom Penh together with three land border crossings with Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia has five ports of entry for foreigners.
When to go in Angkor Wat
December and January are the best time to visit the Angkor -source: internet
In December and January, when the humidity is low and the temperatures are mild is the time when you can find the best weather. Nevertheless, at these months, the moats at Angkor Wat can dry up and this site can witness the most crowded space. Generally lasting from May to October, the rainy season with flooding can make travel through this area much difficult. Since May and June are the two biggest monsoon months and are the wettest and hottest times of the year, they should be avoided.
Air Travel
Air travel to Cambodia -source: intenret
About four miles south of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is served by the Siem Reap International Airport. There are numerous major Asian cities offering direct flights to Siem Reap, such as: Seoul, Guangzhou, China; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Bangkok, Thailand. From these cities, you can also take connecting flights to the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, three-to-four hour by car drive to the south. Cambodia travel tours
Land Travel
Land travel to Cambodia -source: internet
In addition to daily buses connecting Phnom Penh with Siem Reap, express boat and private taxi services are also available between the two cities as well. Moreover, travelers can also enjoy a three-to five hour taxi or bus trip to go between Bangkok and Siem Reap. Ho Chi Minh City is about eight hours away on roads of varying quality. On both of these routes, you will be taken through one of the three approved land border crossings between Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand.
Getting access to the Angkor Wat
Bus in Cambodia -source: internet
If you are up for a hike in the tropical heat, Angkor Wat is within walking distance of Siem Reap. However, there are a wide range of travel options between the city and the temples is available for tourists who are not accustomed to the climate. Traveling by air-conditioned buses, large groups will be taken into the temples and you will be taken around the large complex. Beside bicycles and motorbikes available for rental, it is also possible to rent a car or hire a private taxi.
See more:
- Getting from Siem Reap to the Angkor Wat
- How to get to Siem Reap, Gateway to the Angkor Wat by air
- Top sightseeing attractions in Siem Reap
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