Best Time to See Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat is a bucket-list experience for travelers visiting Cambodia. The iconic silhouette of the ancient temple bathed in golden light creates a magical and unforgettable moment. However, timing is everything—choosing the right season, day, and spot can make or break your experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• The best months & weather conditions for sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Ideal arrival times to secure the perfect spot
• Top sunrise viewing locations within the temple complex
• Essential tips for photography and avoiding crowds
• What to bring for a comfortable experience

1. Best Time of Year for Sunrise at Angkor Wat

The ideal time to witness the Angkor Wat sunrise is during the dry season (November to March), when skies are clear, and humidity is low.

• November to February: Cooler temperatures (20–30°C / 68–86°F) and minimal rain offer the best conditions.
• March to May: Hotter (up to 38°C / 100°F), but still good for sunrise views.
• June to October (Monsoon Season): Higher chance of overcast skies and rain, but fewer crowds.

Pro Tip: December and January are peak months—expect larger crowds. For a quieter experience, visit in late November or early March.

2. Best Days & Arrival Time

Best Days to Visit

• Weekdays (Monday–Thursday): Less crowded than weekends.
• Avoid Cambodian Public Holidays: Such as Khmer New Year (April) and Pchum Ben (September/October).

What Time Should You Arrive?

• 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM: Gates open at 5:00 AM, but arriving early ensures a prime spot.
• Sunrise Time: Varies from 5:30 AM (December) to 6:00 AM (June).

Why So Early? The best photography spots fill up quickly—especially at the left reflection pool, the most famous viewpoint.

3. Best Sunrise Viewing Spots in Angkor Wat

A. The Classic Reflection Pool (Left Side)

• Location: In front of the main temple, left-side pond.
• Why It’s Great: The iconic postcard view with a mirror-like reflection.
• Drawback: Most crowded spot—arrive by 4:45 AM to secure a front-row position.

B. The Right-Side Reflection Pool

• Location: Opposite the left pool, near the library.
• Why It’s Great: Fewer crowds, still offers a stunning reflection.

C. Inside the Temple (Upper Level)

• Location: Climb to the upper terraces (after sunrise).
• Why It’s Great: A unique elevated perspective, but no reflection shots.

D. Outside the Temple (Alternative Spots)

• Phnom Bakheng: A hilltop temple with panoramic views (limited to 300 visitors).
• Srah Srang (The Royal Bath): A serene, less crowded option.

4. Angkor Wat Sunrise Photography Tips

To capture the perfect sunrise shot:

• Use a Tripod: Essential for long exposures in low light.
• Wide-Angle Lens (16–35mm): Best for temple silhouettes.
• Manual Mode Settings:
• Aperture: f/8–f/11 for sharpness
• ISO: 100–400 (keep it low to avoid noise)
• Shutter Speed: Adjust based on light (start at 1/30s)
• Shoot in RAW: Allows better post-processing.
• Silhouette Shots: Position the temple against the rising sun.

Pro Tip: Stay 20–30 minutes after sunrise—the golden light enhances temple details.

5. How to Avoid Crowds

Angkor Wat attracts thousands of visitors daily, but you can minimize crowds by:

• Arriving before 5:00 AM (first in line = best spot).
• Choosing the right-side pool (less busy than the left).
• Visiting in shoulder seasons (November or March).
• Exploring alternative temples (like Beng Mealea or Pre Rup).

6. What to Bring for Sunrise at Angkor Wat

• Valid Angkor Pass (Buy a 1-day cost $37 , 3 − d a y cost $62, or 7-day cost $72 pass).
• Flashlight/Headlamp (for walking in the dark).
• Water & Snacks (vendors may not be open early).
• Comfortable Shoes (you’ll walk on uneven stones).
• Light Jacket (mornings can be cool, especially Dec–Jan).
• Bug Spray (mosquitoes are active at dawn).

7. Bonus: Sunset as an Alternative

If you miss sunrise, sunset at Angkor Wat or Phnom Bakheng is a great alternative. However, Phnom Bakheng has a visitor limit, so arrive early.

Final Thoughts

The best time to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat is November–March, arriving by 4:30 AM for the best spot. The left reflection pool is the most famous viewpoint, but the right side offers fewer crowds.

By following these tips, you’ll experience one of the world’s most breathtaking sunrises in perfect serenity.