Category Archives: Angkor Park

Street View Sunset Cambodia

Phnom Bakheng at Sunset

Seeing the sunset in Angkor Wat proper is a little difficult but in Phnom Bakheng, minutes away, it is welcomed. There is a hike involved but the breathtaking view will make it all worth it. Bring your video camera for this one!

🏞️ Phnom Bakheng at Sunset – Quick Background

🛕 What is Phnom Bakheng?
  • Built in the late 9th to early 10th century by King Yasovarman I.
  • It was the first major temple built at Angkor, and originally the state temple of the capital city Yasodharapura (before Angkor Wat existed).
  • Constructed on a hill, it symbolizes Mount Meru, the spiritual center of the universe in Hindu cosmology.
  • 🌇 Why Sunset?
  • Because of its hilltop position, Phnom Bakheng offers one of the best panoramic views of Angkor—including a distant view of Angkor Wat surrounded by jungle.
  • It’s famous for sunset viewing, so much so that the number of visitors allowed up at one time is capped to 300 people to preserve the site and avoid overcrowding.
  • 🚶‍♂️ Access
  • It requires a moderate uphill walk of about 15–20 minutes.
  • Along the way, you’ll often spot elephants (though that practice is now being phased out for ethical reasons).
  • 🌇 Phnom Bakheng Sunset Tour

    🗺️ Tour Highlights:
    • Hilltop temple with panoramic views
    • Stunning sunset overlooking Angkor Wat
    • Chance to experience one of Angkor’s oldest temples
    📖 Tour Walkthrough:

    Your evening journey begins with a walk up Phnom Bakheng, a 9th-century temple-mountain located just northwest of Angkor Wat. As you climb the wooded hill, you’ll be retracing the steps of ancient pilgrims headed for one of the earliest temples in the Angkor region. At the summit, the temple’s five tiers rise to mimic the mythical Mount Meru. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable sunset view—golden light washing over Angkor Wat in the distance, jungle stretching endlessly around you, and the ancient stones glowing with warmth. Entry to the summit is capped at 300 people, so timing and pacing are key to this peaceful and spiritual experience. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes for this one!

    Estimated Tour Time:
  • Three – Four Hours*
  • Tour Includes:
  • Hotel pickup, return transport, temple access guidance, and a chilled bottle of water for the hilltop climb.
  • Tour Excludes:
  • Angkor Archaeological Park Pass Fee ($37 USD 1 Day / $62 USD 3 Day); required for all Angkor area temples
  • Meals or snacks
  • 💵 Tour Cost:
    Tuk Tuk $20 USD
    Car $35 USD
    Face Towers At Angkor Thom

    Angkor Wat Small Tour

    The Angkor Small Tour is ideal for those who want to witness the magic of Cambodia’s most iconic temples without dedicating a full day. Perfect for morning adventurers who want their afternoons free to shop, relax, or explore further.

    🛕 Angkor Small Tour – Quick Background

    📍 What is the Small Tour Route?
    • The Small Tour is a circuit through some of the most famous temples in Angkor, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
    • It’s considered “small” not because of fewer temples, but because the loop itself is shorter in distance, making it manageable within half a day.
    • This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and those who want a condensed but powerful introduction to Angkor’s grandeur.
    🌇 Why Take the Small Tour?
    • See iconic temples like Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm (famous for the Tomb Raider tree roots).
    • Explore less crowded gems such as Preah Ngok, Thommanon, and Banteay Kdei.
    • Leaves time in the afternoon for other activities — ideal for limited schedules.
    🚶‍♂️ Access & Map

    🛕 Angkor Small Tour

    🗺️ Tour Highlights:
    • Angkor Wat
    • Angkor Thom South Gate
    • Bayon
    • Preah Ngok
    • Baphuon
    • Phimeanakas
    • Terrace of Elephants
    • Thommanom / Chau Say Thevoda
    • Ta Keo
    • Ta Prohm
    • Banteay Kdei
    • Sras Srang
    📖 Tour Walkthrough:

    A shorter tour of the Angkor Temples, the Small Tour will allow tourists more time in the afternoon to view other attractions, shopping or just relaxing.

    Angkor Wat Small Tour Map

    🗺️ View Route on Google Maps

    Estimated Tour Time:
    • 4–6 Hours
    Tour Includes:
    • Hotel Pickup and Drop Off
    • Transport To The Locations
    • A Cold Bottle Of Water and Fresh Seasonal Fruit
    Tour Excludes:
    • Angkor Archaeological Park Entry Fee ($37 USD 1 Day / $62 USD 3 Day)
    • Meals
    💡 Suggestions:
    • Wear Comfortable Sandals or Shoes (e.g., Keen, Teva)
    • Bring $20–$50 for Lunch, Extra Water, Souvenirs, etc.
    💵 Tour Cost:
    Tuk Tuk $15 USD
    *Add Banteay Srei $25 USD

    Car $30 USD
    *Add Banteay Srei $40 USD
    *Add Sunrise $45 USD

    Location: Angkor Wat Small Tour

    Time: 6 hours

    Description: See the high points of the Angkor Wat Big Tour. Adds Ta Phrom stop with massive trees.