Planning your Angkor Wat visit is much easier once you understand the ticket system.
The main thing to know is simple. Most foreign visitors need an Angkor Pass to enter Angkor Wat and the temples inside Angkor Archaeological Park.
The current official Angkor Temples Park ticket prices are 37 USD for a 1 day pass, 62 USD for a 3 day pass, and 72 USD for a 7 day pass.
That sounds simple enough, right?
Mostly, yes. But there are a few useful details that can save you time, money, and a lot of sweaty confusion at 5 AM when everyone else is heading to sunrise and you’re still trying to work out where to buy a ticket.
This guide breaks down the Angkor Wat admission fee, the best ticket option for your trip, where to buy your pass, what the ticket includes, and the small insider tips that make a real difference.
Quick Answer
The Angkor Wat admission fee is covered by the Angkor Pass. The current official prices are 37 USD for a 1 day pass, 62 USD for a 3 day pass, and 72 USD for a 7 day pass. The 1 day pass works for a fast visit, but the 3 day pass is usually the best choice for most travellers because it gives you time to see Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and several other temples without rushing.
Key Takeaways
- The Angkor Pass is required for most foreign visitors entering Angkor Wat.
- The 1 day pass costs 37 USD.
- The 3 day pass costs 62 USD and expires in 7 days.
- The 7 day pass costs 72 USD and expires in 30 days.
- The pass covers temples inside Angkor Archaeological Park.
- Children under 12 do not need a ticket, but proof of age may be requested.
- If you buy tomorrow’s ticket after 4.45 PM, you can usually enter the park that same evening for sunset.
- You can buy tickets online through the official Angkor Enterprise system or at the official ticket office.
- Dress code matters, so cover shoulders and knees in sacred areas.
- Do not lose your pass because tickets are personal and checked during your visit.
Angkor Wat Ticket Prices at a Glance
| Pass Type | Price | Validity Window | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 day pass | 37 USD | Expires in 1 day | Short trips and first-time visitors with limited time |
| 3 day pass | 62 USD | Expires in 7 days | Most visitors who want a better pace |
| 7 day pass | 72 USD | Expires in 30 days | Slow travellers, photographers, history lovers, and repeat visits |
What Is the Angkor Pass?
The Angkor Pass is the official ticket for visiting Angkor Wat and the temples inside Angkor Archaeological Park.
It is not only an Angkor Wat ticket.
That is a common mistake.
The pass gives you access to many temples in the Angkor area, including the biggest names most visitors want to see.
- Angkor Wat
- Angkor Thom
- Bayon
- Ta Prohm
- Preah Khan
- Banteay Kdei
- Ta Keo
- Pre Rup
- East Mebon
- Neak Pean
- Srah Srang
The pass is checked at temple entrances and park checkpoints, so keep it handy. If you’re using a digital ticket, make sure your phone has battery. Nothing kills a temple morning like a dead phone and a guard who is not impressed by your dramatic explanation.
Which Angkor Wat Ticket Should You Buy?
For most visitors, the 3 day Angkor Pass is the best choice.
The 1 day pass is cheaper, but it can feel rushed. Angkor is huge, hot, and full of sites that deserve more than a quick “yep, another temple” glance before you jump back into a tuk-tuk.
The 3 day pass gives you breathing room.
You can see Angkor Wat at sunrise, explore Angkor Thom properly, visit Ta Prohm when it is quieter, and still have time for Grand Circuit temples like Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup.
The 7 day pass is only 10 USD more than the 3 day pass, which makes it great value if you are staying in Siem Reap longer. It is especially useful if you like photography, slower travel, or visiting temples in short sessions instead of doing marathon days in the heat.
Best Ticket Option by Travel Style
| Traveller Type | Best Pass | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Short trip visitor | 1 day pass | You can see Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm in one packed day |
| First-time visitor | 3 day pass | You get enough time for the main temples without rushing |
| Photographer | 7 day pass | You can return for better light, quieter times, and second attempts |
| History lover | 3 day or 7 day pass | You can spend longer reading carvings and visiting less crowded temples |
| Family with children | 3 day pass | You can build in breaks and avoid one exhausting day |
| Budget traveller | 1 day pass | It keeps the cost down while still letting you see the highlights |
Is the 1 Day Angkor Pass Enough?
A 1 day Angkor Pass is enough if you only want to see the main highlights.
A common 1 day route includes Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and maybe Banteay Kdei or Phnom Bakheng if you still have energy.
But be realistic.
One day at Angkor can be amazing, but it can also feel like a temple race. You will start early, walk a lot, sweat a lot, and probably hit that point where every carved doorway starts to look like the last carved doorway.
That is not because the temples are boring.
It is because your brain is cooked and your shirt has given up.
If you only have one day, do it. If you have more time, the 3 day pass gives you a better experience.
Is the 3 Day Angkor Pass Worth It?
Yes, the 3 day pass is usually worth it.
It costs 62 USD, so it is 25 USD more than the 1 day pass. For that extra cost, you get two more days of temple access and a 7 day window to use them.
That is useful because you do not need to visit on three back-to-back days.
You can do Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom one day, rest or explore Siem Reap the next, then return for Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, or other temples later.
This is much better than trying to squeeze everything into one sweaty blur.
For most travellers, this is the sweet spot.
Is the 7 Day Angkor Pass Worth It?
The 7 day pass is worth it if you are staying in Siem Reap for longer or you want to explore slowly.
It costs 72 USD, which is only 10 USD more than the 3 day pass. That makes it strong value if you plan to visit the temples across several mornings or afternoons.
This pass is ideal if you want to:
- See Angkor Wat more than once
- Photograph temples in different light
- Visit quieter temples without rushing
- Take breaks during the hottest hours
- Spend more time with a guide
- Explore both Small Circuit and Grand Circuit sites properly
The 7 day pass is overkill for a short trip, but brilliant if Angkor is the main reason you are in Cambodia.
Where to Buy Angkor Wat Tickets
You have two main ways to buy your Angkor Pass.
- Online through the official Angkor Enterprise ticket system.
- In person at the official Angkor Ticket Office near Siem Reap.
Buying online is usually the easiest option if you want to save time. You can download the ticket and show it on your phone or print it.
Buying in person still works well, especially if you prefer paying at the counter or your driver takes you there before sunrise.
Just make sure you buy from the official source.
Avoid random unofficial ticket sellers, strange links, and anyone offering a “special cheap Angkor ticket.” The official prices are fixed. If someone is offering a weirdly cheap pass, your scam alarm should start ringing very loudly.
Can You Buy Angkor Wat Tickets Online?
Yes, you can buy Angkor Wat tickets online through the official Angkor Enterprise ticket system.
This is the best option if you want to avoid queues at the ticket office. It is also helpful if you are planning a sunrise visit and do not want to deal with ticket buying half-awake in the dark.
When you buy online, check your details carefully before payment.
Your pass is personal, and longer passes use your name and photo for identification. Do not buy the wrong date and expect a relaxed “never mind” moment at the checkpoint.
Temple admin is still admin.
Can You Buy Tickets at the Angkor Ticket Office?
Yes, you can buy tickets at the official Angkor Ticket Office.
Most tuk-tuk drivers and tour drivers know exactly where it is. If you book a driver for sunrise, they will usually take you to the ticket office first unless you already have an online ticket.
If you are buying in person, bring:
- Payment card or cash
- Your passport or passport copy if needed
- A little patience if it is busy
- A working phone if you need booking details
For a sunrise visit, buying online the day before is usually smoother.
The Sunset Entry Tip Most Visitors Miss
This is one of the best Angkor ticket tips.
If you buy a ticket for tomorrow after 4.45 PM, Angkor Enterprise says you can enter the park that same evening for sunset and still use the ticket for the next full day.
This does not mean Angkor Wat is free.
You still need to buy the pass.
But it means you can get a sunset visit the evening before your official ticket day starts. That gives you extra value, especially if you buy a 1 day pass.
Use it for a relaxed first look, a sunset viewpoint, or a soft start before your main Angkor day.
Small rule. Big win.
What Time Does Angkor Wat Open?
Angkor Wat opens early for sunrise visits.
The official Angkor Enterprise ticket page lists Angkor Temples Park entry from 5 AM to 6.30 PM, while the individual Angkor Wat temple page lists Angkor Wat hours from 5 AM to 5.30 PM.
In practice, you should plan sunrise around the 5 AM opening and check your chosen temple hours before you go.
Temple hours can vary by site.
Some temples open later than Angkor Wat because they are not sunrise spots. Do not assume every temple is open at 5 AM just because Angkor Wat is.
Common Angkor Temple Opening Hours
| Site | Typical Opening Time | Typical Closing Time | Good To Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angkor Wat | 5 AM | About 5.30 PM | Main sunrise temple |
| Srah Srang | 5 AM | About 5.30 PM | Popular sunrise alternative |
| Most temples | About 7.30 AM | About 5.30 PM | Check before planning an early route |
| Pre Rup | About 7 AM | About 5.30 PM | Often used for later-day visits |
| Phnom Bakheng | Early opening | Sunset access depends on management rules | Arrive early because numbers can be controlled |
What Does the Angkor Pass Not Include?
The Angkor Pass covers temples inside Angkor Archaeological Park, but it does not cover every attraction near Siem Reap.
Some sites may need separate tickets.
These can include:
- Phnom Kulen
- Koh Ker
- Beng Mealea
- Kbal Spean
- Some museums and private attractions
Rules can change, and ticket systems can differ by site, so check before you go.
This is especially important if a driver offers a full-day route outside the main Angkor area. Ask what is included before you leave Siem Reap, not after you arrive at a gate with your wallet already sweating.
Do Children Need an Angkor Pass?
Children under 12 do not need an Angkor Pass for Angkor Wat entrance.
You may need to show a passport or proof of age, especially if the child looks close to 12.
Children under 12 are also not allowed to climb the Upper Tower because the steps are steep and access is limited for safety.
So yes, the entry can be free for children under 12, but keep proof ready and check site rules when you visit.
Is There a Dress Code at Angkor Wat?
Yes, there is a dress code at Angkor Wat and other sacred areas inside Angkor Archaeological Park.
The safe rule is simple.
Cover your shoulders and knees.
Avoid:
- Tank tops
- Spaghetti straps
- Short shorts
- Mini skirts
- See-through clothing
- Very revealing outfits
This applies to men and women.
Angkor Wat is not just a ruin. It is a sacred site. Dress like you understand that, but still choose light, breathable clothing because Cambodia does not play around with heat.
What Should You Pack for Angkor Wat?
Pack light, but pack smart.
Angkor days can be hot, dusty, bright, and full of walking. You do not need a giant backpack that makes you look like you’re moving house. You do need the basics.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Light clothing that covers shoulders and knees
- Phone or camera
- Portable charger
- Small amount of cash
- Insect repellent
- Your Angkor Pass
- Passport copy or ID photo on your phone
Comfortable shoes matter more than people think.
There are steps, uneven stones, sandy paths, long causeways, and plenty of places where flip-flops start making poor life choices.
Can You Visit Angkor Wat Without a Guide?
Yes, you can visit Angkor Wat without a guide.
You can hire a tuk-tuk driver, rent a bicycle, join a tour, or explore independently if you know your route.
That said, a good guide can make the visit much richer.
Angkor Wat has carvings, symbolism, history, layout details, religious meaning, and stories that are easy to miss if you are just walking around taking photos.
If your budget allows, consider hiring a licensed local guide for at least Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.
It can turn “nice old temple” into “oh wow, now this actually makes sense.”
Best Way to Use a 1 Day Angkor Pass
If you only have one day, focus on the biggest highlights and start early.
A solid 1 day plan could look like this:
- Angkor Wat for sunrise
- Angkor Wat galleries and central temple area
- South Gate of Angkor Thom
- Bayon
- Terrace of the Elephants
- Lunch and rest
- Ta Prohm
- Banteay Kdei or Srah Srang if you still have energy
This is a full day.
Do not add ten more temples unless you enjoy turning amazing places into a checklist of stone exhaustion.
Best Way to Use a 3 Day Angkor Pass
The 3 day pass gives you a much better pace.
Here is a simple plan:
| Day | Suggested Focus | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm | You see the biggest highlights first |
| Day 2 | Grand Circuit temples such as Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup | You get quieter temples and a different side of Angkor |
| Day 3 | Banteay Srei, Roluos Group, or return to favourite temples | You can add detail, distance, or better light for photos |
This is usually the best balance for first-time visitors.
You get the famous temples, the quieter stops, and enough time to actually enjoy them.
Best Way to Use a 7 Day Angkor Pass
The 7 day pass is for people who want to slow down.
Instead of doing full temple days, you can visit in shorter blocks.
- Do sunrise one day and rest later.
- Visit Bayon early before crowds build.
- Save Ta Prohm for a quieter time.
- Return to Angkor Wat for better light.
- Spend more time with carvings and less time rushing.
- Add lesser-known temples without feeling overloaded.
This is the pass for people who know that the best travel moments usually happen when you are not sprinting.
Can You Share an Angkor Pass?
No, you cannot share an Angkor Pass.
Passes are personal and not transferable. Your name and photo may be linked to the ticket, especially for multi-day passes.
Do not buy one pass and try to pass it around your group.
That is not a budget hack. That is a fast way to create a problem at a checkpoint.
What Happens If You Lose Your Angkor Pass?
If you lose your pass, you may need to buy another one.
Do not treat the ticket like a random receipt from a convenience store. Keep it safe.
If it is digital, save it offline, screenshot it, and keep your phone charged. If it is printed, keep it in a safe pocket or pouch.
Temple days already come with enough walking. You do not need the bonus activity of panicking over a missing ticket.
Can You Get Discounts on Angkor Wat Tickets?
For normal foreign visitors, Angkor Pass prices are fixed.
There are no usual group discounts, student discounts, or senior discounts for standard tourist entry.
Children under 12 are the main free-entry group, with proof of age if requested.
Cambodian citizens are generally exempt from the tourist entrance fee, and some long-term foreign residents may qualify for special entry arrangements. Normal short-term tourists should expect to pay the standard price.
Are Angkor Wat Tickets Refundable?
Angkor Passes are generally non-refundable.
That means you should check your date, pass type, and travel plans before buying.
If your schedule is uncertain, the 3 day or 7 day pass can give you more flexibility than a single intense day. Just remember that each pass has its own expiry window.
Read the ticket details before payment.
Yes, it is boring.
Yes, it can save you money.
Should You Buy the Angkor Pass Online or In Person?
Buy online if you want the smoothest start.
Buy in person if you prefer paying at the counter or need help from your driver or guide.
Online is especially useful for sunrise because you can head straight toward Angkor Wat instead of adding a ticket stop before dawn.
| Buying Method | Pros | Possible Downsides |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Saves time, useful for sunrise, digital ticket available | You need to enter details correctly and keep phone battery |
| Ticket office | Simple in person purchase, drivers know the location | Can add time, especially before sunrise or during busy periods |
Insider Tips for Getting Better Value
The Angkor Pass is not cheap, so use it well.
- Buy after 4.45 PM for tomorrow if you want the same-evening sunset benefit.
- Choose the 3 day pass if you want the best balance of cost and time.
- Do sunrise at Angkor Wat, but do not spend the whole day in the busiest spots.
- Visit popular temples early or later in the day when possible.
- Take a midday break because the heat can ruin your mood fast.
- Bring your own water and snacks to cut small costs.
- Do not try to see too many temples in one day.
- Use a licensed guide for the sites where history matters most to you.
The goal is not to see the most temples.
The goal is to enjoy the ones you visit.
There is a difference. Your feet will agree.
Common Mistakes Visitors Make With Angkor Tickets
- Buying a 1 day pass when they really need 3 days.
- Forgetting that the 3 day pass has an expiry window.
- Arriving for sunrise without already having a ticket plan.
- Assuming every temple opens at sunrise.
- Wearing clothes that do not meet the dress code.
- Thinking the Angkor Pass covers every site near Siem Reap.
- Not keeping the ticket handy for checks.
- Trying to rush too many temples into one day.
A bit of planning solves most of these.
Not all, because travel loves chaos, but most.
What to Wear at Angkor Wat
Wear light, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Good choices include:
- Loose trousers
- Long shorts that cover the knees
- Midi or maxi skirts
- Short-sleeve T-shirts
- Linen shirts
- Comfortable walking sandals or trainers
Avoid high heels, thin flip-flops, and anything tight, short, or see-through.
You are visiting ancient temples, not auditioning for a beach club flyer.
Best Time to Visit Angkor Wat
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is early morning.
Sunrise is famous for a reason, but it is also busy. If you want fewer people, stay after sunrise when some visitors leave for breakfast.
Early morning and late afternoon are usually more comfortable than midday because the heat is less harsh.
The dry season from around November to March is popular because rain is less likely, but it is also busier. The wet season can be beautiful, greener, and less crowded, though you need to plan around rain.
There is no perfect time for everyone.
There is only the time that matches your heat tolerance, crowd tolerance, and ability to wake up before sunrise without becoming a deeply unpleasant person.
Simple Angkor Ticket Plan for Most Visitors
If you want the easiest advice, do this.
- Buy the 3 day pass.
- Buy online if you want a smoother sunrise start.
- Use the sunset entry rule if your timing fits.
- Spend day 1 on Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
- Spend day 2 on Grand Circuit temples.
- Use day 3 for Banteay Srei, Roluos, or favourite return visits.
- Take breaks during the hottest part of the day.
This plan gives you the main sites without making the whole trip feel like a forced march through ancient stone.
Final Thoughts
The Angkor Wat admission fee is simple once you know your options.
The 1 day pass costs 37 USD, the 3 day pass costs 62 USD, and the 7 day pass costs 72 USD.
If you only have one day, the 1 day pass works. If you have more time, the 3 day pass is usually the best choice. If you love history, photography, or slow travel, the 7 day pass can be excellent value.
Buy from the official source, plan your temple route, dress respectfully, and do not try to squeeze too much into one day.
Angkor is not a place to rush.
Give it time, and the ticket will feel much more worth it.
