Siem Reap and Angkor Wat Three-Day Tour: Essential Experiences and Lessons (Part 1)

Visiting Siem Reap and Angkor Wat during the Khmer New Year was a unique experience, with daytime temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius as we explored the ruins of the Angkor Empire, and evenings spent joining Cambodian youths in water fights. Here, I've compiled some experiences and lessons, and feel free to ask questions in the comments. Firstly, Siem Reap is very safe, and the people are friendly. Although the town is not developed, some areas are surprisingly well-managed. The only drawbacks are the extreme heat and slightly high prices. After the pandemic, Cambodia's economy suffered greatly due to the significant decrease in tourists. Like the once-glorious Angkor Empire, Siem Reap is not what it used to be. Our three-day itinerary was as follows: Day 1: South Gate of Angkor Thom - Bayon Temple - Baphuon Temple - Phimeanakas/Elephant Terrace/Leper King Terrace - Victory Gate - Ta Prohm - Angkor Wat - Phnom Bakheng Day 2: Banteay Srei - Beng Mealea - Roluos Group Day 3: Leisurely stroll around Siem Reap My personal favorites: Bayon Temple, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Beng Mealea. We didn't watch the sunrise, and our plan to watch the sunset at Phnom Bakheng was canceled due to weather. If you're not particularly keen on sunrises and sunsets, there's no need to schedule them. However, the view of Angkor Wat from Phnom Bakheng is still quite impressive. #AngkorWat #Cambodia #SiemReap