Angkor in three days: a relaxed temple plan

Three days is the sweet spot for Angkor. You'll see all the major temples, add outlying sites and still have time to rest in the hottest hours. Here's a relaxed plan.

Day 1: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

• Morning: sunrise at Angkor Wat, then explore the temple and its bas-reliefs.
• Late morning: the Bayon, Baphuon, Phimeanakas and the terraces in Angkor Thom.
• Afternoon: rest, then return to Angkor Thom's quieter sites, such as Preah Palilay and the North and South Kleang.
• Sunset: Phnom Bakheng (limited numbers) or the Angkor Wat moat.

Day 2: Ta Prohm and the grand circuit

• Morning: Ta Prohm early, followed by Ta Keo and Thommanon.
• Late morning: Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang.
• Afternoon: Preah Khan, Neak Pean and Ta Som.
• Sunset: Pre Rup or East Mebon.

Day 3: Banteay Srei and beyond

• Morning: Banteay Srei, famous for its fine carvings.
• Options: add Kbal Spean (a jungle hike to riverbed carvings) or Banteay Samre.
• Afternoon: the Roluos group, Angkor's earliest temples (Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei), or rest in town.

Alternative day 3: Beng Mealea

Swap Banteay Srei for Beng Mealea, a partly collapsed temple in the forest. It requires a separate ticket and a longer drive.

Which pass?

The three-day pass covers this plan. Check current rules and prices on the official site before you go.

Pacing tips

• Start early each day and rest from around noon to 3 pm.
• Drink water regularly and wear a hat.
• Mix big temples with small, quiet ones.
• Don't feel you have to see everything.

Guide or no guide?

A licensed guide on day 1 adds context to the history and carvings. On days 2 and 3, many travellers explore independently with a driver.

Frequently asked questions

Is three days too much?

For most people, three days is just right. It lets you see the major temples without exhaustion and leaves time to rest during the hottest hours.

Can I do this itinerary by bicycle?

Day 1 and parts of day 2 can be cycled by fit riders in the cooler months. Banteay Srei and the Roluos group are further away and are easier by tuk-tuk or car.

What should I do on a rest afternoon?

Visit the Angkor National Museum, get a massage, take a cooking class or relax by a pool.