Small circuit vs grand circuit at Angkor
Angkor's small circuit covers the famous temples; the grand circuit adds quieter, larger ones. Here's what each includes and how to choose.
In this guide
Most temple trips around Angkor follow one of two classic routes: the small circuit and the grand circuit. Drivers and guides use these terms, so it helps to know what they mean.
The small circuit
The small circuit is a loop of roughly 17 km that covers the most famous temples:
- Angkor Wat
- Angkor Thom, including the Bayon, Baphuon, Phimeanakas and the Terraces of the Elephants and the Leper King
- Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda
- Ta Keo
- Ta Prohm
- Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang
It's the best choice for a first day or a one-day visit.
The grand circuit
The grand circuit is a longer loop of roughly 26 km that extends beyond the small circuit, taking in:
- Preah Khan: a vast temple complex with long corridors and courtyards.
- Neak Pean: a small shrine in a former reservoir.
- Ta Som: a small temple with a tree growing over its eastern gate.
- East Mebon: a temple-mountain that once stood in the middle of the East Baray.
- Pre Rup: a temple-mountain often visited at sunset.
It usually also passes through Angkor Thom and can include Angkor Wat.
How to choose
- One day: small circuit.
- Two days: small circuit on day 1, grand circuit on day 2.
- Three or more days: both circuits, plus Banteay Srei, the Roluos group or Beng Mealea.
Getting around
Both circuits can be done by tuk-tuk, car, bicycle or e-bike. The small circuit is manageable by bicycle for fit riders in the cooler months. The grand circuit is longer and better by tuk-tuk or e-bike.
Tips
- Tuk-tuk drivers often charge a little more for the grand circuit because of the distance. Agree the route and price in advance.
- Start early to beat the heat.
- Visit Ta Prohm early or late to avoid crowds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do both circuits in one day?
It's possible, but rushed. You'd spend most of the day in transport and see each temple only briefly. Two days is far more enjoyable.
Which circuit is quieter?
The grand circuit generally sees fewer visitors, especially at Preah Khan, Ta Som and East Mebon outside the sunset hour.