Angkor Wat Sunrise & Banteay Srei: 2-Day Guided Tour

Summary

Explore Angkor temples sunrise to countryside with local stories

You’ll wake before dawn to catch Angkor Wat’s sunrise glow with a local guide who knows every shortcut — then eat breakfast in a village spot most tourists miss. Wander jungle temples like Ta Prohm and see intricate carvings at Banteay Srei before learning real stories at the Landmine Museum. It’s not just sightseeing; it feels personal.

What’s the experience like?

“If you want the best spot for sunrise, follow me,” our guide Chenda whispered, already grinning at the sleepy group huddled in the dark outside Angkor Wat. I’d barely woken up (4:45 am is not my hour), but somehow her energy made it feel like an adventure instead of a punishment. The air was thick and warm, almost sticky, and frogs were still croaking somewhere behind us. When the first light hit those ancient stones, I forgot how tired I was. It’s quieter than you’d expect — just a few murmurs from other early risers and the sound of monks’ chanting drifting over the moat. Chenda pointed out carvings I would’ve missed on my own, little details in the stone that looked almost soft in that morning light.

After wandering Angkor Wat’s endless corridors (I lost count of how many times I tripped on uneven steps), we stopped for breakfast at a family-run place near Srah Srang. The rice porridge was simple but comforting, and someone handed me strong Cambodian coffee that tasted smoky and sweet at once. Later, walking through Ta Prohm where tree roots spill over crumbling walls, Chenda told us about her childhood memories playing hide-and-seek here before tourism picked up — she laughed remembering how she used to think spirits lived in the roots. There’s something about hearing those stories right there in the shade that makes it all feel less like a museum and more like someone’s backyard.

The second day started later (thankfully), heading out to Preah Khan and then winding through Siem Reap’s countryside. The roads smelled faintly of dust and lemongrass from nearby fields. At Banteay Srei, the pink sandstone glowed under midday sun — honestly, I didn’t expect such delicate carvings on temple walls. Our group fell quiet for a bit just taking it in. Lunch was another local spot; I tried something with green mango that was both sour and refreshing (wish I could remember what it was called). On the way back, we stopped at the Cambodian Landmine Museum — sobering but important. The guide there spoke softly but directly about his own experiences during Cambodia’s civil war; it stuck with me more than any textbook ever could.

I’m still thinking about that sunrise at Angkor Wat — maybe because it felt so much bigger than just ticking off a famous site. There’s this mix of awe and everyday life here: monks on bicycles, kids waving from roadside stalls, guides who know every shortcut through temple ruins. If you’re looking for a day trip to Angkor Wat from Siem Reap or want to see Banteay Srei with someone who actually grew up nearby, this tour really does give you both history and those small human moments you remember after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunrise and Angkor Wat Temples

• Pick up from hotel before sunrise
• Watch sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Walk and explore Angkor Wat temple
• Breakfast at local family restaurant
• Visit Pre Rup temple
• Explore Ta Prohm jungle temple
• See Victory Gate of Angkor Thom
• Visit Bayon temple with Buddha faces
• Transfer back to hotel in Siem Reap

Day 2 — Grand Tour and Banteay Srei Temple

• Pick up from hotel after breakfast
• Visit Preah Khan temple
• Explore Neak Pean temple
• Visit Ta Som temple
• See East Mebon temple
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Visit Banteay Srei temple
• Visit Cambodian Landmine Museum
• Transfer back to hotel in Siem Reap

Top questions

What time does the Angkor Wat sunrise tour start?

The hotel pickup is between 4:30 am and 5:00 am for sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Is breakfast included on this 2-day Angkor tour?

Yes, breakfast with local food is included on Day 1 after visiting Angkor Wat.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Siem Reap?

Yes, hotel pickup is included each day; be ready 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Are entry tickets for Angkor temples included?

No, you need to purchase an Angkor pass separately before starting the tour.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Lunch is included on Day 2 at a local restaurant; vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

Which temples will we visit besides Angkor Wat?

You’ll visit Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, Bayon, Pre Rup, Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som Temple, East Mebon, and more.

Can vegetarians be accommodated on this tour?

Yes; let them know in advance so they can prepare vegetarian options for breakfast and lunch.

What should I wear when visiting these temples?

You must cover your knees and shoulders as per dress code requirements for temple visits.

Is transportation air-conditioned during the tour?

Yes; transportation is by air-conditioned minivan or minibus throughout both days.

What’s included

Your two days include hotel pickup each morning in Siem Reap by air-conditioned minivan or minibus; breakfast with local food on Day 1; lunch at a local restaurant on Day 2 (vegetarian options available if you ask ahead); free cool water and towels throughout; plus guidance from an English-speaking expert who shares stories along every stop before returning you to your hotel each afternoon.