The greatest spots in Siem Reap and Angkor Archaeology Park to watch the sunset over the temples of Angkor and Siem Reap.
Sunsets are one of the most popular photographic subjects and are often considered one of the most beautiful moments of the day.
Sunsets take on an even more enchanted quality when traveling, making it more important than ever for travelers to choose the ideal viewing locations.
There are several breathtaking vantage points in and around Siem Reap, thanks to the city’s landscape, environment, and location. Of course, there are many locations where one can go in search of a beautiful sunset and picture-perfect lighting, but in this section, we will highlight some of our favorites.
When in Siem Reap, you absolutely must make time to watch the sunset.
It is one of our favorite times of the day because there is a sense of excitement in the air, to disconnect from the day by enjoying the evening with family and cuisine.
This is one of the reasons why it is one of our favorite times of the day. This ‘golden hour is a time to disengage from the world and think about things.
People can go outside, appreciate the surroundings, and feel inspired while soaking in the here and now and all of life’s basic pleasures when they watch the sunset. Watching the sunset can positively affect a person’s health, giving them a sense of renewed vitality and optimism.
Given all of these benefits, not to mention the fact that sunsets present fantastic opportunities for photography, it would be a shame to forego the chance to experience this enchanted moment in a different setting if given a chance.
There are numerous venues to view the sunset, from rooftop pubs to balloon rides. Here, however, we present our top four suggestions for watching the sunset outside of town to take in the natural scenery:
The temples are Siem Reap’s most popular tourist destination, and this is the perfect spot to take in the city’s rich history while admiring the setting sun over these ancient structures.
After a long day of exploring several temples, many people head to Phnom Bakheng, a temple perched atop a hill that is located near Angkor Wat. Here, visitors may take in breathtaking views of the setting sun. Although you have to climb the hill for only a short distance, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Not only does it provide an alternative perspective of the temple complex when viewed from the highest point, but it also casts a new light on the ancient location.
Even though it can get somewhat crowded, it is still a wonderful site to spend the evening at the temples in order to watch the sun go down. Some tourists are so determined that they begin their day of temple exploration before daybreak and continue it until after nightfall.
Phnom Krom Sunset
The city of Siem Reap, which is conveniently positioned nearby, contains a small hill that serves as a great vantage point from which to appreciate the Cambodian scenery as well as the sunset in its full.
You can catch a glimpse of the community that lives at the foot of the hill and builds their own wooden boats; they derive a significant portion of their income from the water and rely greatly on it for their life. In addition, it is possible to get a view of the Tonle Sap lake when you stand in this location.
A trip to Phnom Krom offers a number of benefits, one of which is the opportunity to see the ruins of a Buddhist temple, which can be found at the peak of the mountain.
You will have the opportunity to not only learn about the history of Angkor and see some monks, but also to savor the sunset while taking in the breathtaking environment.
Sunset over the Countryside
For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture, venturing out into the countryside is an excellent method to gain firsthand insight into the routines and customs of the country’s inhabitants.
Rice is a staple food in Cambodia, and the majority of the country’s land is used for agricultural reasons. Cambodia is known worldwide for its rice. Consequently, if you go into the countryside, you will find yourself surrounded by a great deal of rice and many rice paddy fields.
These fields, which are surrounded only by nature and residents, provide the ideal setting for sunsets and are highly recommended. It’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of the sun going down over the huge, verdant terrain, complete with water buffalo or cows and palm trees lined up in the backdrop.
Sunset Cruise on Tonle Sap Lake at Kompong Phluk
Learn about life in a floating village by paying for a trip to Tonle Sap lake, which is another thing that you have to do when you go to Siem Reap (depending on the time of year).
You can take a boat ride around the floating hamlet, and at the end of the trip, you can watch the sun go down over the water. Observing the sun’s reflection in the lake, life taking place on the water, and exploring the abundant nature that resides in and around this area, such as the many different types of birds, all combine to create a moment that is simply amazing.
Sunset at Pre Rup temple
The temple known as Pre Rup was definitely one of our favorites.
The majority of people travel there to see the sunset, or to witness the momnets right after the sunrise! I have no doubt that it is a breathtaking sight at any time of the day.
This temple, which was constructed in 961 as a shrine to the Hindu deity Shiva, is regarded to be one of the most ancient ones and was the first of its kind.
The delights and the views that await you at the top make the effort more than worthwhile the climb up the staircase.
Angkor Eye Ferris Wheel
Experience something you won’t forget by taking part in Siem Reap’s newest and most exciting attraction.
A wonderful experience would be to visit friends and family at an elevation of 85 meters and spend time together there.
Take advantage of being 85 meters in the air to capture some priceless photographs of the people you care about. When going to Angkor Eye, the best time to go is right before sunset.
You can easily book your tickets online at Angkor Eye website.
Some examples here of the most interesting Angkor Wat tours itineraries with Sunset:
Private Angkor Wat 2-Day Tour – Private Sunset and Sunrise Guided Temples Tour
Private Angkor Wat mix temples photo tour [views from the top – guided tour]
Private Angkor Wat special tour – Angkor Guided Tour with Phnom Bok Sunset and much more
Angkor Wat tour Semi-Private | Temples Guided Tour [with Phnom Bakheng sunset]
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