Angkor Thom Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide — Siem Reap, Cambodia
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction to Angkor Thom and Its Significance
Angkor Thom, meaning “Great City” in Khmer, stands as one of Cambodia’s most iconic and historically significant sites. Nestled within the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, it was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as the final and grandest capital of the Khmer Empire. The city represents the zenith of Khmer architecture, urban planning, and religious transformation, blending Hindu and Buddhist influences. Spanning approximately 9 square kilometers, Angkor Thom captivates visitors with its monumental gates, enigmatic temples like the Bayon, royal terraces, and intricate stone carvings. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, travel tips, and historical context, equipping you for an immersive and respectful journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For planning resources and detailed guides, visit helloangkor.com and mysiemreaptours.com.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Tickets and Opening Hours
- Getting There & Travel Tips
- Highlights of Angkor Thom
- Nearby Attractions
- Visitor FAQs
- Conservation and Cultural Legacy
- Plan Your Visit & Further Resources
Historical Background of Angkor Thom
Built as the last capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom’s design embodies both spiritual symbolism and defensive strength. The city’s square layout is encircled by imposing 8-meter-high walls and a 100-meter-wide moat, symbolizing the mythical oceans of Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. Its five monumental gates—each adorned with massive stone faces—welcome visitors into a city where the Bayon temple sits at the cosmological center, representing Mount Meru.
Under King Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom flourished as a vibrant metropolis, home to palaces, temples, markets, and a sophisticated water management system. The city’s architecture and bas-reliefs reflect a syncretism of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, illustrating religious tolerance and artistic excellence. Angkor Thom endured for centuries before succumbing to invasions and natural reclamation, only to be rediscovered in the 19th century. It is now part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (helloangkor.com; mysiemreaptours.com).
Tickets and Opening Hours
Ticket Information
Entry to Angkor Thom is included in the Angkor Archaeological Park pass, which also grants access to Angkor Wat and other temples. As of 2025, ticket options are:
- 1-day pass: $37 USD
- 3-day pass: $62 USD (valid for 10 days)
- 7-day pass: $72 USD (valid for 1 month)
Tickets are available at the official Angkor Ticket Office on the road from Siem Reap, or online through authorized vendors. Retain your ticket, as it is checked at entry points throughout the park (To Travel Too).
Opening Hours
Angkor Thom is open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Note that some temples within the park have restricted access outside these hours.
Getting to Angkor Thom & Travel Tips
Transportation
Angkor Thom is approximately 7 km north of Siem Reap and 1.7 km north of Angkor Wat. Common transportation options include:
- Tuk-tuk: Widely available and ideal for half or full-day tours.
- Bicycle: Popular with active travelers but be prepared for heat and humidity.
- Taxi/Car with Driver: Offers greater comfort and is available through hotels and local agencies.
- Guided Tours: Enhance your experience with historical context and seamless navigation (mysiemreaptours.com).
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (November–February) offers cooler weather. Wet season (June–October) means lush scenery and fewer tourists but expect rain.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
- Essentials: Carry water, sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable footwear.
- Cash: US dollars are widely accepted; credit cards are rarely used inside the park (Adventures of Alice).
- Guides: Licensed guides are available at the ticket office and through hotels.
Highlights of Angkor Thom
Bayon Temple
At the heart of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple is celebrated for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 serene stone faces, believed to represent King Jayavarman VII or the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. The temple’s bas-reliefs depict scenes of daily Khmer life and mythological events (siemreap.net).
Baphuon Temple
A three-tiered temple mountain predating Bayon, Baphuon symbolizes Mount Meru and features a 16th-century reclining Buddha. The temple’s restoration is a testament to ancient and modern engineering (mysiemreaptours.com).
Phimeanakas and the Royal Palace
Phimeanakas, within the Royal Palace enclosure, is a stepped pyramid temple linked to Khmer legends. The palace grounds showcase stone foundations and ceremonial pools (helloangkor.com).
Terrace of the Elephants
Spanning 350 meters, this platform was used for royal audiences and is decorated with life-sized carvings of elephants and mythological creatures.
Terrace of the Leper King
Named after a mysterious statue, this terrace features intricate carvings and is shrouded in legend.
City Gates
Angkor Thom’s five gates—South, North, East, West, and Victory—are monumental entryways adorned with massive stone faces and naga balustrades. The South Gate is the primary entrance and a favorite for photographs.
Other Notable Sites
- Preah Palilay and Tep Pranam: Quiet temples blending Hindu and Buddhist styles.
- Prasat Suor Prat & The Khleangs: Mysterious towers and halls with debated functions.
- Chapel of the Hospital: Reflects Jayavarman VII’s devotion to healing.
Nearby Attractions and Siem Reap Historical Sites
Visitors often combine Angkor Thom with:
- Angkor Wat: The world’s largest religious monument.
- Ta Prohm: Famed for its tree-root-covered ruins.
- Angkor National Museum: Offers context and artifacts.
- Cambodian Cultural Village: Showcases traditions and performances (mysiemreaptours.com).
Visitor FAQs
Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: At the official Angkor Ticket Office or online through authorized vendors.
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Q: Is Angkor Thom accessible for those with mobility challenges?
A: Some areas are accessible, but uneven terrain and steps are common.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
Q: Are guided tours recommended?
A: Yes, guides provide valuable historical context and help navigate the site.
Q: Can I use credit cards inside the park?
A: Rarely; carry cash in US dollars.
Q: Are there restrooms and food options inside Angkor Thom?
A: Basic facilities and limited food stalls are located near major temples and gates.
Conservation and Cultural Legacy
Angkor Thom is a symbol of Cambodia’s heritage and a focal point for ongoing conservation efforts. International teams collaborate to preserve its monuments amid challenges like weathering and tourism impact. Visitors are urged to respect signage, avoid touching carvings, stay on marked paths, and support local initiatives (Triple K Angkor).
Plan Your Visit & Further Resources
- Best Practices: Arrive early, respect dress codes, and stay hydrated.
- Guided Tools: Download the Audiala app for audio tours and maps.
- Stay Updated: Follow official park websites and social media for the latest travel tips and conservation news.
For more information, virtual tours, and ticket details, visit:
Visuals and Interactive Resources
- Include high-quality images of Bayon faces, city gates, and terraces (with alt text: “Angkor Thom Bayon Temple stone faces”, “South Gate of Angkor Thom with bridge”).
- Access interactive maps and virtual tours online for site navigation and planning.
Summary & Visitor Recommendations
Exploring Angkor Thom is an unparalleled opportunity to witness the grandeur and spiritual heritage of the Khmer Empire. By understanding practical details—ticketing, hours, transportation—and following cultural guidelines, you ensure a rewarding and responsible experience. Guided tours and digital tools like the Audiala app deepen your appreciation of the site’s artistry and symbolism. Plan your visit during the favorable dry season, dress appropriately, and support ongoing conservation. For more inspiration and up-to-date advice, consult resources like To Travel Too and Triple K Angkor.
Sources and Further Reading
- Angkor Thom: A Complete Visitor’s Guide to the Great City of the Khmer Empire, 2025 (helloangkor.com)
- Visiting Angkor Thom: Hours, Tickets, History & Tips for Exploring Siem Reap’s Iconic Monument, 2024 (experienceparkhyattsiemreap.com)
- Angkor Thom Visiting Hours, Tickets & Main Attractions in Siem Reap’s Historic City, 2024 (mysiemreaptours.com)
- Angkor Thom Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Siem Reap Historical Sites, 2025 (To Travel Too)
- Additional cultural and visitor information referenced from Triple K Angkor, 2024 (Triple K Angkor)
