MileHacker Logo
Angkor Wat Travel Hacks

Angkor Wat Travel Hacks

Angkor Wat Siem Reap, Cambodia Travel Guide

Money-Saving Strategies

Travelers save money with smart choices and local awareness.

Angkor Pass Value

  • The Angkor A pass is the main ticket; no other major city-wide discount passes exist.
  • A 3-day pass has better value per day for multi-day temple visits.
  • Consider a 3-day pass over a 1-day pass for prolonged visits.
  • Plan your visits over several days for increased value.

No-Cost Activities

  • Walk around Siem Reap town for cultural insights.
  • Explore local bazaars like the Old Market.
  • Cross the historic Old Bridge.
  • These activities give cultural experiences without cost.

Meal and Drink Bargains

  • Many restaurants and bars, especially around Pub Street, have happy hour deals.
  • Some happy hour promotions include food specials.
  • Look for signs advertising these offers or ask staff.
  • These specials lead to savings on dining.

Travel Cost Management

  • Share tuk-tuks with other tourists for shared expenses.
  • Use Grab or PassApp for clear, upfront pricing.
  • Ride-hailing apps avoid inflated fares.
  • Rent a bicycle for shorter distances in the town or the temple park.

Accommodation Choices

Find lodging that suits your budget.

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Consider staying slightly outside the main tourist hub.
  • Guesthouses further from Pub Street often deliver good value.
  • Cheaper rates may await you in quieter areas.
  • Explore options outside the immediate city center.

More Ways to Save

  • Explore more options to stretch your budget.
  • Eat at local markets for economical meals.
  • Limit impulse purchases to stay on budget.
  • Seek out street food stalls for authentic, cheap eats.

Expenditure Wisdom

  • Make wise spending decisions throughout your trip.
  • Track daily expenditures to monitor your budget.
  • Set a daily spending limit for activities and meals.
  • Prioritize experiences over material purchases.

Strategic Planning

  • Create a budget for your trip carefully before and during your travel.
  • Research average costs for transport, food, and attractions.
  • Allocate funds for specific activities and unforeseen expenses.
  • Review your spending regularly to stay on track.

Food & Beverage Savings

Cut costs on meals and drinks.

Street Food Advantages

  • Eat like a local; street food stalls are budget-friendly.
  • Discover authentic local cuisine on the street.
  • Street food represents a cost-effective dining choice.
  • Observe food preparation for cleanliness habits.

Market Bargains

  • Local markets present fresh produce.
  • Find affordable local snacks and prepared meals.
  • Experience the atmosphere of local shopping.
  • Practice respectful haggling for better prices.

Dining Out Ideas

  • Many restaurants feature set menus for good value.
  • Look for early bird dining discounts.
  • Check if restaurants have loyalty programs or special offers.
  • Dine at establishments popular with locals.

Hydration Habits

  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Refill your bottle in your hotel or designated stations.
  • Avoid purchasing overpriced bottled drinks.
  • Consider trying local teas or fresh fruit juices.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Intelligent options for mementos.

Haggling at Markets

  • Bargain respectfully at local markets for souvenirs.
  • Start with a reasonable counter-offer.
  • Maintain a friendly and polite demeanor.
  • Explore multiple stalls to compare prices.

Authentic Craft Finder

  • Seek out genuine local crafts from Artisans Angkor or similar shops.
  • Support local artisans and fair-trade initiatives.
  • Look for quality craftsmanship and unique pieces.
  • Avoid mass-produced items typically found in tourist traps.

Shipping Large Items

  • Inquire about shipping large items home before purchase.
  • Check shipping costs and delivery times in advance.
  • Understand international customs regulations.
  • Consider insurance for valuable or fragile purchases.

Gift Budgeting

  • Allocate a specific budget for souvenirs and gifts.
  • Prioritize meaningful items over generic ones.
  • Avoid last-minute panic buys, which may be overpriced.
  • Small, thoughtful gifts receive warm welcomes.

Smart Money Management

Carrying small US Dollar denominations is common practice and makes transactions smoother with local vendors.

Time-Saving Tips

Maximize your time exploring the places of worship and attractions.

Early Pass Acquisition

Purchase your Angkor Pass the evening before your first day of temple touring. This saves time in the morning, letting you head straight to the temples or catch the sunrise without waiting in ticket lines.

Fast Transit Options

Flying between Phnom Penh and The Cultural capital of cambodia saves significant time compared to taking buses, which take 5-7 hours.

Optimized Itineraries

Plan your temple visits logically. Follow the "Small Circuit" and "Grand Circuit" routes to minimize travel time within the park. Hire a dedicated tuk-tuk driver for the day; they understand the best routes.

Strategic Planning

Optimal Temple Visit Times

  • Visit Angkor Wat for sunrise, arriving very early for a good spot.
  • Go to Ta Prohm early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
  • Avoid midday for popular temples due to intense heat and large the number of visitors.

Advance Booking

  • Book flights and major hotels in advance, especially during high season.
  • Secure tickets for popular shows like Phare Circus or Apsara dance shows.
  • Advance booking often results in better prices.

On-Site Guidance

Utilize local knowledge for smooth navigation around the collection of sacred buildings and city.