How to Get to Angkor Wat. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports & Routes

Major aviation hubs for Angkor Wat and typical flight routes.

Air Hubs

The Heart of the khmer empire-Angkor International Airport (SAI): The main airport for Angkor Wat. It opened during The month of october 2023, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Siem Reap city center.
Airlines flying to SAI include Cambodia Angkor Air, Bangkok Airways, Vietnam Airlines, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines, and China Eastern.
Common paths connect Siem Reap with regional hubs like Bangkok (Thailand), Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (Vietnam), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). Some flights arrive from cities within China.

Flight Planning & Services

Consider seasonal availability and the airport facilities.

Booking & Facilities

Seasonal prices: Flight prices are higher when it's not rainy (Nov-Feb) and major holidays. Book well in advance during peak times. Prices might be lower during wet season.
Airport facilities: SAI is new and current. It has restaurants, duty-free shops, currency exchange counters, and local SIM card vendors.
Transfer options: Fixed-price taxis are available (USD 30-40 to city). Many hotels Offer transfers. Ride-hailing apps like DiscoverCars.com, Dollar Flight Club, Grab or PassApp may be available. For flight searches, try Skyscanner.

Border Crossings

Poipet/Aranyaprathet (Thailand) for buses from Bangkok. Chong Sa Ngam/Choam for remote temples. Bavet/Moc Bai (Vietnam) for Phnom Penh. Veun Kham/Dom Kralor (Laos).

Bus Travel

Numerous reputable bus companies offer daily services from Phnom Penh (5-7 hours). Direct buses from Bangkok (8-10 hours including border).

Self-Driving

Not recommended for tourists due to varied road conditions, chaotic traffic, and scarce international driving permit recognition.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road Quality

Major routes between cities are generally paved and in decent condition.
Rural routes can be unpaved, dusty in the dry season, and muddy in the wet season.
Traffic rules receive loose following. Exercise caution as a passenger or pedestrian.
Honking is usual and serves as a warning, not an aggressive act.

Safety Concerns

Be wary of common scams. These include inflated tuk-tuk fares or overcharging for goods.
Exercise caution at crossing borders by land, as unofficial touts may attempt to overcharge for visas or transportation.
Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas, particularly after dark.
Drink responsibly and avoid accepting drinks from strangers in nightlife areas.

Additional Notes on Land Travel

Train Service

No train service directly connects to Siem Reap. Journey by bus or private car is necessary for this destination.

Long-Distance Buses

Reputable companies like Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer daily services from The Vibrant heart of cambodia. Choose known companies for comfort and safety.

Border Procedures

Border crossings typically involve a visa upon arrival process. Stick to official queues and services to avoid challenges with touts.

Sea/River Arrivals

River Transportation

River journeys has a scenic alternative from a nearby city.

Boat from Battambang

A scenic but slow boat trip. It takes 5-8 hours, depending on water levels.
The journey travels along the Sangker River and across the Tonlé Sap lake.
This option operates mainly during the wet season when water levels are high enough for navigation. It becomes less reliable during the dry season.

Connections & Notes

Planning for your arrival at The City of temples's boat dock.

Dock to City Transport

If you arrive by boat from Battambang, you will need transportation from the Siem Reap boat dock to the city center.
Tuk-tuks or taxis are readily available there. Agree on a fare before you start your journey.
No access to the sea is applicable to Angkor Wat. It is an inland destination.

Sea Access Not Applicable

Angkor Wat is an inland destination. Therefore, no direct sea access, ferry services, or cruise ports apply to this spot.

No Seaport Immigration

Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant for arrival to Angkor Wat.
All major entrances are either airports or land border crossings.
Plan your route using air or land transport options as appropriate.

Specialized River Journeys

Beyond standard transport, some specialized boat trips provide distinctive experiences.

Tonlé Sap Lake Excursions

Boat trips are available on Tonlé Sap a lake for purposes like visiting floating villages.
These excursions do not serve as a main mode of transport within Siem Reap or to Angkor Wat itself.

Border Crossing Caution

Exercise caution at crossing borders by road or rail.
Unofficial touts may attempt to overcharge for visas or transportation.
Always stick to official queues and services to avoid scams.

Verify visa application costs with official sources before paying at the border.
Arrange for a ride from border towns through reputable companies.
Always ask for receipts for any payments made.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Exit fees and the right time recommendations for a smooth departure.

Departing Siem Reap

Exit fees: International departure taxes are typically covered in your plane ticket. Confirm this with your airline or travel agent.
Timing: Arrive at Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) at least 2-BE at the airport 3 hours before your international flight.
The new airport's distance from the city means you need extra travel time. Factor in potential queues for check-in and security.

Airport Facilities

Facilities and services for departing travelers at SAI.

SAI Passenger Services

Modern facilities: Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) has modern facilities for departing travelers.
Services: Check-in counters, luggage drop-off, security screening, plus lounges.
Shopping & Dining: Duty-free shops and a range of food and beverage options are also available.

Currency Exchange

Spend or exchange any remaining Cambodian Riel currency before departure. It is not easily exchanged outside Cambodia.

Baggage Checks

Check that all your belongings are packed and checked against airline luggage restrictions to avoid unexpected fees.

Passport Validity

Confirm your passport validity extends beyond six months from your planned departure date to avoid any issues.

General Departure Advice

Travel Time Considerations

The new The Gateway to angkor wat-Angkor International Airport (SAI) is located more distant from the city center than the previous airport.

Planning Your Airport Journey

Allocate ample travel time from your accommodation to the airport.
Factor in potential traffic, especially during peak hours.
Attempt to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your international flight's departure time.

Final Preparations

Ensure all loose ends are tied prior to your departure.

Checklist for a Smooth Exit

Confirm your flight status and gate information.
Spend or exchange any remaining local currency (KHR), as it is not easily exchanged abroad.
If you had a private driver or tuk-tuk arranged for your stay, confirm your final pickup time.

Airport Services at SAI

Check-in & Security

Ample check-in counters and efficient security screening are available for departing passengers.

Dining & Shopping

A selection of restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops cater to travelers' needs before their flight.

Lounges

Passenger lounges may be available for comfort while waiting for your flight. Check with your airline or card benefits.

Departure Checklist

Double-check your flight status and gate information before heading to the airport. Account for traffic and the airport queues.

How to Get to Angkor Wat