According to a report by the UK Morning Post on the world’s most beautiful sunrise destinations, Angkor Wat in Cambodia ranked first among 72 locations, with the keyword being searched 10,404 times.

So, when in Cambodia, one of the must-do classic experiences is watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Countless tourists and photography enthusiasts gather here, all waiting for that magical moment when sunlight breaks through the darkness, echoing the ancient architecture.

Among the many sunrises throughout the year, none is more breathtaking than the rare “sunrise over the central spire”, a spectacle that occurs no more than twice annually. Standing at the west gate of Angkor Wat, one can witness the sun rising precisely from the tip of the central and tallest tower among the five, ascending like a jewel set atop a crown, brilliant and dazzling.

 

 

1.Best Time to Visit

To maximize your chances of witnessing the best sunrise at Angkor Wat, consider traveling between November and February. During this period, the rainy season has ended, the sky is clear, and the likelihood of seeing the sunrise is high. The sunrise views are more consistent, making it an ideal time for stunning photos.

The weather is also clear from March to May, making it another good option. However, temperatures can be quite high during this period, so it’s important to take precautions against sunburn and heatstroke on your way back.

June to October is the rainy season, and frequent overcast and rainy days lower the chances of seeing the sunrise. However, a sunrise after the rain can feel like stepping into a fairyland, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. If you plan to catch the sunrise during this period, be sure to closely monitor the weather forecast and choose a clear day for your visit.

If you want to witness the spectacular “sunrise over the spire,” you’ll need to plan your trip in advance — it’s only around the time of the equinoxes that you’ll have a chance to see it.

 

 

2.Touring Tips

Watching the sunrise at the main temple of Angkor Wat: The main temple is the most iconic spot for sunrise viewing at Angkor Wat. Countless stunning sunrise photos have been taken here. Standing beside the lotus pond, you can capture the reflection of the temple against the morning glow in one perfect shot. However, if you want a spot by the pond, you’ll need to arrive extra early — it gets very crowded, and you might not be able to get close once the sun starts to rise.

Catching the morning light at Ta Prohm: After sunrise, the soft morning sunlight filters through the branches of ancient trees, casting beautiful rays across Ta Prohm. The temple is bathed in a magical play of light and shadow, allowing the awe of sunrise to linger even longer.

Watching the sunset at Phnom Bakheng: After catching the sunrise, don’t miss the sunset. Phnom Bakheng is a classic spot for sunset viewing. Climbing to the top of the hill gives you a wide, panoramic view, where you can watch Angkor Wat gradually bathed in the warm glow of dusk—a truly romantic sight. Although it’s mainly known for sunsets, the sunrise here also offers a completely different kind of beauty compared to Angkor Wat. Just a note: the path up the hill is quite steep, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

 

3.Travel Tips

There are usually large crowds for the sunrise, so it’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes to an hour early to secure a good spot.

Before sunrise, it’s quite dark and the temperature can be cool, so don’t forget to bring a flashlight and a light jacket.