Krong Siem Reap’s sunsets need to be a part of your itinerary while visiting Cambodia. This city is based on the ruins of Angkor, which only adds to the aesthetic of the remarkable sunset points. A lot of them attract a myriad of tourists, but we have also included some quiet and serene places you can go to.
Time of Sunset in Siem Reap 5:35 pmHere are the 8 locations to view the magnificent Siem Reap sunsets:
1. Phnom Bakheng
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Set at an elevation of 80 m, the top of Bakheng Hill is the perfect panoramic experience from corner to corner. Phnom Bakheng is merely at a distance of 1.3 km from Angkor temple, and it is the most popular place in the region to watch the sunset. Albeit the hill gets crowded around dusk, the view from above is worth it. It’s easily accessible through a tuk-tuk ride along the grounds, and all you need is the temple pass.
Opening Hours: 7 AM to 6.30 PM
Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia
2. Pre Rup Temple
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If you’re in the mood of climbing and trekking to a sunset point, this is the place for you. Known as the ‘Sunset Temple,’ the Pre Rup Temple gives a spectacular view of the setting sun between two front towers of the place. The view is visible from outside the temple as well. But, if you’re willing and able to climb some steep vertical stairs, go inside the temple and reach the top. The sunset from the highest point will be even more breathtaking.
Opening Hours: 5 AM to 7 PM
Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia
3. Bayon Temple
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This place is distinguished by its colossal smiling faces. Situated at the centre of the Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple is one of the most effortless places to experience the beautiful dusk. You can reach here by a simple tuk-tuk ride, sit on the aesthetic ruins and rocks around, and watch the sunset over the statues.
Opening Hours: 7.30 AM to 5.30 PM
Address: Angkor Thom Angkor Archeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, 17000, Cambodia
4. Angkor Thom Moat
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Located at the South Gate of the Angkor Temple, this leisure area will give you an awesome view of the reflecting pond and the statues behind it. Most of the sunset points are based in the Angkor ruins, and this is one of the most peaceful ones. The reflecting surface of the pond is a prominent feature of the place, and watching the sunset over the same is a dazzling experience.
Opening Hours: 5 AM to 5.30 PM
Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, 17000, Cambodia
5. Srah Srang
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If lake view sunsets are your preference, here is another option for you. Srah Srang is located outside of the Angkor Wat, by the east entrance (or the east side of the Banteay Kdei Temple). It is a 750m x 300m reservoir, surrounded by trees and shrubbery. The reflecting pond has quite the swarm of people around it, but the Srah Srang has a minimal crowd. You just need a temple pass, and you can sit on the banks of the reservoir peacefully without a horde of tourists.
Opening Hours: 5 AM to 5.30 PM
6. Phnom Krom
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Another quiet place to take in the view is the Phnom Krom. It is a hill alongside a lake known as the Tonle Sap, around 12 km from Siem Reap. The climb to 140m high hill is a bit tricky, so make sure you have a moderate fitness level before you go trekking up here. The sunset from Phnom Krom is serene and meditative.
Opening Hours: 7.30 AM to 5.30 PM
Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia
7. Tara Boat Sunset Cruise
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Another way to enjoy the sunset over Tonle Sap Lake to go on their boat cruise. A service of free pick up and drop off is provided for the four-hour-long cruise. You’ll spend the entire evening on the lake, with a marvellous sunset and a serviced buffet.
Location: Lower Mekong Basin
8. Cambo Beach Club
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If you like to spice up your evenings, the Cambo Beach Club is for you. The only ‘beach’ in Siem Reap, you can watch the sunset here with drinks, food, music, and a pool. It also has ‘Sunset Sessions’ where various DJs and artists perform while you take a relaxing dip in the pool. You can book your slot online, and spend the evening with food and fun!
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8.30 PM
Address: Cambo Beach Lane 341, Steung Thmey Village, 17252, Cambodia
Make sure to visit at least one of these sunsets on your visit to Siem Reap!