Cambodian Government Announces New Timings for Sunrise and Sunset Viewing
In a move to enhance the visitor experience, the Cambodian Government has announced extended visiting hours for major temples in Siem Reap province, including the iconic Angkor Wat. This change, aimed at accommodating those wishing to witness the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, comes as part of broader efforts to improve accessibility and streamline the entry process for tourists.
New Visiting Hours
Under the new regulations, Angkor Wat will now be open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, extending the previous closing time by thirty minutes to allow visitors more time to enjoy the site in the evening. The temples of Pre Rup, Phnom Bakheng, and Phnom Krom, renowned for their stunning views at dawn and dusk, will see their hours adjusted to 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, providing an additional hour in the morning.
Other temples within the Angkor area will now welcome visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM, extending their accessibility. These adjusted hours aim to better align with the natural timings of sunrise and sunset, which vary throughout the year.
Enhancements in Ticketing Process
The government also outlined plans to modernize the ticket purchase process for international visitors to the Angkor Archaeological Park. The current system, which requires photos for creating unique identification cards, may soon be replaced with more efficient methods like wristbands or QR codes on mobile phones. These new options are expected to expedite entry and reduce disruptions during temple visits.