Angkor Wat Sunrise Shared Tours, Bayon, Ta Prohm & Banteay Srei

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, a tour covering Angkor Wat at sunrise along with key temples like Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei offers a fantastic way to see the majestic sights while avoiding the crowds. This particular shared tour, run by Siem Reap Guide, promises a well-paced, small-group experience in a comfortable setting for just $27 per group—an incredible value considering what’s included.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the early start at Angkor Wat lets you witness the iconic sunrise without fighting the rush. Second, the small group size means more personalized attention from the guide and less jostling for space. Third, the comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with cold waters and wipes ensures you stay refreshed on what can be a long day. One potential consideration is that admission fees to the temples are not included, so you’ll need to budget about $37 per person. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, less crowded way to explore Angkor’s highlights without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 12 travelers ensure more personalized attention.
• Early Bird Advantage: Witness Angkor Wat at sunrise before the crowds.
• Comprehensive Visit: Includes five major temples with historical and cultural significance.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, cold waters, wipes, hotel pickup, and drop-off.
• Affordable Price: At just $27, the tour offers excellent value, with optional temple admission fees.
• Ideal for Moderate Fitness: The tour involves some walking and climbing but is manageable for most.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Early Morning at Angkor Wat

The tour kicks off at 4:30 am, a time that might seem early but is the key to catching the sunrise over the world’s largest religious monument. Our guide, who was mentioned positively in reviews, took care to get us ahead of the crowds, making the experience more peaceful and authentic. We loved the way the initial light transformed the silhouette of Angkor Wat, casting a golden hue over the intricate spires.

While the admission ticket isn’t included ($37 per person), the early start means you get to see the temple in a quiet, almost meditative state. Expect about 3 hours here, enough time to soak in the views, take photos, and appreciate the grandeur without feeling rushed.

Exploring Bayon

Next, we visited Bayon Temple, famed for its over 200 mysterious stone faces peering from every angle. The guide shared interesting stories that brought the place alive, explaining the symbolism behind the enigmatic expressions and the temple’s labyrinthine layout. We spent about an hour wandering through its corridors and courtyards, appreciating the fine stone carvings.

One reviewer highlighted how the guide’s knowledge made the experience more meaningful, especially at a site as layered as Bayon. The temple’s complex design and the faces that seem to follow you from every direction create an atmosphere of intrigue and wonder.

Walking Through Ta Prohm

The iconic Ta Prohm is next, famous for its overgrown trees intertwining with crumbling ruins—a scene straight out of a movie. We loved the atmospheric feel, feeling like we’d stepped into a lost jungle city. The guide pointed out the towering trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, and explained how nature and human craftsmanship have intertwined over centuries.

In just an hour, we explored the main areas, capturing photos of the famously photogenic tree roots wrapping around stone walls. As one reviewer said, Ta Prohm “creates an ethereal atmosphere,” making it a must-see for those seeking a mystical vibe.

Banteay Srei: The Lady Temple

Driving approximately 38 km from Siem Reap, we arrived at Banteay Srei, often called the “Jewel of Khmer Art”. This temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and delicate pink sandstone, which create detailed, almost lace-like stonework. We spent about two hours here, marveling at the craftsmanship and learning how this site differs from the larger Angkor temples.

Reviewers appreciated that Banteay Srei is a quieter, more refined experience, offering a glimpse into Khmer artistry at its finest. The guide explained how the temple’s art is considered some of the most detailed and sophisticated, making it a favorite for those interested in craftsmanship.

Pre Rup: A Royal Tomb and Viewing Spot

Our final stop was Pre Rup, a mid-10th-century temple built with bricks and offering a great view of the surrounding landscape. It was originally a royal crematorium dedicated to Shiva. The climb to the top provides sweeping views of the jungle and ruins, perfect for photography. We spent about an hour here, soaking in the sunset hues if timing allows.

This site rounds out the day with a sense of royal grandeur and the opportunity to reflect on the day’s exploration.

What Really Sets This Tour Apart

The small group size (maximum 12 people) makes the experience more intimate, enabling you to ask questions and get personalized insights from your guide. The logistics are well thought out: hotel pickup and drop-off save you the hassle of navigating Siem Reap early in the morning, especially when the weather can be unpredictable.

The transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle—ensures you’re comfortable throughout the long day, and the provided cold water and wipes keep you refreshed. These little touches are often overlooked but greatly appreciated, especially during the hot season.

The timing allows you to beat the crowds, especially at Angkor Wat, which can be packed later in the day. Many reviews highlight the value of early mornings for appreciating the temples’ majesty in a peaceful setting.

Note that while admission to the temples is not included ($37), the overall price for the tour remains highly competitive considering the included comfort, guide expertise, and the itinerary’s depth.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits travelers who value a manageable pace with small groups, detailed explanations, and a chance to see several key sites in one day. It’s ideal for those with moderate physical fitness—some walking, climbing, and exploring are involved but manageable for most. If you’re looking to avoid the buses and crowds of large tours, this experience offers a more personal, immersive approach.

Final Thoughts

For $27, this tour offers excellent value for money—covering major temples, early sunrise views, and a personalized experience in a comfortable setting. The guides are knowledgeable, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost or rushed.

While the admission fee isn’t included, the overall experience feels thoughtfully curated, balancing sightseeing with comfort and practicality. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and reasonably priced way to explore Angkor’s highlights, this tour is a strong contender.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, experiencing Angkor Wat at dawn and exploring the temple complex in a small group with insightful guides guarantees memories worth cherishing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your day without extra hassle.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits the group to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
A smart casual or formal dress code is required, especially for temples and places of worship. Covering shoulders and knees is mandatory to avoid refusal of entry.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, starting early at 4:30 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included. You should budget extra for breakfast, lunch, or snacks.

Are admission fees included?
No, the $37 per person temple entrance fee is payable separately on-site.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The early start at 4:30 am is ideal for catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat and experiencing the temples before they get crowded.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Some walking and climbing are involved, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize my experience?
This is a shared group tour with a set itinerary, so customization is limited. However, the guide is usually happy to answer questions and share insights.