Temple Run Series : Angkor Wat Sunrise and Angkor Thom

Day 4. 

It was an early start of the day, as our first agenda was to catch the sunrise at the Angkor Wat. We left the hotel at around 5AM, and we were first brought by our tuktuk driver to the ticket counter. 1 day pass costs $20, and if you get a 2 day pass, you get one extra day free. We have 1.5 days to spend at Cambodia so we bought the 2-day pass.  You don’t get to share your pass, as your photo will be taken which will be printed in the pass.

Then we headed straight to Angkor Wat. The sight is a must see, which is why tourists flock the temple even at this early.

After numerous shots of the temple taken (and the sun has fully risen :) ), we went back to the hotel to have our breakfast before our tour starts.

About 7:30 AM, we are all set to start the tour. Our tour guide has arrived at the hotel while we were having breakfast.

Our first stop,  Angkor Thom.  As explained to us by our guide, Angkor Thom is not a temple, but rather a city.

There are elephant rides available here for $15 and $20. We wanted to try the $20 one, which will include entering Angkor Thom aboard the elephant. There wasn’t any available though so we just took the one what will tour you around Bayon temple.

Pardon me, I can only tell you what feature the temple each has. The historical details did not retain long in my memory, as I had too much information learned that time. :)

Bayon temple is the first and largest temple inside Angkor Thom. The very distinct detail or feature which I (and definitely anyone) will remember are the stone faces you will see all around the towers of the temple.

Next is the Baphuon temple, which had a long bridge in the entrance. Also the first temple, I hiked up. A reminder for everyone who will visit this temple, respectful clothing is observed (generally it is and it should be, since temples are places of worship). Meaning, anyone with above-the-knee shorts and sleeveless shirts will be denied entrance to the temple.

Last temple we visited inside Angkor Thom is the Phimeanakas temple, which was built like a pyramid. Going inside the temple is another hike up a steep staircase. Nothing much to see at the top, so after a few minute rest and some photo ops, we immediately went back down.

By the time we were done with Angkor Thom, the heat has become more intense. So be sure to take along a drink with you while touring the temples.

Our next stop, Ta Keo.