Angkor Wat with kids?

Here are our best inside tips on how to make your temple visit with the kids a success!

Angkor Wat. Everyone visits the temple of Angkor Wat when they come to Siem Reap. And everyone enters this temple from the front. This is where you'll find the main parking lot and the food court.  But did you know you can also enter from the “back side”? 

One of the best ways to escape the crowds - and the heat - is to do exactly that; Enter the temple from the less known East side. Walk through the jungle, alive with the sounds of cicadas, birdsongs, and, if you're lucky - a monkey or two. These old, big trees provide much needed shade and fresh air. And then all of a sudden, this majestic temple appears in all its glory. Our favorite time of the day is the afternoon. The colors of the sky changing from bright blue to pink and deep red - makes this place look even more incredible. 


Should you get a 1 day ticket or a 3 day ticket? 

First of all, this of course depends on how long your plan on staying in Siem Reap. If you have the time, a 3 day ticket is a nice way to give your family enough time to explore the temples without rushing. You can spread out your visits throughout a whole week. Are you short on time? If you go to the ticket office after 4:45pm., you can buy your ticket for the following day, so you do not need to queue up in the morning. You can also use this ticket to explore the temples on the day before your visit. If you enter the temple area after 4:45pm and have a ticket for the next day.  


Hot season vs. the cooler season. Visiting the temples when the temperature measures above 35 degrees Celsius, can be really tough. This is common between March and June. If you are visiting during the hot season, we do recommend getting an early start, and maybe considering a long break in the middle of the day, before heading back for sunset. 


Packing list for Angkor Wat with kids:

  • Sun hats and sunglasses

  • Sun cream and mosquito repellent 

  • An umbrella for shade or protection from the rain

  • Light, comfortable, and loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees. This does not apply to babies/small children. 

  • Proper shoes. You will be walking A LOT - and the kids will be climbing on rocks and roots. 

  • Bring plenty of cash for ice cream, food, and water. Smaller bills are easier to use. 

  • Picture of your kids passport if your kids are under 12 years old

  • Snacks and plenty of drinking water