Phnom Bakheng: Angkor's Most Famous Sunset

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Location

Between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.

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The Climb

15-20 min walk up a dirt path.

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Ticket

Included in your Angkor Pass.

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CRUCIAL: The 300 Person Limit

Only 300 people are allowed on the top temple at once. You MUST start climbing by 4:00 PM to guarantee a spot. Late arrivals will be turned away.

Watching the sunset over the Angkorian jungle is a bucket-list experience, and for decades, the temple-mountain of Phnom Bakheng has been the classic spot to do it. This 9th-century temple offers a direct connection to the ancient history of the Khmer Empire and a panoramic view of the Western Baray.

The Experience

Part 1: The Hike

Your journey begins with a 15-minute walk up a winding dirt path. It is a gentle incline and accessible for most fitness levels. (Note: Elephant rides are no longer available here for ethical reasons, so walking is the only way up!).

Part 2: The Queue

At the base of the temple pyramid, you will receive a lanyard pass. If all 300 passes are gone, you have to wait for someone to come down before you can go up. This is why arriving at 4:00 PM is critical!

Part 3: The View

While many hope to see Angkor Wat, it is actually quite far away (1.3km) and looks small from here. The real magic is looking West over the massive West Baray (reservoir). Seeing the sun reflect off the water with the endless jungle canopy below is unforgettable.

Insider Tips

• Bring a Torch: It gets dark immediately after sunset. The walk back down the dirt path has no streetlights. Use your phone flashlight!
• The "Plan B": If the line at Bakheng is too long, tell your driver to take you to Pre Rup temple instead. It offers a beautiful sunset view over the rice paddies with zero crowds.
• Hydrate: There are no shops at the very top. Buy water at the bottom before you hike up.