Siem Reap 5-Day Itinerary: Temples, Culture & Local Life

Hi, I’m Chandan Singh, a passionate traveler and blogger. My wife and I visited Siem Reap in February 2025, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat to the vibrant floating villages and night markets, Siem Reap has so much to offer. In this blog, I’ll share a detailed 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (November – February): Cool and dry weather, best for temple exploration.
Shoulder Season (March – May): Hotter but manageable; fewer crowds.
Low Season (June – October): Rainy season, but lush landscapes and lower prices.

Currency & Payment Methods

The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but USD is widely accepted.
ATMs dispense both USD and Riel.

Day 1: Angkor Wat Sunrise & Main Temples

Start your temple journey with the most famous sites.

Buy the 3-Day Angkor Pass at the official Angkor Ticket Office ($62).
Arrive at Angkor Wat by 5:00 AM for the iconic sunrise view.
Explore Angkor Wat in detail after sunrise.
Visit Bayon Temple (famous for its giant stone faces).
Stop at Baphuon Temple, Phimeanakas, and Terrace of the Elephants inside Angkor Thom.
Visit Ta Prohm Temple, famous for its massive tree roots growing over the ruins.
End the day with a relaxing stroll at Pub Street and try local Khmer food.

Day 2: Grand Circuit Temples & Sunset View

Explore the lesser-visited yet stunning temples of the Grand Circuit.

Start with Preah Khan, a large temple complex with beautiful carvings.
Visit Neak Pean, a temple surrounded by water.
Explore Ta Som, known for its picturesque tree-covered entrance.
Stop at East Mebon, a mountain temple with elephant sculptures.
Visit Pre Rup Temple, an excellent spot for sunset views.
End the evening with a traditional Apsara Dance Show.

Day 3: Banteay Srei & Hidden Gems

Venture further to explore unique temples.

Head to Banteay Srei, known as the “Jewel of Khmer Art” for its intricate carvings.
Stop at Banteay Samre, a quiet temple with well-preserved architecture.
Visit Rolous Group Temples (Bakong, Lolei, Preah Ko), the earliest Khmer temple structures.
Return to Siem Reap for a Khmer massage to relax after three days of temple hopping.
Explore the Made in Cambodia Market for handmade crafts.

Day 4: Floating Village & Cultural Experiences

Take a break from temples and experience Cambodian local life.

Take a boat trip to Kampong Phluk Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake.
Explore the stilt houses and experience local Cambodian life.
Visit Wat Bo Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Siem Reap.
Walk through the Royal Gardens and visit the Shrine to Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm.

Day 5: Relaxation & Hidden Spots

End your trip with a mix of history and relaxation.

Visit the Angkor National Museum to learn more about Khmer history.
Stroll along the Siem Reap Riverside for a peaceful morning.
Explore the Old Market for souvenirs and street food.
End the trip with a sunset view at Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple.

Extra Tips

Transportation: Rent a Tuk-tuk ($15–$20 per day).
Dress Code: Wear modest clothing when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered).
Scams to Avoid: Be cautious of unofficial guides selling fake tickets.

If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!

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