Angkor Wat Sunrise: A Visitor’s Guide
Watching the five towers of Angkor Wat darken against a coloring sky, mirrored in the reflecting pool, is one of travel’s great photographic moments. Here’s how to get it right.
The essentials
| Where | The northern reflecting pool, Angkor Wat |
| Hours | Temple opens at 5:00 am |
| Cost | Angkor Pass required (checked at entry) |
| Best months | October–March (clear skies, but busiest) |
| The catch | Pool-side spots fill fast in peak season |
Where to stand
The classic reflection comes from the northern reflecting pool in front of the main entrance — arrive well before sunrise to claim a spot along the edge, since it fills up quickly, especially October through March. A slightly different angle from the pool’s side, rather than dead-center, can give you a less crowded frame with the same reflection.
Time it right
Arrive at the 5 am opening or earlier — you’ll want time to walk in, find your spot, and settle before the sky starts to color. The light show unfolds gradually: watch the towers silhouette, then slowly reveal detail as the sun rises. Stick around after — the crowd thins quickly once the main event passes, giving you a much quieter temple for exploring the galleries.
💡 Local tip: After sunrise, most visitors head off for breakfast. That’s your window — move straight to Ta Prohm or the outer galleries while everyone else is eating, and you’ll have another hour of relative calm.
Make it a story
The ancient towers and mirror-still water make a profound, unforgettable backdrop. See our proposal photography page.
Plan your shoot
👉 Book an Angkor Wat Photographer →
👉 See Angkor Wat Photography Packages →
FAQ
What time should I arrive for Angkor Wat sunrise? The temple opens at 5 am — arrive right at opening, or earlier in peak season (October–March), to claim a spot at the reflecting pool before it fills.
Where’s the best spot for the Angkor Wat sunrise reflection? The northern reflecting pool in front of the main entrance. A position slightly off-center can give a similar reflection with less crowding.
