Siem Reap 3 Day Itinerary: How to Avoid Crowds at Angkor Wat
Siem Reap is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled—except instead of robots and flying cars, you have tuk-tuks and ancient temples. Planning the perfect Siem Reap 3 day itinerary means balancing jaw-dropping history with avoiding the crowds at Angkor Wat. If you’re not careful, your photos could include a thousand other people’s heads, and your serene temple moment might turn into a game of dodge-the-selfie-stick. The good news? With the right plan, you can actually enjoy these stunning sites!
I visited in January with a friend, and we quickly learned that if you want to avoid the crowds at Angkor Wat, you need to start your days very early and move in a different pattern than the tour groups. This itinerary mixes must-see spots with quieter gems, plus a few tricks to experience Angkor without the madness. The only real crowd-heavy moment was sunrise at Angkor Wat—but sometimes, chaos is just part of the fun.
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Overview & Map: 3 Days in Siem Reap Itinerary
First, I’ve included a cheat sheet with an overview of your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary. Secondly, I’ve included an interactive map that charts out an epic 3 days in Siem Reap that will help you avoid the crowds at Angkor Wat. You can zoom in or out and open the interactive map in Google Maps on your phone, tablet, or laptop. Blue numbers correspond to day 1, purple to day 2, and magenta to day 3. Yellow icons show hotel recommendations. Use it to optimize your route exploring Siem Reap so you can make the most of your trip!
Day 1: Jungle Ruins & Pub Street
1. Beng Melea
2. Banteay Srei
3. Downtown Siem Reap
Day 2: Angkor Wat & the Ultimate Template Circuit
1. Sunrise at Angkor Wat
2. Gates of Angkor Thom
3. Bayon Temple
4. Baphuon Temple
5. Preah Khan
6. Chau Say Tevoda
7. Thommanon
8. Ta Keo
9. Angkor Wat (again)
Day 3: Pre Rup Sunrise & Hidden Gems
1. Sunrise at Pre Rup
2. Ta Prohm
3. Banteay Kdei
4. Banteay Prei
5. Ta Som
6. East Mebon
7. Prasat Kravan
Day 1: Jungle Ruins & Pub Street
Before you dive into your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary, there are a few helpful things to know before you go.
General Tips Before You Start
- Buy Your Tickets in Advance: The Angkor Pass covers most temples and is available for 1, 3, or 7 days. We got the 3-day pass ($62) to keep things flexible. You can buy it online or in person at the Angkor Ticket Center, but don’t wait until the morning of—lines can be long, and sunrise waits for no one.
- Dress Appropriately: Cambodia is hot, and temples require modest clothing—shoulders and knees covered. Loose, breathable fabrics are your best friend. Think “respectful Indiana Jones” rather than “casual beach day.”
- Hire a Private Driver: Trust me, you don’t want to be biking or tuk-tuking between temples in the midday heat. Our driver was amazing—on time, knew all the best local food spots, and always had cold water and chilled washcloths waiting for us. Small luxuries make a big difference after hours of climbing temple stairs.
- Know the Grand Circuit vs. Small Circuit: Most tours follow one of these routes, but with a private driver, you can mix up your itinerary to avoid the crowds at Angkor Wat and other hotspots (you can also avoid the crowds if you join a uniquely timed tour like this Twilight Bike Tour around the Small Circuit). The itinerary I’ve laid out keeps things flexible so you don’t get stuck in tourist traffic.
Beng Mealea
After landing at Siem Reap airport, we went straight to Beng Mealea to kick off our Siem Reap 3 day itinerary, which was about 40 minutes away. This temple is an absolute stunner—half-collapsed, covered in moss, and still very much consumed by the jungle. If you’ve ever wanted to play out your own Indiana Jones fantasy, this is the place. Bonus: since it’s farther out, there are way fewer tourists than at the main Angkor temples.
Exploring Beng Mealea feels like discovering a lost world—massive tree roots wrap around crumbling doorways, and vines stretch across ancient stone corridors. Unlike some of the better-preserved temples, this one hasn’t been heavily restored, making it feel more wild and untouched. Climbing over fallen stones and wandering through passageways, we almost expected to find hidden treasure!
Banteay Srei: The “Pink Temple”
From Beng Mealea, we took a one-hour drive to Banteay Srei, a temple famous for its intricate carvings and pink-hued sandstone. Despite being smaller than other temples, it’s one of the most beautifully detailed—you can still see delicate designs carved into the walls over 1,000 years ago. The Khmer craftsmanship here is seriously next-level.
Recommended Tour: Private 2 Day Tour
Because it’s farther from Siem Reap, Banteay Srei is much quieter than Angkor Wat, making it a great place to slow down and a cool spot to add to a Siem Reap 3 day itinerary. The temple glows beautifully in the afternoon light, and with fewer crowds, it’s easier to get photos. It was one of my favorite stops of the day, proving that sometimes, the smaller temples steal the show.
Downtown Siem Reap
After a long day of traveling and temples, we checked into our hotel, grabbed dinner, and wandered around Pub Street (Siem Reap’s lively downtown area). The night markets are great for exploring, but after an early start and a day in the heat, we called it an early night—4:00 AM wake-up calls don’t allow for late-night bar hopping!
Day 2: Angkor Wat & the Ultimate Template Circuit
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
No Siem Reap 3 day itinerary is complete without a sunrise at Angkor Wat! If you want to avoid the crowds at Angkor Wat, the harsh reality is that you can’t—not for sunrise. We arrived at 4:45 AM, and it was already busy, but waiting by the left reflecting pond gave us the best view. As the sun started to rise, the sky turned pink, then gold, and suddenly, Angkor Wat’s silhouette was visible.
The moment is chaotic—tripods everywhere, people squishing into a very small area, and cameras clicking like a press conference. But somehow, it’s still magical. Once the sun was fully up, we didn’t go inside the temple yet—instead, we made a quick escape (with a few speedy pics on the way out) to the next stop while everyone else stayed to explore.
Sunrise Pro Tip: The temple gates don’t open until 5:00 AM, which is when most people arrive. Be in position by 4:45 AM, pick your spot, and don’t move to ensure a front row view to the sunrise. Also, use your phone’s flashlight to navigate to your spot—it’s very dark out!
Gates of Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom’s grand entrance gates are some of the most photogenic spots in the entire complex, but only if you beat the crowds (and the endless stream of traffice). We arrived at the South Gate at 7:00 AM, and even then, we had to be patient to snap a clean shot without loads of tuk-tuks.
The massive stone faces staring down from the gate make for an epic welcome into the ancient city, setting the tone for the incredible temples inside. Later in the day, this spot turns into a traffic jam, so getting here early is key for both a peaceful experience and those perfect, uninterrupted photos.
Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple is one of the most iconic and unique temples in the Angkor complex, famous for its huge towers and giant stone faces. It’s a place where no matter where you stand, it feels like one of the mysterious faces is watching you. We arrived at the gates around 7:10 AM, and despite the official opening time of 7:30 AM, there were a few people already inside. This is a top stop for big tour groups, so prioritizing it early in the morning is crucial—most people explore Angkor Wat right after sunrise, so coming to Bayon Temple right away gives you some room to explore.
The temple itself is a maze of crumbling doorways and hidden courtyards, making it one of the most immersive places to explore. Unlike Angkor Wat’s grand symmetrical layout, Bayon feels more chaotic and mysterious, which adds to its charm. As the sun rises, the temple feel even more magical—another reason to get here early before the harsh midday sun takes over. This was one of my favorite stops on our Siem Reap 3 day itinerary!
Baphuon Temple
Baphuon Temple is often called the “giant stone pyramid” of Angkor, and once I visited, I could see why! Originally built in the 11th century as a Hindu temple before being converted to a Buddhist site, it has undergone extensive restoration—at one point, it was literally taken apart and rebuilt like a very complicated jigsaw puzzle. The elevated walkway leading to the temple is one of its most iconic photo spots, offering a dramatic approach to this towering structure. Arrive early to avoid the heat (and the crowds), and be prepared for steep stairs—your legs might not thank you, but your camera definitely will.
Preah Khan
Preah Khan is one of the most atmospheric temples in Siem Reap, with tree roots reclaiming its crumbling walls in a way that feels straight out of an adventure movie. This temple complex is massive, with hidden passageways, intricate carvings, and long, photogenic corridors.
One of my favorite shots was of these rounded columns on a two story building. Since it’s part of the Grand Circuit (vs. the super popular “Small Circuit”), it tends to be less crowded than Angkor Wat or Bayon. Even though it hasn’t made the Small Circuit list, it was still one of my favorite spots on our Siem Reap 3 day itinerary!
Chau Say Tevoda
Chau Say Tevoda may not be the biggest temple in Siem Reap, but it definitely has some of the prettiest details. Tucked near the Victory Gate, this little gem is all about delicate carvings and peaceful vibes—which is a nice break after dodging crowds at the bigger sites. The intricate stonework makes it a great spot for close-up photography. Since most people breeze through, you’ll likely have it to yourself for a bit! This one really surprised me and turned out to be one of my favorite stops on our Siem Reap 3 day itinerary.
Thommanon
Right across from Chau Say Tevoda, Thommanon is another compact but charming temple, built in the same style as Angkor Wat. Its well-preserved carvings make it a favorite for photographers looking to capture fine details without the crowds. The temple’s tower and elegant doorways provide a great backdrop for classic Angkor-style photos. Since it’s usually quiet, it’s a great spot to take a breather before heading to bigger, busier sites.
Ta Keo
Ta Keo is an imposing, unfinished temple-mountain that stands out for its massive size and lack of carvings—earning it the nickname “the temple that was never decorated.” Built entirely of sandstone a couple hundred years before Angkor Wat, it was intended to be one of the grandest temples in the area but was mysteriously abandoned before completion. The climb to the top rewards you with panoramic views over the surrounding jungle, making it a fantastic photography spot. Be warned—the stairs are no joke!
Angkor Wat (Again)
After a full morning of temple-hopping, it’s time to return to Angkor Wat for a proper deep dive into its incredible history and architecture. This is where hiring a local guide is absolutely worth it—they bring the carvings to life with fascinating stories about Hindu mythology, Khmer kings, and the temple’s transition to a Buddhist site. Walking through Angkor Wat feels like stepping into a giant stone history book.
Make sure to climb up to the Central Sanctuary, the highest point inside Angkor Wat, for a breathtaking view over the entire complex. The climb is steep, but it’s the best place to appreciate the sheer scale of this ancient wonder. Since access is limited to a set number of visitors at a time, expect a short wait, but it’s well worth it. By visiting later in the day, you’ll avoid the worst of the morning crowds.
Afternoon at the Hotel
After a full day of exploring (and sweating through every layer of clothing), nothing feels better than jumping straight into a pool. We headed back to our hotel, grabbed an ice-cold drink, and spent the afternoon lounging in the shade and napping. The mix of ancient ruins and modern luxury is what makes Siem Reap so special—you can climb centuries-old temples in the morning and sip a strawberry daiquiri by the pool in the afternoon. With another early wake-up call ahead, this was the perfect way to recharge.
Day 3: Pre Rup Sunrise & Hidden Gems
Sunrise at Pre Rup
If you’re looking for a quieter sunrise spot than Angkor Wat, Pre Rup is the spot to start off the last day of your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary. The temple’s high towers glow in the morning light, and the crowds here are minimal compared to the chaos of Day 2.
Be ready for steep steps and no handrails, so take it slow unless you want your sunrise experience to include an unplanned tumble. Watching the sun rise from the top was one of my favorite moments of the trip—plus, the climb up is a built-in morning workout! After the sun was fully up, we took our time exploring the temple’s detailed carvings before heading to our next stop.
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Ta Prohm
Since most people are still at Angkor Wat for sunrise, this is the perfect time to visit Ta Prohm, aka the famous Tomb Raider temple. We arrived at 7:10 AM, grabbed a second breakfast while we waited, and were the first inside when the gates opened at 7:30 AM. This temple is pure magic—massive tree roots spill over ancient temple walls, giving it that wild, forgotten-in-time look. It feels more like an adventure than a typical temple visit, which is probably why it was chosen as a filming location for Tomb Raider!
The most iconic photo spot is the giant tree wrapping around the temple doorway, which is somehow even more impressive in real life. Thanks to our early arrival, we got to snap plenty of photos before the big tour groups rolled in. By the time we left, crowds were starting to grow, confirming that early morning is the best way to experience this temple.
Banteay Kdei
Next up on your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary is Banteay Kdei. Banteay Kdei is one of Siem Reap’s most underrated temples, and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Frequently overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, this temple has a similar overgrown jungle vibe to Ta Prohm but without the hordes of people. Wandering through its crumbling archways felt peaceful and almost eerie. If you’re looking for a quiet temple to explore at your own pace, this one is a hidden gem.
Banteay Prei
By the time we reached Banteay Prei, we had fully entered the “where is everyone?” phase of our day. This small, secluded temple doesn’t get many visitors, so we had the entire place to ourselves. It’s a simple but beautiful site, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect quick stop to escape the crowds. If you’re looking for a moment of pure tranquility amid all the sightseeing, this is where you’ll find it on your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary.
Ta Som
Ta Som is best known for the iconic photo of a giant tree growing out of a temple doorway—or at least, it was. Unfortunately, the tree was recently cut down, so the classic shot no longer exists. That said, the temple itself is still worth a visit, with its intricate carvings and quiet, hidden-away feel. Even without its famous tree, Ta Som offers plenty of stunning ruins wrapped in jungle greenery, making it another great stop for exploring without the crowds on your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary.
East Mebon
If you love massive stone elephants (I do!), you’ll love East Mebon. Built in the 10th century as a Hindu temple, this site was once located on an island in the middle of a now-dry reservoir. The four giant elephant statues guarding the corners are the main attraction, and they make for some seriously cool photos. With wide-open spaces and fewer tourists, this temple felt grand yet peaceful—definitely worth a visit on your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary!
Prasat Kravan
Prasat Kravan was a quick but unique stop, standing out from the other temples thanks to its orange-red brickwork. Unlike many Siem Reap temples, which are built from sandstone, this one is made entirely of bricks, giving it a different feel. Since it’s small and easy to explore, it’s a great final stop before heading back to the hotel.
After a packed day of temple-hopping, we made one last stop at the hotel for a quick rinse and a much-needed cool-down. With the temples behind us, it was time to trade ancient ruins for northern Thailand’s cooler weather and active temples. We caught an evening flight on AirAsia to Chiang Rai, wrapping up an epic Siem Reap 3 day itinerary filled with unforgettable moments, early wake-up calls, and the ultimate Angkor Wat crowd-avoidance strategy.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Here are my recommendations on where to stay for your Siem Reap 3 day itinerary:
- Anantara Angkor Resort: for a serene hideaway & world-class service
- Zannier Phum Baitang: for the best luxury hotel
- HARI Residence & Spa: for a stylish hotel located in downtown Siem Reap
- Golden Temple Residence: for best value
- Viroth’s Hotel: for great location & beautiful vertical gardens
- Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor: for the best luxury hotel in downtown Siem Reap
This Siem Reap 3 day itinerary gives you the best of both worlds—legendary temples and hidden gems, all while avoiding the crowds at Angkor Wat whenever possible. By starting early, mixing up the circuits, and venturing beyond the main sites, you get to experience the magic of Angkor without feeling overwhelmed. And if you ever find yourself stuck in a crowd? Just take a deep breath and remember—you’re standing in a place that’s over 900 years old. That alone makes it all worth it!
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