Day 2 in Siem Reap: Sunrise at Angkor and the Grand Circuit
If you opted for the 3-day Angkor Pass, I highly recommend checking out Angkor Wat at sunrise and adding on the grand circuit for afterwards. This will be another long day, so don’t forget to bring some cash with you to buy snacks and food while you’re exploring the temples.
If you chose to do the 1-day Angkor Pass, this would be a great time to check out some of the other things to do in Siem Reap or to unwind by the swimming pool!
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
This iconic Angkor Wat experience is a firm favourite among travellers and worth including in your Siem Reap itinerary. To visit Angkor Wat at sunrise you will need to leave Siem Reap around 5am, so it’s important that you organise a tuk-tuk the night before and have your ticket in advance. The most popular sunrise spot is inside Angkor Wat, at the ponds to the side of the central walkway.
💰 Tuk-tuks typically charge an additional $5 for sunrise pick-up
⏰ Arrange pick for 5am
The Grand Circuit
If you’re not too wiped after your early morning sunrise mission, take advantage of your second day at Angkor by continuing the temple exploration. This time, on what is referred to as the Grand Circuit.
Despite the name, it takes about the same amount of time to explore the Small and Grand circuits; the names refer to the route, so the Grand route takes you around the temples on the outskirts of Angkor. Along the Grand Circuit of Siem Reap you’ll explore Neak Pean and its healing pools, Preah Khan Temple, and the Terrace of the Elephants, ending the day with a climb up Phnom Bakheng.
Be mesmerized by the Phare Circus
Tonight, it’s time for a unique, cultural experience. More than a conventional circus, the Phare Circus artists incorporate dance, music and acting, along with jaw-dropping acrobatics, to create a mesmerizing show. Profits fund their public arts school in Battambang and create meaningful job opportunities for artists.
Our evening with the Phare Circus was one of the highlights of our entire trip to Cambodia, igniting laughter and awe. Don’t skip it during your trip to Siem Reap!
💰 $10+ depending on seating
Check out Pub Street
As with most tourism hubs in South East Asia, Siem Reap has an infamous party street. Aptly named Pub Street, this is the place to head for some nightlife and cheap drinks. This is a great place to come during the evening if you’re looking to party, but it’s also great for people-watching if you’re feeling more laid back.