Where is the best spot to photograph the Angkor Wat sunrise?

The classic sunrise shot is taken from the reflection pools directly in front of the main western entrance. While the northern pool on the left is famous for its pink water lilies, active restoration means photographers should utilize the southern pool on the right to capture crisp reflections and vibrant sky colors.

Are tripods allowed at Angkor Wat for photography?

Yes, tripods are fully permitted throughout the Angkor Archaeological Park. The only exception is inside the upper central sanctuary (Bakan Tower), where tripods are restricted to protect the ancient structure.

How do I avoid crowds when taking photos at Angkor Wat?

To avoid massive tour crowds, shoot the reflection pools 30 minutes before sunrise, or explore the temple corridors during midday when large tour groups leave for lunch. Midday is also an ideal window for photographing local monks during their afternoon free time.

What is the best time of year for an Angkor Wat photography workshop?

The low season or monsoon season offers the best conditions for travel photographers due to drastically lower visitor numbers, highly dramatic cloud formations, and vibrant green vegetation throughout the temples.

Buddhist monks walking by the Angkor Wat reflection pool at sunset during a Cambodia photography tour.

Best spots and times to photography Angkor Wat.

June 17, 2018Angkor, Angkor Map, Photography

If you want a professional guide to take you to these exact spots, book our native Angkor Wat Photography Tour!

There is far more to the temple complex than Angkor Wat. However it is iconic, and thats what most people want to see. Here is a list of some basic tips for good light and timing to help you with your travels and photography at Angkor.

The author came to Cambodia for it’s culture and people.. Photography tours became a natural progression to his love for the place, sharing his knowledge and experiences.

Advice for photography spots and times for your visit to Angkor Wat.

Bullet points:

Opening Hours 5.00am-6.00pm
Tickets: Traveler’s can now pre-purchase Angkor passes online rather than waiting in the old ticketing lines.
Golden hour: December (shortest day) 6.30am & 5.30pm. June (longest day) 6.00am & 6.00pm
Avoid the crowds: 9.30am after the tour groups. Week end late afternoon now sees many Khmer visitors.
Tripod restrictions – No (other than in the central sanctuary)
The Iconic sunrise at the pools

Entering from the west (main entrance) past the first gate, there are two pools. The pool on the left with it’s iconic red waterlilies, is considered the best view of Angkor Wat sunrise. However, the authorities are carrying out restoration so you will be have to use the southern pool on the right. Get there 30 minutes before sunrise to see the colours in the skies.

A photographer capturing a vibrant golden sunburst over the ancient stone towers of Angkor Wat from behind pink water lilies in the reflection pond during an Angkor Wat photo tour.

Capture the perfect sunrise sunburst without fighting the crowds. Book our signature Angkor Wat Photo Tour to get expert guidance on camera settings and positioning.

There are reliefs in the front (west) gates, which may be lit from the early morning sun depending on the angle of the sun. Couple these magnificent carvings with Angkor Wat as a backdrop for an iconic memorable shot.

A photographer client framing a brilliant sunburst at temple chamber during an Angkor Wat photo tour.

Shooting straight into intense morning light without blowing out your highlights takes practice. Let us show you the exact camera settings to nail this sunburst on our next Angkor Wat Photo Tour.

Plan to be at Angkor during less busy times.

Low season is the best time to visit the Angkor complex with reduced visitor numbers. Also expect dramatic skies and vivid colors. If this is not possible, consider a mid day visit to Angkor Wat when the tour groups are having lunch. The harsh mid day light is not the best for photos, but you will have some areas to yourself. It’s also a good time to catch visiting monks, as they have free time in the afternoon.

line of five Buddhist monks in bright orange robes holding yellow umbrellas walking past the towering stone steps of the ancient Angkor Wat central temple structure under a clear blue sky in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Patience and timing are everything when framing human elements against ancient monuments. We captured this flawless sequence during a private morning workshop before the heavy midday heat set in. Discover how to safely navigate the complex and anticipate moments like this on our Angkor Wat photography workshops!

Late afternoon as the sun drops lighting up Buddhist structures and front gallery.

The front entrance gates to Angkor is lit by late afternoon as the sun is setting. Make use of this soft light in the west facing galleries and the buddhist structures found in the entrance gates. Do check out the statues within these galleries. If you’r lucky a monk will pass at the ideal time!

Two travelers sitting outside the golden hour lit outer gallery pillars of an ancient temple, a scenic stop highlighted on our Angkor Wat photo tour.

We don’t just rush from one crowded spot to the next. Join our Angkor Wat Photo Tour to discover quiet corridors, master framing with ancient architecture, and take in the history at your own pace.

Buddhist monks walking through the historic outer gallery of Angkor Wat during a morning Cambodia photography workshop.

Capturing authentic cultural moments requires patience and knowing where the light falls best. Reserve your spot on our Angkor Wat Photo Tour to photograph the temples like a pro.

Look for Symmetry

Enter Angkor Wat from the main causeway you have symmetry which works well in photography, also from each cardinal approach and inter-cardinal directions (diagonals). This is true of most temples in the park. Use the available light to determine which direction will work best.

Capture iconic moments like the monks at Angkor Wat during the golden hour. Join our expert-led Angkor Wat Photo Tour to skip the crowds and find the absolute best reflection spots.

Golden hour at Angkor Wat’s reflective pools

As the sun falls, Angkor is lit by the soft sunlight, glowing orange making this an ideal for photography in the reflective pools. It is also far less crowded than sunrise.