Angkor Wat in Cambodia near Siam Reap is known for its stunning temples and historical significance. It also offers some magnificent spots to watch the full moon. Here are some of the best locations to experience this monthly celestial event:
Here are the dates, with weekday and the time for Angor Wat
- Friday, January 26, 2024, around 12:54 AM
- Saturday, February 24, 2024, around 07:30 PM
- Monday, March 25, 2024, around 01:58 PM
- Wednesday, April 24, 2024, around 05:47 AM
- Thursday, May 23, 2024, around 07:52 PM
- Saturday, June 22, 2024, around 07:08 AM
- Sunday, July 21, 2024, around 04:15 PM
- Tuesday, August 20, 2024, around 12:24 AM
- Wednesday, September 18, 2024, around 08:33 AM
- Thursday, October 17, 2024, around 05:26 PM
- Saturday, November 16, 2024, around 04:29 AM
- Sunday, December 15, 2024, around 04:00 PM
Best Spots to Watch the Full Moon in Angkor Wat
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1. Phnom Bakheng Temple
Phnom Bakheng Temple is a well-known spot for sunset watching, at the same time it’s also an excellent location for full moon viewing. The temple provides a high elevation view of the entire Angkor Wat complex. Climbing the stairs to the top of the temple rewards you with a 360-degree view of the landscape, offering a perfect setting to watch the full moon rise and illuminate the ancient ruins.
2. Reflecting Pond at Angkor Wat
The Reflecting Pond, situated on the left side of the Angkor Wat temples, is a less crowded spot known for capturing beautiful reflections of the temples at sunrise and sunset. It’s also a serene place to watch the full moon, especially with its reflections on the water. This spot allows for a peaceful, picturesque experience, and you can even set up a picnic for a romantic evening under the moonlight.
3. Phnom Krom
Located 12 km southwest of Siem Reap, Phnom Krom is a hill that houses a spectacular Angkorian temple built in the 9th century. This location offers a unique full moon viewing experience. It’s a quieter spot compared to more popular locations, ensuring a more intimate setting. The view from the top of Phnom Krom, overlooking the Tonle Sap, is particularly impressive under the full moon.
Each of these spots in Angkor Wat offers a unique perspective to enjoy the full moon. Whether you prefer the elevated views from Phnom Bakheng Temple, the serene reflections at the Reflecting Pond, or the tranquil setting of Phnom Krom, Angkor Wat provides a magical backdrop for a memorable full moon night. These ancient sites take on a new life under the moon’s glow, offering both tranquility and a connection to the past.
4. Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple is renowned for its large smiling faces on the 54 stone towers. This temple, located in the center of Angkor Thom, offers a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere, particularly under the moonlight. The play of light and shadow on the faces and reliefs can create a mesmerizing experience during a full moon night.
5. Banteay Srei Temple (Citadel of the Women)
Located about 25 km north of the main Angkor temples, Banteay Srei, also known as the Citadel of the Women, is known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone architecture. This temple, slightly away from the main cluster, could offer a quieter and more intimate full moon viewing experience.
6. Ta Prohm Temple
Famous as the backdrop in the movie “Tomb Raider,” Ta Prohm is unique with its trees growing over and through the temple structures. The intertwining of nature and architecture here provides a surreal setting for moon viewing, where the moonlight filtering through the trees adds to the temple’s mystical charm.
7. Angkor Thom Temples
Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khmer Empire, is not a single temple but a complex of several temples, including the famous Bayon. Its large area enclosed by walls and a moat offers various spots for viewing the full moon, with its ancient structures providing a majestic backdrop.
8. Preah Khan Temple
Preah Khan, one of the largest temple sites at Angkor, represents the confluence of Buddhist and Hindu cultures. Its expansive layout and fewer crowds compared to Ta Prohm make it an appealing spot for those seeking a tranquil full moon night amidst ancient ruins.
Each of these temples offers a distinct ambiance and view for full moon enthusiasts. From the mysterious faces of Bayon to the serene Banteay Srei and the mystical Ta Prohm, the Angkor Wat complex is full of spots that are not only historically significant but also perfect for experiencing the enchanting beauty of a full moon night.
