Angkor Wat has is a major tourist destination. In 1993, there were only 7,650 visitors to the site, by 2004, this increased to 561,000 and received over two million foreign tourists in 2013. I did not consider the place crowded while I was there. In mid November, I did however consider it very hot.
Your driver will first take you to a location 3-4 km from the temple to purchase tickets. I think its best to go early in the morning. Its always about the driver. As we walked in to get the tickets there were long lines. He motioned me to follow and we went to the far right end of the "teller windows" where there was no line. He spoke to the nice lady and then said you can pay her! We were out in 6 minutes, good thing because he parked directly in front of the entrance!
Expect to do a lot of walking. This will start at the parking area and then you have a good trek across the moat and into the temple. Always watch your footing, steps are uneven and not your normal staircases. I actual steeped through several of the "windows" to get photos.
You should plan to spend at least 5-6 hours. I think I will plan a full day on the next trip and budget a nap somewhere in the temple.
I bought a book from a local guy in the market area. After researching the book when I returned home, I wish I had reviewed it before I went. Amazon link below. The book is a great guide to get around all of the Angkor temple. It contains maps, detailed historical information and even suggested itineraries of the sites.
https://www.amazon.com/Ancient-Angkor-Michael-Freeman/dp/0500974853
Pro Tips
- Go early in the morning
- You can get refreshments at the temple
- The monkeys can be aggressive
- Buy the book on the history of Angkor Wat