Angkor National Museum

Have a Glance at Angkor First!

Angkor, the historical hotspot of Cambodia, was the capital of the ancient Khmer empire. There are several marvelous temples in Angkor, which depicts the exquisite Khmer architecture. According to an international team of researchers, Angkor was, apparently, the largest pre-industrial city in the entire world. Also, because of its complicated water management network, Angkor has received another title – hydraulic city.

Each year, approximately two million tourists visit Angkor to experience the majestic Angkor heritage sites. Cambodia has always been in the bucket lists of travelers. The archaeological sites at Angkor are popular among the tourists.

Some Popular Temples in Angkor: Banteay Samre Temple Pre Rup Temple Prasat Kravan Temple Ta Keo Temple

Angkor National Museum

It is a top-rated national museum of Angkor in Siem Reap, which allows a glimpse into the Khmer civilization. The aim of Angkor National Museum is to collect, preserve, and present the Angkorian artifacts.

If you want to experience the golden era of the Khmer empire, then you must visit Angkor National Museum. Since 2007, this museum has been enlightening the world about the magnificent Khmer history and civilization. There is a total of eight galleries in the museum. However, if you love to capture photos, then you will end up disappointed here, as there is a strict no-photo policy in Angkor National Museum.

A Tour through the Galleries of Angkor National Museum

Briefing Hall

Before you enter the eight galleries and go awestruck because of the majestic Khmer architecture, visitors get to sit and relax in the Briefing Hall. It is an eighty seat theatre. Angkor National Museum authority will welcome you and introduce you to the museum and its amenities. The orientation takes place in seven languages – English, French, Chinese, Thai, Khmer, Korean, and Japanese. The duration of such an orientation show is about fifteen minutes.

Exclusive Gallery: Gallery of 1,000 Buddha

This gallery reflects the spiritual influence of Buddhism on the Cambodian people. There is a vast collection of Buddha statues and relics.

Gallery A: Khmer Civilization

Once you enter this gallery, you will get lost in the mysteries of the Khmer Empire. You will get to know about the details of the establishment of Khmer Empire. You will love to know how they created one of the most colossal structures ever. This gallery lets you dive deep into the faith and beliefs of the Khmer people. Also, you will get to know about the ravaging wars that once took place on this mystical land.

Gallery B: Religion and Beliefs

Travelers get to experience the fascinating legends and unique folktales of the Angkorian people. This gallery displays the literary works, architecture, sculptures, etc. which helps a visitor in understanding the religious beliefs of Khmer People.

Gallery C: Great Khmer Kings

This gallery of Angkor National Museum lets the tourists delve deeper into the details of four notable kings of the Khmer Empire. You will get to know about the heroic deeds of these four kings:

1. King Jayavarman II: He united Tchen-La with two kingdoms during 802-850 AD.
2. King Yasovarman I: He established Angkor to be the capital city during 889-900 AD.
3. King Soryavarman II: He built Angkor Wat during 1116-1145 AD.
4. King Jayavarman VI: He built Angkor Wat during 1181-1201 AD.

Gallery D: Angkor Wat

The gallery D of Angkor National Museum lets you have a closer look into the intricate details of Angor Wat. It is like a paradise on the earth. The gallery exquisitely portrays the splendid structure of Angkor Wat and also highlights the equinox phenomenon.

Gallery E: Angkor Thom

This gallery lets you revel in the amalgamation of an architectural masterpiece, precious artwork, and sophisticated technology. You will get a chance to learn about the stunning ancient engineering plans for public utilities.

Gallery F: Story from Stone

You will get the proof of the existence of a grand world in the form of stone inscriptions. These inscriptions will allow you to understand the ancient Khmer language, beliefs, lives, and legends of the Khmer Empire.

Gallery G: Ancient Costumes

This gallery gives you a glimpse of the Khmer clothing. Sculpture of astonishing gods, goddesses, and celestial dancers adorn the exquisite clothes and jewelry. Clothing and jewelry tell a lot about the status of people in the ancient Khmer society.

Now that you know in detail what to expect from Angkor National Museum, we are sure about your excitement for visiting this place. Following are some details that will be quite handy for you:

Angkor National Museum

How to Reach Angkor National Museum?

There will be a tuk-tuk facility available for you to reach the museum. In fact, it is a pickup and drop-off facility. This facility is available in selected hotels only. If your hotel does not provide this facility, then you can hire a tuk-tuk all by yourself and reach the Angkor National Museum.

The Museum is effectively available by tuk-tuk at a distance of 1.7km (1.1 miles) from Siem Reap. It will take 6 minutes to reach there. In case you're physically fit, it is a 15 to 20-minute walk from the Old Market area.

The tuk-tuk driver will quote you $26 for a small circle and $38 for all day.

If you want to book a tuk-tuk for a few days, you could transact the price to $18-20. For 6 hours, it would be a fair price.

Key Details of the Angkor National Museum

1. Visiting Hours

8:30 – 18:00 hours (1st April to 30th September)
8:30 – 18:30 hours (1st October to 31st March)

2. Entrance Fee

The entrance fee is about $12, which is quite steep. Also, there are separate charges for an audio tour, light shows, etc.

3. Pro-Tip

Do not carry your camera in Angkor National Museum as there is a strict no photo policy.

If you are ready to explore Cambodia, then we are sure you will visit Angkor. And if you are coming to Angkor, not including Angkor National Museum in your itinerary will be a stupid thing to do. Make sure you visit this place before visiting other heritage sites of Angkor. The knowledge you gain here about the various heritage sites will, later on, help you in enjoying those sites more deeply. Set out for this fantastic place with enthusiasm and excitement!

More Popular Museums to Visit:

Cambodia Landmine Museum

National Museum of Cambodia

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

War Museum