KT

 

Cambodia’s APSARA National Authority (ANA) will ban motorised traffic directly in front of Angkor Wat starting 25 September, in a decisive move to safeguard the temple’s fragile environment and cultural integrity.

 

The regulation prohibits cars, tricycles, and motorcycles from entering or exiting the zone immediately surrounding the temple. Only bicycles and pedestrians will be permitted, with all other vehicles rerouted via a newly built bypass linking the southern entrance to Norodom Sihamoni Avenue.

 

This measure is not merely about traffic control—it’s a strategic response to mounting environmental pressures. Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces threats from air pollution, vibrations, and congestion caused by increasing tourist traffic. Exhaust fumes and engine noise have long been a concern for conservationists, who warn that such disturbances can accelerate the deterioration of ancient stonework and disrupt the serene atmosphere essential to the site’s spiritual and historical value.

 

By limiting vehicle access, ANA aims to reduce emissions, preserve the temple’s structural integrity, and enhance visitor safety. The move also reflects broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Cambodia, balancing economic growth with heritage protection.

 

ANA has urged full cooperation from government bodies, tourism operators, and the public to ensure smooth implementation. The change marks a significant step in rethinking how sacred spaces are accessed and experienced—placing preservation at the heart of policy.

 

As Angkor Wat continues to draw global attention, this traffic ban signals a shift towards more environmentally conscious stewardship of one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic landmarks.

 

 

-2025-09-21

Good for Cambodia...

Foreigners have never been allowed to drive past or near the temple without an entrance ticket. Security gates stopping foreigners are about 1Km from the temple, so you can't take photos without paying the entry fee.

 

So this must be a new rule only for locals.

On 9/21/2025 at 6:04 AM, BritManToo said:

Foreigners have never been allowed to drive past or near the temple without an entrance ticket. Security gates stopping foreigners are about 1Km from the temple, so you can't take photos without paying the entry fee.

 

So this must be a new rule only for locals.

 

This new rule applies to everyone foreign or Khmer. Khmers can visit for free. Foreigners pay entry fee. The ticket office is open from 4:30am until 5:00pm.

May I explain, as a free annual season ticket holder to the Angkor Archaeological Park which includes Angkor Wat. 

 

Referring to the map above,  the area affected is at the lower end where the East entrance is shown with its causeway. The famous main west entrance (at top of map) is not affected as it was subject to road and traffic restrictions a few years ago when a large carpark was constructed. Access to the popular main West Entrance has been limited to pedestrians and cyclists for some time.

 

Until now, one could drive over the causeway to the East entrance and then take the option of turning left to the South Gate, or right to the North Gate. This is no longer possible, even by tuk-tuk which I use. and one must take the new vehicle route (shown as a blue line). I presume there are new parking arrangements at the East Gate.

1 hour ago, Burma Bill said:

This new rule applies to everyone foreign or Khmer. Khmers can visit for free. Foreigners pay entry fee. The ticket office is open from 4:30am until 5:00pm.

May I explain, as a free annual season ticket holder to the Angkor Archaeological Park which includes Angkor Wat. 

You need to buy the ticket to be allowed to use the approach road.

1 hour ago, BritManToo said:

You need to buy the ticket to be allowed to use the approach road.

 

My apologies for not explaining properly.

 

Yes, a foreigner has to buy a ticket/pass for one or multi days from the new central Angkor Ticket Office just off the main road from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat.

This ticket allows you to visit any of the old Khmer temples, buildings and other associated sites in the Archaeological Park, for example the Bayon Temple, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King to name a few. There are no ticket offices at the various temples and sites, just checkpoints to show your pass. However, after 5:30pm most of the roads are free to drive on as the temples and sites with checkpoints are closed. I sometimes take an early evening tuk-tuk drive around the temples and other sites just to relax and enjoy cooler air after hot and humid days. Having free access after 5:30pm, the roads can become very busy with people exercising, cycle clubs, motorists etc. enjoying the scenery. Road side food stalls also become busy due to the free access. There are some great views of Angkor Wat across the moat , from the roads which surround it.