⚠️ Important: Land Border Closure (Updated June 2026)
All seven land border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia have been closed since June 2025 following a military conflict over disputed territory near Preah Vihear. As of June 2026, the border remains shut with no confirmed reopening date. The US Embassy maintains a \”Do Not Travel\” advisory for areas within 50 km of the Thai-Cambodia border.
Flying is currently the only way to travel between Bangkok and Siem Reap. This guide covers the flight options in full. We will update this page as the border situation changes.
Siem Reap is home to Angkor Wat — the world\’s largest religious monument and the reason most people visit Cambodia. Before June 2025, the Bangkok–Siem Reap overland route via Poipet was one of the most popular budget routes in Southeast Asia. That option is currently unavailable. Flying is now the only practical connection between the two cities.
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Flying Bangkok to Siem Reap
Direct flights from Bangkok to Siem Reap International Airport (SAI — the new airport that replaced the old REP) take approximately 1 hour. Bangkok Airways operates this route from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) as a near-monopoly on the direct service; AirAsia operates via a connection. Thailand\’s budget carriers also offer one-stop options through Phnom Penh.
Direct Flight Options
- Bangkok Airways (BKK → SAI): The most direct option, ~1 hour. Prices from ~$80–150 USD one way. Bangkok Airways has a near-monopoly on the direct route which keeps prices higher than other SEA hops.
- Cambodia Angkor Air (BKK → SAI): The Cambodian national carrier, comparable prices to Bangkok Airways.
- Via Phnom Penh: AirAsia and other budget carriers connect Bangkok to Siem Reap via Phnom Penh — adds 2–3 hours but can be significantly cheaper at $50–80 USD total.
Booking Tips
- Book 4–6 weeks ahead — Bangkok Airways prices spike close to departure
- Check via Phnom Penh — often $30–50 cheaper than direct, especially on AirAsia
- Avoid December 23–January 3 — peak Angkor season, prices double
- Note the new airport: Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) opened in 2023 and replaced the old airport. Make sure your booking shows SAI, not the old REP code.
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Cambodia Visa (e-Visa)
Most nationalities need a Cambodia visa. Options:
- Cambodia e-Visa (recommended): Apply online at evisa.gov.kh for $30 USD + $6 processing fee. Valid 30 days, single entry. Approved in 3 business days. Accepted at all airports and (when open) land borders.
- Visa on Arrival: Available at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports for $30 USD. Bring a passport photo and USD cash.
- Visa-free: ASEAN citizens (including Malaysian, Singaporean, Thai, Indonesian) enter Cambodia visa-free for 14–30 days depending on nationality.
Arriving at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)
The new SAI airport is located approximately 51 km from Siem Reap town center — much further than the old airport. Budget extra transfer time. Options:
- Official taxi: Fixed rate from the airport, ~$25–35 USD to town. Book at the official counter inside arrivals.
- Private transfer: Pre-book through your hotel or a reputable operator — often similar price to airport taxi.
- Grab: Works in Siem Reap but cannot pick up inside the airport terminal zone — arrange pickup at the designated area.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
- Pub Street area: Most central, walking distance to Night Market and restaurants. Lively, some noise at night.
- Wat Bo Road: Quieter, boutique guesthouses, popular with repeat visitors.
- Near Angkor Wat: Closer to the temples — convenient for early morning sunrise visits, less walking from town.
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Angkor Wat: Practical Tips
- Passes: 1-day $37 USD, 3-day $62 USD, 7-day $72 USD. Buy at the official Angkor Enterprise ticket office — not from touts.
- Best time to visit: November to February — dry season, cooler temperatures. April–May is hottest.
- Sunrise: Arrive at Angkor Wat\’s west gate by 05:15 for sunrise over the reflecting pools. Extremely crowded December–January.
- Transport: Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day (~$15–20 USD) or rent an e-bike from town.
- Beyond Angkor Wat: Ta Prohm (jungle-covered ruins), Bayon (face towers), Banteay Srei (pink sandstone, 30km north) are all worth including.
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