Bangkok to Siem Reap: Bus, Train, Ferry

There are 1 way(s) to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Bangkok

📍The main departure point for buses to Siem Reap is Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal). It is a large, modern bus station with ticket counters, shops, and restaurants.

🚇To reach Mo Chit from the city center, you can take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit station, then a taxi or local bus (approx. 15-20 min, 50-100 THB). A direct taxi will take 30-60 min depending on traffic (150-300 THB).

⏰Departures for Siem Reap are frequent, typically every 1 to 2 hours from morning until early afternoon. The first departure is often around 6 AM and the last around 3 PM.

Practical tips

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Choose the right seat

For long journeys, opt for a window seat to enjoy the scenery, or a front seat for more space and an unobstructed view. VIP buses often offer more comfortable and reclining seats.

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Prepare for border crossing

Always have your passport, Cambodian visa (if needed, available online or on arrival), and a passport photo readily available. Be wary of overly insistent intermediaries for visas.

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Avoid Tuk-tuk scams

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, many tuk-tuk drivers will be waiting. Always negotiate the fare before getting in or use an app like Grab for a fixed and more transparent price.

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Book in advance during high season

From November to February, demand is high. Booking your bus a few days in advance via platforms like 12go.asia will guarantee you a seat and often a better choice of schedules and companies.

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Pack snacks and water

The journey is long. While stops are planned, having your own snacks and enough water will ensure optimal comfort. A small blanket or scarf can be useful for air conditioning.

🛣️ The journey experience

The journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap is a true adventure, taking you from the vibrant bustle of the Thai capital to the mystical serenity of the Angkor temples. Expect a trip that combines the relative comfort of modern buses with the discovery of changing landscapes, from the green plains of Thailand to Cambodian rice fields and villages. The actual duration may vary, but plan for approximately 7 to 9 hours door-to-door, including border crossing formalities which are an experience in themselves. The atmosphere on board is often friendly, with opportunities to connect with other travelers.

For this route, the bus is the most direct and economical option. Several companies offer daily trips, with prices starting around 14 €. VIP buses provide superior comfort with more legroom and fewer stops. Although there is no direct train connection and flying is a faster but much more expensive option (involving airport transfers), the bus remains the preferred choice for its value for money and the simplicity of the itinerary.

To avoid any stress or wasted time, we strongly recommend comparing options and booking your bus ticket in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn allow you to view all offers, check reviews from other travelers, and book directly from your smartphone, thus guaranteeing your seat and a peaceful arrival at your destination. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and fully enjoy your adventure.

Frequently asked questions — Bangkok → Siem Reap

What is the average price of a bus trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap? +

How long does the Bangkok - Siem Reap bus journey actually take? +

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✨ Why visit Siem Reap?

✓ Explore the majestic Angkor Wat complex, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
✓ Discover the Bayon temple and its enigmatic smiling faces at Angkor Thom.
✓ Stroll through the bustling night markets and sample local street food.
✓ Attend a traditional Apsara dance performance for a cultural immersion.
✓ Visit Banteay Srei, the 'temple of women,' renowned for its delicate carvings.

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Recommended stay

3 to 4 nights — to explore the Angkor temples at your own pace and enjoy the city.

☀️ When to visit Siem Reap?

TROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE

November to February — dry season with cooler temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.

Jan 😊

Feb 😊

Mar 😊

Apr 😐

May 😐

Jun 😞

Jul 😞

Aug 😞

Sep 😞

Oct 😐

Nov 😊

Dec 😊

What to do in Siem Reap?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE

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Sunrise Exploration of Angkor Wat

The most iconic temple of Angkor offers an unforgettable sunrise experience. Reflections in the ponds create a magical atmosphere. Arrive very early, around 5 AM, to find a good spot and avoid dense crowds. A one-day pass for the park is approximately 37€.

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Discover Ta Prohm's Root-Bound Temples

Ta Prohm is famous for its immense silk-cotton and fig trees embracing the ruins, creating a mysterious and photogenic atmosphere. It's one of the most atmospheric temples in the Angkor complex. Plan your visit mid-morning for optimal light. The site is included in the Angkor pass.

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Visit Bayon's Smiling Faces

Bayon Temple, at the heart of Angkor Thom, is renowned for its 200 giant faces carved into stone, each bearing an enigmatic smile. The architecture is unique and offers great photographic opportunities. Ideally, explore it before the afternoon heat. Entry is part of the Angkor pass.

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Attend an Apsara Dance Show

Apsara dance shows are a traditional Khmer art form. They tell legends and stories through graceful movements and elaborate costumes. Many restaurants offer dinner shows. Prices vary, but expect to pay from 15€ for a good show with dinner.

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Stroll and Eat on Pub Street

Pub Street is the vibrant heart of Siem Reap's nightlife and gastronomy. You'll find restaurants for all tastes, bars, and a friendly atmosphere. It's the perfect place to sample local dishes or enjoy a drink after a day of sightseeing. Dishes generally start from 5€.

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Visit Kompong Phluk Floating Village

Explore Kompong Phluk, a fishing village built on stilts on the edge of Tonlé Sap Lake. A boat trip takes you through houses, a school, and a flooded forest. It's a fascinating immersion into local life. Plan a half-day excursion, often around 20-30€ per person.

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Explore Angkor Night Market

Angkor Night Market is a great place to find artisanal souvenirs, textiles, jewelry, and enjoy street food. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you can gently bargain. It's a quieter alternative to Pub Street for a pleasant evening. Don't hesitate to try the local skewers.

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Escape to Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen National Park offers a refreshing escape with its sacred waterfall, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and a large reclining Buddha statue. It's a pilgrimage site for Khmers. Ideal for a relaxing day amidst nature. Entry costs approximately 20€ per person.

⏱️ How long to visit Siem Reap?

2 to 5 days

For an independent traveler, 3 days is the ideal duration to explore the Angkor temples without rush. With 2 days, you'll see the essentials, but 4 days or more allow for off-the-beaten-path excursions. Prioritize early mornings and late afternoons to avoid crowds and heat.

Other trips from Bangkok

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How to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap

🗺️ Route & distance: Bangkok → Siem Reap