Background
APSARA National Authority announced its readiness to welcome visitors for the upcoming Equinox sunrise event at Angkor Wat. The natural phenomenon, during which the sun rises in alignment with the central tower of Angkor Wat, is expected to occur on 21 March, with attractive sunrise views anticipated from 19 to 23 March 2026.
The Equinox event has become a recurring attraction at the Angkor archaeological park, drawing significant numbers of domestic and international visitors each year. According to APSARA National Authority, the 2025 Equinox period attracted around 80,000 visitors to the Angkor site.
Scope of Application
The announced preparations apply to visitors planning to observe sunrise at Angkor Wat between 19 and 23 March 2026, with particular focus on the Equinox sunrise on 21 March. The measures concern all domestic and international tourists entering the Angkor site for this event.
Key Provisions or Decisions
APSARA National Authority has decided to deploy order officers and tourism officers with specific responsibilities during the Equinox event period. These officers will:
- Coordinate and manage pedestrian traffic flows in and around Angkor Wat during sunrise viewing times.
- Maintain environmental cleanliness in the event area.
- Ensure general safety for visitors throughout the three-day core event period.
The preparations are described as being undertaken with particular attention in anticipation of a large volume of visitors.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The announced arrangements indicate that Angkor Wat will host a high-volume tourism event around the Equinox sunrise between 19 and 23 March 2026. Tourism operators, guides, and service providers operating in and around Angkor should anticipate increased visitor traffic during this period and may need to coordinate their activities with on-site order and tourism officers.
Businesses should be aware of controlled pedestrian flows and heightened cleanliness and safety measures, which may affect timing, access routes, and visitor management around sunrise hours at Angkor Wat.
Official Source
The information is based on an announcement by APSARA National Authority disseminated through the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts’ official communication channel.
