Gate of the Dead Angkor Thom - a stone wall with a window in it
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Gate of the Dead Angkor Thom

4.8
·225 reviews·ក្រុងសៀមរាប, Cambodia

A secluded, mysterious gate of Angkor Thom, offering a peaceful escape with intricate carvings and a jungle-kissed approach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Gate of the Dead Angkor Thom - a stone wall with a window in it

Gate of the Dead Angkor Thom

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded, mysterious gate of Angkor Thom, offering a peaceful escape with intricate carvings and a jungle-kissed approach.

4.8
(225 reviews)

"The most beautiful Gate!! Very few people visit this place as it's a bit far from the main road and it's bumpy!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Bumpy Ride Ahead!

Expect a dirt road. A tuk-tuk or car is recommended for a smoother journey to this off-beat location. :car:

🤫 Seek Serenity

This gate is much quieter than others. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience. :person_walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Eerie Entrance

The Eerie Entrance

Eastern side of Angkor Thom

A quiet, peaceful, and mysterious gate with a bumpy dirt road approach. Feels like a hidden gem.

Intricate Stone Faces

Intricate Stone Faces

The gate structure

Massive, beautifully carved stone faces, possibly representing royalty or deities, add to the gate's mystique.

Overgrown Jungle Path

Overgrown Jungle Path

Path leading to the gate

Towering trees and jungle sounds create an adventurous and atmospheric journey to this secluded spot.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Quiet: A Hidden Gem

This gate is a lesser-known gem, offering a peaceful escape from the main tourist crowds. Its remote location means fewer visitors, allowing for a more intimate experience with history and nature. Plan for a bumpy ride to reach it.

Beyond the Main Gates

While the South Gate is iconic, the Gate of the Dead offers a unique perspective on Angkor Thom. Its historical significance as an exit for soldiers or funeral processions adds a layer of mystery. Consider it if you have ample time and seek off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

4 days in Siem Reap, how to tackle Angkor Wat & see as much as possible

🚗 Bumpy Ride Ahead!

Expect a dirt road. A tuk-tuk or car is recommended for a smoother journey to this off-beat location. :car:

🤫 Seek Serenity

This gate is much quieter than others. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience. :person_walking:

reddit.com

The gate of Angkor Thom, Cambodia

reddit.com

Angkor Wat with a guide?

🚴‍♀️ Ideal for Cyclists

A great spot for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for an adventure off the main tourist trails. :bicycle:

⏳ Worth the Detour

If you have more than two days in Angkor, this hidden gem is a worthwhile detour for its unique atmosphere. :stopwatch:

reddit.com

Main entrance to the temple of Angkor Wat - Siem Reap,Cambodia

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Bumpy Ride Ahead!

Expect a dirt road. A tuk-tuk or car is recommended for a smoother journey to this off-beat location. :car:

🤫 Seek Serenity

This gate is much quieter than others. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience. :person_walking:

🚴‍♀️ Ideal for Cyclists

A great spot for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for an adventure off the main tourist trails. :bicycle:

⏳ Worth the Detour

If you have more than two days in Angkor, this hidden gem is a worthwhile detour for its unique atmosphere. :stopwatch:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(225 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Gate of the Dead as a peaceful, mysterious, and beautiful hidden gem within Angkor Thom. Its quiet atmosphere, intricate carvings, and jungle surroundings offer a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience, though the bumpy access road is a notable challenge.

"A hidden and forgotten gate of the Angkor Thom. Most tourists only know the main 4 gates but this is the extra one that was built for a main reason.
In a great conduction and also there is a path to go up for a hidden beauty of the nature around The temple. Can also ride around on the gate as well."

WT

"The most beautiful Gate!! Very few people visit this place as it's a bit far from the main road and it's bumpy ! You won't regret seeing this, quiet, peaceful and relaxing."

Sokna Thy

"Visiting the Gate of the Dead in Angkor Thom was an incredible experience, full of mystery and history. This lesser-known entrance, located on the eastern side of the ancient city, is much quieter than the famous South Gate, making it feel like a hidden gem. Walking through the overgrown pathway leading to the gate, we were surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of the jungle, adding to the eerie yet peaceful atmosphere.

The gate itself is beautifully carved, featuring massive stone faces believed to represent either King Jayavarman VII or the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteshvara. The name “Gate of the Dead” is thought to come from its use as an exit for defeated soldiers or possibly for royal funeral processions.

Unlike the busier entrances, this gate allows you to truly immerse yourself in the ancient world of Angkor, with fewer crowds and a more adventurous feel. If you’re exploring Angkor Thom, taking the time to visit this hidden passage is absolutely worth it!"

I. Morgan

What People Like

Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
Intricate stone carvings
Off-the-beaten-path feel

What People Dislike

Bumpy dirt road access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gate of the Dead is located on the eastern side of Angkor Thom. Access involves a bumpy dirt road, making it less accessible than the main gates. Most visitors hire a tuk-tuk or car for the journey, as cycling can be challenging on the rough terrain. It's recommended to ask your driver to take you there specifically, as it's not on the most common tourist routes. Reddit

While within the Angkor Thom complex, the Gate of the Dead is situated on the eastern periphery, making it a bit of a detour from the central temples like Bayon. The journey involves navigating less-maintained roads, so factor in extra travel time compared to visiting the more central attractions. Reddit

Yes, you can cycle to the Gate of the Dead, and it's often recommended for those who enjoy mountain biking. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride on a dirt road. It's a great way to explore the less-traveled parts of Angkor Thom if you're up for the adventure. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Gate of the Dead is part of the Angkor Thom complex. Your Angkor Pass (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day) covers entry to all temples within the archaeological park, including this gate. Ensure your pass is valid for the day of your visit. Reddit

The Angkor Archaeological Park, including the Gate of the Dead, is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, as it's a less managed site, there aren't strict gate timings. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

There is no additional entrance fee specifically for the Gate of the Dead. Your Angkor Pass is sufficient for entry into the Angkor Thom complex, which includes this gate. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the well-preserved gate structure, admire the intricately carved stone faces, and walk along the overgrown pathway surrounded by nature. Its quiet atmosphere offers a unique historical immersion. Reddit

No, the Gate of the Dead is known for being significantly less crowded than the main gates of Angkor Thom, such as the South Gate. You might even find yourself there with very few other visitors, offering a peaceful experience. Reddit

The name 'Gate of the Dead' suggests its use for exiting defeated soldiers or for royal funeral processions. It adds a layer of mystery and historical depth to your visit, distinct from the more ceremonial entrances. Reddit

While some reviews mention riding around the gate, it's generally advisable to be respectful of the ancient structures. Climbing on delicate carvings or unstable parts is not recommended to preserve the site for future visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the imposing stone faces, the atmospheric jungle path leading to the gate, and the overall sense of solitude. The quiet environment allows for unhurried photography. Consider visiting during golden hour for dramatic lighting. Reddit

Yes, one of the main draws of the Gate of the Dead is its lack of crowds. This makes it much easier to get unobstructed shots and capture the serene ambiance of the location. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the bumpy ride might be a consideration, the Gate of the Dead can be an interesting stop for families looking for a quieter experience. The intriguing stone faces can spark children's imagination about ancient kings and deities. The jungle path offers a sense of adventure, making the journey feel like a mini-expedition. Reddit

It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and ensure children are supervised, especially on the uneven terrain. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. The lack of crowds means kids can explore more freely without disturbing others, making it a potentially more relaxed outing compared to the busier sites. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Cyclists

For those who love to explore by bike, the Gate of the Dead is a prime destination. The bumpy dirt road leading to it is an excellent opportunity for mountain biking, offering a thrilling ride off the beaten path. It's a chance to experience the less-developed parts of the Angkor Thom complex and feel a true sense of discovery. Reddit

This gate is ideal for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience. The quiet, serene atmosphere, combined with the historical intrigue of the stone faces and the 'Gate of the Dead' moniker, provides a unique and memorable adventure that stands out from the typical tourist circuit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mystery of the Stone Faces

The Gate of the Dead, like other gates of Angkor Thom, is adorned with imposing stone faces. These are often interpreted as representations of King Jayavarman VII, the powerful ruler who commissioned much of Angkor Thom, or as the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara. The serene yet powerful expressions add to the gate's enigmatic aura. The sheer scale and intricate carving of these faces are a testament to the artistry and spiritual beliefs of the Khmer Empire. Reddit

Unlike the more prominent gates, the Gate of the Dead's relative isolation allows visitors to appreciate these carvings without the usual throng of tourists. This proximity enhances the feeling of discovery and connection to the past. The weathered stone, softened by time and the elements, tells its own story of endurance and history. Taking a moment to truly observe the details of these faces can be a profound experience. Reddit

Navigating the 'Bumpy Ride'

Reaching the Gate of the Dead is an adventure in itself. The journey involves a dirt road that can be quite bumpy, especially after rain. This is why many travelers opt for a tuk-tuk or a car, as these vehicles are better equipped to handle the uneven terrain. Cycling is an option for the more adventurous, but be prepared for a challenging ride that requires a good mountain bike and some stamina. Reddit

This less-traveled path contributes to the gate's secluded feel. As you approach, the road gradually gives way to a more natural, overgrown setting, with towering trees and the sounds of the jungle enveloping you. This transition from the more manicured tourist paths to a wilder environment is part of the allure, creating an eerie yet peaceful atmosphere that perfectly complements the gate's name. Reddit

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