If you’re an adventure-junkie like myself, you could get lost in Angkor Wat for days. Aptly named “The City of Temples”, the beauty of Angkor lies in its shear numbers. The 400-acre site is home to dozens of epic temples, each one deserving of its own place in history. The jungle location only adds to the magnificence of it’s setting and one cannot help but feel overwhelmed as you act out your inner Indiana Jones, climbing the un-tamed steps of its many edifices.

If you are travelling through the region and are lucky enough to spend a few days here or even a week, I strongly suggest you take advantage of it, to soak up the centuries of history that are told throughout the complex’s architecture. Sometimes that is just not possible, and for those of you who may only have a day to spare, the following list on how to maximize your adventure is for you. With that said, here are the top ways to experience Angkor Wat in a day.

1. Hire a local tour guide

Visiting Angkor Wat can be done on foot, bicycle, truck, or tuk-tuk. If you have the time and energy I would suggest travelling by bicycle to experience the rugged terrain at a 1:1 level. Walking is possible however the distance between temples can be considerable. We opted for a local tour guide by car which was ultimately the best decision.  For a small amount of money you can get personal guided tours that inform you of the rich history the region has to offer. Locals are highly dependent upon the tourism industry for income and you get a small peak into the lives of people that have endured war and peace.

2. Get up early to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat

It’s no secret you have to wake up early to get the best views of Angkor Wat. Be sure to leave enough time to get through the complex entrance and secure a spot for photos at the front of the line. Check with your hotel for local sunrise time.

3. See the Bayon

The Bayon is the second most-famous temple, and the first you will encounter after Angkor Wat. It was built in the 12th century for a Buddhist king and is best known for the many decorative faces that line its walls.

4. Take a picture at Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is best known as the setting for the movie Tomb Raider but it is so much more than that. Beyond its stunning bas-reliefs, and attention to light, Ta Prohm best represents the current status of the Angkor Wat complex and the difficulty its preservationists face when dealing with restoration. Trees are completely entangled into the fabric of the complex, and their removal would dramatically compromise the integrity of its structure. The temple is therefore a window into the history of the site and a reminder of man’s vulnerability to time and nature.

5. See the Elephant Terrace

The Elephant Terrace is part of the Ankor Thom complex, and was a large viewing platform for large ceremonies.

6. Head north to Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is a 10th century Hindu temple built out of red sand stone. It is still in relatively good condition with elaborate carvings still present on its walls.

7. Climb Preah Roup

Built as a temple for a Khmer King, the most exhilarating part of Preah Roup is the journey up its steep steps. This is best done slowly using your hands and feet and at the top, you are rewarded with a fantastic view of the region.

8. Visit the Landmine Museum

The Landmine Museum is often overlooked by tourists visiting Angkor and it simply shouldn’t. Cambodia’s deadly history in the 20th century can be lost in the country’s rich culture and setting but a visit here puts it all in perspective.

9. Tour Angkor Wat

Logic would tell you that you should visit Angkor Wat in the morning when you are snapping photos at sunrise. But there is something to be said about saving the best for last, not to mention that you would also be visiting it with all the other early-risers. Visiting later in the day means most people have called it quits, choosing instead to escape the afternoon heat for a dip in the pool. This leaves just you and Angkor for some amazing scenery and self-reflection.

10. Finish the day with a sunset

Space is limited for the sunset view over Angkor. Arrive early to ensure you get a view. If you time your flights right, you can see the sunset the night before.