National
• 1 hour ago• Lim_Rothanaksambath
Golden Sunrise Aligns With Angkor Wat as Autumn Equinox Begins Today
Phnom Penh— Sept. 21, 2026: The autumn Angkor Equinox begins today, drawing visitors to Siem Reap for a three-day opportunity to watch the sun rise in perfect alignment with the central tower of Angkor Wat.
The phenomenon is visible from Sept. 21 to 23, 2026, with the exact equinox date falling on Sept. 22. The optimal viewing time each morning is between 6:15 a.m. and 6:45 a.m., when golden light crests the temple's central tower.
The event occurs twice a year, in September and March, when day and night are equal in length. Its precision reflects the advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics and architecture employed by the Khmer Empire in designing and building the temple in the 12th century.
The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has called on national and international tourists, as well as Cambodians, to visit Siem Reap and experience the rare sight firsthand.
Visitors are asked to dress respectfully and adhere to the Angkor Code of Conduct to help protect the honour and integrity of the World Heritage Site.
Sources:
Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts
Reported by The Khmer Daily Network
The phenomenon is visible from Sept. 21 to 23, 2026, with the exact equinox date falling on Sept. 22. The optimal viewing time each morning is between 6:15 a.m. and 6:45 a.m., when golden light crests the temple's central tower.
The event occurs twice a year, in September and March, when day and night are equal in length. Its precision reflects the advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics and architecture employed by the Khmer Empire in designing and building the temple in the 12th century.
The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has called on national and international tourists, as well as Cambodians, to visit Siem Reap and experience the rare sight firsthand.
Visitors are asked to dress respectfully and adhere to the Angkor Code of Conduct to help protect the honour and integrity of the World Heritage Site.
Sources:
Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts
Reported by The Khmer Daily Network
