A first-timer's guide
Phare in Siem Reap: which section, and how to fit it around Angkor
Sections, the backstage option and timing around your temple days — here's how to get the most from a Phare night.
See Phare dates on GetYourGuide ↗Choosing your Phare ticket
| Section C / B | Section A (VIP) / Insider | |
|---|---|---|
| View | Good — the big top is intimate | Closest to the ring for the acrobatics |
| Price | The most affordable way in | A step up; Insider adds a backstage tour |
| Best for | Most visitors and families | A special night, or fans of the craft |
| Timing | 8:00 PM nightly — arrive 30 min early | Come 2 hrs early for the café and boutique |
| With Angkor | Temples by day, Phare by night | Same — it's minutes from town |
Phare is the evening to Angkor's days
Most Siem Reap trips revolve around the Angkor temples by day, which leaves the question of what to do in the evening. Phare has become the standard answer — a one-hour show that's genuinely world-class, close to town, and completely different in energy from a day among the ruins. It's an easy, high-reward addition to almost any itinerary.
Which section to book
Because the big top is small, even Section C keeps you reasonably close to the action, so it's a fine budget choice. Section B sits a little nearer; Section A (VIP) is closest and best for really seeing the acrobatics up close. If you're curious how the productions are built, add a 'Phare Insider' backstage tour to any section.
Timing it around your day
The show starts at 8:00 PM, so it pairs neatly with a day of temples: rest in the afternoon heat, then head to the big top. Arrive at least 30 minutes early (no late entry), and ideally earlier — the Phare Café and Boutique open two hours before, and a pre-show meal or browse adds to the night.
A booking that does good
Whichever section you choose, the ticket funds Phare Ponleu Selpak, the arts school behind the circus. It's worth knowing that the most enjoyable evening on your Siem Reap itinerary is also the one that most directly supports the young Cambodians performing it — a rare and easy win.
Still deciding which night, or which seating section?
Leave your email and roughly when you're travelling — we'll send a short rundown of how the seating sections and the backstage 'Insider' options compare, and how to fit Phare around your Angkor days.