Angkor Wat Marathon

Angkor Wat International Half Marathon was started in 1996 by Yuko Arimori, a Japanese Olympian female marathon runner who was on the women’s podium on the Olympics Games of Barcelona of 1992 and Atlanta in 1996. For its first edition, the Angkor wat half marathon managed to draw a respectable crowd of 654 runners. This half-marathon is organized by National Olympic Committee of Cambodia and it is recognized by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and the World Athletics (IAAF). This event raises funds for the victims of antipersonnel mines in Cambodia and is supported by numerous sponsors.

The popularity of this annual sporting event continued to grow, reaching a peak in December 2019 when over 12,000 participants signed up. Notably, 60% of the registrants (approximately 7,000) were from other countries.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the event’s long-standing tradition in 2020, forcing it to be held virtually for the first time since 1996. In 2021, strict health protocols limited participation to just 2,500 runners. The 2023 event saw a significant recovery, with 10,154 participants, nearly matching pre-pandemic levels. However, international participation dropped sharply, with foreign runners making up only 35% (3,654) of the total – almost half the proportion seen in 2019. This decline mirrors the decreased sales of Angkor Wat tickets since 2019.

In 2025, the event attracted 16,000 participants, the highest participation to date, with roughly a quarter (19%) coming from international backgrounds which is even lower than the previous year.

Angkor Wat Half Marathon Route

The Angkor Wat Half Marathon takes place within Angkor Wat archeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The race starts and finishes in front of Angkor Wat Temple, before Angkor Wat Sunrise and features a mostly flat course that is approximately 21 kilometers long. The route is paved or smooth red dirt roads and takes runners through several iconic spots, including Ta Keo, two gates of Angkor Thom (Victory gate and North gate) and Angkor Wat, offering a unique and breathtaking running experience. The event takes place in December, which is the dry season in Cambodia, however, temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F). Hydration is crucial, and runners are advised to take special care to stay hydrated throughout the race.

📄 Angkor Wat Half Marathon 2026 Registration Dates and Fees

The upcoming Angkor Wat half-marathon is scheduled on December 6th 2026. Registration is open with a deadline set for October 24, 2026. Note that an early bird discount is available offering a slightly reduced registration fee.

🥇Angkor Wat Half-Marathon Results

Participants to Angkor Wat half-marathon are drawn to the experience of running amidst ancient temples, not to set personal bests. The event has not attracted elite runners, most likely because the prize purse isn’t competitive enough to entice top-tier athletes. Due to weather conditions (heat and humidity) it will be very challenging even for top elite runner to run a sub 1h half marathon in Angkor. Also the increasing numbers of participants had some negative effects on the organization in 2025 slowing down considerably the 10k runners.

That being said, the race record held by Zhan Donglin in 1:05:18 during the first edition in 1996, is quite impressive. Saeki Makino had a very good performance in 2019 with 1:07:34. The last four years, finishing times have been much slower above the 1h14 min mark.

In the 2024 Angkor Half Marathon, local Cambodian runner Ouk Rohit claimed victory in the men’s half-marathon with an respectable time of 1:14:24. The men’s 10K race saw French athlete Lai Terence crossing the finish line in a swift 00:32:12. On the women’s side, Japan’s Koisho Rieko dominated the half-marathon, completing the course in 1:21:01. The women’s 10K was won by British runner Fushia Emily Clayton, who finished with a time of 00:42:11.

In the 2025 edition, Ouk Rohit improved his time from 2024 but finished second to Japanese runner Saeki Makino, who won in 1:10:25. Cambodian runner Sorn Pisey claimed victory in the men’s 10K with a time of 34:13.

📙Angkor Wat Half-Marathon Reviews

💡 Angkor Wat Marathon: Last-Minute Tips

Get plenty of rest the day before the race and get a light breakfast at least 2 hours before the race. Before the race warm up gently and do some dynamic stretching, but avoid intense stretching of cold muscles. It is a good idea to take energy gels during the race especially if you run the full marathon. These are very difficult to find in Cambodia. During the race stay hydrated, many water stations stands are available along the way with water and electrolytes.

Should I Run in August or December?

If you want to run a marathon, you do not have the choice but need to take part of the race in August. On the other hand if you opt for the half-marathon, you have the flexibility to choose between running in either August or December. It’s worth noting that the weather in Siem Reap during these two months differs significantly. August falls within the rainy season, resulting in higher humidity levels and slightly warmer temperatures compared to December.

The main distinction between August and December lies in the visual experience. In August, you will enjoy the great visual of what we call Angkor Green when the temples begin to be adorned with moss, and the surrounding rice fields display vibrant shades of green. If you have a keen interest in photography, this time of year offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning shots and truly appreciate the lush beauty of the landscape.