Amansara
Former royal guest house of King Sihanouk, 10 minutes from Angkor Wat
The Privata Perspective
The only luxury property that truly makes Angkor Wat feel private. Amansara occupies the former guest house of King Norodom Sihanouk — a modernist gem built in the 1960s by Laurent Mondet — where visiting heads of state including Charles de Gaulle and Jacqueline Kennedy were once hosted. Kerry Hill's sensitive restoration preserved the mid-century character while adding Aman's spatial generosity.
With just 24 suites, Amansara provides an intimacy that transforms the temple experience entirely. Guests depart at dawn by traditional remork (tuk-tuk) or vintage Mercedes, arriving at Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm before the tour groups, often finding themselves virtually alone among the 12th-century ruins as sunrise illuminates the sandstone towers.
Aman's temple scholars — trained archaeologists and historians — lead private tours that reveal layers of the Khmer Empire invisible to casual visitors. Evening experiences include private dinners illuminated by candlelight on the temple terraces and traditional Apsara dance performances in the resort's courtyard.
Accommodations
Suite
60 sqm
Mid-century modernist suite with private courtyard, reflecting pool, daybed, and the restrained elegance of the original royal guest house
Pool Suite
75 sqm
Private plunge pool set within a walled garden, outdoor dining area, and direct access to the resort's lush tropical grounds
Dining
The Dining Room
Khmer-International
Courtyard dining serving royal Khmer recipes — amok fish in banana leaf, Kampot pepper-crusted dishes, and traditional Cambodian desserts alongside international cuisine. Private temple dinners by candlelight are a signature experience
Spa & Wellness
The spa specialises in traditional Khmer massage techniques — rhythmic pressure-point bodywork passed down through generations — alongside herbal compresses using lemongrass, galangal, and Kampot pepper. Meditation sessions led by practising Buddhist monks, yoga in the garden pavilion, and the resort's swimming pool surrounded by frangipani create a contemplative wellness experience befitting the spiritual landscape of Angkor.
When to Go
Nov–Feb
Cool dry season — ideal for temple exploration
Sep–Oct
End of monsoon — moat reflections at their most dramatic
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Book With Preferred Access
Experience Amansara with Via Privata
Complimentary upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, and dedicated concierge support — available exclusively through our preferred partner programme.
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