If you’re planning a trip to South East Asia, a visit to Angkor Wat – the Cambodia iconic temple – should be at the top of your itinerary. As one of the world’s 7 natural wonders, Angkor Wat is a true architectural and cultural marvel that stands as a testament to honor the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Khmer civilization.
Information of Angkor Wat (អង្គរវត្ត)
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is situated more than 5 km from the center of Siem Reap, the main tourist hub in the region. The temple complex, built in the 12th century, is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 163 ha. It was constructed during the golden age of Khmer empire, in the reign of King Suryavarman II, who ruled the Khmer Empire from 1113 to 1150 AD.
The temple’s iconic silhouette, characterized by its five towers symbolizing the five peaks of Mount Meru, the mythical home of the Hindu gods. The Angkor Wat temple complex is made up of five towers: Four auxiliary towers are 40 meters high, while the main tower is 65 meters high.
The three storeys of the main temple mimic the shape of the Indian “cosmic mountain Meru” by becoming smaller as one rises higher. This main temple sanctuary is situated between an expansive moat and the complex’s defensive wall, which stretches for more than 3.6 kilometers.
Angkor Wat is the only temple in Cambodia with the main entrance in the west, toward the setting sun. Therefore, tourists often flock here at dawn or dusk, when the bright golden sunlight illuminates the entire temple area. Visiting at 5AM to witness a stunning aurora, or at 5PM to enjoy a breathtaking sunset and fully immerse yourself in the magical ambiance.
Angkor Wat, with its magnificent views and elaborate building covered with stones, is an absolute photographer’s paradise. This location offers countless chances for breathtaking and unforgettable photos, whether you’re shooting the towers’ famous silhouette at dawn, the detailed carvings on the temple walls, or the calm reflection of the building in the surrounding ponds.
West Gate of Angkor Thom, Siem Reap, Cambodia is a popular check-in place in this area.
Moreover, as the Angkor Wat complex area is spanning over 162ha, there are multiple temples within the area that make up the Angkor Wat archaeological site you should pay a visit to, including Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple, Baphuon Temple, Ta Keo Temple, Banteay Kdei Temple.
A capture of the stunning Bayon Temple with the serene, enigmatic faces carved into the temple’s towers.
With the awe-inspiring scale, captivating history, and unique Cambodian cultural experiences, Angkor Wat is an essential destination for any traveler to Cambodia. Be sure to add this place to your adventurous journey in Cambodia!
