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Among the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Angkor Wat in Cambodia is one of the most fascinating ones. Cambodia is one of those countries that stands out for its architectural marvels and Angkor Wat happens to be one such spot that you can’t miss out on. It is located in Siem Reap, inside the Angkor Archaeological Park and is the largest temple in the country. The grandeur of this temple is beyond anyone’s comprehension and its historical and cultural significance is unmatched.
Quick Details About Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat Address: Siem Reap Province, Cambodia
Built In: 12th century AD
Purpose: Initially a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, later transformed into a Buddhist shrine
Size: Covers an area of approximately 163 hectares
Architectural Style: Khmer architecture
Angkor Wat Ticket Price: $37 for a one-day pass, $62 for a three-day pass, and $72 for a seven-day pass (as of 2024)
Angkor Wat Timings: 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM
About
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Angkor Wat was commissioned by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as a grand Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. It was designed to serve as the king’s state temple and mausoleum. The temple’s design was conceived to be a representation of the cosmic Mount Meru, so you get to witness geometric precision and spiritual symbolism in its design. The central temple complex is surrounded by a moat and three rectangular galleries, featuring intricate bas-reliefs that offer a glimpse into Hindu mythology and the historical events that took place back then. Following the fall of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat underwent significant changes. By the late 13th century, as Buddhism became the dominant religion in Cambodia, Angkor Wat was repurposed as a Buddhist temple.
Things To Do
1. Explore The Main Temple Complex
Photo: Serg Alesenko / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The heart of Angkor Wat is its central temple complex, which is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. You have to walk through a long causeway before you reach the main temple complex. Due to the sheer size of this temple, walking from one end to the other can be physically taxing. However, on the way to the main temple complex, you are greeted by a series of galleries. The main tower itself is at an elevation, offering clear views of the surroundings. Inside, you will find bas reliefs adorning the walls, telling stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
2. Witness The Sunrise Over Angkor Wat
Sunrise and sunset are usually the best times to visit Angkor Wat. While sunset time is usually quite crowded, visiting early morning as the temple opens to witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat is an experience that can’t be described in words. The sunlight casting a golden hue over the temple’s silhouette is truly a dream to witness. You can also opt for guided sunrise tours to ensure that you aren’t missing out on such unique experiences while exploring Angkor Wat.
3. Visit The Gallery Of A Thousand Buddhas
Photo: mark sebastian / Wikimedia Commons
Another unique experience you must indulge in when visiting Angkor Wat is visiting the Gallery of the Thousand Buddhas. It is located on the upper terrace and inside it lies several Buddha statues and carvings, which are quite intriguing to watch. The gallery is a stark reminder of how Angkor Wat, which was initially a Hindu temple, gradually transitioned into a Buddhist temple after the downfall of the Khmer Empire. You can also witness the sheer grandeur of the high ceilings and the stonework around the gallery.
4. Admire The Bas-Reliefs
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The bas-reliefs seem to be a common theme for the Cambodian temples, especially the ones you find at Angkor Archaeological Park. The most famous is the depiction of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, located on the outer gallery’s eastern side. Beyond that, you can also witness the bas-reliefs done after the Buddhist influence took over the temple. Each one of them is a treat to witness. There are several bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana as well.
Places To Visit Around Angkor Wat
1. Angkor Thom
Photo: Michiel Verledens / Pexels
Angkor Thom served as the last capital of the Khmer Empire and features impressive structures such as the Bayon Temple, known for its giant stone faces. Beyond the unique stone towers and smiling faces, the city also features massive gates, walls, and the Terrace of the Elephants, which are worth exploring as well.
Distance from Angkor Wat: 10 Km
Timings: 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Entry fee: Require Angkor day or weekly pass
2. Preah Khan
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Preah Khan is another sprawling temple complex, which might be less popular but one that’s worth exploring. The temple was constructed by King Jayavarman VII and is a large monastic complex with a mix of Buddhist and Hindu elements. Inside the temple, you will encounter expansive galleries, courtyards and preserved carvings on the stone, which are truly mesmerising to witness.
Distance from Angkor Wat: 6.6 Km
Timings: 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Entry fee: Require Angkor day or weekly pass
3. Phnom Bakheng
Photo: Helt / Wikimedia Commons
Among the many temples in the Angkor Archaeological Complex, Phnom Bakheng is usually a less explored spot. However, this Hindu temple, which dates back to the 9th century is dedicated to Hindu God Lord Shiva. It is one of the earliest temples built during the Angkor period.
Distance from Angkor Wat: 1.3 Km
Timings: 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM
Entry fee: Require Angkor day or weekly pass
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Being the epicentre of the Angkor Archaeological Complex, you can find a lot of amazing hotels located around Siem Reap. There are budget-friendly hotels and hostels and there are luxury hotels and resorts available at the city centre. Some of the popular accommodations you can consider booking for your stay are Anansaya La Maison, People by the Community, Mane Village Suites, Two Seasons, The Urban, etc.
Where To Eat
Photo: Anilakeo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
From local to international cuisines, Siem Reap is filled with restaurants and small eateries catering to the taste buds and the budget of every traveller. Some of the food joints worth visiting around Angkor Wat are Batchum Khmer Kitchen food, Malis, Fou Nan, New Hope Cambodia Restaurant, Angkor Wat café, Changkran Khmer Restaurant, etc.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Ensure that you plan your visit during early morning to witness the sunrise and also beat the crowds.
- It is an expansive temple that requires a lot of walking so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and prepare yourself for the experience.
- You might feel dehydrated after a lot of walking, so carry water bottles with you for emergencies.
- Consider hiring a local guide to help you explore the spot and the nearby temples. This enables you to have a well-rounded understanding of the place.
- Be respectful of the local culture and avoid touching or scratching any part of the temple since these are heritage sites.
Angkor Wat is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire awe and wonder. The next time you are planning your getaway to Cambodia, plan a trip with TripXL, ensuring that you include these unique places on the first day of your travel plans. From indulging in the architecture to learning about the temple’s history, there’s a lot to unfold within the temple.
Cover Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Pexels
