Cambodian temple complex Angkor (Angkor Wat) is one of the largest places of worship in the world. It was built in honor of the deity Vishnu. This temple complex is usually called the “eighth wonder of the world.”
The total number of ancient temples in Angkor Wat is about 1000. Every year, more than a million tourists come to see the large-scale temple complex. Buddhist pilgrims from all over Southeast Asia also come here.
Check this ultimate travel guide on things to do in Angkor Wat in Cambodia; keep reading the post to get more details that will help first timers to plan perfect visit to this temple complex.
If you would like to visit Angkor Wat, you can join day tour from Siem Reap and admire breathtaking sunrise. Click here to get more info about the tour and make your reservation.
Angkor Wat Temple History
The temple complex belongs to the period of Khmer history, X-XII centuries. The Khmers are a great ancient civilization that once owned vast territories of Southeast Asia. They were great architects, so their skills and knowledge allowed them to build such a great complex. Its upper tier during that time was exclusively for imperial persons.
In 1431, Siam military forces invaded Angkor. Locals had to leave their homes, and the city itself was destroyed.
From that time and for almost a hundred years, the interest to the giant Angkor Wat temple complex was lost until the 16th century. In the notes of French naturalist who found this place, the writer spoke about the majesty of this temple complex; and that even if he had to die this very second, he would still not exchange this miracle for all the benefits of civilization. Since 1992, the territory of this building has been protected by UNESCO.
When the Angkor complex was listed by UNESCO, it was indicated that it was under threat. They tried to plunder the complex, illegal excavations were carried out on its territory. Some parts of the complex were littered with mines. In 1993, UNESCO launched a campaign to restore and preserve the temple complex of Angkor Wat.
What to See in Angkor Wat
Phnom Bakheng
One of the oldest temples dating back to the 9th-10th centuries. It has 5 tiers and many turrets and is a great place if you want to make really cool pictures.
Angkor Thom
This citadel is surrounded by a wide moat and an impregnable eight-meter wall. The tower was built in the 11th century. In 1181 the Chams invaded and destroyed it. Later, Angkor Thom was restored by King Jayavarman.
Bayon Temple
Its main feature is the huge Buddha faces, carved from stone. Consists of 52 square-shaped towers.
Angkor Wat Temple
This is the main temple of this temple complex. At the same time, Angkor Wat serves as the mausoleum of the Cambodian ruler, King Suryavarman II. The main tower of this complex is 65 meters high. It is surrounded by other 5 towers, which act as a symbol of the shrine – Mount Meru.
If you want to have great pictures, plan your visit to the temple at dawn. At this time of day, the majestic temple complex is flooded with the rays of the rising sun. This is a truly indescribable sight.
How to get to Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat in Cambodia is located 5 km to the north from the nearest settlement, Siem Reap. Tourists wishing to visit this cultural monument stop in Siem Reap. Battambang city is located pretty close to this famous temple, it will take about 3 hrs to drive to the north-west.
You will have to fly to Siem Reap by plane. If you are staying in Phnom Penh, the trip will take about 5-6 hours by boat.
Day Tour to Angkor Wat Temple
You can visit Angkor Wat temple as part of group tour. The price varies depending on the length of stay and other options.
You can join full day tour to Angkor Wat from Siem Reap and watch the sunrise over the temple. Click here to get more info about the tour and make your reservation.
You can book a guided tour to Angkor Wat. A visit to the temple takes 2 days and is combined with a beach holiday in Sihanoukville. If you want to visit remote and hidden places of the temple complex, you can rent a car or bike with a driver or guide. They will suggest you interesting routes. You can also see Angkor Wat from above by booking a hot air balloon tour.
Best Time to Visit Angkor Wat
The best time to visit Cambodia is December and January. During this period precipitation is minimal, the climate becomes milder and more pleasant. Air temperatures rise significantly during the spring months and reach their peak in April. May-June is a period for heavy rains. At this time, visiting Angkor Wat is not very convenient. Until October, it may rain periodically but sometimes heavy rainfall can wash out the road.
The best time of the day to visit Angkor Wat is early in the morning. It’s recommended to arrive there before the sunrise to avoid crowds and catch the opportunity to admire sunrise over the temple.
