🛕 Angkor Wat
អង្គរវត្ត
Province
Siem Reap
Era
Classical Angkorian
Difficulty
🟢 Easy
Crowds
🏟️ Very High
Key Facts
Built: 12th century (1113–1150)
Built by: King Suryavarman II
Religion: Hindu-Buddhist
Entry Fee: Angkor Pass: $37/day, $62/3-day, $72/7-day
Time Needed: 3–5 hours for thorough visit
UNESCO: ✅ World Heritage Site
The world's largest religious monument — a 162.6-hectare temple complex and Cambodia's national symbol, depicted on the flag.
Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Khmer architecture and the largest religious monument ever constructed. Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple. The complex is renowned for its grand scale, harmonious proportions, and extraordinary bas-reliefs that stretch nearly 800 meters along the gallery walls, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology including the famous Churning of the Ocean of Milk. The five iconic towers represent Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu cosmology. The temple faces west — unusual for Khmer temples — which has led scholars to debate whether it was intended as a funerary temple. Sunrise behind the main towers remains one of Southeast Asia's most iconic views, drawing thousands of visitors daily. The intricate devata (celestial dancer) carvings number over 1,800, each with unique features, hairstyles, and expressions.
Highlights
- ✦ Sunrise over the five towers
- ✦ Gallery of bas-reliefs (800m long)
- ✦ 1,800+ unique devata carvings
- ✦ Churning of the Ocean of Milk scene
- ✦ Third level panoramic views
- ✦ Reflecting pool photo spot
Best Time to Visit
Arrive before 5:30 AM for sunrise. Afternoon (2-5 PM) has fewer crowds.
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Buy your pass the afternoon before at the ticket office for a free sunset visit
- 💡 Wear clothes covering knees and shoulders for the upper level
- 💡 Hire a licensed guide ($25-35) for historical context
- 💡 The south gallery bas-reliefs are the most impressive
Nearby Temples
13.4125°N, 103.8670°E
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