Ankor wat, Siem Reap Travel Guide

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Explore Angkor Wat, the heart of Cambodia: a magnificent temple city blending Hindu origins with Buddhist devotion and Khmer architectural genius.

Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning temple complex in Cambodia, originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and later transformed into a Buddhist temple. It stands as a symbol of Cambodia and a remarkable example of Khmer architecture.

A brief summary to Ankor wat

Krong Siem Reap, KH

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ankor wat.

Adhere to the dress code: cover shoulders and knees to show respect when entering the temple complex.
Purchase your Angkor Pass online in advance to avoid queues at the ticket office.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and capture the best lighting for photos.
Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the temple carvings.
Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, as the Cambodian climate can be very hot and humid.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, the most popular way to reach Angkor Wat is by tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk can be hired for the day for around $15-$20, and the driver will take you to the temple and wait while you explore. Negotiate the price beforehand. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat for about $20-$40. Your hotel can assist you in arranging a taxi. Entrance to Angkor Wat requires an Angkor Pass, which can be purchased online or at the official ticket center. A one-day pass costs $37.
Bicycle

For a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap for approximately $2 a day. The ride to Angkor Wat is relatively flat. Be mindful of the heat, especially during midday, and bring plenty of water. Once you arrive at the Angkor Archaeological Park, you'll need to purchase an Angkor Pass to enter the temple complex. A one-day pass costs $37.

Discover more about Ankor wat

Angkor Wat, meaning "City of Temples" in Khmer, is a magnificent temple complex located near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was first a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century. This transition reflects the evolving religious landscape of the region.Covering over 400 acres, Angkor Wat is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Its design is a stunning example of Khmer architecture, intended to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu mythology. The complex is surrounded by a wide moat and features three rectangular galleries, each elevated above the last, with five iconic towers at its center. These towers symbolize the five peaks of Mount Meru, while the walls represent the surrounding mountain ranges, and the moat symbolizes the sea.Angkor Wat is not only an architectural marvel but also a testament to the Khmer Empire's power and artistic genius. The temple's walls are adorned with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics and Khmer history. These detailed carvings provide valuable insights into the beliefs and daily life of the Khmer people.Despite being sacked by the Chams in 1177, Angkor Wat was never truly abandoned and remained an important religious site. Rediscovered by the French explorer Henri Mouhot in the 19th century, Angkor Wat continues to inspire awe and reverence, drawing visitors from around the globe. Today, it stands as a symbol of Cambodia, a source of national pride, and a reminder of the country's rich cultural heritage.