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Angkor Wat: A Timeless Wonder

Explore Angkor Wat, the magnificent temple city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Cambodia's rich Khmer history and architecture.

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Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the world's largest religious monument. Built in the 12th century during the Khmer Empire, it stands as a stunning example of ancient architecture and a symbol of Cambodia's rich history.

A brief summary to Angkor Wat

  • Krong Siem Reap, KH

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the morning to witness the sunrise over Angkor Wat and avoid the crowds.
  • Dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as Angkor Wat is a religious site.
  • Hire a local tuk-tuk or taxi for the day to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park comfortably.
  • Purchase an Angkor Pass in advance to save time and avoid queues at the ticket office.
  • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap city center, tuk-tuks are readily available for hire. Negotiate a fare for a round trip to Angkor Wat, which is approximately 6 km north of the city. A typical round trip, including waiting time, costs between $15-$20 USD. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes. Be sure to confirm the price and duration with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can be arranged through your hotel or found in Siem Reap. The cost for a taxi to Angkor Wat is approximately $30-$40 USD per day. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes. Taxis offer air-conditioned comfort, which can be a welcome relief from the heat.

  • Bicycle

    Bicycles can be rented in Siem Reap for around $2 USD per day. The ride to Angkor Wat is approximately 6 km and takes about 30-40 minutes. Be mindful of the heat and bring plenty of water. Biking allows for a flexible and eco-friendly way to explore the area, but it's best suited for those comfortable with cycling in traffic and hot conditions.

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Discover more about Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, meaning "Temple City," is a breathtaking testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the Khmer Empire. Constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu before transitioning to a Buddhist temple. This reflects the religious shifts in the region over time. The temple complex is designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred five-peaked mountain in Hindu cosmology. The central towers form a quincunx, symbolizing the mountain's peaks, while the surrounding moats and walls represent the cosmic ocean and mountain ranges. Intricate bas-reliefs, stretching for 800 meters, depict scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Over 1,700 Apsaras (celestial dancers) and Devatas (deities) adorn the walls and pillars, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the Khmer artisans. Angkor Wat is renowned for its astronomical alignment, with its east-west orientation and specific lines of sight aligning with the sunrise during the solstices. The temple's design incorporates advanced engineering and construction techniques, evident in the tightly fitted sandstone blocks and the overall stability of the structure. Today, Angkor Wat is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a symbol of national pride for Cambodians. Visitors can explore the temple's galleries, climb its steep staircases, and wander through its sacred chambers, immersing themselves in the spiritual and historical depth of the Khmer Empire. Experiencing the sunrise over Angkor Wat, with the temple's reflection shimmering in the moat, is an unforgettable sight. To show respect when visiting Angkor Wat, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees.

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