Angkor Wat: The Pinnacle of Khmer Architecture

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Explore Angkor Wat, the magnificent 'City of Temples,' a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Khmer architectural genius.

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Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia, is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Built in the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, it stands as a stunning example of Khmer architecture, originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and later transformed into a Buddhist temple.

A brief summary to Angkor 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 Angkor Wat.

Arrive early, especially for sunrise, to avoid crowds and experience the temple in a tranquil atmosphere.
Dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as Angkor Wat is a religious site.
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the Cambodian climate can be hot and humid.
Consider hiring a local tuk-tuk driver or guide for a more enriching experience and to navigate the vast complex.
Purchase your Angkor Pass online in advance to avoid queues at the ticket office.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Angkor Wat is by tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk ride from the city center to Angkor Wat typically takes 20-30 minutes. Negotiate the price with the driver beforehand; a round trip for the small circuit (including Angkor Wat) typically costs between $15 and $25 per day. The tuk-tuk driver can also take you to the Angkor Wat Ticket Office to purchase your entrance pass. A one-day pass costs $37.
Taxi

Taxis are also readily available in Siem Reap and offer a more comfortable, air-conditioned ride to Angkor Wat. A taxi from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat costs around $30-$40 per day. Like with tuk-tuks, negotiate the price before starting your journey. Remember to factor in the cost of the Angkor Pass, which is $37 for a one-day pass.
Bicycle

For the adventurous, renting a bicycle is a budget-friendly option. Bicycle rentals are available in Siem Reap for around $2 per day. The ride to Angkor Wat is relatively flat and takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Be prepared for the heat and bring plenty of water. Upon arrival, you will still need to purchase an Angkor Pass for $37.

Discover more about Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, meaning "City of Temples" in Khmer, is a sprawling temple complex that covers over 400 acres. Constructed in the 12th century (approximately 1116-1150 CE) by Khmer King Suryavarman II, it was first dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, reflecting the king's faith. By the end of the 12th century, it transitioned into a Buddhist temple.The temple's design is deeply symbolic, representing Mount Meru, the sacred mountain believed to be the home of the gods in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The five towers of Angkor Wat mirror the five peaks of Mount Meru, while the surrounding walls symbolize the mountain ranges, and the moat represents the cosmic ocean. The complex is enclosed by an outer wall stretching 3.6 kilometers (2.2 miles), within which lie three rectangular galleries, each elevated above the last.Angkor Wat is renowned for its intricate bas-relief carvings, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the epic story of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. These carvings, extending over 1,200 square meters, provide valuable insights into ancient Khmer beliefs and artistic skills.Unlike many ancient sites, Angkor Wat was never truly abandoned, though it did experience periods of disuse and disrepair. In the 16th century, it was re-established as a Buddhist site. The temple's importance was re-ignited in the 19th century when French explorer Henri Mouhot described it as “grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome”. Today, Angkor Wat is a symbol of Cambodia, prominently featured on the national flag and attracting thousands of visitors each year. It stands as a testament to the rich history, architectural prowess, and cultural significance of the Khmer civilization.Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.