Angkor Wat Tour

Pathway to Angkor Wat

Located in the northwestern region of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's the largest religious monument in the world and is considered a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. This guide will provide essential information to plan your visit to Angkor Wat.

Basic facts about Angkor Wat

City block in Siem Reap

Before you plan your trip to Cambodia, we recommend you to learn the facts of scenic spots before hand. Now we list 5 bascis facts about Angkor Wat to help you understand this magnificent historical site better.

Fact one: Location

Angkor Wat lies north of Siem Reap. It is also surrounded by an essential group of ancient structures.

Fact two: Construction

Angkor Wat was built in the early 12^th century during the Khmer Empire by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple. Later it was converted to a Buddhist temple.

Fact three: Architecture

Angkor Wat covers an area of 400 acres. The temple has five towers that represent Mount Meru, the mythical home of the Hindu gods. The outer walls are covered with delicate bas-reliefs, which depict scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.

Fact four: Opening hours

Angkor Wat is open every day from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Travelers can plan your itinerary properly according to the open hour. By the way, Angkor Wat sunrise tour is also popular, which leaves everyone a fabulous view of morning Cambodia. of course, you can have a sunset view there to feel time to pass.

Fact five: Ticket prices

1 day: $37

3 days: $62

7 days: $72

You can buy the tickets at the main entrance of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Remember to show your tickets at each temple within the park.

History of Angkor Wat

The Hindu god Vishnu

Once upon a time, there was a king named Suryavarman II who ruled the Khmer Empire in what is now Cambodia. He wanted to build a temple that was both a symbol of his power and a tribute to the Hindu god Vishnu. So, he gathered the best architects and builders in the land and began construction on what would become Angkor Wat.

It took over 30 years to build, and when it was finished, it was one of the most impressive buildings in the world. The temple was designed to represent Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods, and had five towers that symbolized the five peaks of the mountain. The temple was also adorned with intricate carvings that depicted scenes from Hindu mythology, and it was surrounded by a moat that was over 5 kilometers long.

Over time, the Khmer Empire declined, and Angkor Wat was abandoned and left to the jungle. It wasn't until the 19th century that French explorers rediscovered the temple and began restoration work. Today, Angkor Wat is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its beauty and learn about its rich history.

Cultural significance of Angkor Wat

Delicate bas relief

In terms of cultural significance, there are a lot to be considered. We list 3 obvious values where Angkor Wat gives itself magic and charm.

Spiritual significance:
Since it was originally built as a Hindu temple and later converted to a Buddhist temple, Angkor Wat has always been considered as a place of worship for both Hindus and Buddhists. Today, the temple continues to be an important pilgrimage site for both religions. Visitor can witness offerings and rituals performed by devotees.

Artistic significance:

The art at Angkor Wat reflects the beliefs and values of the Khmer people, as well as their technical skill and artistic vision. It has to be a vital art heritage to Cambodian artists to develop their thoughts, combing new and old together.

Historical significance:
Angkor Wat serves as a reminder of Cambodian past to its people. However, it leaves the best gift, the beauty of the ruins to later generations and visitor around the world.

How to tour Angkor Wat

A monk in front of Angkor Wat with camera

We suggested that you can consider a 2-3 days journey to explore the Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples. However, if you are interested in seeing all of the temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, you may consider spending more times there.

Here are a sample itinerary for you to visit Angkor Wat in 2 days:

Day 1

Morning:

Start early with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat to see the temple at its most beautiful and avoid the crowds.

Explore the temple complex of Angkor Wat, which could take up to 2-3 hours.

Afternoon:

Visit the impressive Bayon temple, known for its many smiling faces and intricate bas-reliefs.

Explore the Terrace of the Elephants, a ceremonial platform adorned with elaborate carvings of elephants and other mythical creatures.

Evening:

Catch the sunset at Pre Rup, a temple mountain built of brick and laterite that provides great views of the surrounding area.

Enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner and relax at your accommodation.

Day 2

Morning:

Explore the jungle temple of Ta Prohm, which is famous for the giant tree roots that grow over and around the temple structures.

Visit the temple of Banteay Srei, which is known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.

Afternoon:

Visit the temple of Preah Khan, which was built by King Jayavarman VII to commemorate his victory over the Cham.

Explore the temple of Neak Pean, a small island temple located in a pond that represents the paradisiacal Himalayan lake known as Anavatapta.

Evening:

End the day with a visit to the night markets or a relaxing spa treatment before departing.

The sample above is just a suggestion. For more information or if you want to know what to do in Siem Reap, visit our website for more fun activities you can do in Cambodia.

How to get to Angkor Wat

On a tuk tuk tour in Angkor Wat

If you were already at Siem Reap, there are some ways you can get to Angkor Wat. And you will later find out that Cambodia transportation is really optional.

Tuk-tuk: You can easily hire a tuk-tuk on the street of Siem Reap. Besides, it is relatively inexpensive. For locals and visitors alike, it is the most popular and convenient mode of transportation in Cambodia with its lovely design.

Bicycle: If you want to ride a bicycle to Angkor Wat, be ware of the hot and humid climate in Cambodia, so bring water, hat, and sunscreen along the way.

Motorbike: You need to better wear a helmet if you try to drive motorbike. You can either rent one or just hire a motorbike driver.

Car or taxi: This could be a more comfortable way to travel around. Use proper language to negotiate the price and let the driver know the exact place you want to go.

Public bus: For those who are on a budget and do not mind the lack of comfort, you can take the public bus. You are also suggested to prepare some cash with you.

Visiting tips

Cambodia kids in school

Imagine that you will be ready for Cambodia tour tomorrow, what would you worry? We list some of the tips for you to be worriless. Come and find out the secrets of travelling.

What to wear?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. If you are worried about the mosquitoes, wear a long but thin shirt. If you want to look like as locals exotic, you can buy some Southeast Asia clothing online in advance.

What to take?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as it can get hot and sunny. You can also bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited food and drink options within the temple complex.

What to behave?

Respect the local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting the temples.

About safety

Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season (December to February), also the best time to visit Cambodia. Crowds can bring lots of problem at the same time, like scams, thievery, the stampede, etc. So just stay careful and vigilant to your surroundings.

In the end

How about a cultural and historical Cambodia tour to Angkor Wat? We as a professional travel agency with experienced travel guide, can provide you the most unforgettable trip to Cambodia. Always remember that there are more than Angkor Wat to explore in Siem Reap. Come and get in touch with us to tailor your Cambodia tour right now!