On par with the pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China, Cambodia's massive, UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park deserves its rank at the top of many a world traveler's bucket list. Located just outside of Siem Reap—where most international visitors fly in—the 250-square-mile (400-square-kilometer) sandstone complex was constructed between the ninth and 15th centuries by successive ""god-kings"" of the Khmer Empire. There are dozens of accessible temples and structures to see, but for most visitors, a 2-day or 3-day tour hits the highlights without becoming overwhelming. At center stage is Angkor Wat, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture with a shimmering reflective pool at its feet and five lotus-shaped towers etching an imposing silhouette against the sky. Make sure to visit the fortified city ruins of Angkor Thom and stroll around Ta Prohm, where the ruins have become tangled in the roots of ancient strangler figs and kapok trees.
Best known for its intricately carved stone temples, Angkor Wat was the capital of the Khmer empire. Close to Siem Reap, the 12th-century temple of Angkor Wat is arguably the most well-known, but there are many, including Ta Prohm—of Tomb Raider fame—and Bayon, the temple of faces.
...MoreWhile most visitors to Angkor Wat won’t need more than a couple of days, those with a keen interest could easily spend longer. The main temples can be squeezed into one day, but if you want to visit Banteay Srei, Beng Mealea, or Koh Ker—the pyramid temple—you’ll need more time.
...MoreYes, visitors to the temples are asked to dress conservatively and cover their shoulders and knees. While men can get away with wearing shorts, women should wear long pants or skirts. You’ll also want to wear comfortable walking shoes and stay protected from the sun.
...MoreNo, Angkor Wat is not one of the Seven Wonders of the World. However, it was one of the finalists in the New 7 Wonders of the World campaign in 2000 and is sometimes still referred to as a wonder of the world or a wonder of the ancient world.
...MoreAngkor Wat is a historical and cultural attraction. Impressing visitors all over the world who come to catch a glimpse of the ancient temples, the historic capital of the Khmer Empire is the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia and one of the most visited attractions in Southeast Asia.
...MoreAlthough there aren’t any specific child-friendly activities at Angkor Wat, the ancient jungle-clad temples appeal to a broad variety of ages. For young children, a half-day guided tuk-tuk tour to the overgrown temple of Ta Prohm and Bayon, the temple of faces, would be a great place to start.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 27 |
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Number of Tours | 7 |
Number of Reviews | 5 |
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