The Temples of Angkor

Located in the heart of the Tonlé Sap tropical jungle, just 7 kilometers from the city of Siem Reap, Angkor is one of Cambodia’s top tourist attractions. Nestled within a majestic forest, it is the largest and most expansive religious complex in Southeast Asia, and also one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites in the world. Many of its structures are of immense architectural, archaeological, and artistic importance to Khmer culture.

History

The Khmer Empire was founded in 802 AD by Jayavarman II. During the empire’s period of prosperity, Angkor served as its capital—an area once dominated by the Chams.

Under the reign of Yasovarman, son of Indravarman, Angkor entered its golden age. Often referred to as the “founder of Angkor,” he initiated ambitious projects, including the construction of embankments and monuments. For more than 600 years, the Khmer Empire extended east to the southeastern tip of Asia, west to Burma, and south to Vietnam. At its height, the kingdom spanned approximately 1,000 km² and had nearly 750,000 inhabitants.

With the decline of the Khmer Empire, the capital of Angkor was abandoned around 1431. Over time, its temples were overtaken by the dense jungle surrounding Tonlé Sap.

In 1992, the vast Angkor complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To protect it from looting, UNESCO launched the Angkor Conservation Program in 1993 and transferred several artifacts to the National Museum in Phnom Penh.

Exploring Angkor

Covering over 400 km², the Angkor site is a monumental archaeological legacy filled with ruins and relics reflecting both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The complex is divided into three main sections: the central, eastern, and northeastern zones. Around 40 temples—built in either Hindu or Buddhist styles—are found across the site, along with numerous hydraulic structures, such as ponds, reservoirs, dikes, and canals.

These architectural feats and water systems reflect the brilliance and sophistication of Khmer engineering. Each structure, oriented eastward, symbolizes the sacred Mount Meru, central to both Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. The temples embody not only the empire’s spiritual depth but also its cultural, social, and symbolic values.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Angkor, visitors can take a hot air balloon or helicopter ride for a panoramic view of the temples. At sunset, the entire complex is bathed in a golden light—offering a breathtaking spectacle. For those on a tighter budget, a 6-minute flight costs around USD 50.

Highlights to visit

As the cultural and administrative center of the Khmer Empire, Angkor is home to numerous monuments from its golden age, including hundreds of temples, palaces, and reservoirs. The most iconic and frequently visited sites include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and Banteay Srei.

Angkor Wat

Measuring 1,500 meters in length and 1,300 meters in width, Angkor Wat is the most elaborate and the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist site in the 14th century. Today, it is still visited by Buddhist monks.

The temple is beautifully adorned, making it a true religious sanctuary. It is the best-preserved monument in the entire Angkor complex. Every corner features detailed carvings of gods, humans, and animals, all depicting stories from Khmer mythology and history. The borders, moldings, and capitals are enriched with floral patterns. Angkor Wat is a must-see during sunrise or sunset, when the building’s reflection appears almost like a painting brought to life.

Bayon

Located at the heart of Angkor, just north of Angkor Wat, Bayon is a Buddhist temple best known for its massive stone faces. Visitors often enjoy counting the 216 smiling Buddha faces carved onto the four-sided pillars. Today, 37 towers remain visible and standing.

Ta Prohm

Set in the eastern part of the Angkor complex and shrouded in jungle, Ta Prohm offers a mysterious, almost surreal atmosphere. Towering trees—Tetrameles nudiflora—have entwined their massive roots around the temple stones, creating a stunning visual of nature reclaiming the ruins.

Preah Khan

Spanning 56 hectares, Preah Khan was once a key center for Khmer culture and learning. It served as a Buddhist university dedicated to celebrating Jayavarman VII’s victory over the Chams. During the empire’s height, over 1,000 scholars studied here.

Banteay Srei

Recently restored, Banteay Srei is a small temple built in 967 AD to honor the god Shiva. Unlike other temples, it is renowned for its elaborate and delicate bas-relief carvings. Nearly every surface is adorned with detailed sculptures. Be sure to observe the intricately carved lintels above each doorway, many depicting scenes from Brahmanic mythology.

Getting there

By Air

Siem Reap is the nearest city to Angkor and has an international airport, making it the most convenient access point for travelers arriving by plane.

Getting around

Given the vast size of the Angkor complex, visitors are encouraged to use transportation to explore it comfortably. Tuk-tuks and moto-taxis are the only motorized vehicles allowed within the site.

Opening hours & entrance fees

To explore the temples at your own pace, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. There are three pass options: 

• USD 72 for a 7-day pass
• USD 62 for a 3-day pass
• USD 37 for a 1-day pass

Tickets are checked at each entrance. Admission is free for children under 12 years old.

Foreign tourists can hire certified guides at the main entrance. A full-day guide service costs approximately USD 25.

The main entrance gate opens daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Things to do

• Take a hot air balloon or helicopter ride to enjoy a stunning aerial view of Angkor’s temples and surrounding landscapes 
• Explore the entire Angkor complex to delve into Khmer history, spirituality, and architecture through its sacred temples