The Angkor Wat is a towering structure that has become intertwined with the Cambodian identity. Every year, pilgrims and travellers alike, arrive at the temple ground to explore and pay their respects. So, if you’re planning to visit there yourself, here’s a quick look at what you can expect.
The Angkor Wat
Of course, the Angkor Wat is the main attraction at the Angkor Temple Gardens. If you’re staying at a luxury hotel in Siem Reap – say, for instance, the Anantara Angkor Resort – this is what will be recommended in the itinerary. Once the jewel of the mighty Khmer Empire, it is now a revered Buddhist temple.
Ta Prohm
Once upon a time, Ta Prohm was buried underneath the jungle overgrowth. Nowadays, it has been partially restored and makes for quite an impressive sight. In fact, it was used as a filming location for the 2001 action movie, Tomb Raider.
Bayon
Bayon is a temple that’s famous for the giant carved faces that adorn its walls. Alongside the Angkor Wat and the Ta Prohm, this is one of the largest temples in the complex and is definitely worth a visit while you’re there.
Angkor Thom
Enclosed by four massive stone gates, the Angkor Thom is an imposing structure with a bridge before each entrance. These bridges are lined with the faces of god and demons – a representation of the Churning of the Ocean Milk from Hindu mythology.