Angkor Wat Travel Guide: What to See and Do

Planning your next trip to Angkor Wat? Definitely a worthy choice! It is a remarkable testament of Cambodia’s rich history and culture. It is not just a destination, rather a portal to another era. Angkor Wat tours provide you with an unparalleled experience of adventure and inspiration. There is so much the place has to offer, if you know the right places and the right time to look for them.

Come with us as we explore the beauty of the place and help you plan the best vacation of the season!

The Whispered Stories Of The Past

Angkor Wat, in all its glory, is a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. The very air inside the complex resonates with the echoes of civilization bygone. Built in the 12th century, Angkor Wat is a temple built by king Suryavarman II displaying his devotion towards Lord Vishnu “ The Protector”.

Spreading over an area of over 400 square kilometers, Angkor wat is home to more than 100 temples. It was the center of the Khmer empire between the 9th and 15th century. Angkor was nearly abandoned in the 15th century except for the Angkor Wat temple, a prominent Buddhist Shrine. Today, it stands as one of the largest religious monuments in the world.

People also believe that Angkor Wat is not only a religious monument but also serves as the king’s mausoleum in death.

With so many stories engraved and carved in the stones, Cambodia tours are incomplete without a visit to this UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site. Read further to gain insights into the offerings of this rich historical mine.

The Traveler’s Map to Angkor Wat

A trip becomes more happening when done at the right time in the right weather. The best time to visit this iconic archaeological site of Cambodia is between the months of November and March. This time period has the best weather with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall, giving you the best explorer’s experience.

Siem Reap International is the nearest airport from where you can book taxis, hotel shuttles or tuk-tuks for a 15 minute ride to the Angkor complex. There is a Angkor pass required to enter the complex which is easily available at the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket office. There are different types of passes depending on your duration of the stay that you can check while booking your Cambodia angkor Wat tours.

Escapades in Angkor Wat

Entering Angkor Wat is like entering a time machine which transports you into a different era altogether. The main complex is a breathtaking site in itself. The towering structures reach for the skies with intricate carvings adorning every surface. The few must visit places include The central sanctuary, the outer galleries and the terrace of the leper king. These structures are a reminder of Angkor’s rich history and the numerous stories buried underneath.

Then there are the beautiful reflecting pools that make you feel that you are in a fantasy world. They offer the perfect spot to witness a magical sunrise! You can also visit:

The Enigmatic Bayon Temple

Located very near to the Angkor temple, the Bayon temple is next on the “ not to miss” list. It is a labyrinth of magnificent towers adorned with more than 200 smiling faces. Every face gazes out into the world having an expression of serenity and mystery. The faces are like a hallmark of the Bayon, leaving you in a sense of mystery long after you have left.

Do not leave out climbing the central tower. It presents a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle and temples.

Srei Temple: The Delicate Beauty

Next in the itinerary is the Banteay Srei, also known as the “Citadel of Women”. It is an archeological marvel and a testament to the artistry of people in the Khmer kingdom. The temple may be small in size, but it leaves a huge impact on the mind of the visitors. The delicate stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the mesmerizing view from the center tower are worth every time.

What else you ask!

Angkor Wat is not just about the temples. The surrounding areas are just as beautiful and mysterious. Every place you visit will give you a trip down to the cultural and architectural history of the Khmer Empire. 

Angkor Thom: Home to the majestic Bayon temple, Angkor Thom is an architectural marvel. The ancient city walls and the magnificent terrace of elephants signify the architectural maestro of ancient architects catapulting you back in time.

Ta Prohm: It is the perfect example of the beauty in decay. The ancient temple overcome by the powers of nature gives a unique glimpse of rustic elegance.

Floating Villages: This is another architectural masterpiece you can witness on your Angkor Wat tours. Nestled in the Tonle Sap Lake, the floating villages will bring you close to the lifestyle of the locals amidst the stunning natural landscapes.

Some Tips for a Memorable and Enjoyable Trip:

Research Carefully: Before booking your Cambodia Tour Packages, make sure to research properly and ensure you get good accommodations.

Respect the locals and their culture: A pro tip to make the most out of any trip is to blend in with the locals. Learn something about their culture and respect them for a marvelous experience.

Hire a guide: no one knows a place better than the people living there. Hire a local guide to get insights into the history and culture for a wholesome experience.

Pack smart:  Pack a light bag with summer friendly modest attire. Choose light fabrics like cotton and linen and dresses that cover shoulders and knees. There are a lot of temples here after all! You can accessorize your attire with some traditional Cambodian jewelry or scarves.

Carry comfortable footwear: Exploring archeological sites involves a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear that is easy on your heels.

Geared up to Start on your Trip!

Angkor Wat tours are a must if you are a travel enthusiast. It is not just a scenic adventure but a tapestry of history, art and spirituality woven with nature!
So, get ready to hear the whispers of time and to be captivated by the grandeur of Angkor Wat! It is a journey through time!