Angkor Temple, Siem Reap (must see)
The Angkor Temple is a majestic UNESCO World Heritage site and a top destination for history enthusiasts traveling to Southeast Asia. Among the numerous temples in the Angkor complex, Angkor Wat stands out as the ultimate statement of Khmer architectural brilliance. It is the largest religious building in the world, boasting a perfect blend of symbolism and symmetry.
Every corner of this immense complex is adorned with intricate carvings and motifs, making it a wonder to behold. Angkor Wat, constructed by King Suryavarman II (r. 1113-1150), represents the earthly manifestation of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology believed to be the dwelling place of ancient gods. The Khmer god-kings of old sought to surpass their ancestors' achievements in architecture, resulting in what is now considered the world's largest religious edifice.
Unlike other Angkor temples, Angkor Wat has never been abandoned to nature and has remained in continuous use since its construction. Scholars once speculated that Angkor Wat might have been primarily a tomb due to its westward orientation, which symbolizes death in ancient beliefs. This idea was further supported by the bas-reliefs within the temple, designed to be viewed in an anticlockwise direction, reminiscent of Hindu funerary rites. However, it is now widely accepted that Angkor Wat served both as a temple and a mausoleum for King Suryavarman II.
The temple is famous for its more than 3000 enchanting apsaras (heavenly nymphs) intricately carved into its walls. Each apsara is unique, showcasing 37 different hairstyles that captivate visitors. Surrounding the central temple complex is an 800-meter-long series of astonishing bas-reliefs, depicting historical events and mythological stories.
The spatial dimensions of Angkor Wat align with the lengths of the four ages (Yuga) in Hindu philosophy, symbolizing a metaphorical journey back to the creation of the universe. The experience of walking the causeway to the main entrance and passing through the courtyards to the final main tower, which once held a statue of Vishnu, takes visitors on a journey through time.
Every corner of this immense complex is adorned with intricate carvings and motifs, making it a wonder to behold. Angkor Wat, constructed by King Suryavarman II (r. 1113-1150), represents the earthly manifestation of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology believed to be the dwelling place of ancient gods. The Khmer god-kings of old sought to surpass their ancestors' achievements in architecture, resulting in what is now considered the world's largest religious edifice.
Unlike other Angkor temples, Angkor Wat has never been abandoned to nature and has remained in continuous use since its construction. Scholars once speculated that Angkor Wat might have been primarily a tomb due to its westward orientation, which symbolizes death in ancient beliefs. This idea was further supported by the bas-reliefs within the temple, designed to be viewed in an anticlockwise direction, reminiscent of Hindu funerary rites. However, it is now widely accepted that Angkor Wat served both as a temple and a mausoleum for King Suryavarman II.
The temple is famous for its more than 3000 enchanting apsaras (heavenly nymphs) intricately carved into its walls. Each apsara is unique, showcasing 37 different hairstyles that captivate visitors. Surrounding the central temple complex is an 800-meter-long series of astonishing bas-reliefs, depicting historical events and mythological stories.
The spatial dimensions of Angkor Wat align with the lengths of the four ages (Yuga) in Hindu philosophy, symbolizing a metaphorical journey back to the creation of the universe. The experience of walking the causeway to the main entrance and passing through the courtyards to the final main tower, which once held a statue of Vishnu, takes visitors on a journey through time.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Siem Reap. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Angkor Temple on Map
Sight Name: Angkor Temple
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles