Angkor Wat is a temple complex located in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. It was built in the early 12th century by the Khmer Empire and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

History of Angkor Wat:

Angkor Wat was built by the Khmer king Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. The temple was later converted to a Buddhist temple in the 14th century. After the fall of the Khmer Empire, the temple was abandoned and remained hidden in the jungle for centuries until it was rediscovered by French explorer Henri Mouhot in the 19th century. Today, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination.

Visiting Points Angkor Wat:

  1. Angkor Wat: The main attraction of the temple complex, Angkor Wat is a massive temple with intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

  2. Bayon: A temple located in the center of Angkor Thom, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire. Bayon is known for its many faces carved into the stone walls.

  3. Ta Prohm: A temple that has been left in its natural state, with trees and roots growing around the stone walls. Ta Prohm was used as a location in the movie Tomb Raider.

  4. Banteay Srei: A smaller temple is known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone construction.

Hotels Angkor Wat:

There are many hotels located in Siem Reap, ranging from budget to luxury options. Some popular hotels include:

  1. Belmond La Residence d’Angkor: A luxury hotel located near Angkor Wat.

  2. Park Hyatt Siem Reap: A five-star hotel located in the heart of Siem Reap.

  3. Tara Angkor Hotel: A mid-range hotel located a short distance from the temple complex.

  4. Angkor Miracle Resort & Spa: A luxury resort located a short distance from the temple complex.

Rent a Car Angkor Wat:

It is possible to rent a car in Siem Reap, but it is not recommended for visitors to drive themselves around Angkor Wat. The temple complex is best explored on foot, by bicycle, or with a guided tour.

Best Food Angkor Wat:

Cambodian cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices, and incorporates many influences from neighboring countries. Some popular dishes to try in Siem Reap include amok (a fish curry steamed in banana leaves), lok lak (a stir-fried beef dish), and num pang (a sandwich made with French bread and various fillings). There are also many street food options available, including fried insects and noodles.