Why Angkor Wat is Special

Angkor Wat is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks in the world, and it holds a deeply significant place in Cambodian culture, religion, and history. As the largest religious monument on Earth, it represents the epitome of classical Khmer architecture and art. Originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat later became a Buddhist temple and remains a central place of worship in Cambodia today.

Its breathtaking scale, intricate carvings, and alignment with celestial bodies make it a masterpiece of ancient engineering. As the symbol of Cambodia, it appears on the national flag and is a source of immense pride for the Cambodian people. Visitors from all over the world come to Angkor Wat not only for its architectural beauty but also to witness the profound spiritual atmosphere that emanates from this extraordinary temple complex.

History and Cultural Significance

Angkor Wat was originally constructed to serve as the state temple and capital of King Suryavarman II. The temple was dedicated to Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, and was intended to symbolize Mount Meru, the sacred center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. The layout and design of Angkor Wat reflect this cosmic vision, with the temple’s five central towers symbolizing the peaks of Mount Meru, and the surrounding moat representing the oceans encircling the mountain.

After the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century, Angkor Wat was gradually abandoned, and the temple complex was left to the forces of nature. Over time, it transformed into a Buddhist temple, which it remains today. The fusion of Hindu and Buddhist elements in the temple’s art and architecture adds to its cultural and religious significance.

Notably, Angkor Wat is considered the largest religious monument in the world, and it is an architectural marvel of the Khmer Empire. The temple’s massive scale, intricate bas-reliefs, and grand layout make it a highlight of the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Key Features of Angkor Wat

1. Main Temple Complex

At the heart of Angkor Wat lies the main temple complex, consisting of a central tower surrounded by four smaller towers. The temple is designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain of Hindu mythology, with the central tower symbolizing its peak.

2. Bas-Reliefs

Angkor Wat is renowned for its extraordinary bas-reliefs, which cover the walls of the outer galleries and depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, Ramayana epics, and Mahabharata battles. The scenes tell stories of gods and demons, and they are some of the finest examples of Khmer art.

One of the most famous bas-reliefs is the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, which shows gods and demons working together to churn the ocean in search of the elixir of immortality. This epic scene is a symbol of the constant struggle between good and evil.

3. The Central Sanctuary

The central sanctuary of Angkor Wat is a towering structure, rising 65 meters (213 feet) above the ground. It can be reached by a steep stairway, which was once the only access to the sanctuary. The sanctuary houses a small shrine dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, which was later adapted for Buddhist worship.

4. The Moat

The temple is surrounded by a vast rectangular moat, which is an essential part of the temple’s design. The moat serves both as a protective feature and as a symbolic representation of the ocean surrounding Mount Meru. The sheer scale of the moat, measuring 200 meters wide, adds to the grandeur of the temple complex.

5. The Gallery of 1,000 Buddhas

Inside the temple complex, there is a gallery of 1,000 Buddha statues, which were added during the Buddhist conversion of the temple. These statues are placed along the inner walls and serve as a testament to the spiritual evolution of Angkor Wat from a Hindu to a Buddhist temple.

6. Celestial Alignment

Angkor Wat is carefully aligned with the stars and the movements of the sun. The temple’s design was created with celestial observations in mind, making it a remarkable example of ancient astronomical knowledge. The equinoxes are particularly significant at Angkor Wat, as the sun rises directly over the central tower on the day of the spring equinox.

Visiting Information

Location

• Address: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Coordinates: 13.4125° N, 103.8667° E
• Angkor Wat is located about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) north of Siem Reap, the nearest town, and is easily accessible from the main roads.

Opening Hours

• Daily: 5:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • It’s recommended to visit early in the morning to catch the famous sunrise over Angkor Wat, which is one of the most popular experiences for visitors.

Admission Fees

• 1-Day Pass: $37 USD
• 3-Day Pass: $62 USD
• 7-Day Pass: $72 USD
• Tickets for Angkor Wat are valid for multiple entries over a period of several days within the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes other temples such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei.

Guided Tours

• For a deeper understanding of Angkor Wat’s history, architecture, and significance, consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour. Guided tours are available in various languages and provide valuable insights into the temple's rich cultural and historical background.

Travel Tips

1. Arrive Early for Sunrise

• The sunrise at Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience. Arriving early will give you the opportunity to photograph the temple as the sun rises behind it, creating a stunning reflection in the surrounding moat.

2. Dress Modestly

• Angkor Wat is a religious site, so visitors should dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing revealing clothing. Comfortable shoes are essential as you will be walking long distances on uneven surfaces.

3. Stay Hydrated

• The climate in Siem Reap can be hot and humid, especially during the dry season. Be sure to bring water with you and wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

4. Respect Local Customs

• As Angkor Wat is still an active religious site, it’s important to respect local customs. Do not climb on the ruins or disturb monks or worshippers. Photography is allowed, but avoid taking photos of religious ceremonies without permission.

5. Explore at Your Own Pace

• Angkor Wat is vast, and it’s easy to get lost in its maze of corridors and galleries. Take your time to explore and soak in the intricate carvings and architectural beauty. If possible, plan to visit more than once to fully appreciate the site.

6. Bring Mosquito Repellent

• Like many other places in Southeast Asia, Siem Reap is home to mosquitoes, especially in the wet season. Applying mosquito repellent will help protect you from bites while you explore.

Nearby Attractions

1. Angkor Thom

• Located just a few kilometers from Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom is another grand archaeological site. The Bayon Temple within Angkor Thom is known for its hundreds of stone faces, and the Terrace of the Elephants offers a stunning view of the ancient city.

2. Ta Prohm

• Ta Prohm is famous for its overgrown trees and dramatic ruins, as seen in the movie Tomb Raider. This temple offers a more adventurous experience, with its massive roots entwining the stone structures.

3. Banteay Srei

• Banteay Srei is a smaller but exceptionally well-preserved temple located about 25 kilometers north of Angkor Wat. It is renowned for its detailed carvings and pink sandstone structure.

4. Angkor National Museum

• To learn more about the history and significance of Angkor Wat and the Khmer Empire, visit the Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap. The museum offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Angkor Wat is a true wonder of the ancient world, and a visit to this grand temple complex is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Its breathtaking architecture, historical importance, and spiritual significance make it the crown jewel of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Whether you're visiting for the stunning sunrise, exploring the intricate bas-reliefs, or simply appreciating its majestic scale, Angkor Wat remains a testament to the power and creativity of the Khmer Empire.