Angkor Temples

This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the early 12th century and is still the world’s largest religious monument ever built. Although originally built as a Hindu temple and unusually dedicated to Vishnu, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist site. Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. Angkor Wat is one of the worlds biggest religious monuments with a rich historical and cultural heritage that still brims with natural beauty. Situated in Cambodia, this magnificent structure full of myths, legends and wonders has earned a special place among the famous UNESCO’s World Heritage sties

Angkor Archaeological Park Temples

Angkor Wat

Construction: Early-Mid 12th cen C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: AAP CentreLocation of Entrance: Western causewayDuration of Visit: 2 hours - half dayTime to Visit: Anytime
Angkor Wat is visually, architecturally and artistically breathtaking. It is a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of Angkor Archealogical Park. Suryavarman II constructed Angkor Wat in the form of a massive 'temple-mountain' dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu.  Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and an exterior wall measuring 1300 meters x 1500 meters. The temple itself is 1 km square and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. The walls of the temple are covered inside and out with bas-reliefs and carvings.  It was used as the state temple for King Suryavarman II and became his final resting place. The temple was designed to represent the mythical home of the Hindu Gods – Mount Meru.

Lord Vishnu Statue

Construction: Early-Mid 12th cen C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: Inside Ankgor Wat Location of Entrance: Western causewayDuration of Visit: 15minTime to Visit: Anytime
Breaking from the Shaiva tradition of previous kings, Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. Angkor Wat is a West facing temple, a reflection of its dedication to Vishnu, who resides over the western quadrant of the compass. Angkor Wat is a microcosm of the Hindu universe and is a recreation of heaven on earth. The moat surrounding the complex represents mythical oceans surrounding the earth and the succession of concentric galleries resembling 'Mount Meru” - a sacred sanctum believed to be located beyond the Himalayas is considered as god’s abode. As per Hindu mythology Mount Meru, is a golden mountain that stands in the centre of the universe and is the axis of the world. As the world axis, Mount Meru reaches down below the ground, into the nether regions and extends into the heavens. All of the principal deities have their own celestial kingdoms on or near it where their devotees reside with them after death, while awaiting their next reincarnation.

Angkor Thom

Construction: Late 12th - Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: See temple visit listings
Angkor Thom (Big Angkor) is a 3km2 walled and moated royal city and was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. After Jayavarman VII recaptured the Angkorian capital from the Cham invaders in 1181, he began a massive building campaign across the empire, constructing Angkor Thom as his new capital city. He began with existing structures such as Baphuon & Phimeanakas and built a grand enclosed city around them, adding the outer wall/moat. He then constructed some of Angkor's greatest temples including his state-temple, Bayon, set at the center of the city. There are five entrances (gates) to the city, one for each cardinal point, and the victory gate leading to the Royal Palace area. Each gate is crowned with 4 giant faces. The South Gate is often the first stop on a tour.

Bayon

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomLocation of Entrance: Eastern causewayDuration of Visit: 45  minutes - 2 hoursTime to Visit: Anytime
The giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognizable images connected to classic Khmer art and architecture. There are 37 standing towers, most but not all sporting four carved faces oriented toward the cardinal points. Faces might represent Loksvara, Mahayana Buddhism's compassionate Bodhisattva, or perhaps a combination of Buddha and Jayavarman VII. Bayon was the Jayavarman VII's state-temple and in many ways represents the pinnacle of his massive building campaign. 

Baphuon

Construction: Mid 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Udayadityavarman IIArcheo. Style: BaphuonLocation: Central Angkor ThomLocation of Entrance: Western causewayDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime, but the light is better in the morning
Baphuon is a beautiful 11th century “temple-mountain” with steep stairs leading visitors to a terrace which offers one of the best views in the Angkor Archaeological Park.  Archaeologists believe that this pyramid-style temple, located within the city of Angkor Thom, northwest of the Bayon was probably among the most impressive of the Angkor temples in its day.  The Baphuon is a three-tiered temple mountain built as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Unfortunately, the ravages of time and Mother Nature caused significant damage to this magnificent temple, and it was very nearly lost to history. The tale of how it was restored is just as impressive as the structure itself.

Khleangs (North & South)

Construction: Late 10th - Early 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Jayavarman VArcheo. Style: KhleangLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Rectangular sandstone buildings set opposite the Terrace of Elephants, behind the Prasat Suor Prat. ‘Kleang’ means ‘storeroom’ but it is unlikely that this was its actual function. A royal oath of allegiance carved into the doorway indicates that they may have served as reception areas or even housing for visiting noblemen and ambassadors. The North Kleang was built in wood under Rajendravarman II and then rebuilt in stone by Jayavarman V, probably before the construction of the South Kleang. It also contains the best preserved carvings. The South Kleang was never completed. The Kleangs are unremarkable upon close inspection but picturesque from a distance, standing among the Prasat Suor Prat. 

Baksei Cham Krong

Construction: Mid 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Harshavarman IArcheo. Style: BakhengLocation: AAP/PC - Near the South Gate of Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10-15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
A towering 12-meter tall brick and laterite step-pyramid. Harshavarman I began construction or perhaps dedicated statues at the site in the early 10th century. It was later improved/restored by Rajendravarman II shortly after the capital was returned to Angkor from Koh Ker. According to inscriptions on the doorway, Rajendravarman II consecrated the temple with the installation of a golden Shiva image in 947AD. It may have also served as a funerary temple. Combine with a visit to the South Gate in the morning or Phnom Bakheng in the evening. Lighting is best in the morning.

Bat Chum

Construction: Mid 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: RajendravarmanArcheo. Style: Pre RupLocation: AAP - Just off the PC near Srah SrangDuration of Visit: 15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Bat Chum is a three well preserved prasats in a quiet area and is  historically unique early Buddhist temple constructed at a time when Hinduism dominated. The inscriptions on the doorways note the Buddhist dedication, praise the architect (who was also the architect for East Mebon and Pre Rup,) and admonishes local elephant handlers to keep their beasts off the dikes, like an ancient 'keep off the grass' sign.

Ak Yum

Construction: Late 8th - Early 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismLocation: AAP - Near the SW corner of the West Baray.Duration of Visit: 15-30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
The historically important ruins of a small brick and sandstone temple in very poor condition. The earliest elements date from the pre-Angkorian 8th century. Inscriptions indicate that a temple dedicated to the Hindu ‘god of the depths’ was previously located on the same spot. Ak Yum is the earliest known example of the 'temple-mountain' architectural design formula, which was to become a primary design formula for many of the Angkorian period temples including Angkor Wat.

Banteay Kdei

Construction: Late 12th-Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/PC - East edge of the PC near Ta ProhmLocation of Entrance: Eastern gate opposite Srah SrangDuration of Visit: 30 minutes - 1 hourTime to Visit: Anytime
This was originally constructed over the site of an earlier temple, and functioned as a Buddhist monastery under Jayavarman VII. As with other works of Jayavarman VII's era, it is a tightly packed architectural muddle, which like Bayon, suffered from several changes in the plans at the time of construction. It was also built using an inferior grade of sandstone and using poor construction techniques, leading to much of the deterioration visible today. The foundation stele of the temple has not been found so there is no record of to whom it is dedicated. The 13th century vandalism of Buddha images that is seen on many Jayavarman VII temples is quite apparent on Banteay Kdei. 

East Mebon

Construction: Late 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Rajendravarman IIArcheo. Style: Pre RupLocation: AAP/GCLocation of Entrance: Western gateDuration of Visit: 45 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
East Mebon is a large temple-mountain like ruin, rising three levels and crowned by five towers. Jayavarman IV, a usurper, moved the capital from Angkor to Koh Ker in 928AD. Sixteen years later Rajendravarman II returned the capital to Angkor and shortly thereafter constructed East Mebon on an island in the middle of the now dry Eastern Baray. The temple is dedicated to Shiva in honor of the king’s parents. Inscriptions indicate that it was also built to help reestablish the continuity of kingship at Angkor in light of the interruption that occurred when the seat of power had been moved to Koh Ker. There is some scholarly debate as to whether East Mebon should be categorized as a temple-mountain.

Chau Say Thevoda

Construction: Early 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: AAP/PCDuration of Visit: 15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Chau Say Tevoda is a small temple  was built in Suryavarman II’s rule with similar design and floor plan to Thom-manon located across the street is dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu with unique types of female sculptures of devatas enshrined in it. The Buddha images have been interpreted to have been built during the reign of Dharanindravarman, father of Jayavarman VII, who ruled from Preah Khan of Kompong. The temple was in a dilapidated state with 4,000 of its elements lying scattered on the embankment and in the Siem Reap River.  Though most carvings are Hindu-themed, there are also some Buddhist-themed reliefs. The eastern walkway from the temple leads to the Siem Reap River a few hundred meters away. In recent years Chau Say Tevoda has undergone an extensive restoration project, which is now largely complete. It 

Chapel of the Hospital

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/PCLocation of Entrance: Western causewayDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
This is one of the 102 hospitals that were built throughout the empire under Jayavarman VII. The hospital itself was probably constructed of perishable materials such as wood and bamboo, which has long since disappeared, leaving only the sandstone hospital temple or ‘chapel’ for the ages. This temple and the one at Ta Prohm Kel opposite Angkor Wat offer two examples within the Park area. Constructed of sandstone, this Chapel of the Hospital is in rough condition but some carvings are still visible. A quiet, meditative spot, easily accessible but visited by few tourists.

Krol Ko

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/GC - Near Neak PeanLocation of Entrance: Road from southDuration of Visit: 15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime. 
A small temple with a single central tower surrounded by two laterite walls. Pediments displaying the most interesting carvings at the site are on the ground along the enclosure wall

Krol Romeas

Construction: Religious Affiliation:  Patron or King: Archeo. Style:  Location: AAP/GCDuration of Visit:  15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Krol Romeas is a non-religious structure which was used as an elephant pen. Krol Romeas is located just outside of the North Gate of Angkor Thom and next to Preah Khan temple. Once you enter the circular confines of Krol Romeas, it’s like you’re in a different world.

Kutisvara

Construction: 9th / 10th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduPatron or King: Jayavarman II Archeo. Style: Preah Ko, Pre RupLocation: AAP - Just off the PC near Banteay Kdei.Duration of Visit: 15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
The three prasats at Kutisvara are in a complete state of ruin. For most visitors, there isn’t much to see. But for true Angkor aficionados, Kutisvara is a must-see temple.

Neak Pean

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/GCLocation of Entrance: Road from northDuration of Visit: 30-45 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
A small island temple located in the middle of the last baray constructed by a Khmer king (Preah Khan Baray or Jayatataka). The central temple sits at the axis of a cross or lotus pattern of eight pools. Originally known as Rajasri, Neak Pean took its modern appellation, which means ‘coiled serpents,’ from the encoiled nagas that encircled the temple. The temple is faced by a statue of the horse, Balaha, saving drowning sailors. Though originally dedicated to Buddha, Neak Pean contains several Hindu images. Neak Pean may have served an absolution function, and the waters were thought to have healing properties.

Phimeanakas

Construction: Late 10th - Early 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Jayavarman VArcheo. Style: KleangLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 15-30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime. Phimeanakas or Prasat Phimean Akas is a relatively small temple pyramid, 35 m long and 28 m wide and 12 m high, within the compound of the Royal Palace in Angkor Thom. It was built in the tenth century in the Khleang style.  It is predominantly a laterite structure, with some sandstone elements. There are not many carvings at this monument. The axial stairways, on all four sides, are flanked by guardian lions. Elephants were on the corners of the tiers, but most of them are broken.  Phimeanakas means Aerial Palace or Celestial temple. This modern name refers to a legend of a king who had to sleep with a goddess on top of a temple mountain in order secure fertility.  This goddess is nine-headed serpent, a Nagini, which could transform into a woman. If the Naga, being the supreme owner of the Khmer, did not show up for a night, the king's death would be imminant. If the monarch missed even one night to sleep with her before joining his consorts and concubines, great calamity would befall the kingdom. 

Phnom Bakheng

Construction: Late 9th-Early 10th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduPatron or King: Yasovarman IArcheo. Style: Bakheng Location: AAP - PC near the South gate of Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 1 hour +Time to Visit: Anytime
Phnom Bakheng  is a Hindu and Buddhist temple in the form of a temple mountain and is one the most beautiful sunset view spot. Dedicated to Shiva, it was built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman as the centerpiece of his new capital Yasodharapura. It was abandoned only a few decades after its construction, but its privileged hilltop location makes it unique among the temples of Angkor. Its stepped pyramid construction is a built representation of Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods. Shrines and guardian lions adorn the five levels of terraces that make up the pyramid; decreasing in size towards the top of the temple, these enhance the impression of the temple’s height. Five shrines on the top platform, arranged in a quincunx formation, represent the five peaks of Mount Meru. In the sixteenth century, an attempt was made to construct a large seated Buddha around the central shrine, which has since been dismantled. 

Prasat Bei

Construction: 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Yasovarman IArcheo. Style: BakhengLocation: AAP/PC - Near the South Gate of AT.Duration of Visit: 10-15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Prasat Bei is a temple with three brick towers in a north-south row, facing to the east, and standing on a laterite platform. Those three towers symbolized the three main Hindu gods, Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. The central tower contained a linga; the flanking towers reach no higher than the doorways. Prasat Bei was designed with three brick towers standing as a row on a single sandstone platform.  A set of three brick towers between Baksei Chamkrong and the moat of Angkor Thom near the South Gate. The central prasat rises 10 meters. Construction was never completed. Some lintel carvings survive. Prasat Bei literally means ‘towers three.’ Best lighting in the morning.

Prasat Kravan

Construction: Early 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: High Ranking Hindu PriestsArcheo. Style: BakhengLocation: AAP/PCDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Prasat Kravan temple was originally dedicated to Vishnu. Usually, the temple were built by the king,  but this  was constructed by high ranking officials during the reign of King Harshavarman I or Ishanavarman II.There are five sanctuary towers which vary in size. The central tower is the largest and the outer towers are the smallest. All of the towers face the east and sit on the north-south line. The temple is surrounded by a moat. The interior of the towers are also unique to Khmer architecture. The are large depictions of the Hindu gods Lakshmi and Vishnu which have been carved directly into the brick walls. Lion statues would have been located outside the stairway leaving to each of the towers. 

Prasat Prei 

Construction: Late 12th - Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/GC - Near Neak PeanDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Prasat Prei is located immediately south of Banteay Prei. It’s just to the north of Preah Khan temple near to Neak Pean and Krol Ko. Located on top of a small hill, Prasat Prei is surrounded by thick forest, hence the name “Sanctuary of the Forest”. It was originally built as a Buddhist temple. The temple is very quiet and only a few visitors will stop to see it. It’s mostly ruins with only part of the central tower still standing. There are also some small remains of the surrounding wall.

Pre Rup 

Construction: Late 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Rajendravarman IIArcheo. Style: Pre RupLocation: AAP/GCLocation of Entrance: East sideDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Pre Rup is a 10th century Hindu temple built by King Rajendravarman. The temple mountain is underrated and not as widely visited as other temples in the area. However, the beautiful brick structure is a must-see for anyone visiting region.The name Pre Rup translates into English as “turn the body” and it’s believed that funerals took place here. In fact, it’s thought that the whole building was a giant ancient crematorium. In traditional funerals, the body was rotated at various points through the service, hence the name.

Preah Khan 

Construction: Late 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: North of Angkor ThomLocation of Entrance:  Duration of Visit: 1-2 HrsTime to Visit: Anytime.
The Preah Khan temple located just outside the capital city Angkor Thom, its name translates to “the Sacred Sword”. The King who earlier dedicated the Ta Prohm temple to his mother, dedicated the Preah Khan to his father. The statue of Lokeshvara was carved to resemble the King’s father. The Preah Khan was a sprawling monastic-complex style temple. The outermost enclosure was built up with wooden houses and huts where common people lived. On the grounds were also a hospital and a “house with fire”. The small inner sanctuaries are cramped with a great number of temple structures, including a well preserved Hall of Dancers.

Preah Palilay

Construction: Late 12th- Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation:BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomLocation of Entrance: Eastern causewayDuration of Visit: 15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Preah Palilay is a small structure located just north of Phimeanakas in Angkor Thom. It contains elements from both Hinduism and Buddhism. The unique structure, the surrounding thick jungle, 7-headed nagas, and headless guards create an eerie-feel and a must-see temple. Only the central sanctuary remains intact. The sandstone tower opens on four sides, each one with a porch. The tower stands on a base with three tiers intercepted by stairs on each side. The principle feature of interest at this temple is the Buddhist scenes on the frontons. The scenes depicted are east, a reclining Buddha reaching nirvana, south, a seated Buddha, which is specially beautiful in the mid-morning sun, north, a standing Buddha with his hand resting on an elephant.

Preah Pithu Group 

Construction: Early 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: Hinduism & BuddhismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor Wat & Post-BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Preah Pithu Group is a collection of five temples located opposite the Terrace of the Leper King inside the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Although today they form part of a group, it’s likely that they were built individually.  There are five temples which are identified by the letters – T, U, V, X and Y. The first four (T, U, V and X) are all Hindu temples and “Y” is a Buddhist temple. 

Spean Thma 

Construction: UnknownAffiliation: UnknownPatron or King: UnknownArcheo. Style: UnknownLocation: AAP/PCDuration of Visit: 5 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
‘Spean Thma’ literally translates to 'Stone Bridge'. Spean Thma is the remnants of an ancient bridge over the Siem Reap River. Today, the river takes a different route and the surrounding area around Spean Thma is easily accessible for visitors. Spean Thma is located about 200m east of the Angkor Thom Victory Gate. It is one of the few Khmer Empire era bridges to have survived to the modern day. Nearby temples include Chau Say Tevoda, Thommanon and Ta Keo Temple.

Srah Srang

Construction: Mid 10th and Late 12th century C.EReligious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: KavindrarimathanaArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/PC - Eastern edge of the PCLocation of Entrance: West sideDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Srah Srang is the “Royal Bath” and is a 700m by 350m reservoir which is still full with water. Srah Srang was dug in the 10th century by a Buddhist minister of King Rajendravarman II called Kavindrarimathana. King Jayavavarman VII modified the reservoir in the early part of the 13th century. It’s likely that the reservoir would have been abandoned with other temples in the region around the 16th century.

Ta Keo 

Construction: Late 10th - Early 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Jayavarman VArcheo. Style: KhleangLocation: AAP/PCDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Ta Keo is one of the biggest temples built during the Khmer Empire and it was built a couple of hundred years before Angkor Wat temple. Towering but plainly decorated temple-mountain dedicated to Shiva. Known in its time as ‘the mountain with golden peaks.’ The first to be constructed wholly of sandstone, this temple employs huge sandstone blocks five sanctuary towers sit on top of a 22m stepped pyramid. There are five sanctuary towers built on top of a five-tiered pyramid. This temple mountain was surrounded by a moat which was a symbol of Mount Meru, the mythical home of the Hindu gods.

Ta Nei 

Construction: Mid 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAPDuration of Visit: 20 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Ta Nei temple is known as the “hidden temple” in the Angkor Park. One of the smaller Angkor Temples, Ta Nei was built under King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Some scholars believe that the temple was constructed as a hospital. It is now in a fairly ruined state and approached only via a track through the forest. Most Picturesque and peaceful spot.

Ta Prohm 

Construction: Mid 12th - Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/PCDuration of Visit: 1 hour
Ta Prohm is sprawling monastic complex is only partially cleared of jungle overgrowth. Intentionally left partially unrestored, massive fig and silk-cotton trees grow from the towers and corridors offering a ‘jungle atmosphere’ and some of the best ‘tree-in-temple’ photo opportunities at Angkor. Ta Prohm is well worth an extended exploration of its dark corridors and open plazas. Ta Prohm was originally constructed as a Buddhist monastery and was enormously wealthy in its time, boasting of control over 3000 villages, thousands of support staff and vast stores of jewels and gold. 

Ta Prohm Kel 

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/PC - Opposite Angkor Wat.Duration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Ta Prohm Kel is a small hospital chapel. The temple was built in the Bayon style and is a Buddhist chapel. The decoration as the part of Bayon Temple Style with davatas and small roundels enclosing figures. It shows some signs of vandalism which would have happened during the Hindu uprising in the late 13th century.

Ta Som

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/GC - Te most distant temple on the GCDuration of Visit: 30-45 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Ta Som is a captivating and charming temple. It was built in the Bayon style and has been well restored. A significant feature of Ta Som is the growth of a huge ficus tree on the east gopura, which provides a dramatic example of nature and art entwined. The temple is a single shrine on one level surrounded by three laterite ramparts. The superstructure are carved with four faced. The main tower is cruciform shaped with four porches.

Terrace of the Elephants

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 15-30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
One of the main attractions of this terrace is the façade decorated with elephant and their riders depicted in profile. The elephants are using their trunks to hunt and flight while tigers claw at them. The Terrace of the elephant extends over 300M long from the Baphuon to Terrace of the Leper King. It has three main platforms and two subsidiaries ones. The south stairway is framed with three-headed elephants gathering lotus flowers with their trunks which form columns. The central stairway is decorated by lions and garudas in bas-reliefs in a stance of support for the stairway. Several projections above are marked by lions and naga balustrades with garudas flanking the dais. The terrace has two levels one of which is square and another which has a gaggle of sacred geese carved along its base. It is likely a gaggle of sacred geese carved along its base. It is likely that these platforms originally formed the based for wooden pavilions which were highlighted with gold.At the northern end of the platform behind the outer wall, a large horse with five head sculpted in high relief stands on each side at the base of the inner retaining wall. The horse is an exceptional piece of sculpture, lively and remarkably worked. It is the horse of a king, as indicated by the tiered umbrellas over his head; it is surrounding by apsaras and menacing demons armed with sticks in pursuit of several people bearing terrified expressions. Some believe this is a representation of Avalokiteshvara in the form of the divine horse balaha.

Terrace of the Leper King

Construction: Late 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 15-30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Alongside the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King is one of the most visited sites in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The unusual name comes from a 15th century statue which was discovered at the site. The statue of the Hindu god Yama was completely covered in moss and locals thought it resembled somebody with leprosy. It is thought that the 12th century terrace was used as a cremation site for the royal family. Not much is known about this terrace and what it was used for. What is known is that it was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. It’s believed that it was used as a royal cremation site, but this can’t be confirmed.Features were added to the terrace at later times. When it was built, it would have been a Buddhist structure. But a statue of the Hindu god Yama, who is the god of death in Hindu mythology, was added in the 15th century.It is thought the name comes from this statue because when it was found it was completely covered in moss. The locals thought it resembled someone with leprosy. There is also the legend of King Yasovarman I, who apparently suffered from leprosy.

Prasat Suor Prat 

Construction: Early 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Indravarman IIArcheo. Style: Post-BayonLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 15-30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Prasat Suor is a group of 12 towers. The name translates as “The towers of the tight-rope dancers” in English. The towers were used used to support a high wire which was stretched between them. The towers are located right in front of the Terrace of the Leper King and the Terrace of the Elephants. Most temples were built to face east or west. However, these towers symmetrically arranged in a north-south fashion. Therefore, it’s unlikely that they were used as places of worship. The collection of towers are around 500m from Bayon temple. It's said that the towers were used to settle legal disputes. If there was a conflict which couldn’t be resolved, both parties were locked in one of the towers. After four days, the men would be let out. At this point, the guilty party would be sick and the innocent would remain healthy. Another theory is that the towers were used as reception halls for visitors. From here, the visitors would have a great view of the terraces where they would witness parades, games and festivals.

Tep Pranam

Construction: 9th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Yasovarman IArcheo. Style: MixedLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Tep Pranam was originally a Buddhist shrine. Tep Pranam temple contains a large giant seated Buddha statue which is still worshipped today. You’ll often see Buddhist monks in their orange robes around Tep Pranam paying their respects to the statue. The Buddha statue at the western end is made from reused material. It is unclear how long that particular Buddha has been there. 

Thommanon

Construction: Late 11th - Early 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: AAP/PC - Near the West Gate of Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 15-30 minutes. Time to Visit: Anytime
Thommanon is a small but beautiful temple which was built around the same time as Angkor Wat and in the same style. It seems to be part of a pair of temples which includes Chau Say Tevoda. However, it’s in much better condition than Chau Say Tevoda because of the extensive restoration works carried out in the 1960s.The carvings here are in excellent condition and are one of the main reasons why you should take the time to visit Thommanon during your visit to the temples at Angkor.Combine with visit to Chau Say Tevoda

West Baray

West Baray, or Baray Teuk Thla in Khmer which means “Clear Water Reservoir” in English, is large reservoir located to the west of Angkor Thom. It is 7.8km long and 2.1km wide and it is the largest baray built during the ancient Angkor era. It’s also one of the largest man-made reservoirs anywhere in the world with a maximum capacity of around 53 million m3.In the middle of the baray, you’ll find West Mebon temple. In the dry season, you can walk out see the temple, but in the rainy season you have to take a boat. The east dyke leads to Bakheng temple. Some historian believed that the West Baray could be a mooring place for the royal barges as well as a reservoir and a place for breeding fish.Accordingly to legend, the young daughter of a ruler of Angkor was grabbed by an enormous crocodile, which made a large opening in the south dyke of the West Baray that can still be seen today. The crocodile was capture and killed. The princess, still living in its stomach, was rescued.

East Prasat Top

Construction: Late 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation:Patron or King: Jayavarman VIIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP - Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
East Prasat Top also known as 'Monument 487' and 'Mangalartha' in honor of a powerful monk, Jayamangalartha, who was the son of one of Jayavarman VII’s Brahman monks.  is a very small and rarely visited Hindu temple located in Angkor ThomAll you will see here is a small shrine which is mostly in ruins. However, the jungle has literally taken over and the whole area is overgrown with vegetation. This makes the perfect opportunity for some stunning photos. The small Hindu temple is also historically significant as it’s the last accurately dated temple to have been built during the Khmer empire. 

West Prasat Top

Construction: 9th-17th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: Theravada BuddhistPatron or King:Archeo. Style: Post-BayonLocation: Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
West Prasat Top is the counterpart for East Prasat Top. They share the same name because they have the same design and are located close to each other. Prasat Top West is located about 1.5km from Prasat Top East. This temple, however, is just outside of Angkor Thom on the other side of the Siem Reap River. Nearby temples include Ta Keo, Ta Nei, and Ta Prohm.The few carvings that still exist are Buddhist some dating as late as the 17th century.

Banteay Prei

Construction: Late 12th – Early 13th century ADReligious Affiliation: BuddhistPatron or King: Jayavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BayonLocation: AAP/GC - Near Neak PeanDuration of Visit: 10 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime 
Banteay Prei, sometimes spelt Banteay Prey, means "citadel of the jungle". The Khmer word "banteay" is often used in names of temples that seem to be fortified by outer galleries or simple enclosure walls. Banteay Prei is a rarely visited temple located near to another small temple called Prasat Prei. The nearest major temple is Preah Khan. 

Thma Bay Kaek

Construction: 10th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Yasovarman IArcheo. Style: BakhengLocation: Central Angkor ThomDuration of Visit: 10-15 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Thma Bay Kaek Temple is a small, insignificant Angkor ruin related to the nearby Prasat Bei. Both were built when Phnom Bakheng was the capital of Angkor.. The spare remains of a brick prasat, now disappeared, leaving only a doorframe, lintel and a bit of the terrace. A sacred relic of five gold leaves, one bearing the image of Nandi (Shiva’s bull), was discovered at this site. Combine with visit to Prasat Bei and Baksei Chamkrong.

Rorng Romong 

Rorng Romong Temple is southwest of Phnom Bakheng. A small brick temple, the upper part has been lost over time. According to local residents, the temple’s name comes from the traditional Khmer game Romong14. Some people, however, say the temple was once used to house an animal called Romong. Such an animal does not exist today, however, and no one has ever seen a picture of it.

Preah Ang Kork Thlork

Preah Ang Kork Thlork or Wat Kork Thlork22 is located west of Bayon temple. According Khmer legend, Kork Thlork was the first name of Cambodia. An Indian man named Preah Thaong was banished from his country. He threw a javelin to determine where he would live. His javelin landed on Kork Thlok Island. So he went to the island, where he met Neang Neak, whom he married. Neang Neak’s father, a sea naga king, inspired the sea and created a country that is known today as Cambodia. 

Chau Say Tevada

Chao Say Tevada temple is south of Thommanon temple, the temple was built in the late 11th and early 12th centuries by King Suryavarman II, dedicating to Brahmanism. Chao Say Tevada and Thommanon temple are two small monument framed by the jungle that stand across the road from each other. Because of similarities in plan and form they are often referred to as brother-sister temple. Chao Say Tevada has deteriorated more than Thommanon.

Bey Temple

Bey temple is located west of Thma Bay Ka Ek temple. Constructed of brick in the 10th century, dedicating to Shiva Brahmanism, it has three towers and faces east. The original name of the temple is unknown. However, because it has three towers, it is called Bey temple.

Vihear Prampi Lveng

Vihear Prampi Lveng Temple is south of the Victory Gate. Originally, the temple had a statue of Buddha protected by a naga, but the statue was removed and later discovered 1933 at the Bayon Temple. In 1935, King Sisowath Monivong returned the statue to Vihear Prampi Lveng. The temple was given its name because there are seven sections from the entrance to the place where the statue is kept.

Wat Preah indra Tep 

Wat Preah indra Tep is a Buddhist temple located south of Bayon temple. Preah Indra Tep is a name of Preah Indra.

Wat Tang Tok

Wat Tang Tok is located north of the Victory Gate and east of Sour Proat temple. Tang Tok is a royal term that refers to accasions when the king prepares an exhibition of handicrafts or agricultural products for the people. Known for many years by local people as Wat Tang Tok, the name of the temple has been changed to Pheah Ang Sang Tuk by the Angkor conservative group, according to the monk head of the pagoda.

Mongkul Leat 

Mongkul Leat temple is in the forest, about 900 meters south of the Victory Gate. This sandstone temple was built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries. According the temple inscription, the temple was dedicated to a Brahman named Chey Mongkul Leat and to his mother. Chey Mongkul Leat was a teacher of King Krintravarman.

Taney Temple

Another Buddha head statue has been found in the complex of Taney Temple in Siem Reap province. APSARA National Authority,  technical team accidentally Found the artifact while excavating the fallen roof of the temple. The  found head statue named Preah Purthisat Lokesor or Lorkesvara. With the thickness of 36 centimetres and the height of 54 centimetres by 27 centimetre width, the Bayon designed-sandstone statue was made in late 12th century and early 13th century, 

Banteay Kdey

Banteay Kdey temple is located southeast of Ta Prohm. The temple was built in the latter half of the 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII. The temple is similar in art and architecture of Ta Prohm, but it is smaller and less complex. The original basic plan of the temple included a central sanctuary, a surrounding gallery and a passageway connected to another gallery. A moat enclosed the temple; another rampart which is 700 by 500 meters is made of laterite and has four gopuras in the Bayon style, each with four faces looking in the cardinal directions, and garudas places at the corners of each goupra which, are of the same style as those at Ta Prohm.

ROLUOS GROUP

The Roluos Group refers to a collection of four Angkor-era monuments, which are not located within the main Angkor Park, but instead near a small town named Roluos, 12km east of Siem Reap. The monuments are named Bakong, Preah Ko, Lolei, and Prei Monti. The significance of these four temples is that they’re the last remains of Hariharalaya, which was the second capital of the Angkor-era Khmer Empire. Mahendraparvata located on the slopes of Phnom Kulen, a mountainous jungle plateau  was the original Angkor capital. The temples were built by King Jayavarman II, who moved the capital to Roluos from Mahendraparvata. The last king who lived at Hariharalaya was Yasovarman I. The Roluos Group is also often combined with a visit to Beng Mealea or a floating village tour of Kampong Phluk or Kampong Khleang.

Bakong (Roluos Group)

Construction: Late 9th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Indravarman IArcheo Style: BakongLocation: AAP - Roluos Group - 12 km east of Siem ReapLocation of Entrance: East gateDuration of Visit: 45 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
The most impressive member of the Roluos Group, sitting at the center of the first Angkorian capital, Hariharalaya. Bakong stands 15 meters tall and is 650x850m at the outer wall. Constructed by the third Angkorian-era king as his state-temple, Bakong represents the first application of the temple-mountain architectural formula on a grand scale and set the architectural tone for the next 400 years. 

Lolei (Roluos Group)

Construction: Late 9th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Yasovarman IArcheo. Style: Preah Ko/BakhengLocation: AAP - Roluos Group - 12 km east of Siem ReapLocation of Entrance: East gateDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Lolei temple is one of the temples which make up the Roluos group. It was built in the 9th century and was a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It was once an island temple, but the reservoir where it was built has long since been dry.

Preah Ko (Roluos Group) 

Construction: Late 9th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Indravarman IIArcheo. Style: Preah KoLocation: AAP - Roluos Group - 12 km east of Siem ReapLocation of Entrance: East gateDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Preah Ko, “the sacred bull”, is one of the oldest monuments in Angkor. The Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva is named after the bull Nandi, the mount of Shiva.



SIEM REAP TEMPLES

Banteay Samre

Construction: Mid 12th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: AAP - Off the GC about 5km east of East MebonLocation of Entrance: North causeway from the roadDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime
Large, comparatively flat temple displaying distinctively Angkor Wat-style architecture and artistry. Banteay Samre was constructed around the same time as Angkor Wat. The style of the towers and balustrades bear strong resemblance to the towers of Angkor Wat and even more so to Khmer temple of Phimai in Thailand. Many of the carvings are in excellent condition. Banteay Samre is a bit off the Grand Circuit, near the southeast corner of the East Baray. The trip there is a nice little 3km road excursion through villages and paddies. Combine a visit to Banteay Srey with a stop at Banteay Samre on the way back.

Wat Atwea

Construction: Late 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: 8 kms south of Siem Reap TownDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Anytime.
Though lacking carvings, this laterite and sandstone temple is still in relatively good condition. It bears no inscriptions to allow precise dating but seems to have been constructed employing Angkor Wat architectural style, which is particularly apparent in the towers, suggestive of late 11th century construction. This temple seems to have been left unfinished as evidenced in part by the lack of carvings. Some of the apsara carvings were abandoned half finished. It is next to an active wat of the same name. 

Beng Melea

Construction: Early 11th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Suryavarman IIArcheo. Style: Angkor WatLocation: 60 kms east of Siem Reap.Duration of Visit: 1+ hoursTime to Visit: Anytime
Sprawling jungle temple covering over one square kilometer. The temple is largely overrun by vegetation and very lightly touristed, giving it an adventurous, ‘lost temple’ feel. Trees growing from the broken towers and galleries offer some of the best ‘tree in temple’ shots aside from Ta Prohm. Constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style under the same king that built Angkor Wat, Beng Melea preceded and may have served as a prototype of sorts for Angkor Wat. When the temple was active, the walls may have been covered, painted or had frescos. In its time, Beng Melea was at the crossroads of several major highways that ran to Angkor, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear (in northern Cambodia) and northern Vietnam. Beng Melea is located 63km east of town and is often combined with a trip to Koh Ker.

West Mebon 

Construction: Late 11th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Udayadityavarman VIIArcheo. Style: BaphuonLocation: 12 kms west of Siem Reap TownDuration of Visit: 1 hour plus transportTime to Visit: Anytime.
West Mebon temple is located in the centre of the man-made West Baray reservoir outside of Siem Reap town. It was a Hindu temple which was thought to have been built in the 11th century during the reign of kings Suryavarman I and Udayadityavarman II.  This temple is dedicated to Vishu Brahmanisim. It was originally surrounded by a square rampart with three squares, sandstone gopuras and a sanctuary on one level crowned with a lotus. Most towers have collapsed, but the three on the east side are reasonably intact. A sandstone platform at the center is linked to a causeway of laterite and sandstone that leads to the east dyke. The sides of the towers are carved with lively animals set in small squares, a type of decoration found also at the Baphoun.In the rainy season, the temple is situated on an island and you must take a boat to reach it. However, in the dry season, it is reachable by land. 

Phnom Krom

Construction: Late 9th - Early 10th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Yasovarman I Archeo. Style: BakhengLocation: 15km south of Siem Reap Town, near the Chong Khneas PortDuration of Visit: 1+ hoursTime to Visit: Anytime
Phnom Krom is a spectacular hilltop prasats overlooking the Tonle Sap, located about 12 kms southwest of Siem Reap. The hill is also the best sunset spot in the Siem Reap area, which can be enjoyed from a beautiful pagoda at the top of the 140-meter-high hilltop. The Angkorian temple that towers atop Phnom Krom is a Hindu temple originally built in the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman. The temple has three towers, each dedicated to a Hindu god. The southern tower is dedicated to Brahma, the central tower to Shiva, and the northern to Vishnu.

Banteay Srei

Construction: Late 10th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: RajendravarmanArcheo. Style: Banteay SreyLocation: AAP - Outside the main Park area. 37 kms north of Siem ReapDuration of Visit: 45 minutes 1-1/2 hoursTime to Visit: Before 5pm
Banteay Srey loosely translates to ‘citadel of the women,’ but this is a modern appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty of the carvings. This temple was discovered by French archaeologists comparatively late in their research, not until in 1914. Banteay Srey was built at a time when the Khmer Empire was gaining significant power and territory, constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king, Rajendravarman, and later under Jayavarman V. The temple displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art - the walls densely covered with some of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. The temple's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance.

Kbal Spean

Construction: 11th - 13th century C.E.Religious Affiliation: Hindu and BuddhistPatron or King:Artistic/Archeo. Style:Location: 49km north of Siem ReapDuration of Visit: 30 minutesTime to Visit: Closes at 3pm
The Kbal Spean also referred as 'River of Thousand Lingas' is located at Kulen Hills near Banteay Srei set in the lush green jungle and stunning surrounding of waterfall and rock pools. The main thing of interest in this site is a series of stone carving in the river bed of yonis and lingas as they are tribute to the Hindu God, Shiva. Lingas are most visible there after the rainy season ends and when the water level of the river is quite low. There are also carvings of Buddha and Buddhist images in the rock that date from a later period than the lingas. Combine with a visit to Banteay Srey and allow a half-day for the two and is a easy 45min uphill walk though the woods.

Phnom Kulen

Construction: 9th century ADReligious Affiliation: HinduismPatron or King: Jayavarman IIArcheo. Style: KulenLocation: 50km north of Siem Reap TownDuration of Visit: 1+ hoursTime to Visit: Anytime
Phnom Kulen is considered to be Cambodia’s most sacred mountain. Locals flock to the holy site daily to pray, leave offerings, stroll through the national park or picnic next to one of the waterfalls. Phnom Kulen, or Kulen mountain, has its roots steeped deep in Khmer tradition, dating back to 802AD when Jayavarman II was said to declare himself a devaraja – ‘god-king’ – at its peak. 12km trekking through tropical jungle before reaching a focal point. From here, visitors can climb to the summit or hit the waterfall. The path to the peak passes the famous River of a Thousand Lingas, etched with carvings of Hindu gods and symbols, believed to date back to the reign of King Udayadityavarman II.

Phnom Bok

Phnom Bok is northeast of East Baray. On this mountain stands a sandstone temple with three towers. It was built in the late 9th and early 10th centuries during the reign of King Yasovarman I. The mountain is called Phnom Bok, but no one knows from where the name came.Near the foot of Phnom Bok is Top temple. Heavily damages over time, this temple was made of brick. Its original name was Trapiang Chambok. Another temple at the foot of Phnom Bok is called Leak Neang. It is made of brick and has three towers, but only one is still in good conditioin. There is also a pond in front of the temple. The temple was once called Chhuk Temple, but it now is known as Leak Neang Temple.

TEMPLES IN OTHER PROVINCES

Phum Prasat

Kampong Thom province

Prasat Andet

Kampong Thom province

Prasat Kuhak Nokor

Kampong Thom province

Prasat Poo-Wee-Ung

Kampong Thom province

Prasat Preah Te-it 

Kampong Thom province

Sambor Prei Kuk 

Kampong Thom province

Angkor Borei

Takeo province

Phnom Chisor

Takeo province

Phnom Da

Takeo province

Prasat Neang Khmau

Takeo province

Ta Prohm at Tonle Bati

Takeo province

Yeah Peau

Takeo province

Koh Ker

Preah Vihear

Preah Khan at Kampong Svay (Bakan)

Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear

Phnom Chhnork

Kampot