Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world, on a site measuring 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m2; 402 acres). It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yaśodharapura, the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Breaking from the Shaiva tradition of previous kings, Angkor Wat was instead dedicated to Vishnu. As the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.

Bayon Temple

Bayon is in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, which was the symbolic center of the Khmer empire. Dedicated to Buddha by King Jayavarman VII, this state temple was originally called “Jayagiri” (which means “Victory Mountain”) but was renamed “Banyan Temple” sometime after the period of French occupancy. The Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment after a long period of meditation beneath a banyan tree. The religious significance of the banyan tree and the many banyan trees growing around the site made it an appropriate name. However, the local Khmer who worked on the restoration of the temple were responsible for its final name change. The workers mispronounced the name as “Bayon” instead of “Banyan” and the name stuck.

Terrace of the Elephants

The 350m-long Terrace of Elephants was used as a giant reviewing stand for public ceremonies and served as a base for the king's grand audience hall. The Terrace of the Elephants was constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. The original structure was used as a viewing platform for the king to welcome home his victorious armies from battles.

Baphuon Temple

The temple was built in the 11th century as a three-tiered temple mountain. Baphuon was dedicated to Shiva and was used as the state temple for King Udayadityavarman II.

Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm, known for the huge trees and the massive roots growing out of its wall, is believed to have been built in the late twelfth and early thirteenth century. This “Jungle temple” was featured in the adventure movie The Tomb Raider; several shots were filmed here.

Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng, the state temple of the first Khmer capital in the Angkor region. It is best place to see the view of sunset and the whole of Angkor Capital city.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan translates to the Royal Sword or the Holy Sword and is a 12th century Buddhist temple. The temple was built by King Jayavarman VII to honour his father and was built on site of the victory over the invading Cham armies in 1191 AD.

Neak Pean

Neak Pean, sometimes written as Neak Poan, is a Buddhist temple which sits in the middle of a circular artificial island in Jayatataka Baray. It was built by the prolific king Jayavarman VII in the middle of the 12th century.

Ta Som

Ta Som is a captivating and charming temple. It was built in the Bayon style and has been well restored. Built as part of the vast construction program led by King Jayavarman VII, this Buddhist temple looks similar to many temples built at that time.

East Mebon

East Mebon is a mountain temple which was built in the middle of the 10th century. It was built by King Rajendravarman II and dedicated to Shiva.

Banteay Srei

Bonteay Srei temple is a 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It’s often said that Banteay Srei is the “jewel of Khmer art” because of all the intricate carvings. In fact, the name means the “citadel of the women” and this modern name comes from the belief that the carvings are so fine that they could only have been done by the hands of a woman.