10 Ancient & Beautiful Temples In Cambodia

The Wildest Guide To The Temples In Cambodia

Cambodia isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey back in time, a dance with ancient history, and a flirtation with architectural marvels.

Picture this: you’re wandering through a colossal stone city, every carving whispering stories of gods and demons, kings and warriors, a civilization long gone but forever immortalized in sandstone. That’s the magic of Cambodia’s temples. They’re not just structures; they’re storytellers, waiting to share their secrets with you.

In this guide, we’ll explore ten of the most beautiful and popular temples in Cambodia. We cover everything from the grandiose Angkor Wat, where the sunrise paints the sky with hues of gold, to the lesser-known Lolei, a temple that once stood proudly on an island. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone seeking a spiritual experience, these temples offer something unique for everyone.

10 Must-Visit Temples In Cambodia

Angkor Wat

When it comes to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the undisputed superstar. This isn’t just a temple; it’s a symbol of Cambodia itself, proudly displayed on the national flag. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat stands as the largest religious monument in the world. Imagine waking up before dawn, making your way through the darkness, and watching as the first light of day reveals the intricate carvings and towering spires of this colossal stone city.

Angkor Wat is a place where history comes alive. Every inch of the temple is adorned with bas-reliefs depicting epic battles, celestial dancers, and mythical creatures. The level of detail is mind-blowing. As you explore, you’ll feel a deep connection to the past, almost as if the stones themselves are whispering their stories to you.

Travel Tips for Angkor Wat

• Location: Just 5.5 km north of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is easily accessible.
• Best Time to Visit: Arrive early to catch the sunrise. Trust us, it’s worth the early wake-up call.
• Cost: You’ll need an Angkor Pass, which costs $37 for one day, $62 for three days, or $72 for seven days.
• Tips: Hire a local guide to delve deeper into the history and symbolism. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes – this place is massive!

Bayon Temple

Nestled in the heart of Angkor Thom, this temple is famous for its massive stone faces smiling enigmatically at you from every angle. Walking through Bayon feels like stepping into a mystical realm. Each of the 54 towers features four faces, creating a maze of 216 stone smiles. It’s like history’s own Instagram filter – mysterious, timeless, and a bit eerie.

Bayon Temple is a masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII’s vision, representing the intersection of heaven and earth. Built in the late 12th century, Bayon is known for its unique architectural style. The central sanctuary is surrounded by a series of chapels, libraries, and pavilions. The faces, believed to represent the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or even the king himself, exude a sense of calm and serenity that permeates the entire site.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Bayon is its bas-reliefs. These intricate carvings are not just decorations; they’re detailed narratives depicting historical events, battles, and scenes of daily life in the Khmer Empire. From naval engagements to market scenes, these bas-reliefs offer a vivid snapshot of a vibrant, bustling civilization.

Travel Tips for Bayon Temple

• Location: Situated in central Angkor Thom, about 1.5 km north of Angkor Wat.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Don’t miss the bas-reliefs on the outer gallery walls. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. A guide can help you understand the stories depicted in the carvings.

Ta Prohm

If you’ve ever watched Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm might give you some serious déjà vu. Nature has reclaimed this temple in the most cinematic way possible, with giant trees weaving through the ruins. This blend of human artistry and natural takeover makes Ta Prohm an adventurer’s dream. Wander through its corridors, and you’ll feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie, discovering lost worlds.

Built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, Ta Prohm was originally a Buddhist monastery and university. The temple is dedicated to the king’s mother and was home to over 12,000 people, including high priests, monks, assistants, and dancers. What sets Ta Prohm apart from other Angkorian temples is its state of apparent neglect. Unlike other structures that have been cleared of trees and vegetation, Ta Prohm has been left largely as it was found: overgrown and mysterious.

The most iconic feature of Ta Prohm is the massive trees, mainly silk-cotton and strangler figs, that have taken root atop the temple’s stonework. Their sprawling roots wrap around doorways and walls, creating a unique and photogenic interplay between nature and architecture. This natural spectacle makes Ta Prohm one of the most atmospheric and enchanting temples in the Angkor complex.

Travel Tips for Ta Prohm

• Location: About 1 km east of Angkor Thom.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to experience the temple in its most tranquil state.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Visit the iconic tree-covered entrance for a great photo op. Be prepared for uneven terrain – it’s all part of the adventure!

Banteay Srei

Small but mighty, Banteay Srei, also known as the “Citadel of Women,” is a gem that stands out for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone. Unlike other massive complexes, Banteay Srei feels intimate, almost delicate. The detail in the carvings is unparalleled, telling stories of gods and demons with exquisite artistry. It’s about 25 kilometers from the main Angkor complex, but worth every minute of the journey.

Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Banteay Srei was built in the 10th century and is considered one of the best-preserved temples in Cambodia. The temple’s small size doesn’t diminish its beauty; in fact, the intricate details are more accessible and easier to appreciate up close. The temple’s name, which translates to “Citadel of the Women,” is thought to reflect the delicacy of the carvings, suggesting that they were crafted by women or dedicated to female deities.

Banteay Srei’s architecture is distinct, featuring three central towers decorated with elaborate floral patterns and mythological scenes. The temple is renowned for its red sandstone construction, which allows for the remarkably detailed and deep carvings that cover its surfaces. As you walk through the temple, you’ll see depictions of various Hindu myths, including the exploits of the god Shiva.

Travel Tips for Banteay Srei

• Location: 25 km north-east of the main Angkor complex.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kbal Spean (the River of a Thousand Lingas). Bring water and snacks as facilities are limited.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan, or the “Sacred Sword” temple, is a lesser-known treasure that offers a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling Angkor Wat. This temple complex is vast, with many sections still overgrown, giving it a lost-in-time vibe. Explore its labyrinthine passages and discover hidden sanctuaries, each corner inviting you to pause and ponder.

Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan was originally a Buddhist monastery and university. The temple is dedicated to the king’s father and served as a site for both religious and secular activities. Unlike some other temples in the Angkor complex, Preah Khan has not been extensively restored, preserving its sense of ancient mystery and serene decay.

Preah Khan’s design is similar to that of Ta Prohm, with its extensive grounds and partially overgrown structures. The temple complex is vast, featuring a mix of large courtyards, narrow corridors, and hidden sanctuaries. One of the most striking features of Preah Khan is the Hall of Dancers, an open courtyard adorned with carvings of celestial dancers (apsaras) in graceful poses.

Travel Tips for Preah Khan

• Location: 2 km north-east of Angkor Thom.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Take your time to explore the less-trodden paths. The overgrown sections add to the temple’s mystique and charm. Hiring a guide can help you uncover the temple’s many hidden stories and architectural details.

Phnom Bakheng

For those who crave panoramic views, Phnom Bakheng is your go-to. Perched atop a hill, this temple provides a stunning sunset vista over Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle. It’s a bit of a hike to the top, but once there, the 360-degree view is worth every step. It’s like nature’s own finale to your temple tour.

Built in the late 9th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, Phnom Bakheng is one of the earliest Angkorian temples. It was constructed by King Yasovarman I, and its location on a hilltop was strategically chosen to symbolize Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. The temple is designed in a pyramid style with seven levels, each representing a different level of the Hindu cosmos.

The hike up to Phnom Bakheng can be a bit challenging, especially in the heat, but the payoff is a breathtaking view that stretches across the jungle to the distant towers of Angkor Wat. The sunset here is legendary, with the sky lighting up in a brilliant display of colors that makes the temple and surrounding landscape glow.

Travel Tips for Phnom Bakheng

• Location: 1.5 km north-west of Angkor Wat.
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset, but arrive early as it gets crowded.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and bring water. Aim to arrive at least an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the changing light over the landscape.

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Banteay Kdei

Banteay Kdei, also known as the “Citadel of Monks’ Cells,” is an understated marvel that offers a more peaceful and contemplative experience compared to the more famous temples. Built in the late 12th century, this Buddhist temple complex is known for its sprawling courtyards and intricate carvings. Often overlooked by the crowds, Banteay Kdei provides a serene escape where you can wander through history without the hustle and bustle.

The temple was commissioned by King Jayavarman VII, the same king responsible for Ta Prohm and Preah Khan. Banteay Kdei was constructed on the site of a previous temple and exhibits a mixture of architectural styles. The name, which translates to “Citadel of Monks’ Cells,” reflects its intended use as a monastic complex. Although time and the elements have taken their toll, the temple’s beauty and tranquility remain undiminished.

One of the highlights of Banteay Kdei is its impressive entrance gates, known as gopuras, adorned with serene faces and intricate bas-reliefs. Inside, the temple is a maze of interconnected rooms, courtyards, and passageways, each offering something new to discover. The central sanctuary is surrounded by smaller shrines and halls, all covered in lush greenery and the occasional root tendril, giving the temple a timeless, ethereal quality.

Travel Tips for Banteay Kdei

• Location: South-east of Ta Prohm, about 2 km away.
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime, as it is less crowded than other temples.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Take your time to explore and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The temple’s less-trodden paths are perfect for quiet reflection and photography. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven.

Ta Som

Ta Som is a smaller temple, but don’t let its size fool you. This tranquil spot is famed for its picturesque east gate, where a giant tree has completely overgrown the entrance. The fusion of nature and architecture here is breathtaking. As you explore, you’ll discover many hidden details and carvings that make Ta Som a charming and intimate experience.

Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Ta Som was dedicated to his father. The temple’s layout is similar to other temples from the same period, with a central sanctuary surrounded by a series of enclosures. What sets Ta Som apart is the peaceful atmosphere and the iconic sight of the strangler fig tree enveloping the eastern gate, a scene that perfectly captures the eternal struggle between nature and human endeavor.

As you wander through Ta Som, you’ll notice the temple’s relatively compact size makes it easy to explore thoroughly. The outer walls are adorned with detailed carvings depicting mythological scenes and everyday life. The central sanctuary, although partially in ruins, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated artistry of the Khmer Empire. The lack of crowds at Ta Som allows for a more personal and reflective experience, making it a hidden gem within the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Travel Tips for Ta Som

• Location: 10 km east of Angkor Thom.
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime, as it is less crowded.
• Cost: Included in the Angkor Pass.
• Tips: Don’t miss the iconic east gate with the tree roots. The best time for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. Comfortable shoes are essential due to the uneven terrain.