What is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is the world' biggest religious site. Angkor Wat is a treasured temple and masterpieceof what is now known as the Angkor Archaeological Park. In terms of city history, the city of Angkor was built in the 12th century to be essentially the Khmer capital for King Suryavarman II. Another interesting fact; Angkor Wat was initially built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire. Later on, it was transformed into a Buddhist temple around the end of the 12th century.
How do you get to Angkor Wat?
Simply take a tuk-tuk to Angkor wat. Why? It may seem you can bike or even walk around Angkor Wat, but the complex is very large as it sits on over 400 acres of land. If you are curious about what tuk-tuk driver we used in the video then please comment or write us on our Big and Small Travel Youtube Channel. Our guide/driver cost us around $20-$25 USD. Always remember when you are traveling especially in Southeast Asia and going on an adventurous trip, we recommend using Safety Wing to keep you covered for all your travel medical insurance needs: safetywing.com
Best Temples to see at Angkor Wat?
Every Temple below is featured in the Video:
1. Angkor Wat:
The Angkor Wat temple the largest of all Angkor's temples and one of the best preserved to wander and get lost. The main site is centered around a huge rectangular reservoir and an outer wall measuring over 2 miles in length. As well, the temple is made up of three tiered galleries and five towers shaped like lotus buds. Look out for the apsara, also spelled as apsaras. An Aspara is a type of female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist culture.
One of the most dazzling and iconic temples in Angkor is Bayon. When you are walking around the temple expect to see at least a dozen stone heads in view at any given time. THe big engraved faces are believed to be representations of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. This is a popular temple, but well worth the crowds.
3. Angkor Thom:
Part of the Bayon complex of temples. Make sure to visit this part of this religious site. You will witness four huge faces, reminiscent of the stone heads at Bayon temple, pointing in all directions. Remember to get to Angkor Thom you need to approach Angkor Thom via the south gate along the causeway that is lined by 54 large gods and demons as well.
What to See in Siem Reap?
1. The War Museum Cambodia:
This is the only war museum in Cambodia. The museum has a unique collection, you can take a free guide, if you like with a war veteran if you want. We opted to walk around this eerie place to see and witness the dark history that has happened in Cambodia not too long ago.
2. Eat Cambodian Food:
Enjoy great local food in Siem Reap that includes Khmer cuisine, both traditional and new. Try everything from small family-run kitchens to sophisticated fine dining, each providing a local flavor and introduction to the food of Cambodia.