Angkor WHAT?!
There was a bar by the name Angkor What that I wanted to visit in Siem Reap, but did not get around to. It’s also a good question.
Angkor Wat is….
…the name used to refer to a temple complex a few miles (6 kilometers) outside of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Angkor Wat, which means “Capital Temple” in the Khmer language, is actually the name of single temple within the larger Angkor Archeological Park but is often used colloquially, and in this post, to refer to the complex as a whole.
Angkor Wat itself was built as a Hindu temple in the early 12th century. It transitioned into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the same century. It was designed to represent Mount Meru, which I found particularly interesting because I had just learned about that sacred mountain last year through the aptly titled documentary Meru (info/purchase). Incidentally, I loved that film.
Angkor Wat’s design, and that of most other Khmer temples, is modeled after the universe itself. Wow. Lofty architectural goals. J It takes you metaphorically from the sea to sacred mountains to the residence of the gods. Angkor Wat notably faces west, the direction of death, which has led many to conclude it was originally a tomb. Although some think this alignment was to honor Vishnu.
Some other temples within the complex include: the Bayon, Preah Khan, Pre Rup, and Ta Prohm (from the movie Tomb Raider). This site has a great, easy to skim overview of the many temples in the complex (with photos!)
I’m still learning more about the temple and complex, but good overviews on its history and design here, here and here.
Without hesitation, I can say that visiting Angkor Wat was one of the most incredible, mind-blowing experiences I have ever had. It is like a natural world wonder and man-made world wonder rolled into one. If I had more time, I would have gone back for another day or two of exploration.
Angkor Wat Can be Toured By…
…almost any means. It can be toured by bike, by TukTuk, by car, or by bus. It can be toured on your own, with licensed guide, or with an unlicensed guide.* It can be toured via an individual tour, small group tour, or large group tour. It can be viewed at sunrise or sunset.
You get the idea. If you stay in Siem Reap, you will have no problem finding a way to get to Angkor Wat on any day that you want to go, though you may have some trouble deciding which option to take. For this reason, I don’t think there’s any reason to book ahead, unless it will give you peace of mind. No matter which method you choose, you will have to pay the entrance fee, which has made headlines for its recent sharp increase.
*Only licensed guides can accompany you into all the temples and speak to you about their history. This could be a major plus if you are a history buff or a major downside if you want some time to explore on your own.
Angkor Wat Looks Like…
This.
The Angkor Sunrise Pic
And This.
Angkor Wat Entrance As Starts to Get Light Out
And the many other photos I posted here (photo-blog of the tour). Where do you stay to visit Angkor Wat? Siem Reap, Cambodia. More details on booking lodging here.
