Discover The Most Iconic Temples Of Angkor Wat

Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap is home to a vast network of ancient temples built from the 9th to 15th centuries. While Angkor Wat is the star attraction, the 400-square-kilometer complex includes many other remarkable temples worth exploring. Here are the top iconic temples of Angkor Wat.

1. Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is not only the most famous temple in Cambodia but also one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it originally served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist temple in the later centuries.

The temple is an architectural masterpiece, known for its five majestic towers that represent the peaks of Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu cosmology. Surrounding the temple is a vast moat, which reflects its grand silhouette during sunrise — a must-see for early risers.

Inside, the walls are covered with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Angkor Wat’s symmetry, scale, and spiritual presence make it a symbol of Cambodia and a source of national pride.

2. Bayon Temple

Situated in the heart of Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city, Bayon Temple is instantly recognizable by its mysterious smiling faces carved into dozens of stone towers. Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Bayon reflects the shift to Mahayana Buddhism, while still incorporating elements of earlier Hindu beliefs.

The temple features 54 towers with a total of more than 200 stone faces, thought to represent the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or even the king himself. These faces, with their gentle smiles and closed eyes, create an atmosphere of calm and introspection.

Along the outer galleries, visitors can admire detailed carvings that vividly illustrate daily life, battles, and historical events from the Khmer Empire. Bayon is a captivating blend of spiritual symbolism and historical storytelling.

3. Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is one of the most atmospheric temples in Angkor Wat, offering an unforgettable and photogenic experience. Left largely in its natural state, the temple has been overtaken by nature, with giant roots of strangler fig and silk-cotton trees weaving through the ancient stone structures.

Built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, Ta Prohm was originally a Buddhist monastery and university. Its deliberately unrestored appearance reflects how many of the temples in Angkor Wat were first encountered by explorers.

Famous as a filming location for Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm captivates visitors with its haunting beauty, serene ambiance, and the dramatic contrast between nature and human architecture - making it one of the most iconic temples in Angkor Wat.

4. Banteay Srei – The Jewel of Khmer Art

Though much smaller in scale compared to the grand temples of Angkor, Banteay Srei is often hailed as “the jewel of Khmer art” due to its extraordinarily intricate carvings on rare pink sandstone. Every detail from floral motifs to scenes from Hindu mythology is crafted with remarkable precision and artistry.

Located about 25 kilometers from the main Angkor complex, Banteay Srei is not just an artistic gem but also a scenic journey through Cambodia’s tranquil countryside. Beautifully preserved, this temple feels like an open-air sculpture museum set in nature.

5. Preah Khan – A Sacred City in the Jungle

Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan was once a major religious and academic center, home to thousands of monks and scholars. Today, the temple exudes a haunting charm, with endless corridors, moss-covered walls, and ancient trees whose roots intertwine with the ruins.

Less crowded than the popular Angkor Wat or Ta Prohm, Preah Khan offers a more serene and immersive experience. Walking through its maze-like layout, visitors can truly sense the harmony between nature and architecture, past and present.

6. Ta Som – A Quiet Portrait of Time

Tucked away to the east of Angkor Thom, Ta Som is one of the quieter temples in Angkor Wat, known for its serene atmosphere and iconic visuals. Its most captivating feature is the massive strangler fig tree that envelops the eastern gate - a stunning, natural masterpiece that draws photographers and nature lovers alike.

Often likened to Ta Prohm for its tree-covered ruins, Ta Som offers a more peaceful experience, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and truly connect with the mystical charm of the ancient temples in Angkor Wat.

7. Phnom Bakheng – Sunset Views from a Historical Peak

Perched atop a hill, Phnom Bakheng is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Angkor region, built in the 9th century during the reign of King Yasovarman I. The temple’s stepped pyramid design features seven levels, symbolizing the seven heavens in Hindu cosmology.

Phnom Bakheng is especially famous as a sunset viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas over Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle bathed in golden light. Due to its popularity, the area can get crowded in the late afternoon, so arriving early is recommended. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday to fully enjoy the magic of the setting sun.

The temples of Angkor Wat offer a breathtaking journey through Cambodia’s rich history, spiritual legacy, and artistic brilliance. From iconic landmarks to hidden treasures, each site tells a unique story. Don’t just visit Angkor – immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of its sacred temples.