Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia is considered as the largest religious structure or building all over the world. This sacred temple is formally known as Prasat Angkor Wat.
Location
Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia is situated about 5.5 kilometers off the northern parts of Siam Reap. It lies in the southernmost end of Angkor’s tourist hotspots.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia is through Cambodia’s most popular mode of public transport: the tuk-tuk. You can rent out a tuk-tuk for one whole day and the driver will directly take you to the entrance of the temple, upon which you will have to walk around the grounds to view the sights.
There are also motorcycle taxis that can take you to Angkor Thom, one of the temples within the temple Angkor Wat complex.
On the other hand, if you would like to explore on your own, you can rent out a bicycle and ride down to the temples yourself. You will find that majority of the guesthouses in Angkor have bicycles for rent.
What to See
Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia has magnificent structures that will take your breath away. Once you step inside the complex, you will feel as if you have stepped into a whole different world – one of ancient ruins teeming with rich history; more importantly, religious history.
On these walls, you can see depictions of the Battle of Lanka and the Battle of Kurukshetra; as well as the thirty-two hells and thirty-seven heavens from Hindu mythologies.
Brief History
Construction of Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia began in the 12th century, particularly under the rule of King Survayaman II. The temple was in honor of the Hindu god, Vishnu.
It was constructed to serve as the king’s place of worship as well as his capital city. Upon the king’s death, construction ceased.
By the 13th century, worship at the Angkor Wat shifted from Hinduism to Buddhism, which is still being practiced up to this day.
Restoration work on the temple was undertaken during the 20th century, mainly focusing on removing soil and vegetation that have grown around the temple.
Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia is depicted in the country’s national flag, underscoring the importance of the temple to the people here.
Cost
A day pass to enter Angkor Wat in Angkor – Cambodia costs $20 while a 3-day pass costs $40. For a 7-day pass, you will have to pay $60.
Tuk-tuk rides to the temple costs about $10 up $12 while motorcycle taxi ride costs about $6.00. Bicycle rentals on the other hand cost about $5.00 for one day.
Other Information
Before you get your entry pass, your photo will be taken which will then be printed out on the pass. This will ensure that you are the sole user of the pass as this is non-transferable.
Once you enter the premises, this will be stamped to indicate the date that you entered and left. This will monitor the number of days you have used your pass for 3-day and 7-day passes.
If you happen to purchase your pass late in the afternoon, just before sunset; you may watch the sunset from the temples without having your pass stamped on, yet. This means that you can watch the sunset for free and start using your pass the following day.
