Top 10 Ancient Temples to Visit When Visiting Cambodia

Cambodia is a country steeped in history and culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in its ancient temples. From the famous Angkor Wat to lesser-known but equally impressive temples, there is no shortage of fascinating sites to explore. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 ancient temples to visit when visiting Cambodia.

1. Angkor Wat – Angkor Wat is perhaps the most famous of all Cambodia’s temples and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the country. Built in the 12th century, it is the largest religious monument in the world and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

2. Bayon Temple – Bayon Temple is located in the ancient city of Angkor Thom and is known for its towering faces carved into the stone. Built in the late 12th century, it is one of the most recognizable temples in Cambodia.

3. Banteay Srei – Banteay Srei is a smaller temple located in the Angkor region, but it is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful pink sandstone. Built in the 10th century, it is a true masterpiece of ancient Khmer architecture.

4. Preah Vihear – Preah Vihear is located on a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It was built in the 11th century and is a great example of Khmer architecture.

5. Ta Prohm – Ta Prohm is a temple located in the Angkor region that is famous for its jungle setting and the giant trees that have grown around and through the temple. Built in the late 12th century, it is a haunting and beautiful site to explore.

6. Phnom Bakheng – Phnom Bakheng is located on a hill just outside of Angkor Thom and is known for its stunning views of the sunset. Built in the late 9th century, it is one of the oldest temples in Cambodia.

7. Preah Khan – Preah Khan is another temple located in the Angkor region and is known for its beautiful carvings and intricate design. Built in the late 12th century, it was once a center of learning and is now a fascinating site to explore.

8. Beng Mealea – Beng Mealea is located in the jungle outside of Siem Reap and is known for its mysterious and overgrown setting. Built in the early 12th century, it is a hidden gem that is worth the journey to get there.

9. Koh Ker – Koh Ker is a temple complex located in the north of Cambodia and is known for its unique pyramid-shaped temples. Built in the 10th century, it was once the capital of the Khmer Empire and is a fascinating site to explore.

10. Sambor Prei Kuk – Sambor Prei Kuk is a temple complex located in central Cambodia and is known for its intricate brickwork and beautiful carvings. Built in the 7th century, it is one of the oldest temple sites in Cambodia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In conclusion, Cambodia is a country with a rich history and culture, and its ancient temples are a testament to its past. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new places, these top 10 ancient temples are a must-visit when traveling to Cambodia.