|
Explore Cambodia's Angkor Wat
Deep in the Cambodian jungle and accessible from both Cambodia and Thailand, the famous temples of Angkor are one of the most impressive sights in the world. Angkor is a crumbling reminder of the once powerful Khmer empire. Inaccessible for many years due to war and unrest in Cambodia, Angkor now sees a growing number of international visitors.
The ancient temple complexes at Angkor are scattered around an area some 65 kilometres around the Cambodian town of Siem Reap. Siem Reap is about 300 kilometres from the capital Phnom Penh and can be reached by air or road. You can also fly direct to Siem Reap from Thailand, the least arduous option. (Cambodian roads are in poor condition and road travel is slow and uncomfortable).
The temples of Angkor were constructed between the eighth and thirteenth centuries out of brick and stone. There are numerous sites to explore although some are undergoing restoration or are off limits for security reasons. The major historical sites are however easily visited.
The most impressive site is Angkor Wat, a massive pyramid shaped temple completed in 1150 AD and surrounded by a moat. Angkor Wat will take your breath away from a distance and is fascinating to explore with its intricate and stunning carvings. If you are short on time and can only visit a few sites, be sure not to miss Angkor Wat.
There are many more sites and to visit all would take many days. The major sites include:
• Bakong – A pyramid shaped temple complex built in the ninth century.
• Banteai Srei – Located 20 kilometres from Siem Reap, this temple was built in 968 AD and is notable for its pink sandstone carvings.
• The Bayon – A large temple completed in 1220 AD. Intricately carved throughout, notably with Buddha images carved on the third level.
• The Baphuon – The highlight of this temple, constructed in 1066 AD, is a massive carved reclining Buddha 40 metres long.
A local guide is advisable at all times when exploring Angkor. If you don’t have a guide, you can expect to be pestered by potential guides – many of them children – until you relent and engage on of them! Independent travelers will find that plenty of tour options are available in Siem Reap, ranging from a quick visit to the major sites to packages last days and days.
The nearby town of Siem Reap is used as base by most visitors planning to spend a day or two exploring Angkor. There are plenty of hotel choices in Siem Reap from budget up to luxury standard with the Grand Hotel D’Angkor offering the classiest rooms in town. Hotelz Asia can assist you with cheap hotel reservations in Siem Reap and throughout Cambodia.
|
HOTEL RESERVATIONS 
