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Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia
Monument
362 views
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia
Added on Sun, Nov 9, 2025 at 9:26 AM
Updated on Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 10:42 AM
Year Built
1113-1150 CE
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Built By
King Suryavarman II
Patronage
King Suryavarman II
Material Used
बलुआ पत्थर - Baluā Patthar (Sandstone)लैटेराइट - Laiterāiṭa (Laterite)चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar)लोहा - Lohā (Metal)काष्ठ - Kāshtha (Wood)
Contributed By
Team InheritageAdded Nov 9, 2025
Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia
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Heritage Overview
Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia
Majestically situated near Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat, erected in the 12th century CE under King Suryavarman II, is recognized as the world's largest religious structure ([1][2]). Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu Trimurti, it showcases the profound influence of Indian Hindu architectural and religious traditions in Southeast Asia ([1]). Encompassing over 162 hectares, and surrounded by a vast moat symbolizing the cosmic ocean, its design mirrors Mount Meru, the sacred center of the universe in Hindu cosmology ([2]).
Intricate carvings adorning the walls, stretching over 800 meters, depict scenes from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, including the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean of Milk) and the Battle of Kurukshetra ([3]). These detailed depictions illustrate the transmission of Indian Hindu iconographic programs to Cambodia ([3]). Vastu Shastra principles, the ancient Indian science of architecture, guided the temple's layout, with a central quincunx of towers representing Mount Meru's peaks, enclosed by galleries and courtyards ([4]). These principles systematically transmitted from Indian temple complexes of the Pallava, Chola, and Chalukya dynasties ([4]).
Granite and sandstone blocks, meticulously carved, form the structure, ingeniously fitted together without mortar, demonstrating advanced engineering techniques ([5]). Over 1,860 apsaras (celestial dancers) and numerous devatas (deities) grace the sandstone walls, reflecting a deep understanding of Indian Hindu iconography ([5]). Sanskrit inscriptions provide critical insights into the site's role in disseminating Indian religious texts and practices ([1][2]). This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Indian civilization on Southeast Asian traditions ([1][2]). The temple's imposing Shikhara (spire) and elaborate Mandapa (pillared hall) reflect design elements found in numerous Indian temples, further solidifying the Indian influence on this architectural marvel.
Historical Context
Angkor Wat was constructed in the early 12th century CE by King Suryavarman II. The temple originally served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. The temple later transitioned to Buddhist use. The site was inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992. Ongoing restoration and conservation efforts continue. ([1][2])
Location Map
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Angkor Wat: 5:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Daily.
Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Daily.
Phnom Bakheng & Pre Rup (for sunset): 5:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Daily.
Angkor Pass Ticket Office: 5:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
1-day pass: USD 37. 3-day pass: USD 62 (valid for 10 days from purchase). 7-day pass: USD 72 (valid for 30 days from purchase). Free for children under 12 years old (with passport) and Cambodian citizens.
Best Visit Times
Khmer New Year (Mid-April): Experience vibrant local celebrations, traditional games, and cultural performances, especially during Angkor Sankranta. Dry Season (November to March): Offers cooler temperatures (20-30°C) and less humidity, making it ideal for extensive exploration. Early Morning (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM): Best for witnessing the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat and avoiding the peak midday heat and crowds. Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:30 PM): Good for exploring with fewer crowds and enjoying the softer light for photography.
Official Website
Go to Official WebsiteArchitectural Highlights
Architectural Style
Period
Medieval Period
Influences
Indian Hindu Temple Architecture, Indian Mount Meru Cosmology, Indian Hindu Iconography, Khmer Temple Design, Indian Epic Narratives
Heritage Status
National Heritage Site
Preservation Status
Excellent; well-preserved; ongoing restoration; UNESCO World Heritage protection. ([1][2])
Conservation Status
Excellent; well-preserved; ongoing restoration; UNESCO protection. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Surveyed By
Henri Mouhot, French École Française d'Extrême-Orient, UNESCO, APSARA Authority
Survey Date
1860s, 1900s, 1930s, 1950s, 1990s, 2000s
Featured Images
Citation References
Angkor
UNESCO World Heritage CentreAccessed 2025-11-17
Angkor Wat
Encyclopaedia BritannicaAccessed 2025-11-17
Angkor Wat
Khan AcademyAccessed 2025-11-17
Angkor Wat
World History EncyclopediaAccessed 2025-11-17
Angkor Wat
APSARA National AuthorityAccessed 2025-11-17
Excavation Details
Extensive archaeological excavations, documentation, structural analysis, and conservation work.
Restoration Work
Archaeological excavations; documentation; structural stabilization; restoration of damaged sections; ongoing conservation. ([1][2])
Patronage
King Suryavarman II
Construction Technique
Construction utilized sandstone blocks fitted together without mortar using sophisticated interlocking techniques. The temple employed corbelled vaulting adapted from Indian temple architecture. The foundation system utilized compacted earth platforms. Decorative elements including bas-reliefs and sculptures were carved directly into sandstone using techniques derived from Indian artistic traditions. ([1][2])
Architectural Influences
Indian Hindu Temple Architecture, Indian Mount Meru Cosmology, Indian Hindu Iconography, Khmer Temple Design, Indian Epic Narratives
Building Techniques
The structural system employs sandstone block construction with corbelled vaulting adapted from Indian architecture. The distinctive Khmer tower form utilizes tiered pyramidal roofs. The foundation system consists of compacted earth platforms. ([1][2])
Coordinates
13.412470, 103.866990
Accessibility Info
5 items
Visitor Facilities
7 items
Best Visit Times
Khmer New Year (Mid-April): Experience vibrant local celebrations, traditional games, and cultural performances, especially during Angkor Sankranta. Dry Season (November to March): Offers cooler temperatures (20-30°C) and less humidity, making it ideal for extensive exploration. Early Morning (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM): Best for witnessing the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat and avoiding the peak midday heat and crowds. Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:30 PM): Good for exploring with fewer crowds and enjoying the softer light for photography.
Seasonal Events
5 items
Visitor Restrictions
["A strict dress code requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting temples, especially when ascending to the upper levels of Angkor Wat.","Respectful behavior is mandatory; visitors should avoid loud conversations, littering, and touching or climbing on ancient structures.","Photography is generally permitted, but tripods are not allowed inside the temples, and visitors must avoid disrespectful poses with religious statues.","Access to the central tower of Angkor Wat (Bakan Sanctuary) is limited to 100 visitors at a time and may be closed during certain religious holidays or for maintenance.","Smoking and littering are strictly prohibited within the Angkor Archaeological Park, and food or drinks are generally not allowed inside temple sanctuaries."]
View Count
362
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created By
b609c300-e3e9-42af-8d00-5125af139175
Created At
2025-11-09T09:26:20.120401+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Related Heritage Sites
What is Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia?
Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia is a historic Monument located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This Khmer Hindu Temple architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Indic Temple architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Cambodia. Majestically situated near Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat, erected in the 12th century CE under King Suryavarman II, is recognized as the world's largest religious structure ([1][2]). Originally a Hi...
Category:
MonumentLocation:
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, Siem ReapPeriod:
Medieval PeriodStyle:
Khmer Hindu Temple architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Indic Temple architecture styleArchitectural Features
- 1Traditional Khmer Hindu Temple architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Indic Temple architecture style design elements
- 2Intricate stone carvings and sculptures
- 3Symmetrical layout with precise proportions
- 4Integration with natural landscape
Key Features of Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia
- 1Khmer Hindu Temple architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Indic Temple architecture style architectural style with distinctive design elements
- 2Constructed using बलुआ पत्थर - Baluā Patthar (Sandstone), लैटेराइट - Laiterāiṭa (Laterite), चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar), लोहा - Lohā (Metal), काष्ठ - Kāshtha (Wood), showcasing traditional building techniques
- 3Built using Construction utilized sandstone blocks fitted together without mortar using sophisticated interlocking techniques. The temple employed corbelled vaulting adapted from Indian temple architecture. The foundation system utilized compacted earth platforms. Decorative elements including bas-reliefs and sculptures were carved directly into sandstone using techniques derived from Indian artistic traditions. ([1][2]) construction methods
- 4National Heritage Site providing legal protection
- 5Commissioned by King Suryavarman II, reflecting royal patronage
- 6Current conservation status: Excellent; well-preserved; ongoing restoration; UNESCO protection. ([1][2])
What Makes Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia Special?
- 1Exceptional example of Khmer Hindu Temple architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Indic Temple architecture style architecture
- 2Royal patronage by King Suryavarman II, reflecting historical significance
- 3Erected as a monumental expression of King Suryavarman II's devotion and imperial ambition, Angkor Wat served a unique dual purpose as both a state temple dedicated to Vishnu and a funerary temple intended for the king's apotheosis into Vishnuloka. The extensive bas-reliefs, spanning over 1,200 square meters, narrate not only profound Hindu mythological episodes such as the Samudra manthan (Churning of the Ocean of Milk) and scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, but also meticulously depict Suryavarman II's military campaigns and court life. This intricate iconography was designed to legitimize his rule, intertwining his earthly sovereignty with divine cosmic order and ensuring his posthumous deification. Beyond its religious and political symbolism, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the advanced astronomical and engineering capabilities of the Khmer Empire. The temple's precise alignment, particularly the sunrise over its central tower during the spring equinox, underscores a sophisticated understanding of celestial mechanics, linking the monarch directly to the rhythm of the cosmos. Furthermore, its construction was intrinsically tied to the vast hydraulic network of barays (reservoirs) that sustained the Angkorian civilization, demonstrating an unparalleled integration of spiritual architecture with crucial agricultural infrastructure, reflecting the empire's prosperity and monumental vision.
Visitor Information
How to Visit Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia
| ៛Entry Fee | 1-day pass: USD 37. 3-day pass: USD 62 (valid for 10 days from purchase). 7-day pass: USD 72 (valid for 30 days from purchase). Free for children under 12 years old (with passport) and Cambodian citizens. |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Complete Visitor Guide
How to Visit Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia: Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Plan Your Visit
Check opening hours and entry fees for Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
- 2
Reach the Location
Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia is located in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, Siem Reap. The nearest major city is Angkor Wat. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 13.41247, 103.86699.
- 3
Entry and Guidelines
Entry fee: 1-day pass: USD 37. 3-day pass: USD 62 (valid for 10 days from purchase). 7-day pass: USD 72 (valid for 30 days from purchase). Free for children under 12 years old (with passport) and Cambodian citizens.. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
- 4
Explore the Site
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia. Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Historical Timeline
Key Historical Events
Medieval Period
Construction of Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia by King Suryavarman II
20th Century
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under National Heritage Site
2024-2025
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation