There are many reasons why people love to travel. When it is a natural attraction for some, there are people who find interest in historical places. If you are planning to visit Cambodia, you will find both. Specifically, it is the temples which will tell stories of ancient times, cultures, and traditions.
Once you are here, you will get to know the place more deeply. Here are some of the excellent temples of Cambodia you should visit now. Read on to know more-
List of the 10 Most Famous Temples in Cambodia You Need To Visit:
1. Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is one of the most majestic temples in Cambodia that is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The structure of the temple is unique as it has 5 concentric rectangular walls and moats with that.
This particular structure has the significance that symbolizing the cosmic harmony between the mountains and the oceans. The central tower is the longest and it represents Mount Meru which is believed to be the center of the universe as per Hinduism and Buddhism.
While getting amazed by the enormous structure and intricate detailing of the temple, there are stone sculptures in the outer gallery that shows the structural illustrations of the incidents from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. The ornate pillars and the minute details of the carving will leave you awestruck.
2. Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei is considered an art gallery in Cambodia. It is a Hindu temple which is known for its concise size, but intricate architectural detailing. You will find outstanding motifs, detailed carvings, and figures of gods on the ornate pillars of the temple. This is the only temple in Cambodia that was not commissioned by a ruler, but by a Brahmin.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it was built in the 10th Century. The temple is popular because it holds the true Angkorian style of construction. The lintels and the pediments provide great beauty and grace to the construction of this temple.
3. West Mebon
Cambodia has a deep-rooted respect for Hinduism and the temples of this country prove that loudly. West Mebon is a Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Here, you will find the reclining idol of Lord Vishnu with the head, two right arms, and upper torso. There are moats around the temple that represents the Hindu Sea of Creation.
As West Mebon is surrounded by water, the structure of the temple only symbolizes that. Tourists can visit the temple through the land during the dry season, but the monsoon makes the water level so high that the temple remains like an island this time. Today, you can only see the ruins of the actual temple, but that also holds the culture and tradition of Cambodia.
4. Koh Ker
It will take almost two and a half hours to reach Koh Ker from Siem Reap by car. And once you reach there, the ruins of Koh Ker Temple will mesmerize you. This temple was built around AD928 and AD944 to worship, Treypuvanesvara, the god of happiness. With time, it has turned into ruins, but still, you can explore the outstanding carvings and architectural beauty.
The pyramid-like structure of this temple is unique and there are influences of Mayan architecture on this temple. You can climb the top, but you have to be very careful as it is too steep. But, if you reach the top, it is worth it as the view is great from there.
5. Bayon
Bayon Temple is one of the finest examples of Khmer temples in Cambodia. Located in the middle of the walled city, Bayon Temple represents the intersection between the earth and heaven.
The most happening feature of this temple is the smiling faces of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshwar, looking down towards you from 37 towers. Besides this happening architectural wonder, you will also find wonderful bass reliefs from daily life, history, and mythology.
6. Neak Pean
In comparison to the gigantic entity of temples like Angkor Wat, Koh Ker, etc. Neak Pean is a tiny entity. It is located amidst a small artificial lake. It is the location and the architecture of this temple that justifies its name of it.
Neak Pean means ‘entwined serpents’ and as per historians it is named such due to its structure and it is surrounded by Anavatapta, the mythical lake whose water is considered to have medicinal properties. If you are planning to visit it, you need to know that you can’t enter inside.
7. Preah Vihear
Located on the top of Dangrek Mountain, this Hindu temple is a stunning location to visit for tourists. Preah Vihear is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it stands like a natural border between Thailand and Cambodia. Due to the spectacular Khmer architecture, this temple has been regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are four levels and four courtyards of the temple, each of which has five entrances. The architecture and structure of this temple are unique. From ancient times to the present day, this temple owns a special place among the pilgrims of Cambodia.
8. Ta Prohm
This temple of Cambodia offers a wonderful site to visit. Presently, it has been turned into ruins as the roots of trees have clutched the temple from all sides. This temple was built in 1186 AD and was treated as a Rajavihara. Today, it has become one of the most happening tourist spots where you will find awesome views to remember.
Spend a couple of hours over there and you will find it very fascinating. It is the mysterious ambiance of the temple that attracts local as well as foreign tourists a lot. The enormous trees and the dark courtyards and hallways have made this temple popular.
9. Sambor Prei Kuk
This is the third UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cambodia and is famous for its hidden temple complex. Once you are here, you will find more than 100 scattered temples throughout the forest of Kampong Thom.
This temple is a perfect epitome of Khmer art and architecture. Built in the seventh century, this temple will keep you spellbound with its intricate architecture and detailed carvings.
10. Banteay Kdei
This temple was built in the twelfth century and is known for the outstanding sculptures of women. Known as the Citadel of Chambers, this temple will stun you with its ornate garudas. Today, you will find only ruins. People visit less this place, so you can have a peaceful time while exploring history around.
So, these are the famous temples in Cambodia that you can visit while touring the country. These places are calm and peaceful and you will find spending time here.
Check more details on Asia:
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- 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Cambodia
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