The Angkor Archaeological Park can be appalling for the first time guests. Researchers have established that it is the largest preindustrial city, crossing over a thousand square kilometers. With over a thousand temples in its region, Angkor can take days to explore. Here is a simple guide for first-timers on how to enjoy this magnificent site.
Brief History
The Angkorian era was a term of the Khmer empire in Cambodia from the 9th to 15th century. The temples constructed in the initial stage were Hindu before the self-proclaimed “god-king” Jayavarman VII converted to Mahayana Buddhism and initiated a new building spree, which resulted in the capital city Angkor Thom. However, his heir returned to Hinduism and demolished many of the structures. Angkor, built north of river Tonlé Sap, boomed until Ayutthaya sacked the city in 1431. The Khmer people were then compelled to uproot to Phnom Penh.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Angkor is between November and February when the weather calms and is not as hot and dry as the rest of the year. In July, the rain will make visiting the archaeological sites an almost impossible task.
Getting There
Siem Reap is the entrance to Angkor, located a mere 20 minutes away via car. You can find lodging here. There are many forms of transportation going to Angkor. You can hire a car with a driver or a tuk-tuk for the whole day to bring you around the sites. This can be organized by your hotel or guesthouse. Try going on a bicycle tour and cycle from site to site if you are more adventurous. The sites are located 15 to 30 minutes away from each other and guarantee to be an unforgettable experience. You are obliged to buy a passes to enter the temples at the front gate. The ideal option is a 3-day pass, which costs around US$40, and grants you the freedom to see more without getting bored of the ruins. The 1- and 7-day passes are US$20 and US$60 in that order.
What to See
A tour to Angkor is not complete without visiting the world-acclaimed Angkor Wat. Actually, several guests gather to the area just to visit this magnificent structure exclusively, which has also been depicted in some movies. It is one of the biggest and most well-known temples in Angkor. One cannot help but speculate how the entire temple was constructed during that era – it is not only enormous in size but intricately decorated with carvings of gods and demons. Many guests opt to visit Angkor Wat before dawn to see the sun rise behind the temple.
We advise reading up regarding the site before visiting. You can get a graphic booklet from the Bayon Information Center at the back of Le Meridien Angkor Hotel for just US$5. In addition, it would be best if you avoid the tour guides at the entrance of Angkor Wat as they tend to ask for a high fee after bringing you around.
Bayon
Located in Angkor Thom, Bayon is a temple well-known for its sculptured smiling faces. Some claim that these faces were shaped after the king himself. In comparison to Angkor Wat, Bayon is a claustrophobic's nightmare. Its 216 faces are flocked in 54 towers, and will either soothe or distract you.
Other famous ruins to check out in Angkor Thom are Baphuon, the Victory Gates and the Elephant Terrace.
Ta Prohm is a place where stone and wood comes together in mystical beauty. The temple was almost absorbed by the jungle when it was first discovered by the explorers. It has been trimmed for easier access. Ta Prohm may look small from the outside, but as you venture deeper into the temple, you will realize that it is in fact an enormous maze.
Ta Prohm has a special beauty that sets it separately from most of the other ruins. However, be prepared for swarm of people, especially in well-known scenic spots.
Related Tour Packages:
3 Days / 2 Nights Angkor Wat Tour
4D3N Angkor Wat Discovery (SIC)
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