Angkor Wat – built by Suryavarman II (r 1112–52) – is the earthly representation of Mt Meru, the Mt Olympus of the Hindu faith and the abode of ancient gods. The Cambodian god-kings of old each strove to better their ancestors’ structures in size, scale and symmetry, culminating in what is believed to be the world’s largest religious building. The temple is the heart and soul of Cambodia and a source of fierce national pride. Unlike the other Angkor monuments, it was never abandoned to the elements and has been in virtually continuous use since it was built.

Symbolically, west is the direction of death, which once led a large number of scholars to conclude that Angkor Wat must have existed primarily as a tomb. This idea was supported by the fact that the magnificent bas-reliefs of the temple were designed to be viewed in an anticlockwise direction, a practice that has precedents in ancient Hindu funerary rites. Vishnu, however, is also frequently associated with the west, and it is now commonly accepted that Angkor Wat most likely served both as a temple and as a mausoleum for Suryavarman II. Symbolically, west is the direction of death, which once led a large number of scholars to conclude that Angkor Wat must have existed primarily as a tomb. This idea was supported by the fact that the magnificent bas-reliefs of the temple were designed to be viewed in an anticlockwise direction, a practice that has precedents in ancient Hindu funerary rites. Vishnu, however, is also frequently associated with the west, and it is now commonly accepted that Angkor Wat most likely served both as a temple and as a mausoleum for Suryavarman IIprecedents in ancient Hindu funerary rites. Vishnu, however, is also frequently associated with the west, and it is now commonly accepted that Angkor Wat most likely served both as a temple and as a mausoleum for Suryavarman II.

Here are ten popular places to visit within the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia:

1. Angkor Wat: The largest and most iconic temple in the complex, Angkor Wat is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
2. Bayon Temple: Known for its many smiling faces carved into the stone, Bayon Temple is a unique and impressive structure located in the center of the ancient city of Angkor Thom.
3. Ta Prohm Temple: This temple is famous for its overgrown trees and roots that have grown into and around the structure, giving it a mysterious and otherworldly feel.
4. Banteay Srei Temple: This smaller temple is known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone construction, making it a popular spot for photographers.
5. Preah Khan Temple: This temple is one of the largest and most complex in the complex, with numerous courtyards, halls, and shrines to explore.
6. Angkor Thom: This ancient walled city was the capital of the Khmer Empire and is home to several important temples, including Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
7. Terrace of the Elephants: This impressive terrace is adorned with intricate carvings of elephants and other animals and was once used as a platform for public ceremonies and processions.
8. Terrace of the Leper King: This terrace is known for its unusual carvings of demons and is believed to have been built by King Jayavarman VII.
9. Phnom Bakheng: This hilltop temple is a popular spot for sunset views over the surrounding jungle and temple complex.
10. Srah Srang: This man-made reservoir is a peaceful spot to relax and take in the scenery, especially at sunrise or sunset.

I hope this list helps you plan your visit to the Angkor Wat temple complex!

For more information about Angkor Wat please check video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayudTh6xVd4