On day 25 of our trip, we’ll be leaving Phnom Penh and driving to Siem Reap to explore the incredible Angkor Wat. Siem Reap is a charming town that serves as the gateway to the ancient temples and ruins of Angkor. The drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes approximately six hours, but the scenic journey is worth it.
On arrival in Siem Reap, we’ll have time to explore the town. Siem Reap is famous for its vibrant night markets, where we can find everything from street food to souvenirs. If we’re looking for a more cultural experience, the town also has a range of art galleries and museums that showcase Cambodian art and history.
The highlight of our visit to Siem Reap is undoubtedly the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is one of the largest religious monuments in the world, and it is a spectacular example of Khmer art and architecture. The complex consists of numerous temples and ruins spread over an area of over 400 square kilometers.
Angkor Wat itself is the main temple and the most iconic structure of the complex. The temple was built in the early 12th century in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu. The temple’s intricate carvings and architectural design showcase the Khmer Empire’s artistic and engineering prowess.
The Bayon temple is another must-visit structure within the Angkor Wat complex. The temple is famous for its stone faces, which are carved into the temple’s towers. The Bayon temple is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is rich in symbolism and history.
Other notable structures within the Angkor Wat complex include the Ta Prohm temple, known for being the filming location for the movie Tomb Raider, and the Banteay Srei temple, renowned for its intricate carvings and pink-hued sandstone.
A visit to Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat complex is a journey back in time, exploring the ancient temples and ruins of the Khmer Empire. The complex is a testament to the Khmer people’s ingenuity, artistry, and spirituality. The drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap may be long, but it is worth the journey to experience one of the world’s most spectacular examples of religious architecture.
