Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Angkor Wat

 

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the largest religious monument in the world, measuring 162.60 hectares.  It is one of the eight wonders of the world and one in our bucket lists.
Giant Ibis Bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap
Our Angkor Wat adventure started with our bus trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap.  We took the Giant Ibis Bus and booked online.  And from our hotel in Siem Reap, we were picked up by the Klook tour guide by 4am and got our tickets at the official ticketing center for US$37 each.  My seven year old is free from paying.
Bantog Backpackers in Angkor Wat waiting for sunrise

our super accomodating guide from Klook with our fellow tourists

                                                                                      
                                                                                     

An Angkor Wat tour guides visitors through Cambodia's most iconic temple complex, exploring its grand towers, intricate carvings, and vast courtyards.  The tour typically begins before sunrise behind the temple's silhouette.  Along the way, guides explain the history of Khmer Empire, the symbolism in the architecture, and the religious significance of the site








 

The second temple we visited is the Ta Phrom.  Ta Phrom was built in 1186 and was originally known as Rajavihara or Monastery of the King.  It is a buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jyavarman VII.  Massive silk-cotton and strangler fig tress grow directly  out of the stone towers and walls.  Roots cascade over doorways, wrap around carvings, and split stone blocks apart, creating a surreal fusion of nature and ruins.


The third temple we visited is the BANTEAY KDEI temple. In contrast to Angkor Wat, Banteay Kdei is peaceful and quiet. It's name means "Citadel of Chambers". It has lots of passages and small chambers.



Bayon Temple 
Bayon is famous for its over 200 massive stone faces carved into 54 towers.  The faces are serene, with gentle smiles and half-closed eyes.  They re widely believed to represent Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. It also stands out for its blend of artistic, historical, and symbolic richness. 



Our trip to Angkor Wat was an unforgettable experience. Walking through the ancient temples felt like stepping back in time. The sunrise over the main temple was absolutely breathtaking, and exploring the carvings and ruins made us appreciate Cambodia’s rich history and culture.




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