The masterpiece of Angkor Wat, which is the 500-acre site, represents the architectural pinnacle of the Khmer Empire and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world, is the most beloved and best preserved temple in Cambodia. The Angkor Wat, which was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, has remained a place of worship since its foundation in the 12th century. Considered as a miniature replica of the universe, the Angkor’s composition of concentric walls, moats and towers reveals an architectural sophistication, and the bas-reliefs with their triumphal battle scenes and plump figures reflect a wealthy, healthy and robust period of history.
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The Angkor Wat-the most beloved and best preserved temple in Cambodia- source: internet
At the center of the Angkor Archaeological Park, which covers 154 square miles and contains scores of other Khmer temples dating between the 9th and the 15th centuries, lies this majestic structure. Each has its own charm. Banteay Srei has disorderly carvings of sensuous celestial dancers wearing sheer drop-waist skirts, beaded anklets and bangles. 1,000 years on, the pleats are still beautifully folded in the sandstone.
Deliberately left mostly not renovated, and strangled and massed by undergrowth, Ta Prohm is one of the most photographed temples. The Bayon temple, where enchanting bas-reliefs depict ordinary Khmer life rather than Hindu gods and the towers of which are etched with enlightened bodhisattva faces, is the perennial favorite at Angkor Thom.
When to travel
Start early to avoid crowds- source: internet
There is reliable sunshine and low rainfall, but heavier crowds and higher prices between November and March. Expect lower prices, lighter crowds and lush photogenic landscapes in the “green season” (from June to October). To avoid afternoon showers, let’s explore early.
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How to book
The journey time from London to Cambodia is about 16 hours when flying with British Airways or Thai Airways via Bangkok from about £750 return. Vietnam Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines, fly from London to Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore respectively – with hops on to Phnom Penh or/and Siem Reap, the closest airport to Angkor. It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival (at $20/£12.50) or buy one in advance to avoid the queues at mfaic.gov.kh/evisa.
Essentials
Packages
Tourists base themselves in Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor. Here, you can find a number of local and British tour operators providing packages.
On a budget
There are many tour operators in Siem Reap- source: internet
Located only a few miles from the Angkor, ABOUT Asia (00855 97 899 2221; aboutasiatravel.com) provides travelers with a lot of excellent guides with in-depth local knowledge. It costs from £339 per person (excluding international flights) for a four-night break with accommodation and guided tours. They donate profits to local schools.
If you want an escorted seven-day tour combining Angkor’s temples with some of the less frequented sites, let’s visit All Points East (02392 258859; allpointseast.com). Including entrance fees and most meals but not international flights, prices start at £750 per person.
Angkor Wat-trip of a lifetime- source: internet
A 13-day “Heart of Cambodia” tour taking in Phnom Penh, village life and a beach stay and focusing on Angkor is offered by the Explore (0844 499 0901; explore.co.uk). From £1,897 per person, including return flight, 12 nights’ guiding and b & b.
Going independently
Flight to Siem Reap- source: internet
Book a flight, choose a hotel and most concierges can organize transfers, restaurant reservations and guided temple visits, it is not difficult to organize a trip independently.
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