My day exploring Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in the world, is located in Cambodia, a few kilometers from the city of Siem Reap. It is a must-see for history, culture and architecture enthusiasts. During my visit to Angkor Wat, I had a fascinating experience, filled with discoveries, spectacular landscapes and emotions. In this article, I’ll tell you about my day spent exploring this majestic temple and give you some tips on how to make the most of your visit.

1. Sunrise at Angkor Wat

A. Arriving Early for Sunrise

My adventure started before dawn, as is often recommended to visit Angkor Wat. I took the time to reach the lake in front of the temple where visitors gather to watch a magical sunset . The sunrise at Angkor Wat is a must-do experience, as it gently illuminates the temple’s arches and domes , creating a mythical image, perfectly reflected in the calm water of the lake. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual, a perfect time to appreciate the immensity of the place.

• Counsel: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sunrise time to ensure a good seat and fully enjoy the magic of this moment.

B. First Impressions

When the sun began to rise, I was struck by the stunning beauty of the temple. Angkor Wat, with its five lotus-shaped towers , stands out beautifully in the morning light. It is a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture, and it was a real privilege to see it in this light.

2. Explore the temples of Angkor Wat

A. Discovery of the bas-reliefs

Once the morning light set in, I began to explore the interior of the temple. What impressed me the most were the bas-reliefs that adorn the walls of the temple. These sculptures tell ancient stories, from scenes of mythological battles to depictions of daily life during the time of the Khmer Empire. Every detail of these bas-reliefs is beautifully carved and testifies to the genius of the craftsmen of the time.

• Counsel: Take your time to examine the bas-reliefs, as there are fascinating details that tell exciting stories about Cambodia’s history.

B. The galleries and the interior chambers

As I walked through the interior galleries, I found myself in spaces with a mystical atmosphere, where the stones are covered in moss and light filters through the arched windows. Each room had a unique character, with statues of the Buddha and Hindu deities adding to the sacred ambience of the site.

3. Visit the other temples of Angkor

A. The temple of Bayon

After exploring Angkor Wat, I headed to Bayon Temple, famous for its huge, smiling faces carved in stone. This temple, located in the city of Angkor Thom, impressed me with its mystical atmosphere and the enigma of the faces that seem to follow you wherever you go. Each face has a soft and serene expression, and the entire site is a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture.

B. Ta Prohm: The Temple of Nature

Next, I went to the temple of Ta Prohm, which is well known for its popularity in the movie “Tomb Raider”. This temple is a magical place where nature has reclaimed its rights. Giant trees and huge roots invade the stones of the temple, creating a fairytale atmosphere. It is one of the most photogenic places in Angkor and a place where you can feel the full power of nature.

• Counsel: Ta Prohm is often busier than other temples, so try to get there early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

4. The Practicalities of Visiting Angkor Wat

A. Entrance tickets and timetables

Entrance to Angkor Wat requires the purchase of a ticket. The prices are:

• 1 day : 37 USD

• 3 days : 62 USD

• 7 days : 72 USD

Tickets are valid for the entire Angkor complex, and you can visit the various temples at your own pace. It is recommended to start early to avoid the heat and crowds.

B. Moving around the temples

The site is vast, so if you want to explore multiple temples, it’s best to take a tuk-tuk or rent a bike. Many visitors prefer to use a local guide, who can help you understand the history of the temples and uncover hidden details. The tuk-tuk is also a good option if you want to get around between the temples quickly, especially if you’re visiting during the afternoon heat.

C. Hydration and sun protection

As the site is large and warm, it is essential to stay well hydrated and wear sun protection. I made sure to take water with me and wear a hat and sunscreen to protect my skin during the day.

5. An authentic Cambodian lunch nearby

After a morning exploring the temples, I went to a local restaurant near Angkor Wat to try traditional Cambodian dishes like Amok (a fish curry served in a banana leaf) and Lok Lak (meat stir-fried with rice). Cambodian food is delicious and makes a great break during the tour.

Conclusion: Angkor Wat, a must-see

My day at Angkor Wat was an unforgettable experience. The majesty of the temples, the rich history and the spiritual atmosphere made a deep impression on me. If you are lucky enough to visit Cambodia, a trip to Angkor Wat is a must. It is a place that is not limited to simple architectural beauty, but is also a real journey through time, where history and culture come to life before your eyes.