CAMBODIA
The Best 6 Temples To Visit In Siem Reap
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE
The Best 6 Temples To Visit In Siem Reap
Siem Reap is home to some of the most awe-inspiring temples in the world. Each one tells a different story, offering visitors a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural and religious history. In this guide, we explore the temples to visit in Siem Reap, giving you all the essential information to plan your trip.
1. Angkor Wat
The crown jewel of all temples to visit in Siem Reap. Its grandeur and intricate design make it a must-see for every traveler.
History
Built 1113–1150 CE by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple for Vishnu. Converted to Buddhism in late 12th century. Never abandoned—monks have lived here continuously for 900+ years. Largest religious monument on Earth (162.6 hectares).
Highlights: 65 m central tower, 1.2 km of bas-reliefs (Churning of the Ocean of Milk, Heaven & Hell), 190 m-wide moat, sunrise reflecting pool, third-level 360° view (steep stairs).
Distance from Siem Reap: 5.5 km (15 min tuk-tuk $3–5)
Entry: Included in Angkor Pass – 1-day $37 | 3-day $62 | 7-day $72
Opening hours: 5:00 AM–5:30 PM
Dress code: Shoulders & knees covered for third level
Required more stone than the Great Pyramid of Giza and covers an area larger than Paris intra-muros.
Arrive 4:45 AM for sunrise. After crowds leave at 7:30 AM, stay for the magical “second sunrise” light at 8:30 AM—empty and golden. Bring scarf for dust.
2. Bayon Temple
The enigmatic temple with 216 giant stone faces gazing in every direction—pure magic.
History
Built late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as a Mahayana Buddhist temple. Center of Angkor Thom city. The 216 faces are believed to be Avalokiteshvara or the king himself.
Highlights: 54 gothic towers with 216 smiling faces, detailed bas-reliefs of battles & daily life, three levels to explore.
Distance: 10 km from Siem Reap (inside Angkor Thom)
Best light: 3–4 PM when faces glow golden
Every single tower has four faces—one looking north, south, east, west—so the king (or bodhisattva) watches over the entire kingdom.
Visit after 2 PM to avoid tour buses. Climb to third level for the best face photos. Combine with Terrace of the Elephants (5-min walk).
3. Ta Prohm
The iconic “Tomb Raider temple” with massive tree roots swallowing the ruins—pure jungle magic.
History
Built late 12th century by Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist monastery & university for 12,000+ people. Deliberately left unrestored to preserve the jungle atmosphere.
Highlights: Giant spung & strangler fig trees growing through walls, Tomb Raider gate, dinosaur carving (yes, really), east gate photo spot.
Distance: 8 km from Siem Reap
Best time: 7–9 AM or after 3 PM
The famous “Tomb Raider tree” is actually two trees fighting for dominance—one is slowly winning.
Enter via east gate at 2 PM—perfect light and almost empty. Avoid the west gate (main entrance) before 11 AM. One-way system keeps crowds moving.
4. Banteay Srei
The exquisite “Citadel of Women” carved from pink sandstone—often called the jewel of Khmer art.
History
Built 967 CE (oldest surviving temple here). Dedicated to Shiva. Carvings so delicate legend says they were done by women.
Highlights: Deep pink sandstone, intricate Ramayana carvings in perfect condition, miniature scale, lotus pond reflection.
Distance: 37 km north (45 min tuk-tuk $20–25 return)
Best light: 9–11 AM or 2–4 PM
The carvings are so fine you can see individual fingernails on the apsaras.
Combine with Beng Mealea or Kbal Spean (waterfall carvings). Go early to beat tour buses. Photography heaven at 10 AM.
5. Preah Khan
A vast, atmospheric labyrinth—Jayavarman VII’s “Sacred Sword” temple with collapsing halls and hidden carvings.
History
Built 1191 as a Buddhist university & temporary royal residence. Once housed the sacred sword of the kingdom.
Highlights: Two-storey library, Garuda pillars, circular columns, hidden Vishnu statue, tree growing through wall.
Distance: 12 km from Siem Reap
Best time: 7–8:30 AM (almost empty)
Contains a rare two-storey building—unique in Angkor architecture.
Do the Grand Circuit backwards—start here at 7 AM. You’ll have it to yourself for an hour. Bring flashlight for dark corridors.
6. Ta Keo
The “unfinished” mountain temple with brutal 22-metre steep stairs—climb for epic views.
History
Started late 10th century, abandoned after lightning strike (considered bad omen). No carvings—pure pyramid power.
Highlights: Five 50 m towers, steepest stairs in Angkor (wooden steps added), panoramic views from top.
Distance: Inside Angkor Thom east gate
Time needed: 30–45 min
The only major temple with zero decorative carvings—construction stopped overnight.
Climb at 4 PM for sunset views over jungle. Wooden stairs make it safe. Great spot for photos with no crowds.
Disclaimer: Information accurate as of November 2025. Prices in USD. Always check current Angkor Pass prices, opening hours, and dress codes. Respect local customs—cover shoulders/knees at temples. Support local guides and avoid giving money to children. Safe travels in Siem Reap!