5 Amazing Siem Reap Temples You Can Visit Beside Angkor Wat
It is undeniable that any traveler who fails to visit the temples of Siem Reap is missing out. You must meticulously plan your itinerary, including hotel reservations, in order to have the most memorable adventure of your life. It’s a safe bet that if Siem Reap is your first travel destination, you won’t be disappointed. Every notch of Siem Reap temples might spark fresh worldwide experiences. Along with the deeply rooted roots of culture and the arts, you will be exposed to your core. Places to visit, eat, have a night out, and much more. Come see for yourself how no divine pixel on a screen can compare to your sight.
1. Ta Prohm
( Source : Trip Advisor )
Ta Prohm, without a question, provides the most mind-blowing scenery for everybody who comes across it. The temple enthralls an ancient society with the best of what nature has to offer. The gigantic pillars of tree trunks groped the structures from above, spreading life-size roots over and across. The roots of its pale scale extend far and wide, like living tentacles, securely gripping the sandstone exterior. The decaying ruins, coated in moss and sprouts, exude an out-of-this-world and time feel. This royal palace was created by Jayavarman VII to honor his mother and father, as well as his tutors, for their wise teachings.
2. Phimeanakas Temple
( Source : Renown Travel )
A pyramid built during King Suryavarman I’s reign in the early 11th century lies behind the royal elephant terrace. Phimeanakas, which also means “Celestial Palace,” is the name of the thousand-year-old monument. In the tranquil depths of nature, the lofty vantage point provides a quiet peaceful outlook. The sight of stone figures of mythical animals guarding the stairwell and edges of the monumental pyramid is probably not uncommon.
According to legend, this temple was the resting place of a nine-headed spirit Naga in the shape of a woman. Every night in her chamber, she awaited the king’s company before falling asleep. If the king misses even one night to visit her, he will lose his throne and his mighty kingdom will perish. If the story has piqued your interest, have a peek at what a spirit chamber looks like.
3. Baphuon
( Source : Renown Travel )
Begin with a lovely perspective image of a stilted stone aisle set against the lush foliage of the scene. The crowned pinnacle of Baphuon’s building, which you will shortly climb above, can be seen from the far entrance. Baphuon is a temple worth considering because of the nice perspective from the summit and the soothing hues of the clear view aisle. A slow stroll along the hallways of columns and the shadows of the walls will also be quite a sensation. Since you’re going to see Bayon temple, you might as well advance a few hundred meters and you’ll be there now. King Udayadityavarman II built this magnificent Hindu temple between 1050 – 1066.
4. Banteay kdei
( Source : Flickr )
It would take days to visit all of Siem Reap temples, each with its own unique state and peculiarities. Banteay Kdei Temple is our first honorable mention, and it appears to be shadowing the famed rooted Ta Prohm. Banteay Kdei, on the other hand, is a more appealing temple because it is much smaller and requires less time to tour. With the surrounding woods, the tight-knit temple of the maze creates a soft calm feeling of ruins in the air. With its unique tree-embraced structure, this resort is certainly worth your attention if you prefer a more tranquil setting. The temple was completed during King Jayavarman VII’s reign in the 12th century.
4. Thommanon
( Source : Hotels.com )
Thommanon is another honorable mention on our list. Thommanon is still a well-preserved library-like edifice with many visible art and god carvings for visitors to see. Rather, Thommanon is placed in a much more peaceful location, just after the Victory gate entrance of the little circuit tour. Because it is so little, you will not have to wait long to enter and visit King Suryavarman II’s Hindu temple. The magnificent surface of Thommanon appears to age far less than the damaged Angkor Wat, which is almost unspoiled by nature. As a result, some interior arts have a superior view and edge.