Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat

Guide Location: 3 km north of the ticket office, outside the south gate of Angkor Thom. Construction Period: 12th century. Religion: Hinduism. Deity: Vishnu. Highlights - Architecture: Angkor Wat is a representative structure from the artistic peak of the Angkor period. The main hall covers an area of 40,000 square meters, and the central tower rises 65 meters, making it the largest religious building in the world. Angkor Wat follows the design of a quincunx tower — five lotus towers rise from three-tiered platforms, giving the entire complex a powerful sense of centrality and upward movement.

First Level: The surrounding gallery on the lowest platform is 800 meters long and covered in bas-reliefs depicting religious stories. Starting from the west entrance and proceeding counterclockwise, you will see: (West) The Battle of Kurukshetra – Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan – the death of monkey king Vali – (South) the army of King Suryavarman II – Yama’s judgment – (East) the Churning of the Ocean of Milk – (Elephant Gate) – Vishnu defeating the demons – (North) Krishna battling the demon king Bana – the war between gods and demons – (West) the Battle of Lanka.

Second Level: This level is 7 meters higher than the first and has a perimeter of about 430 meters. The reliefs on this level are more decorative compared to the first, featuring images such as apsara statues and lotus buds.

Third Level: This square-shaped level has sides 75 meters long. It is the highest part of the temple, where four smaller towers surround the central main tower, symbolizing Mount Meru, the sacred abode of the gods. The staircase leading to the main tower is known as the “Stairway to Heaven.” It is 13 meters high and nearly vertical, requiring visitors to use both hands and feet to climb. Devotees undertake this climb to experience the arduous journey to heaven and express their deep devotion. In 1973, a French female tourist fell to her death while climbing, and her grieving husband funded the installation of a handrail on the western side of the staircase. Since then, that side has been called the “Lover’s Staircase.” Introduction: Also known as "Angkor Wat" (as opposed to "Angkor Thom," the "Great Angkor"), the commonly referred to "Angkor Temple" usually means this site. It is the largest, best-preserved, and most famous structure among the Angkor ruins, hence the entire temple complex is often referred to as Angkor Wat. With its grand scale, perfect symmetry, balanced proportions, and exquisite carvings, it is considered one of the Four Great Wonders of the Ancient East.

Special Note: Climbing can be dangerous. It is best to use the handrails and wear well-fitting, non-slip shoes.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia