Text and photos / Compiled and reported by MOOK Scenic Spots Jun(e)
Cambodia, an ancient civilization with over 2,000 years of history, once dominated the Indochina Peninsula. During the peak of the Angkor Empire, the nation reached its zenith, flourishing culturally and territorially covering not only the entire present-day Cambodia but also parts of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, with some even saying that wherever there were palm trees, it was Cambodian land. Yet, after a century of strength, the once-mighty empire seemed to be cursed, falling into an endless abyss. The 1970s brought the Khmer Rouge era — a 30-year dark period marked by the massacre of millions and widespread famine, turning Cambodia into a land of suffering almost overnight.
Watching the sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat is one of the must-do activities when traveling in Cambodia.
The grandeur of the Angkor Empire transcends time through its historical ruins. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat, is the world’s largest religious monument and a massive ancient water city. It combines two fundamental elements of Khmer temple architecture: the multi-tiered pyramid of mountain temples and the enclosed galleries of flatland temples. It also symbolizes Cambodia’s religious and mythological beliefs and has now become a world-famous tourist destination. As a Buddhist-majority country, Cambodia also has many cultural nuances and customs that visitors should pay attention to. Below are six taboos to consider when visiting Cambodia’s historic sites.
Murals on the temple corridors of Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat combines two fundamental elements of Khmer temple architecture: the multi-tiered pyramid of mountain temples and the enclosed galleries of flatland temples.
Angkor Wat symbolizes Cambodia’s religious and mythological beliefs and has now become a world-famous tourist destination.
Six Key Precautions:
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When visiting ancient sites and temples such as Angkor Wat, clothing must not be revealing or sexy. Shorts or skirts must cover the knees, and attire such as tank tops and sleeveless shirts is not allowed.
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Tourists must not give money or candy to begging children, as doing so encourages them to skip school and continue begging.
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Climbing, touching ancient structures or murals, or entering restricted areas marked with signs is strictly prohibited.
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As Cambodia is a Buddhist country, visitors must show respect to monks. If you wish to take a photo with them, always ask for their permission first.
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Smoking and littering are strictly prohibited within all heritage sites.
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In Cambodia, the left hand is considered unclean. Using the left hand to handle objects or food is seen as impolite.
The moat surrounding Angkor Wat
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