Little do some people know, ‘Angkor’ is more than just the temples of Angkor Wat. Set off on a full day in the Angkor Archaeological Park with an expert local guide and discover the incredible wonders of ancient Cambodia. Be entranced by 500 years of history while visiting temples including lesser-known hidden gems and the world renowned Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat .
Programme Details
Beginning from 07:30, the entire Angkor Park is open to visitors but many are still strolling around Angkor Wat. Consequently, this is the best time to experience the temple you most wish to see with the fewest number of other visitors. Consider Ta Prohm, the temple made famous by the Angelina Jolie film Tomb Raider, which is otherwise best known for the trees and vines growing atop the temple walls. The temple is a perfect example of how nature has crept in and reclaimed its land after the fall of the Angkorian empire. Enter from the east, just as the temple opens, to avoid the crowds.
After leaving Ta Prohm, the next temple you’ll wish to visit is Bayon, the temple at the center of Angkor Thom city, built by the last great king: Jayavarman VII. A tour of the city can also begin at The Terrace of The Elephants and the Royal Palace enclosure. The forested grounds are beautiful in the morning.
Next, take a stroll around the lower galleries of carvings of Bayon, which depict fascinating scenes of life from the late 11th century, then find a quiet spot on the exterior of the temple to appreciate the 54 towers featuring faces of the Buddha looking out into the jungle around you.
Then return to your hotel. Lunch on own account.
As the only west-facing temple, Angkor Wat is best to visit (and photograph) in the late afternoon, arriving around 2:30 - 3pm, enjoying the uppermost platform around 5:00pm, and walking out as the guards begin corralling visitors out of the complex at 5:30pm. Exiting the temple with the setting sun shining on the Vishnu image discovered beneath the temple’s central sanctuary is a magical sight to behold and a fitting end of your exploration of the temple built by King Suryavarman, whose name translates to “protected by the sun”.
Note: Should you wish to witness a sunset, there are limited options and they can be quite crowded. Consider finding a quiet place away from the crowds, such as atop the city wall beside the West or South gate of Angkor Thom, or Srah Srang. Be advised that a sunset will typically have you returning to town after 6:00pm.
Notes:
Should you wish to witness a sunset, there are limited options and they can be quite crowded. Consider finding a quiet place away from the crowds, such as atop the city wall beside the West or South gate of Angkor Thom, or Srah Srang. Be advised that a sunset will typically have you returning to town after 6:00pm.
Time: 07.30 – 18.00
Departure: Daily
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