Background
The remains of the capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th century, spread over some 400 km² of forest and farmland north of Siem Reap. They include the temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon with its countless carvings.
Researchers in 2007 concluded that Angkor was the largest pre-industrial city in the world by area, run on a complex network of moats and reservoirs. It was listed in 1992 and placed on the List in Danger at the same time; UNESCO set up a programme to protect it.
- 802Jayavarman II declares himself universal monarch
- 1431Angkor sacked by Ayutthaya
- 1992Listed, and placed on the List in Danger
Find Your Way Around
The main parts of the site, in the order most visitors see them
- 1Angkor WatThe largest temple, with towers, galleries and long bas-reliefs.
- 2Angkor Thom and the BayonThe stone faces of the Bayon and the Terrace of the Elephants.
- 3Ta ProhmThe jungle temple held in the grip of tree roots.
- 4Banteay SreiThe pink sandstone 'citadel of women', with the finest carving at Angkor.
- 5Preah Khan and Neak PeanA vast monastery temple and an island fountain temple.
- 6Pre RupA temple mountain for sunset.
Know Before You Go
From Wikivoyage and the GoGo guides
A First Day at Angkor
From the GoGo Siem Reap guide · Open the Siem Reap Guide ›
- 08:00Angkor Wat3 hrsThe towers, galleries and bas-reliefs.
- 14:00Preah Khan and Neak Pean2 hrsA vast monastery temple and the island fountain temple.
- 17:00Sunset at Pre Rup1 hrSunset from the temple mountain.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: Oct–Dec. Very hot (highs 34°C+) in Feb–Apr. Rainy season Jun–Sep.
Typical highs
Climate: NASA POWER
Pair It With
Other World Heritage sites nearby, by distance
