According to the publication of the Ministry of Tourism on June 27, 2024, a, Angkor Wat is ranked as the 12th best tourist destination in the world by TripAdvisor’s Traveler Choice Awards. Cambodia’s ancient temples amaze travelers from around the world with its magnificent architecture, luxurious sculptures and rich history.
Angkor Wat, located in Cambodia, is a monumental temple complex and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Built during the Khmer Empire’s peak in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat was originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, gradually transforming into a Buddhist site towards the end of the 12th century.
The temple complex spans over 400 acres and is renowned for its intricate architecture and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Its distinctive five towers are designed to represent Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods in Hindu cosmology.
Angkor Wat’s construction was overseen by King Suryavarman II, who intended it to serve as his state temple and capital city. The site’s significance continued through subsequent rulers of the Khmer Empire until its decline in the 15th century. Following this period, Angkor Wat gradually fell into disrepair and was reclaimed by the jungle until its rediscovery by European explorers in the 19th century.
Angkor Wat
Today, Angkor Wat stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains a symbol of Cambodia’s cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. It attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn not only by its historical and architectural significance but also by its profound spiritual and cultural resonance.
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