Angkor Wat
Attraction
4.8 (32721 reviews)
This iconic, sprawling temple complex is surrounded by a wide moat & features intricate carvings.
Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
+855 63 765 577
Did You Know?
Ancient Khmer Empire
Siem Reap served as the capital of the ancient Khmer Empire, which ruled the region from the 9th to the 15th centuries. This imperial legacy is evident in the stunning archaeological heritage found in and around Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat.
Rediscovery
Siem Reap was a small village when French explorers like Henri Mouhot 'rediscovered' Angkor in the 19th century. While European visitors had been to the temple ruins earlier, the rediscovery brought Angkor back into the world's attention.
First Tourists
In 1901, the first Western tourists arrived at Angkor, with a total of about 200 visitors in just three months. This marked the beginning of Angkor's journey from a forgotten jungle site to a world-renowned tourist destination.
Restoration
The École française d'Extrême-Orient (EFEO) played a crucial role in Angkor's restoration. They funded an expedition to the Bayon in 1901 and took responsibility for clearing and restoring the entire site, bringing Angkor back to its former glory.