Angkor Wat Grand Circuit: Self-Guided Tour (+ Map)

The North Gate of Angkor Thom is a grand and well-preserved entrance to the ancient city, characterized by its iconic face towers and intricate carvings. Built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, the gate features a central tower adorned with serene faces, symbolizing the compassion and wisdom of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. The approach to the gate includes a causeway lined with statues of devas and asuras, each holding a massive naga (serpent), representing the Hindu legend of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. This dramatic entrance offers visitors an impressive introduction to the architectural and symbolic depth of Khmer art and religion.

The Preah Khan Temple is a large and intricately designed temple built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Located near the center of Angkor, it is one of the major temples of the Angkor complex. Preah Khan was initially dedicated to the king’s father and was intended to serve as a Buddhist university, housing numerous monks, teachers, and students. Its architectural style is marked by vast galleries, courtyards, and impressive carvings, with the central sanctuary aligned along an east-west axis. The temple complex is large, featuring a combination of Buddhist and Hindu imagery, reflecting the transitional religious period of the Khmer Empire.

Prei Temple, also known as Prey E Tbong, is a modest but captivating temple situated in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Banteay Prei. Dating back to the 12th century and attributed to the reign of King Jayavarman VII, Prei Temple embodies the simplicity and charm of smaller Angkorian shrines. Though modest in scale, it includes a central sanctuary and a “library” building, both framed by a surrounding laterite wall and entrance gopura. The temple’s decorative carvings, including apsara figures and delicate floral motifs, showcase the Khmer artistry of the period. Nestled within the forest, Prei Temple offers a tranquil atmosphere, a contrast to the grandeur of Angkor’s larger monuments, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking a peaceful experience amidst Angkor’s ancient history.

Banteay Prei Temple: Banteay Prei is a lesser-known temple located within the Angkor Archaeological Park, surrounded by dense jungle. This small temple dates back to the 12th century and is believed to have been built by King Jayavarman VII. The temple is set within a rectangular enclosure and is a prime example of the Bayon style, with numerous bas-reliefs depicting scenes of daily life, including soldiers and mythical creatures. Banteay Prei is not as frequently visited as other temples in Angkor, making it a peaceful site for exploration.

Neak Poan, also known as Neak Pean or “The Coiled Serpents,” is a unique and tranquil temple complex located on an artificial island in the Jayatataka Baray (reservoir) within Angkor Archaeological Park. Built during the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this Buddhist temple is one of the most distinctive in the Angkor region. Designed as a healing temple, Neak Poan was inspired by the sacred Himalayan lake Anavatapta, believed in ancient mythology to possess healing powers. The temple features a central pool with a small shrine rising from a lotus-shaped pedestal at its center, surrounded by four smaller pools symbolizing water, earth, fire, and wind—elements thought to bring balance and health. The name “Neak Poan” originates from the stone naga (serpent) sculptures that wrap protectively around the base of the central shrine. The serene setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and water, creates an ethereal ambiance, making Neak Poan a peaceful retreat and a place for contemplation amid the ruins.

Krol Ko Temple is a small yet captivating Buddhist sanctuary built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Tucked away within the Angkor Archaeological Park, it features a compact, enclosed layout and follows the distinctive architectural style of other Jayavarman VII temples, such as Ta Prohm and Preah Khan. The temple is known for its unique gopuras, or entrance towers, that display intricate carvings of deities and floral motifs symbolizing prosperity and spiritual harmony. Krol Ko is thought to have been a place of meditation, with its peaceful ambiance accentuated by the surrounding lush forest. Although modest in scale, the temple showcases Khmer artistry in its delicate lintels, pediments, and serene bas-reliefs, capturing a quiet, spiritual beauty amid the grand monuments of Angkor.

Ta Som is a small yet charming temple located on the Grand Circuit of Angkor, built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. The temple is dedicated to the king’s father and, like many temples from this era, features impressive carvings of deities, apsaras, and devatas. One of its most distinctive features is the large tree growing out of the eastern gate, where the roots have entwined around the stone structure, adding to the temple’s “lost temple” charm. Ta Som offers a quieter, more peaceful visit compared to other larger temples in Angkor, with beautiful bas-reliefs and intricate carvings.

East Mebon Temple, a magnificent 10th-century structure, was built under King Rajendravarman II and served as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva. It originally stood on an island in the center of the now-dry Eastern Baray, a massive reservoir that once provided water to the surrounding region. East Mebon is known for its striking multi-tiered structure and intricate carvings that illustrate scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is adorned with remarkable sandstone and brick towers and features stone carvings of elephants at each corner, symbolizing strength and protection. Its intricate lintels and pediments showcase exquisite Khmer artistry, while its high position offers views over the ancient baray, capturing the temple’s harmonious blend of nature, water, and sacred space.

Leak Neang Temple, also known as Prasat Leak Neang, is a small yet elegant sanctuary located within the Angkor Archaeological Park, close to the larger Ta Prohm temple. Built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century, this temple follows the architectural and artistic style characteristic of his reign. The temple’s structure is simple, featuring a single shrine with finely carved lintels and pediments depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. Although compact, Leak Neang Temple offers a glimpse into the refined craftsmanship of Khmer artisans, with delicate devata (goddess) carvings and intricate floral motifs that symbolize grace and spiritual purity. Tucked amid lush greenery, the temple exudes a tranquil, intimate charm, inviting visitors to appreciate its intricate details and serene atmosphere.

Pre Rup is a stunning temple located at the eastern edge of the Angkor Archaeological Park, constructed during the reign of King Rajendravarman II in the 10th century. It served as a state temple dedicated to the Hindu gods, with a strong focus on the god Shiva. The temple’s architecture is characterized by pyramid-like towers and large stairways, giving it a monumental and imposing presence. Pre Rup is also notable for its spectacular views, especially at sunset, when the warm tones of the stone temple contrast beautifully with the surrounding landscape.

Srah Srang Temple, located near the Angkor Archaeological Park, is a large water reservoir, originally built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II in the 10th century. Though modest in structure, the site offers a beautiful view, especially at sunrise, casting a serene reflection over the water. Visitors can often enjoy this spot in relative quiet, as it tends to be less crowded than other temples.  The temple features a stone platform that once served as a royal bathing area and is framed by a large, rectangular reservoir. Today, it offers a peaceful spot for visitors, especially at sunrise, when the water reflects the light and the temple is often quiet and less crowded. The site is ideal for those seeking a tranquil experience amidst the grandeur of Angkor’s other monuments.