Discover the Best Temples of Angkor
The Angkor Archaeological Park is one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites, home to the magnificent remains of the Khmer Empire. From the iconic Angkor Wat to the jungle-clad ruins of Ta Prohm, these temples represent the pinnacle of Khmer architecture and art. This guide highlights the 10 must-see temples in Angkor, curated for travelers seeking cultural immersion, historical discovery, and architectural wonder. Updated with 2026 travel information.
Whether you have one day or a full week, these temples showcase the best of Angkor and offer unforgettable experiences for every traveler. The dry season (November to April) offers the clearest skies for sunrise and sunset views, while the wet season (May to October) brings lush green landscapes and dramatic temple photography.
TEMPLE 1
Angkor Wat – The Crown Jewel
Angkor Wat is the star of all Angkor Wat Must-See Temples. King Suryavarman II built it in the early 1100s as a Hindu temple for Vishnu. Its five towers look like lotus buds and stand for the five peaks of Mount Meru, where Hindu gods live. The temple covers 162.6 hectares, making it the biggest religious building ever made.
The walls show detailed carvings about myths, wars, and daily life. Most people come at sunrise to see the temple’s shape against the pink and orange sky. In 2026, the recommended strategy is to arrive by 4:30 AM and enter through the eastern side for a quieter experience.
TEMPLE 2
Bayon Temple – The Faces of Avalokiteshvara
Bayon Temple sits in the middle of Angkor Thom (the “Great City”). King Jayavarman VII built it in the late 1100s. The temple has 54 towers with 216 huge stone faces that seem to look at you from every angle. Some think the faces show the king himself, while others say they show Avalokiteshvara, a Buddhist figure who helps people.
The calm smiles make this temple special and a bit spooky. Early morning is the best time to visit to avoid crowds and see the faces in the best light.
TEMPLE 3
Ta Prohm – Where Nature Takes Back
You might know Ta Prohm from the movie “Tomb Raider.” This temple is famous for the huge tree roots that grow over and through the stone walls. King Jayavarman VII built it in 1186 as a place for Buddhist monks and named it after his mom. Unlike other temples, Ta Prohm was left mostly as it was found, with trees and plants taking over the buildings.
In 2026, it remains one of the most atmospheric temples in Angkor, and early morning visits (7:00-8:30 AM) are recommended to avoid the main crowds and capture the best light.
TEMPLE 4
Banteay Srei – The Citadel of Women
Banteay Srei means “Citadel of Women” or “Citadel of Beauty.” Built in the 900s, this small temple has the most detailed and beautiful carvings in all of Angkor. The pink sandstone makes the precise art stand out even more. Even though it’s about 25km from the main temple area, the amazing level of detail makes it worth the trip.
Many art experts say these are the finest carvings ever made in Khmer art. In 2026, the recommended approach is to visit at 7:00 AM or after 3:30 PM, when the red stone reads deepest in low sun and tour groups are fewer.
TEMPLE 5
Preah Khan – The Sacred Sword
Preah Khan means “Sacred Sword” and was built in the late 1100s by King Jayavarman VII for his father. It was both a temple and a school with almost 100,000 people helping to run it. The temple has long hallways with many side rooms and some unique two-story buildings. Tree roots break through walls in some places, like at Ta Prohm, but there aren’t as many tourists here.
The World Monuments Fund has worked here since 1991, and its approach keeps the ruin looking found rather than rebuilt. The best way to explore is to enter through the west gate and have your driver collect you at the east, so you walk straight through.
TEMPLE 6
Angkor Thom – The Great City
Angkor Thom was the last great capital of the Khmer Empire, established by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. The city is a 3 km square surrounded by a moat and walls, with five monumental gates. The South Gate is the most visited, flanked by rows of 54 gods and demons pulling a naga.
Inside the city are the Bayon Temple, the Baphuon, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King. Exploring Angkor Thom thoroughly can take 2-3 hours.
TEMPLE 7
Pre Rup – The Temple Mountain
King Rajendravarman II built Pre Rup in the 10th century as a temple mountain, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It is made of brick, laterite, and sandstone, with a pyramid shape that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is one of the best sunset spots in Angkor.
For 2026, sunset at Pre Rup remains a popular alternative to Phnom Bakheng, with less crowding and a shorter climb. Arrive around 4:30 PM to secure a good spot.
TEMPLE 8
Phnom Bakheng – Sunset Paradise
One of the oldest temples in the area, Phnom Bakheng was built in the late 800s as the main temple of the first Angkor capital. It sits on a hill about 65 meters high. This spot is famous for its sunset views over Angkor Wat.
Due to its popularity, APSARA limits visitors to 300 people on the upper terrace. In 2026, it is recommended to arrive by 4:15 PM in high season to be sure of a terrace pass. If the count is already full, the West Baray or Srah Srang reservoir offers an easier sunset with no queue.
TEMPLE 9
Ta Keo – The Unfinished Pyramid
Ta Keo is a 10th-century temple mountain, known for its unfinished state. It is a five-tiered pyramid with a steep climb to the top, offering excellent views of the surrounding jungle. The temple was never completed, which gives it a unique character.
The climb is steep and not for everyone, but the views are rewarding. It is best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
TEMPLE 10
Beng Mealea – The Jungle Temple
Beng Mealea lies about 40km east of the main Angkor complex. Built in the early 1100s, it follows a layout like Angkor Wat but is mostly left to nature. Walkways help you move through this wild temple. The temple gives you a true jungle adventure feeling. Huge trees grow through the ruins, moss covers ancient stones, and you feel like you’re the first person to find this lost city.
For 2026, Beng Mealea is the single most underrated temple in the Angkor region. It is best visited as a half-day trip, combined with the Roluos Group or the Tonle Sap floating villages.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Angkor Temples
How many days do I need to see the top temples in Angkor?
Minimum 2-3 days. One day for the main circuit (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm), one for the grand circuit (Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som), and a third for outlying temples like Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea.
What is the Angkor Pass?
The Angkor Pass is required to enter the Angkor Archaeological Park. Prices in 2026 are USD 37 for one day, USD 62 for three days, and USD 72 for seven days.
What is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?
The best time is early morning for sunrise (5-7 AM) or late afternoon for the best light. The dry season (November to April) offers the clearest skies.
What should I wear when visiting the temples?
Dress code requires shoulders and knees covered at all temple sites. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing.
How do I get around the Angkor temples?
Tuk-tuks are the main temple transport — full-day hire $15–25 for the Angkor circuit. Private cars and bicycles are also popular options.
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About This Angkor Temples Guide
This guide is part of Indochina Partner’s destination collection, created to help international travelers understand the best temples in Angkor and plan their journeys. Updated for 2026 with the latest travel information.
Destination information should be reviewed and updated regularly as transportation, tourism infrastructure, opening arrangements and local travel conditions change.
