Angkor is undoubtedly the jewel of Cambodia, a vast complex of over 1,000 temples built between the 9th and 12th centuries. Exploring them is to delve into the glorious history of the Khmer people and discover fabulously well-preserved architecture. We know that not all of these temples can be visited during a single seday in Cambodia, which is why today, Asiajet.com invites you to discover the 3 most beautiful temples of Angkor, according to our travel advisors, to guide your choices and help you explore beyond the usual tourist routes for your next seday in Cambodia.
Beng Mealea, the temple of adventurers.
Beng Mealea was built in the 12th century according to the most recent research, but the sources are conflicting. Indeed, it is a temple that was discovered quite late, as it was deeply buried in the tropical jungle! Today, it can be easily visited: it is located a two-hour drive from Siem Reap.
The temple of Beng Mealea has retained the charm that the first explorers of the region admired: in fact, apart from a few improvements to allow for safe movement, one is literally immersed in the heart of the lush forest to discover the still very visible remains of this mysterious temple.
Banteay Srei, the female temple
Our second favorite is the temple of Banteay Srei, which means citadel of women in Khmer. Many travelers who have visited it agree that it is the pearl of the historic site, the most beautiful temple of Angkor. And we confirm this feeling. It is indeed the only pink sandstone temple in the Angkor complex, but above all, it is one of the most finely sculpted temples. The pediments of the interior enclosures of the temple are carefully decorated and display multiple life scenes from the Ramayana (one of the fundamental texts of Hinduism and Hindu mythology). Although certain parts of the Banteay Srei temple are today closed in order to preserve them, you can still admire the friezes of the two libraries, which are simply grandiose! A temple that is definitely worth the detour in Angkor!
Koh Kret Le Temple Original Prasat Thom
We conclude our selection of the most beautiful temples of Angkor with the temple of Koh Ker, Prasat Thom, which is unique in its construction, somewhat like the Egyptian pyramids or the Mayan temples of Mexico. It is therefore quite well-known for the originality of its structure. The temple of Prasat Thom is actually a remnant of the city of Koh Ker, the capital of the kingdom in the mid-10th century. It rises to a height of 30 meters. Far removed from the main tourist site of Angkor Wat, the Koh Ker site and its temple of Prasat Thom will delight travelers seeking silence and completely deserted temples, where only the melodious sounds of birds can be heard.
To discover these temples off the beaten path, plan your tailor-made trip to Cambodia now, thanks to the expert advice of our local travel specialists!
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