
Best time to visit Cambodia
Follow the sun & evade the crowds
If Cambodia glows with ancient wonder, then Angkor and its temples must be positively fluorescent. In practical terms, ‘Angkor’ refers to the almost 400-square kilometres of tangled jungle littered with temples, each one bigger and more beautiful than the last, and all built over a period of 600 years. It’s the largest religious complex in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within Angkor itself are the three big hitters to add to your sightseeing: the A-lister itself, Angkor Wat, one of the most recognisable religious sites on the planet and an inspired symbol of the Khmer devotion to religion; Angkor Thom, the Royal city and former capital of the Khmer Empire; and Ta Phrom, a tussle of moss-covered peaks propped up by giant fig trees. Whichever you choose, rest-assured that you’ll be leaving in a state of wonderment and with a memory card full of snaps. Then, of course, there’s Siem Reap. The epicentre of tourist activity (in a good way), the modern city is the gateway to the temples beyond. The hotels are chic, the food is fabulous and the markets are buzzing – Cambodian life in a nutshell.
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When you arrive in Siem Reap, there's no doubt there'll be one thing on your mind: Angkor Wat. A symbol of Cambodia and true feat of ancient architecture, it is the figurehead of the Angkor Park, which is the largest religious complex in the world and houses thousands of temples. Surrounded by acres of jungle - which envelopes some temples completely - you can explore on foot, bicycle and tuk tuk. Highlights include the bygone royal Khmer city of Angkor Tom, the ruins of Ta Phrom, the finely-carved smiling faces at Bayon Temple and miniaturised Banteay Srei, which is adorned with thousands of female deities carved from red sandstone. To make the most of your visit, a multi-day pass is preferable and a guided tour offers a far more in-depth experience. Get there before sunrise for the ultimate, crowd-free views! Spend a little time in the Siem Reap where you can enjoy a cooking class and browse the glowing night markets.
A true symbol of Cambodia (it’s even the centrepiece of the national flag), nothing can prepare you for your first, open-mouthed gaze at Angkor and its absorbing mix of spirituality, symmetry and sanctity.
With too many temples to mention by name, there’s always something ‘off the beaten track’ to discover. Try rock-hopping around unrestored Beng Melea, exploring the abandoned relics.
The number of visitors to Angkor multiplies every year and crowds are to be expected. There are still ways to avoid them, however – just keep an open mind and trust your guide.
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