Cambodia - Angkor

Cambodia Information

Capital: Phnom Penh
Major language: Khmer
Population: 13.7 million (UN 2006)
Head of state: King Norodom Sihamoni
Currency: Riel
Major Religion: Buddhism

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Angkor Temples

Angkor, in its many forms, was the capital city of the old Khmer empire from the 9th century to around the 15th (although it started to disintegrate in the late 13th century). The city was home to a million inhabitants and over 1000 temples dedicated to the Khmer gods.
These temples now range from piles of rubble in the middle of a padi field up to the astounding Angkor Wat; the largest single religious monument in the world. Many of the bigger temples have now been beautifully restored and are well cared for, allowing them to tell the story and praise the gods that they were built to serve.
It is possible that the ruins of Angkor are in many ways more impressive today than when the great city was in its heyday. Over time the effects of the sun, rain and wind have softened the sandstone blocks and carvings which would have appeared rather garish when freshly cut and brightly painted.
The majority of the ruins are located amid forests and farmland to the north of the Tonlé Sap Lake (the Great Lake) near modern day Siem Reap and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What about the crowds?

Our qualified guides understand the importance of minimising the impact of crowds. All are highly skilled at ensuring minimal crowds by approaching various temples via lesser used approaches and at the quieter times of the day. This helps us ensure that every day you spend at the site is 2nd to none.

How much of your holiday should you allow for touring the Angkor Temples?

How long is a piece of string!? We generally recommend two or three days, although many will stay longer, often taking a 'day off' from the temples on the third day - this allows you time away in order to prevent you getting 'templed out' - if that's possible!