Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over some 400 km2, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. 

2. Bayon Temple 

Bayon is in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, which was the symbolic center of the Khmer empire. 

The Mysterious Smiling Faces of Bayon Temple in Cambodia, the meaning of these faces now remains a debate. Some say they embody the image of the great Angkor King, King Jayavarman VII, who built Bayon temple. It is said that he wanted to create these faces to dedicate to Buddha.

Angkor Thom translates into English as the “Great City” and was the longest-lasting capital of the ancient Khmer Empire. The walled city was the centre of a huge building program by King Jayavarman VII. Angkor Thom covers an area of 9 square kilometres and was constructed in the late 12th century. 

4. Ta Promh 

Built from 1186 and originally known as Rajavihara (Monastery of the King), Ta Prohm was a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII. It is one of the few temples in the Angkor region where an inscription provides information about the temple's dependents and inhabitants. Shrouded in dense jungle the temple of Ta Prohm is ethereal in aspect and conjures up a romantic aura. Fig, banyan and kapok trees spread their gigantic roots over stones, probing walls and terraces apart, as their branches and leaves intertwine to form a roof over the structures.

Considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei is cut from stone of a pinkish hue and includes some of the finest stone carving anywhere on earth. Begun in 967 CE, it is one of the smallest sites at Angkor, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in stature.

6. Beng Mealea 

That's why the trip to Beng Mealea is so worthwhile. An hour in the car from Siem Reap Is all it takes to discover a temple far from the crowds and in such a state that you can believe you are the first to find it, hidden and lost in the Cambodian jungle.

Koh Ker was a cult site where Shiva had been worshipped a long time. Also Jayavarman IV was an ardent worshipper of this Hindu god. As later kings (whose residence was not in Koh Ker) changed from Hinduism to Buddhism they gave orders to make the necessary adjustments at their temples. 

The Temple of Preah Vihear, a unique architectural complex of a series of sanctuaries linked by a system of pavements and staircases on an 800 metre long axis, is an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer architecture, in terms of plan, decoration and relationship to the spectacular landscape environment. 

The temple complex includes entryways, towers, ceremonial spaces, courtyards, shrines, and a variety of connecting corridors. Additional special features of Preah Khan include its two-story pavilion, the once-bronze-plated sanctum sanctorum, and its Hall of Dancers. 

The area outside the moat includes eight monuments that may have been hospital or monastery structures. Banteay Chhmar Temple was consecrated to the memory of Prince Srindrakumara, son or protégé of Jayavarman VII, and to four of the Prince's companions in arms who had saved his life in battle against the Cham. 

Preah Khan of Kompong Svay is the largest temple enclosure constructed during the Angkorian period, quite a feat when you consider the competition. For tantalizing lost-world ambience, it's wrapped by vines and trees, and thanks to its back-of-beyond location, the site is astonishingly peaceful. You'll very likely be the only visitor. 

The site was once an old capital named Isanapura and a religious center for the worship of Shiva Brahmanism. Many temples were built in Sambo Preykuk during the reign of King Isanavarman I (AD 616- 635) in the 7th century. In more recent times Ishanapura has become known as Sambor Prei Kuk, which translates. to “the temple in the richness of forest”. The archaeological group name is a combination. of three Khmer words: Sambor means richness, Prei means forest and Kuk means temple 

These temples are not just historical sites; they are narratives in stone that tell tales of a civilization both spiritual and innovative. A visit to these temples is a profound experience, offering a glimpse into the soul of ancient Cambodia. Whether you're an avid historian, an architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of beauty, these temples are sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory.

For those planning a visit, it's advisable to spend at least seven days exploring the area to fully appreciate the beauty and significance of these ancient wonders. Remember to respect the sites and contribute to their preservation for future generations to marvel at.

Siem Reap is more than just a stopover; it's a cultural odyssey waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, charge your cameras, and prepare for an adventure that will echo through the ages.