Angkor Wat & the Temples of Siem Reap

One of the most breathtaking places on earth—ancient, sacred, and unforgettable.

Angkor is more than a tourist destination—it’s a world of wonder. These legendary temples are some of the greatest architectural achievements in human history, set in the jungle outside Siem Reap. From sunrise at Angkor Wat, to the mysterious faces of Bayon, to jungle-covered ruins like Ta Prohm… this is the kind of place that stays with you forever.

And to make it even more epic, you can pair the temples with a trip to the floating villages of Tonlé Sap, where daily life is built on the water.

1) Angkor Wat — Sunrise at the World Wonder

Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. Seeing sunrise here—when the temple silhouette reflects in the water—is a bucket-list moment for travelers from around the world.

Highlight: Sunrise reflection • Incredible carvings • Iconic towers

2) Bayon Temple — The Famous Smiling Faces

Bayon Temple is one of the most unforgettable stops in Angkor Thom. Its towers are carved with massive serene faces that seem to watch over you from every direction—mysterious, peaceful, and unlike anything else on earth.

3) Ta Prohm — The Jungle Temple

Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. Seeing sunrise here—when the temple silhouette reflects in the water—is a bucket-list moment for travelers from around the world.

Highlight: Sunrise reflection • Incredible carvings • Iconic towers

4) Banteay Srei — The Pink Temple with the Most Beautiful Carvings

Often called the “jewel of Khmer art,” Banteay Srei is famous for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. It’s smaller than Angkor Wat, but many visitors say it’s the most beautiful temple in the region.

5) Preah Khan — The Explorer Temple

Preah Khan is a sprawling temple complex filled with atmospheric corridors, ancient doorways, and quiet places to explore. It’s less crowded than the main temples and feels like you’re discovering something hidden and sacred.

The Epic Add-On: Floating Village + Flooded Forest

A completely different side of Cambodia—and one of the most memorable experiences near Siem Reap.

6) Kampong Phluk Floating Village — Life Built on Water

Kampong Phluk is a remarkable stilt-house and floating village near Tonlé Sap Lake. Depending on the season, you’ll see homes high above the floodplain, floating markets, and daily life built around fishing, family, and resilience.

Highlight: Stilt houses • Floating community • Cultural immersion

7) The Flooded Forest Boat Ride (Unreal Experience)

This is one of the most surreal and peaceful adventures near Siem Reap—gliding by boat through a flooded forest. It’s quiet, wild, and breathtaking… and it gives you a powerful look at the ecosystems that sustain life around Tonlé Sap.

Suggested “Perfect Day” Itinerary

Sunrise: Angkor Wat

Morning: Bayon + Angkor Thom

Late Morning: Ta Prohm

Lunch / rest: Siem Reap

Afternoon: Kampong Phluk + Flooded Forest

©2026 Vision Cambodia By Dr.Nate & Beckie Lambert