5 amazing unknown facts about angkor wat

Introduction

If you're planning to visit Cambodia, visiting Angkor Wat should be on your priority list, as no visit to Cambodia is complete without seeing this beautiful place. Considered the largest religious monument on the planet, head over to Angkor and step back in time, watching giant trees root smothering many temples,  glorious bas-reliefs tell stories and enormous sandstones lying on the ground. This venture of exploring the lost city of Angkor residing deep in the Cambodian jungle is an experience to cherish for the rest of your life. But to make your experience more engaging, here are 5 amazing unknown facts about Angkor Wat that you might not know about. Get your Cambodia visa with us and experience the joy of visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

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Five amazing unknown facts about Angkor Wat 

Largest Religious Monument on the Planet

To start with our list of unknown facts about Angkor Wat, the first fact about Angkor Wat is that it is the largest religious monument out there. UNESCO acknowledged this remarkable monument by adding this to the list of World Heritage Sites in 1992, which also encouraged International efforts to preserve this monument. 

The Place is Featured on the Cambodian Flag

Angkor Wat, featured in the Cambodian Flag, shows the importance it holds in the nation. This historic site has been featured in the country's national flag since 1850. Being at the centre of the flag reflects the tremendous pride the people hold for this monument. Besides the national flag, one can also see the picture representation of this monument on many denominations of the Cambodian currency. All and all, one can honestly say this is not an ordinary monument site in the country, which adds up to the value of visiting this place once in Cambodia. 

Two Religions shared the Monument 

Astonishingly, Angkor Wat was shared by two religions in its long-standing history. The place was initially built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which replaced the earlier tradition of worshipping Shaiva by the previous king. The site eventually turned into a Buddhist temple later in the 12 century and is still used as a medium for honouring today. 

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Angkor Wat is made full of Sandstone

Being the most significant religious site on the planet, the building of this monument was not a menial task as one would imagine. Much labour and logistics have been done to put this historical place where it is. This magnificent temple is made using sandstone blocks taken from the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen, which is situated 50 km from the site. Since the weight of the sandstone blocks used was heavy ( 1,500 kilograms each block), the workers had to find a creative way of transporting these blocks. It is believed this was done by transporting the sandstone to the Siem River using canals and then floating them down the river using rafts. 

Temples Walls are decorated with Thousands of Storytelling Bas-reliefs 

While strolling in Angkor Wat, if you notice the walls of the temple, you will find Bas-reliefs representing important deities and figures of Hindu and Buddhist religions and key events that took place in their narrative tradition. Without a single doubt, Angkor Wat is a must-see for any tourist visiting Cambodia. Exploring this temple, you will admire the essence of carved ruins and the history which is present here.  

Angkor Wat Entry fee 

For the local tourists visiting Angkor Wat is free of cost, but this is not the same for foreign travellers. If you're one of them, you will be required to purchase an entry pass to explore what Angkor Wat has to offer. Down below are the given prices - 

• 2-day pass - USD 37 ( pass valid for 2 days only)
• 5-day pass - USD 62 ( pass valid for 10 days, non-consecutive days)
• 10-day pass - USD 72 ( pass valid for a month, non-consecutive days) 

Note- Children under the age of 12 are permitted free entry. Make sure to provide their passport at the ticket counter and carry it with you to the temples 

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Angkor Wat Opening Hours 

Angkor Wat is open to visitors from 5:00 am to 5:30 pm every day. Whereas other Angkor temples are open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm every day. The reason for Angkor Wat being opened so early in the morning is that visitors can relish the sunrise. 

How can you get to Angkor Wat?

• Another vital piece of information you should have is regarding how you can get to Angkor Wat? Well, the place is located around 6 km from Siem Reap. If you opt for the tour, you will find transport arrangements from Siem Reap. 
• If you're planning on a self-guided tour, you will have to make transport arrangements on your own. The best way to commute around temples is by opting for the tuk-tuk, which will benefit you to travel around Siem Reap. 
• If you don't fancy going by motorised rickshaw you can transport via car or bus. 

What is the best time to visit Angkor Wat? 

It is advisable to visit Angkor Wat during the dry season, from early December to March. The temperature at this time flows around 30 degrees Celsius. Since the temperature will be warm, if you want to cool it down, you can visit the place in December and January. 

If you're choosing to visit Angkor Wat during the dry season, the main drawback is the busy crowds. Since this time around, it is a peak season, you aren't going to be lonely. If you still want to compensate for the smaller crowd, it is advisable to take your tour late in the afternoon. 

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Conclusion

So there it was 5 amazing unknown facts about Angkor Wat with other details that will come in aid if you're planning to visit this enormous monument anytime soon. You will not be able to enter Cambodia without a proper visa unless you belong to a country that is eligible to receive visa-free entry so we advise you to get yourself a Cambodia visa through us. 

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