Angkor Mini Temples
Angkor Mini Temples consists of several temples clustered together.
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is an incredible temple. Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and an exterior wall. The temple itself is 1 square kilometer and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. The stories carved as bas-reliefs are re-told and give a glimpse into the Khmer empire and a greater appreciation of Khmer culture. Angkor Wat is a good place to see sunset and sunrise. The northern reflecting pool is one of the most popular locations for sunrise. If you are arriving for sunrise, arrive early. Some of the best colors of the temple appear just before the sun breaks over the horizon.
Bayon – Angkor Thom
If you only see two temples, Angkor Wat and the Bayon should be the ones. Set in the centre of Angkor Thom, the Bayon is an imposing structure. There are 37 towers and most but not all, sport carved faces oriented towards the cardinal points. The South wall depicts a scene from a historical sea battle between the Khmer and the Cham. The surrounding jungle makes the Bayon a bit dark and flat for photographers around sunrise and sunset.
The South Gate of Angkor Thom
This is one of the 5 gates of Angkor Thom. Lighting is best in the morning. Both sides of this entrance are lined with stone head statues. They appeared to have been beheaded by the Khmer enemies during the war. You can still find some of these head intact with full face features.
Angkor Thom
This is a walled and moat royal city and was the capital of the Angkor Empire. There are 5 entrances to the city, one for each cardinal point. Each gate is crowned with four giant faces. The South Gate is often the first stop on a tour of the Angkor Wat temples and a great place for photography.
Prasat Bei
This is a three brick tower between Baksei Chamkrong and the moat of the Angkor Thom near the South Gate. Some lintel carvings have survived. Prasat Bei literally means three towers. Lighting is the best in the morning.
Thmo Bay Kaet
This is the remaining of a brick temple. Combine with a visit to Prasat Bei, Baksei Chamkrong and South Gate of Angkor Thom. Lighting is best in the morning.
Ta Keo
This is a temple mountain with good views of the jungle. This is an interesting temple and worth a visit but if you are pressed for time, we recommend you to visit Pre Rup instead.
Ta Prohm Kel
This is a single small sandstone tower location opposite the Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm Kel is a ruin of the temple or “Chapel” of one of the 102 hospitals built by Jayavaraman 7. Lighting is best in the morning.
Banteay Kdei
This is a jungle temple opposite to Srah Srang. Carvings are in good condition. This temple is undergoing construction and some areas are blocked off to visitors.
Srah Srang
This literally translates to ‘Lake’ and it lies opposite the east entrance of Banteay Kdei. Srah Srang offers a pleasant place to see sunrise. The very sparse remains of the temple are best seen in the dry season when the water is low.
Prasat Kravan
This is a brick temple with many towers near Neak Pean. It is a quiet and peaceful place.
Filed under: Ancient Temples, Angkor Wat, Day Tour, What To See and Do
Leave a Reply