Joanna James
Anyone travelling to Cambodia makes it an absolute point to visit Angkor Wat, as it is one of the dreamiest locations in the country. There is a lot this wonder has to offer, so read through the following to be prepared to truly appreciate this spot!
First and foremost, you have to do your research! Knowing a little about Angkor Wat, it's history and the meaning of it the site as a whole will make the experience a much better one than visiting without any info! This temple complex is the largest religious monument in the world, measuring a whopping 162.6 hectares! Angkor Wat is just one of the hundreds of surviving temples in Cambodia, but this huge monument is extremely famous as it was built as a spiritual home for the Hindu god Vishnu.
As you now know, Angkor Wat covers a huge area! This automatically means a lot of walking. Prepare yourself to walk a lot to visit all the temples and sites as they are rather far apart from one another. The site also requires a bit of climbing, so put on your best walking shoes!
Keep in mind that these sites are very popular among tourists, therefore, the best time to visit is before sunrise. It is said that watching the sunrise is a once in a lifetime experience, perfect to capture those wallpaper-like photos. By avoiding the tourist rush, you have all the time in the world to immerse yourself fully into the experience.
If you're looking to visit Cambodia and Angkor Wat, try your best to book the trip in January. January is known to bring the best weather! Great weather means you get to truly experience the luxury hotel in Siem Reap you're staying at, which you'll be unable to do if it rains all day!
For those visiting Cambodia during the hotter months, visit the temples before 11 am as temperatures can go up to 37 degrees Celsius by midday. You don't want to be feeling too warm to appreciate the sites.
Booking a tour guide is a great idea – they will teach you all bout the history of the temple, it's the significance and why the temples are as famous as they are. A tour guide will make your experience a much more enlightening one! You can ask hotels, the likes of Anantara Angkor Resort, for suggestions on tour guides.
This point goes without saying, as you're visiting a sacred and religious site. Dressing modestly is vital before heading over to Angkor Wat (or any other temple!), as this is a sign of respect. Cover your shoulders and wear a long skirt or pants.
To immerse yourself and enjoy everything Cambodia has to offer, you should hire a private driver for a couple of days at least. Certain hotels provide drivers themselves, but if not, all you have to do is ask and they are bound to give you suggestions yourself.
Finally, before visiting Angkor Wat – it is best you carry an umbrella with you. Temperatures can get really warm, so an umbrella is going to be your saviour for when the sun gets too unbearable.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
