6 most beautiful temples to visit in Cambodia

Cambodia has numerous temples that will leave travellers in a state of awe. The historic Southeast Asian country is home to remarkable architectural evidence of the Hindu and Buddhist faiths of the Khmer Empire.

The temples of Angkor are the inspiring remains of the world's largest pre-industrial urban centre. Learn about 6 of the most beautiful of them, NewsBytes writes.

Angkor Wat

The most popular and largest among Cambodian temples is Angkor Wat. The foundation of the temple stands on a 200-metre moat, inside which there are more than 45 temples. The main tower, which is accompanied by four other towers that create a symmetrical patter, is in the centre of the temple. Each wall of the temple is covered with carvings depicting wars, Hindu legends and old tales.

Banteay Srei

You might think that Banteay Srei (Citadel of the Women) is different from other temples. Some people believe that Banteay Srei was built at the request of a Brahmin woman, not a monarch, hence the name. Others believe that the name is related to the complexity of the carvings on the walls and the tiny size of the buildings. This red sandstone temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Wat Ek Phnom

Wat Phnom is a Buddhist monastery that is located at the top of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Wat Phnom was originally built in 1372, but has since undergone numerous reconstructions. The complex combines the natural landscape and man-made structures, creating an intriguing environment. Inside the temple premises, you can find many shrines with well-kept gardens, old stupas and frescoes.

Prasat Banan Temple

The temple stands on top of a mountain. To reach it, visitors need to overcome more than 300 steps. However, the climb to the temple will not make you bored as you can stop between the stairs to admire the beautiful scenery around. The temple has impressive carvings and a beautiful view of the Sangkar River with rice fields and villages along its banks.

Angkor Thom

This is an ancient fortified temple complex with five different entrance gates. You can find famous Bayon Temple inside. Another attraction is the 350-metre carved space known as the "Terrace of the Elephants", which is said to reflect a major battle in Khmer history. Angkor Thom was actually the last capital of the Khmer Empire.

Beng Mealea

Carved out of red sandstone, Beng Mealea (also known as Boeng Mealea) is one of Cambodia's temples from the Angkor Wat period. The doors are too low and uncomfortable to pass through even for children, but this place is known for its exquisite detailed carvings, which makes a trip there worthwhile. It offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Earlier, Travel Wise wrote about Buddhist temples and spiritual shrines that will immerse you in an incredible atmosphere of peace and help you look at the world differently.