Angkor Thom through the eyes of this Expat Wife was just amazing.  The site is breath taking especially seen at sunrise.

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Brief History of Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is part of the Angkor Wat sites which was founded by Jayavarman VII as a new and final city.  The new city was built close by due to Angkor Wat being captured by a suprise attack, the Chams in 1177.  Angkor Thom was inspired by a new religious faith; mystic Buddhism known with the four huge faced Buddhas.

Walls that surround Angkor Thom have five great gates built in the 12th Century with a military purpose in mind.  The South Gate Entrance is a visit to the Terrace of the Leper Kings and the Terrace of the Elephants which are a place for public ceremonies.  Surrounding Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom you will notice numerous ancient temples in various state of repairs.

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Location of Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia and is one of the Angkor Temples.  Viking River Cruises offer a visit to this site on their river cruise called the “Mekong River Cruise”.  If your looking for an adventure this is a cruise I recommend.  Angkor Thom along with a local guide made this magically place come to life.

Suggestions

When visiting Angkor Thom I also suggest to see these other temples.

  • Angkor Wat

  • Bayon

  • Banteay Srei

  • Ta Prohm.

Transportation

Unless your with a group or want to see the Sunrise over Angkor Wat Temples, I suggest arranging transportation the day before with your hotel if you want to leave early in the morning.

Transportation to get around the temples by

  • Motorcycle
  • Taxi
  • Bicycle (looks like fun)
  • Tuk Tuk (my favorite)

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Entrance into Angkor Wat Temples

Angkor Pass

To enter the Angkor Temples, an Angkor Pass is needed and can be purchased for 1,3 or 7 days.  A passport photo is needed and placed on the pass. There are so many temples to visit, but 3 days will be enough time to see the main temples that include Angkor Thom.

Don’t forget your snacks and water and just enjoy your day.  For an overview of the “Angkor Temples” visit 1Adventure Traveler.  There you get a chance to pick your favorite temple.  A stop over in “Vietnam ” is a must if you’re in the area.

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As you walk through Angkor Thom feel the quietness and think of the many people that have come before you.  Enjoy your adventure!  Take only Memories or Photographs and Leave only Footprints.

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