By Patrick M. Lind
Angkor Wat is the eighth wonder of the world and by far Cambodia's most popular tourist destination. Over half a million people visit the site each year. The temple may be the largest man-made religious symbol in the world. A visit to Angkor Wat is guaranteed to be an awe-inspiring highlight of any trip to Cambodia.
History
Angkor Wat is the largest of the temples of Angkor, and in the eyes of many the most astonishing. The temple dates back to the early 12th century and was built as a funeral temple for Suryavarman II in honor of Vishnu. French explorers rediscovered the temple in the 1860s. Since 1992, Angkor Wat and the surrounding area has been a designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting There
Both daily buses and boats leave from Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, and take approximately five to six hours to reach Siem Reap, which is just south of Angkor. For those traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap, daily buses take about 10 to 14 hours. Angkor Wat is then less than four miles away and can be reached by numerous buses, moto and car services, and even bicycle.
Admission
Angkor Wat is part of the greater Temples of Angkor complex. Admission includes access to all the monuments and temples except Phnom Kulen, Beng Mealea and Koh Ker. One-day, three-day and one-week passes can be purchased.
When to Visit
Angkor Wat can be visited just about year-round. December and January are the best months, as temperatures are mild and humidity is low. Visiting during the wet season (May to October) is a good option as the rain comes heavy and fast but is then followed by sunshine, and it keeps the crowds smaller. February through April can be hotter and sometimes unpleasant due to the humidity.
Malaria
Like all of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is subject to malaria. Visitors are advised to take proper precautions before visiting. There is no vaccine for malaria, but preventative medications such as Malarine, Mefloquine and Artesunate can be taken. Depending on the length of the journey, and to where else in Cambodia visitors are traveling to, many times medications can be brought as a stand-by preventative and taken only when symptoms are evident. Consult with a doctor about proper preventative medication, as each has it's own, sometimes serious, side effects. Other precautions include: wearing long pants and long shirts, using a mosquito repellent and avoiding scented perfume and after shaves.
Resources
About the Author:
Patrick M. Lind has been freelance writing since 2007 and has worked as an editor and journalist for ChicagoSporting.com. He received a Master of Arts in history from the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands and has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Middle East.
