Angkor Wat Fun Facts

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We’ve created this list of 101 fun facts about Angkor Wat!

This article contains over 101 fun facts about Angkor Wat, fun facts for kids, plus fun facts about its history, tourism, culture, legends, and so much more!

Angkor Wat Fun Facts


Table of Contents

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – About Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia that was built during the Khmer Empire. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Angkor Wat was originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. Later, it was converted to a Buddhist temple. The complex is famous for its intricate carvings, bas-reliefs, and architectural design, which incorporates elements of both Hindu and Buddhist symbolism.

The temple complex covers an area of about 402 acres and consists of several temples and other structures, including the central temple, which is surrounded by a moat. The temple is built on a raised platform and is accessible by a series of steep steps.

Angkor Wat is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia and attracts millions of visitors every year. It is also an important symbol of Cambodian culture and heritage.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – 101 Fun Facts

Here are 101 fun facts about Angkor Wat:

  1. Angkor Wat is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
  2. It is the largest religious monument in the world.
  3. The temple complex covers an area of about 402 acres.
  4. Angkor Wat was built during the Khmer Empire in the early 12th century.
  5. It was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu.
  6. Later, it was converted to a Buddhist temple.
  7. The temple complex was abandoned in the 15th century and rediscovered in the 19th century.
  8. Angkor Wat was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
  9. The name “Angkor Wat” means “Temple City” in Khmer.
  10. The temple complex is surrounded by a moat, which is 5.5 kilometers long.
  11. The central temple is built on a raised platform and is accessible by a series of steep steps.
  12. The temple complex contains several other temples and structures, including the Bayon temple and the Baphuon temple.
  13. The entire complex is oriented to the west, which is unusual for a Hindu or Buddhist temple.
  14. The temple complex is designed to represent Mount Meru, the center of the Hindu universe.
  15. The temple complex contains more than 3,000 carvings and bas-reliefs.
  16. The carvings and bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, as well as daily life in the Khmer Empire.
  17. The central temple is surrounded by a gallery of 1,200 meters.
  18. The gallery contains more than 1,000 carvings and bas-reliefs.
  19. The carvings and bas-reliefs in the gallery depict scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, as well as battles and the daily life of the Khmer people.
  20. The central tower of the temple complex is 65 meters tall.
  21. The temple complex is built using sandstone blocks.
  22. Some of the sandstone blocks used in the temple complex weigh up to 1.5 tons.
  23. The temple complex was built using a technique called “corbel arch,” which involves overlapping stones to create an arch.
  24. The temple complex contains several libraries, which were used to store religious texts.
  25. The temple complex contains several reservoirs, which were used to provide water for the Khmer people.
  26. The temple complex was built using a workforce of more than 30,000 people.
  27. The workforce included architects, engineers, stonemasons, and laborers.
  28. The temple complex was built over a period of 30 years.
  29. The temple complex was built by King Suryavarman II, who ruled the Khmer Empire from 1113 to 1150.
  30. King Suryavarman II dedicated the temple complex to the god Vishnu.
  31. The temple complex was abandoned in the 15th century, possibly due to a combination of environmental factors and political instability.
  32. The temple complex was rediscovered in the 19th century by French explorer Henri Mouhot.
  33. The temple complex was extensively restored in the 20th century.
  34. The restoration work was carried out by the French, the Cambodians, and several international organizations.
  35. The restoration work was necessary due to the damage caused by centuries of neglect, as well as by the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s.
  36. The restoration work has been controversial, with some critics arguing that it has been too extensive and has compromised the authenticity of the temple complex.
  37. The temple complex is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year.
  38. Angkor Wat is a symbol of Cambodian culture and heritage and appears on the country’s flag.
  39. The temple complex has been featured in several movies, including “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” and “Two Brothers.”
  40. The temple complex is also a popular destination for sunrise and sunset photography.
  41. The temple complex has been the subject of several scientific studies, including studies on its hydrology, geology, and archaeology.
  42. The temple complex is a unique example of the Khmer Empire’s architectural and artistic achievements.
  43. The temple complex has influenced the art and architecture of other Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.
  44. The temple complex has been damaged by earthquakes and floods over the centuries.
  45. The temple complex is facing threats from climate change, including rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns.
  46. The temple complex is also facing threats from tourism, including overcrowding and damage from visitors.
  47. The temple complex is managed by the Apsara Authority, a Cambodian government agency responsible for preserving the country’s cultural heritage.
  48. The Apsara Authority is working to balance the need for tourism with the need to protect the temple complex.
  49. The Apsara Authority is also working to mitigate the impact of climate change on the temple complex.
  50. The temple complex is a site of pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  51. The temple complex is considered a sacred site by many Cambodians.
  52. The temple complex was the site of the coronation of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled the Khmer Empire from 1181 to 1218.
  53. The temple complex was also the site of battles between the Khmer Empire and the neighboring Champa kingdom.
  54. The temple complex was the inspiration for the Angkor beer brand, which is popular in Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries.
  55. The temple complex has been the subject of many legends and myths, including a legend that the temple was built in a single night by a divine architect.
  56. The temple complex has been the inspiration for many works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
  57. The temple complex is a popular destination for spiritual and cultural retreats.
  58. The temple is surrounded by a moat, which is 1.5 kilometers long and 1.3 kilometers wide.
  59. It was built using more than 5 million tons of sandstone.
  60. The temple complex has been the site of many archaeological discoveries, including the discovery of several hidden chambers and passageways.
  61. The temple complex has been the subject of many academic studies, including studies on its symbolism, iconography, and cosmology.
  62. The temple complex is a symbol of the enduring legacy of the Khmer Empire and its cultural achievements.
  63. The temple complex is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Khmer people.
  64. The temple complex is a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
  65. The temple complex is an example of the power of art and architecture to transcend time and inspire wonder.
  66. The temple complex is a reflection of the spiritual beliefs and cultural values of the Khmer people.
  67. The temple complex is a source of pride for the Cambodian people and a symbol of their resilience and perseverance.
  68. The temple complex is a reminder of the importance of cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
  69. The temple complex is a popular destination for meditation and yoga retreats.
  70. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in danger, due to threats from tourism and climate change.
  71. The temple complex is an example of the Khmer Empire’s cosmopolitanism and openness to other cultures and religions.
  72. The temple complex is a popular destination for cultural festivals and events.
  73. The temple complex is a reminder of the importance of environmental sustainability and the need to protect natural resources.
  74. The temple complex is a popular site for archaeological research and exploration.
  75. The temple complex was built using a combination of sandstone and laterite, a type of porous rock.
  76. The temple complex is filled with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
  77. The temple complex has several libraries, which were used to store important religious texts and documents.
  78. The temple complex has several reservoirs and canals, which were used to irrigate the surrounding fields and support the local agriculture.
  79. The temple complex was built using a complex system of hydraulic engineering, which allowed the Khmer Empire to manage water resources and support a large population.
  80. The temple complex was built in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu, but later became a Buddhist temple.
  81. The temple complex has several towers, which represent the mythical Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu mythology.
  82. The temple complex has several galleries, which are lined with bas-reliefs that depict scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, two ancient Indian epics.
  83. The temple complex has several courtyards, which were used for religious ceremonies and public gatherings.
  84. The temple complex has several ponds, which were used for symbolic purification rituals.
  85. The temple complex has several bridges, which represent the connection between the human world and the divine world.
  86. The temple complex has several gates, which represent the four cardinal directions and the four elements (earth, water, air, and fire).
  87. The temple complex has several staircases, which were designed to facilitate the movement of large crowds during religious festivals and ceremonies.
  88. The temple complex has several shrines, which were used for offerings and prayer.
  89. The temple complex has several corridors, which were used for processions and other ceremonial activities.
  90. The temple complex has several chapels, which were used for private worship and meditation.
  91. The temple complex has several murals, which depict scenes from daily life in ancient Cambodia.
  92. The temple complex has several inscriptions, which provide important historical and cultural information about the Khmer Empire.
  93. The temple complex has several altars, which were used for animal sacrifices and other religious rituals.
  94. The temple complex has several statues, which represent deities and other important figures from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
  95. The temple complex has several reliefs, which depict scenes from Khmer history and mythology.
  96. The temple complex has several corridors, which are lined with stone pillars that feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
  97. The temple complex has several galleries, which were used for art exhibitions and other cultural events.
  98. The temple complex has several niches, which were used to hold sacred objects and offerings.
  99. The temple complex has several chambers, which were used for meditation and other spiritual practices.
  100. The temple complex has several windows, which are decorated with intricate latticework and carvings.
  101. The temple complex has several spires, which are topped with ornate decorations and sculptures.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about Angkor Wat that kids might enjoy:

  1. Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia that was built over 1,000 years ago.
  2. It was built by the Khmer Empire, which was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia.
  3. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world.
  4. It was built as a Hindu temple, but later became a Buddhist temple.
  5. The temple is surrounded by a moat, which is 1.5 kilometers long and 1.3 kilometers wide.
  6. It was built using more than 5 million tons of sandstone.
  7. The temple is oriented to the west, which is unusual for Hindu temples.
  8. The temple has five towers, which represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology.
  9. The towers are surrounded by four smaller towers, which represent the four winds.
  10. The temple has more than 3,000 carvings of apsaras, which are celestial dancers in Hindu mythology.
  11. The carvings of the apsaras are all unique, and no two are the same.
  12. The temple was abandoned for many years, and was reclaimed by the jungle.
  13. French explorer Henri Mouhot rediscovered the temple in 1860.
  14. The temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
  15. The temple is a popular tourist destination, with more than 2 million visitors each year.
  16. The temple is depicted on the Cambodian flag.
  17. The temple was featured in the movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.”
  18. Angkor Wat is just one of many temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
  19. The Angkor Archaeological Park covers more than 400 square kilometers.
  20. The temple was built by more than 300,000 workers.
  21. The temple was built over a period of 30 years.
  22. The temple was built without the use of any modern machinery.
  23. The temple was built using a system of canals and reservoirs to transport water to the site.
  24. The temple was built to honor the Hindu god Vishnu.
  25. The temple is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements of the ancient world.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – History

Here are some historical fun facts about Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat is a temple complex located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It was built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu.

The Khmer Empire was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia, and it ruled over much of present-day Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. The empire was known for its impressive architecture and engineering, and the construction of Angkor Wat was a testament to the empire’s wealth and power.

Angkor Wat was built over a period of more than 30 years by an estimated 300,000 workers. The temple was constructed using a combination of sandstone blocks and laterite, a type of clay soil that hardens when exposed to air. The temple’s impressive size and intricate carvings were made possible by a complex system of canals and reservoirs that brought water to the site.

The temple was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, but it later became a Buddhist temple in the 14th or 15th century. This was due to a shift in religious beliefs among the Khmer people, who gradually adopted Buddhism over Hinduism.

The temple was abandoned in the 15th century, and it was largely forgotten for many years. The jungle gradually reclaimed the site, and it was rediscovered by French explorer Henri Mouhot in 1860. Since then, Angkor Wat has become a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Cambodian national identity. In 1992, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the Angkor Archaeological Park attracts millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at the impressive temple complex and learn about the fascinating history of the Khmer Empire.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – Design & Architecture

Here are some fun facts about Angkor Wat’s Design and Architecture.

Angkor Wat is considered one of the most impressive examples of ancient Khmer architecture. It was designed as a temple complex, with a central temple surrounded by a series of enclosures and galleries. The temple is oriented to the west, which is unusual for Hindu temples, and it faces the setting sun.

The temple was built on a raised platform, which was surrounded by a moat that measures 1.5 kilometers by 1.3 kilometers. The moat is symbolic of the Hindu mythological sea that surrounds the universe, and it is also thought to have served as a water reservoir and defense system for the temple.

The central temple consists of a series of three rectangular galleries, each higher than the previous one, which are surrounded by a series of towers and pavilions. The galleries are decorated with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the history of the Khmer Empire. The carvings are considered some of the finest examples of ancient Khmer art.

The towers of the central temple are arranged in a quincunx, with four towers at the corners and one in the center. The towers represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu mythology that is believed to be the center of the universe. The four smaller towers that surround the central tower represent the four winds.

The entire complex is constructed of sandstone blocks that were quarried from nearby mountains. The blocks were cut to fit together perfectly, without the use of mortar, and were held in place by their own weight and the precision of their cuts. The sandstone was also used to create intricate carvings of celestial dancers, animals, and other mythological creatures.

In addition to the central temple, there are a series of enclosures and galleries that surround the temple, each with its own unique design and purpose. These enclosures were used for various religious ceremonies, and were also decorated with carvings and bas-reliefs.

Overall, the design and architecture of Angkor Wat is a remarkable achievement of ancient engineering and artistic skill. Its impressive size, intricate carvings, and symbolic design continue to awe and inspire visitors from around the world.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – Cultural Significance

Here are some fun facts about Angkor Wat’s cultural significance.

Cambodian culture: Angkor Wat is a symbol of national pride for Cambodian people. It is featured on the country’s national flag and is considered a source of cultural identity and unity. The temple is also an important religious site for Cambodian Buddhists, who visit the site to pray and make offerings.

Hindu culture: Angkor Wat was originally built as a Hindu temple, and it is still considered an important site for Hindu worship today. Many Hindus visit the site to pay homage to the gods and goddesses depicted in the temple’s carvings and bas-reliefs.

Buddhist culture: After the decline of Hinduism in Cambodia, Angkor Wat was converted into a Buddhist temple in the 14th or 15th century. The temple remains an important site for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage today.

Western culture: Angkor Wat has long been a source of fascination for Western travelers and scholars. It was rediscovered by French explorer Henri Mouhot in 1860, and since then, it has been the subject of many studies and works of art. Many Western visitors are drawn to the temple’s impressive size, intricate carvings, and exotic location.

Southeast Asian culture: Angkor Wat is a testament to the power and sophistication of ancient Southeast Asian civilizations. The temple complex is considered one of the greatest architectural and artistic achievements of the region, and it has inspired many artists, writers, and scholars from Southeast Asia and beyond.

Fun Facts About Angkor Wat – Tourism

Angkor Wat is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year. Here are some fun facts about Angkor Wat’s tourism:

Ticketing: Visitors to Angkor Wat must purchase a ticket to enter the temple complex. There are different types of tickets available, ranging from a one-day pass to a seven-day pass, and the ticket price varies depending on the duration of the visit.

Accommodations: There are many hotels and guesthouses in the nearby city of Siem Reap, which is the main base for tourists visiting Angkor Wat. Visitors can choose from budget to luxury accommodations, and there are also homestays and camping options available.

Transportation: Visitors can travel to Angkor Wat by tuk-tuk, taxi, or rental car. Bicycles and motorbikes are also popular modes of transportation for visitors who want to explore the temple complex at their own pace.

Tour guides: Many visitors choose to hire a tour guide to help them navigate the temple complex and learn more about its history and significance. Tour guides are available in multiple languages and can be booked in advance or on the spot.

Crowds: Angkor Wat is a very popular tourist destination, which means that visitors should expect crowds, especially during peak season (November to February). Visitors should plan accordingly and arrive early to avoid long lines and large crowds.

Sustainability: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism in Angkor Wat, with efforts to reduce the environmental impact of tourism and support local communities. Visitors can support these efforts by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators, and by respecting local customs and traditions.

About Angkor Wat – Legends

Angkor Wat is steeped in legends and myths, some of which are still told by local Cambodian people today. Here are a few fun facts about Angkor Wat and its most popular legends:

The curse of the sacred statue: According to legend, a sacred statue of the Hindu god Vishnu was once housed at Angkor Wat. When the statue was moved to another location, it is said to have brought a curse upon the Khmer Empire, leading to its eventual decline and fall.

The legend of the naga: Naga, the mythical serpent of Cambodian legend, is said to reside in the moat surrounding Angkor Wat. Some believe that the naga protects the temple from harm and brings good luck to visitors.

The floating stones: There is a famous carving at Angkor Wat that depicts a row of stones seemingly floating in mid-air. According to legend, these stones were placed there by the gods themselves, and they are said to represent a powerful magic that protects the temple from harm.

The legend of the lost library: It is said that there was once a library at Angkor Wat that contained a vast collection of ancient texts and scrolls. However, the library was destroyed during a siege of the temple, and its contents were lost forever.

The legend of the golden tower: According to some legends, there is a secret golden tower hidden somewhere within Angkor Wat. Those who are able to find the tower and climb to the top are said to gain immense wealth and power.

These legends add to the mystique and magic of Angkor Wat, and they continue to fascinate visitors and scholars alike.

About Angkor Wat – Symbols

Angkor Wat is rich in symbolism, with many intricate carvings, bas-reliefs, and architectural elements that carry deep meaning. Here are some of fun facts about the key symbols of Angkor Wat:

The lotus flower: The lotus flower is a common motif in Angkor Wat’s carvings and bas-reliefs, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth.

The naga: The mythical serpent known as the naga is another important symbol at Angkor Wat. It is often depicted in carvings and bas-reliefs, and is said to represent protection, good luck, and fertility.

The apsara: The apsara is a celestial dancing spirit that is a common motif in Cambodian art and architecture, including at Angkor Wat. The apsara is often depicted in carvings and bas-reliefs, and is said to represent beauty, grace, and femininity.

The linga and yoni: These are Hindu symbols of fertility and creation, and are often depicted in carvings and sculptures at Angkor Wat.

The churning of the ocean of milk: This is a popular Hindu myth that is often depicted in carvings and bas-reliefs at Angkor Wat. It tells the story of the gods and demons churning the ocean to create the elixir of immortality, and is said to represent the cyclical nature of life and the struggle between good and evil.

The four faces of Buddha: In the Bayon temple, located within the Angkor complex, the four faces of Buddha are carved into the temple’s towers. Each face is said to represent a different virtue: compassion, loving-kindness, equanimity, and sympathetic joy.

These symbols, and many others, add to the complexity and beauty of Angkor Wat, and provide insight into the beliefs and values of the people who built and worshipped at the temple.

Other Interesting Things About Angkor Wat – Quotes

In addition to the fun facts about Angkor Wat, here are some notable quotes about it:

“It is grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome.” – French explorer Henri Mouhot, who rediscovered Angkor Wat in the mid-19th century.

“Angkor Wat is an earthly representation of the cosmic world, which the Khmer saw as essentially a perfect, harmonious system.” – Eleanor Mannikka, film critic and expert on Cambodian cinema.

“Angkor Wat is a marvel of art and architecture.” – Architectural historian James C. Massey.

“Angkor Wat is an expression of a civilization and a philosophy that are both long vanished.” – Writer and journalist John McPhee.

“The temple is an architectural wonder and its design is breathtaking, a tribute to the creativity and skill of the Khmer people.” – Former United States President Barack Obama, during a visit to Angkor Wat in 2012.

These quotes reflect the awe and wonder that Angkor Wat inspires in visitors and scholars, and its enduring status as a masterpiece of human creativity and achievement.

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