Category: Big Circle
The Big Circle of Angkor Wat is a popular tourist circuit that encompasses several significant temples located outside of the main Angkor Wat complex. This route offers visitors an opportunity to explore a wider range of Angkor’s architectural and historical treasures, venturing beyond the iconic central temple to discover lesser-known gems.
The Big Circle typically includes the following temples:
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Preah Khan: This sprawling 12th-century temple complex was once a bustling university and monastic center. It is known for its overgrown vegetation, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere.
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Neak Pean: Also known as the “Jewel of the Island,” this temple is situated on an artificial island in the middle of the Srah Srang reservoir. Its unique layout resembles a miniature Angkor Wat, with five towers arranged in a quincunx pattern.
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Ta Som: This partially ruined temple is a captivating sight, with massive trees growing through its structures and roots snaking along the walls. It offers a glimpse into the encroaching jungle that once threatened Angkor’s temples.
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East Mebon: This 10th-century temple stands on an artificial island in the East Baray reservoir. It features a five-towered pyramid structure and a series of elephant-shaped bas-reliefs.
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Pre Rup: This 10th-century temple complex is known for its steep pyramidal towers and intricate carvings. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its upper levels.
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Srah Srang: This reservoir served as a bathing pool for the residents of Angkor Thom. Today, it is a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the reflections of the temples on its surface.
The Big Circle tour typically takes a full day to complete, allowing ample time to explore each temple at a leisurely pace. Visitors can choose to travel by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or on foot, each mode offering a different perspective of the Angkor landscape.
Exploring the Big Circle of Angkor Wat offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a deeper understanding of Angkor’s rich history and architectural legacy. It’s a chance to venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the hidden treasures that lie scattered across this vast archaeological park.
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Ta Som
Overview Ta Som is a temple located in Cambodia, near the town of Siem Reap, between Neak Poan temple and Eastern Mebon temple. The temple was built in the late 12th century, during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Angkor Wat-style architecture. Ta Som…
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Neak Poan
Overview Neak Poan is a temple in the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, near the Preah Khan temple. It is considered one of the smaller temples in the complex, but is known for its unique design and religious significance. This temple is located in a square pool and consists of a central tower surrounded…
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Preah Khan
Overview Preah Khan, which means “sacred sword”, is a temple complex located in the ancient city of Angkor, Cambodia, north of famous Bayon temple. It was built in the late 12th century, during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. It is one of the largest temple complexes in the Angkor complex. Preah Khan is famous…
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Eastern Mebon
Overview The Eastern Mebon is a temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia, north of Pre Rup Temple. It was built in the late 10th or early 11th century, during the reign of the Khmer King Rajendravarman II. And it is considered to be one of the largest and most impressive religious structures…
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Pre Rup
overview Pre Rup is a temple complex located in Cambodia, near the town of Siem Reap. It is believed to have been built in the late 10th century, during the reign of King Rajendravarman. The temple is considered to be one of the finest examples of Angkor Wat-style architecture, and is known for its elaborate…
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North Gate of Angkor Thom
The North Gate tours Many tours visit the North Gate because of its significance. Faces on the gate are well preserved. Overview The North Gate of Angkor Thom is just opposite the South Gate, which serves as the entrance to Angkor Thom. The North Gate is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is characterized…