Once you’ve visited all main Angkor temples such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm and others, get off the beaten track and go wander into the jungles. There are hundreds of other temples on the territory, which means you most likely find any of them on your way. Go discover jungles by yourself and get an unforgettable experience. Remember that there are much fewer tourists during the wet season from May to October. Besides the jungle looks especially lush after the rain. All of the mosses and lichens on the temples come alive in the wet season and add character and colour to the stones.
Practical info
What are some alternative temples to visit in the Angkor area?
Apart from the widely popular Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm temples, the Angkor area is home to various hidden gems worth exploring. Banteay Srei, with its picturesque pink sandstone carvings, and the Roluos group of temples, with their understated beauty, come highly recommended. Additionally, seeking out Preah Kô, Pre Rup, and Phnom Kulen ensures a uniquely Cambodian experience. Show more
When is the best time to visit the Angkor temples to see them surrounded by lush greenery?
The months from May to October provide the greatest opportunity to witness the Angkor temples immersed amid lush greenery. The rainy season paints the jungle surroundings in tropical colors, with blooming flowers and trees offering a stunning green backdrop. Although heavy rainfall and muddy terrain are common issues during this time, the reduced crowds guarantee visitors a chance to enjoy the temples and their natural environment more serenely. Show more
How can I explore the jungles around the Angkor temples on my own?
Take the less-trodden path when exploring the Angkor temples' jungles to have an amazing experience. An alternative to the main path would be to follow dirt tracks that crisscross off into the jungle. Walking jungle paths, biking through the woods, or exploring the numerous hidden routes along with a locals' assistance may prove rewarding. Visitors should not venture alone as a local guide can provide a better and safer experience. Show more
Where can I find the lesser-known temples in the Angkor area?
A visit to Cambodia's Angkor area would be incomplete without visiting Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples. Located approximately an hour's drive from Siem Reap, Beng Mealea dates back to the 12th century and is famous for its rustic, unrestored appearance. Koh Ker temple, showcasing ancient sculptures in their original form, is situated 120 km northeast of Siem Reap and is a 10th-century temple complex. These lesser-known temples provide an excellent opportunity to experience the Angkor area's historical and cultural diversity. Show more
What are some of the unique mosses and lichens that add character and colour to the temples during the wet season?
The wet season from May to October rejuvenates the picturesque ancient Angkor temples, making them an explosion of unique colors of moss and lichens. The lush green moss atop bricks inscribes magic on the walls of these magnificent temples, while the vibrant hues of lichens in bright shades of yellow, red, and blue create a beautiful contrast against the imposing structures. The wet season provides an opportunity to enjoy the temples in a new and beautiful light impossible to witness any other time. Show more
