The star attraction of all the ancient Khmer temples. Get out early and you can catch the sunrise over the temple towers here. You can easily spend between 1-3 hours here exploring the key features and may even want to make a return trip.

The surreal gates to Angkor Thom with their giant smiling faces, bridge, and moat are a must-do stop. You can take boat rides on the moat and also climb up top too.

This expansive area is packed with highlights that you can’t miss including the Bayon Temple, Elephant Terrace, Leper King Terrace, Baphoun Temple, Phimeanakas Temple, Royal Palace, Preah Pithu, and many more. You can spend some time here exploring, and also find places to sit and relax, eat and drink.

Explore the 12th century temple which is dedicated to the Mahayana Buddhism, established by king Jayavarman 7.

Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda are two small temple sites located directly opposite each other. You don’t need to spend long here but it is well worth checking the interesting pediments and style. It’s also a very relaxed spot and never too busy.

An ancient bridge that was built during the very late Angkor period from reused stones. It’s a scenic little spot to stop and also admire the waterwheel at Takeo temple nursery.

Another of the great pyramid-style temples and one of the first temples built entirely from sandstone. Across from here and hidden down a small trail, you’ll also find Leak Neang, a ‘hospital chapel’.

A rival to Ta Prohm, featuring ornate walls and a labyrinth of a layout inside its four walls.

A 10th-century site that features unique bas-reliefs on its inner walls. You won’t spend long here but it’s well worth stopping.

One of the great highlights of the small circuit, Ta Prohm is perhaps almost as famous as Angkor Wat. Featuring its classic temple ‘overtaken by nature’ character and beautiful trees, it’s a must-visit. It has also recently received a lot of restoration work.

The original temple mountain of the area, pre-dating Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. It’s a 20 min or so easy climb up to be rewarded with amazing views and one of the great temple-pyramids. It’s also a superb spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.