The architecture and layout of the successive capitals bear witness to a high level of social order and ranking within the Khmer Empire. Angkor is therefore a major site exemplifying cultural, religious and symbolic values, as well as containing high architectural, archaeological and artistic significance.

Angkor Thom, literally: “Great City”, contains several of the must-see temples and ancient sites including Bayon Temple, Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Baphoun Temple, and many more. It's a must-visit on a trip to Siem Reap and its ancient temples.

The Bayon's most distinctive feature is the multitude of serene and smiling stone faces of The Buddha - probably modeled on the face of King Jayavarman VII - on every side the many towers that jut out from the upper terrace and cluster around its central peak.

Baphuon of Udayadityavarman II (reigned 1050–66); and the Buddhist temple of Bayon, which was the central temple built by Jayavarman VII when he gave the city, which was later known as Angkor Thom, or “Great City,” its more or less final form.

Ta Nei temple is a very small and rarely visited temple. The lack of other visitors is one of many reasons why you should visit this amazing temple.

Built from 1186 and originally known as Rajavihara (Monastery of the King), Ta Prohm was a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII. It is one of the few temples in the Angkor region where an inscription provides information about the temple's dependents and inhabitants.

Banteay Kdei, a massive Buddhist monastery from the latter part of the 12th century, is surrounded by four concentric walls. Each of its four entrances is decorated with garudas, which hold aloft one of Jayavarman VII's favourite themes: the four faces of Avalokiteshvara.

The Terrace of the Leper King is just north of the Terrace of Elephants.

The Terrace of the Elephants is part of the walled city of Angkor Thom, a ruined temple complex in Cambodia.

Preah Palilay is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia. It is located in Angkor Thom, 400 m north-west of Phimeanakas. This small Buddhist sanctuary in the wooded area north of the Royal palace in Angkor Thom has a number of attractive features and is well worth the short detour.