Best Temples in Angkor: 15 Temples Worth Visiting
The best temples in Angkor for first-time visitors, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei and quieter alternatives.
Updated 20 Oct 2026
The best temples in Angkor for first-time visitors, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei and quieter alternatives.
1. Angkor Wat
The essential first visit: monumental scale, bas-reliefs, symmetry and a landscape designed to impress from the western causeway.
2. Bayon
At the center of Angkor Thom, Bayon is famous for its giant stone faces and dense, almost maze-like architecture.
3. Ta Prohm
The roots and ruins of Ta Prohm make it one of Angkor's most visually memorable temples.
4. Banteay Srei
Farther from the core, Banteay Srei is celebrated for fine red-sandstone carving.
5–10. Preah Khan, Ta Keo, Baphuon, Pre Rup, Neak Pean and East Mebon
These temples broaden the experience beyond the three or four sites on every first-timer route and fit naturally into Small or Grand Circuit days.
11–15. Banteay Kdei, Srah Srang, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda and Prasat Kravan
Smaller sites often provide quieter moments and reveal architectural details that disappear when you only visit the headline monuments.
How to choose
With one day, prioritize the core. With three days, use our three-day itinerary to combine icons and quieter temples.
Practical note
Rules, access conditions and prices can change. For ticketing and visitor regulations, check the official Angkor Enterprise and APSARA National Authority information shortly before your visit.
Hey It's Cambodia practical take
How I would choose the temples
Use contrast. Pair one monumental temple, one face or city complex, one jungle ruin and one smaller quieter site. That creates a much stronger day than choosing only by fame.
Best temples by trip length
One day means the core icons. Three days opens the door to Banteay Srei, Preah Khan and the Grand Circuit. Longer stays are where the smaller temples start becoming the most memorable.
Keep planning
Angkor Wat guide · Bayon guide · Ta Prohm guide · Banteay Srei guide · Preah Khan guide
Official information
Official Siem Reap and Angkor tourism information · APSARA visitor information