Our enthusiasm for the seventh wonder of the world knows no bounds. Everyone has a latent desire to see monumental architectural masterpieces. on the list of wonders of the world, a traditional sightseeing place in Combodia has been added. Angkor Wat temple,one of the world’s most famous temple complex in Cambodia, has defeated Pompeii in Italy to become the eighth Wonder of the World.

Buildings or structures or projects that are considered comparable to the Seven Wonders of the World are given the unofficial title of “Eighth Wonder of the World”.

Facts About Angkor Wat

The massive Angkor Wat is an ancient Hindu temple located in Siem Reap, the heart of Cambodia.

The temple complex of Angkor Wat spans over 500 acres of land and serves as the largest religious monument in the world.

Angkor Wat also holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest religious structure in the world.

Angkor Archaeological Park, which spans 400 km and includes forested areas.This temple was previously designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

UNESCO has established a comprehensive program to protect this historic site and its surroundings. For centuries, Angkor was the capital of the Khmer kingdom. According to UNESCO, the place is a unique concentration of attested features of an exceptional civilization, with impressive monuments, various ancient urban plans and large reservoirs. It was included on the world heritage list in 1992.

A private organization named New 7 Wonders Foundation was created in Zurich, Switzerland in 2001 to choose the seventh wonder from among all the architectures that stand tall in the world. Then in 2007, the new Seventh Wonder was announced in Lisbon. This time, Angor Wat got the eighth place in 2023.

Angkor Wat temple’s Historical Significance

Angkor Wat temple was originally a Vishnu temple.Meanwhile, Buddhism began to spread along with Hinduism in the East. So gradually that Vishnu temple changed to Buddhist temple. It was Originally constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II. The walls of this temple show the amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. The walls of this lotus-shaped temple are carved with various symbols of Hinduism, as well as stories of ancient life.

Designs of Angkor Wat

One has to be mesmerized by the jaw-dropping beauty of the walls of Angkor Wat. They are decorated with detailed bas-reliefs that present as an ancient visual encyclopedia. These carvings depict Hindu epics, historical events, and scenes from the daily lives of the Khmer people around its outer walls. The central temple complex is a marvel of symmetry and precision, with five lotus-shaped towers representing Mount Meru, the mythical abode of deities in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.

Cultural Significance

This archaic temple is not only full of architectural peculiarities but also full of cultural significance. The sunrise view at this temple is quite different.
As dawn breaks, the temple is bathed in natural light in shades of pink, orange, and gold. It remains an iconic religious heritage site, attracting Buddhist monks and devotees who engage in prayer and meditation. More than 2 lakh pilgrims visit this temple every year.

What to View?

Winter is the perfect time for travelers and this is the time when you can visit this eighth wonder of heritage. It is a place that is exquisitely placed in the midst of nature and such scenes are common. This trip would not be complete without visiting several places. Let’s find out.

Ta reach statue of Angkor

Ta Reach is the most powerful local deity for the local residents of Angkor Archaeological Park. This deity looks similar to the Hindu god Vishnu. Standing as high as five meters from the ground with eight arms stretched out, Ta Reach is highly respected by many people in every section.

Bullet Holes at Angkor Wat

The facade of the 12th-century Angkor Wat complex still bears bullet holes from the battle against the Khmer Rouge in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is undoubtedly thrilling to watch.

Angkor South Gate

Angkor Thom is a quadrangle of defensive walls.The South Gate of Angkor Thom is a well preserved gate. It is approached from the outside by a causeway extending about fifty meters across a moat. The design of this gate is based on mythological stories. One has to fall in love with these amazing works of ancient times.

Bayon temple

Bayon Temple It is known as the first and only Buddhist temple, built by the Khmer Empire. Its bas-reliefs depict important events such as battles and pictures of everyday life, giving visitors an idea of life in Cambodia in the 12th centuries.