Angkor Wat is Just the Beginning: Discover These Hidden Temples Around Siem Reap

#cambodiatrip You’ve marveled at the grandeur of Angkor Wat, watched the sunrise light up its lotus-shaped towers, and walked through its endless stone corridors. But what if I told you that Angkor Wat is only scratching the surface of Cambodia’s ancient wonders? The #angkorwat Archaeological Park is home to over 1,000 temples, ranging from crumbling jungle ruins to intricate masterpieces hidden in plain sight. On my trip, I discovered that some of the most magical moments came not from Angkor Wat itself but from wandering lesser-known temples where I was often the only person there. Thanks to #tripcom , planning my flights to Siem Reap and booking a tuk-tuk driver for multiple days was easy. It gave me the freedom to dive deeper into the temple complex without worrying about logistics. 1. Ta Prohm: The Tomb Raider Temple Ta Prohm feels like a real-life Indiana Jones set. Enormous tree roots twist around ancient stone walls as nature slowly reclaims the site. This is where parts of Tomb Raider were filmed, and it is every bit as atmospheric as it looks in the photos. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Standing in the quiet of the temple, listening to birdsong and the creak of branches overhead, is unforgettable. 2. Preah Khan: A Peaceful Labyrinth Often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, Preah Khan is a sprawling temple complex that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. Moss-covered walls, crumbling corridors, and intricate carvings make it perfect for slow exploration. The lack of tour groups here creates an almost meditative atmosphere. 3. Banteay Srei: The Jewel of Angkor Known as the “Citadel of Women,” Banteay Srei is famous for its pink sandstone and some of the most detailed carvings in the entire Angkor complex. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Siem Reap, but I booked a private car through Trip.com and made a day of it, stopping at small villages and rice paddies along the way. 4. Neak Pean: The Island Temple For something completely different, visit Neak Pean, a small temple sitting on an artificial island in the middle of a tranquil reservoir. Walking across the long wooden causeway to reach it feels like stepping back in time. 🚲 How to Visit the Other Temples Hire a Tuk-Tuk: Affordable and great for short distances. Rent a Bike: Best for active travelers who want to explore at their own pace. Book a Car with Driver: Perfect for further temples like Banteay Srei. I organized a 3-day tuk-tuk package through #trip , which gave me a driver who knew all the hidden corners of Angkor.