Angkor Wat is a massive temple complex in Cambodia and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Originally built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it served as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu before gradually transforming into a Buddhist site.

Located near the city of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of the ancient Khmer Empire and is famed for its grand scale, symmetrical architecture, and detailed bas-relief carvings. Its layout symbolizes Hindu cosmology, with a central tower representing Mount Meru (the home of the gods) surrounded by moats and concentric galleries. Over time, Angkor Wat became a key symbol of Cambodia—appearing on the national flag—and is a major draw for travelers worldwide. Despite periods of decline and jungle overgrowth, it remains remarkably well-preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.