What Angkor Wat was built as
Angkor Wat was built in the early 12th century, generally attributed to the reign of King Suryavarman II, as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. It is therefore not a Buddhist foundation, and it is not one of the places associated with the life of the Buddha. It is included among Buddhist sites because it later became a Buddhist place of worship and remains one now. That change, rather than any original Buddhist purpose, is what makes it a pilgrimage-style destination for many Cambodians.
How it became a Buddhist site
The Khmer kingdom shifted over time from Hindu-centred royal religion towards Buddhism. Late in the 12th century, Jayavarman VII favoured Mahayana Buddhism, and in the centuries that followed Theravada Buddhism gradually became the dominant faith among the Khmer. The details of dates and royal policy are debated, and the process was not a single event. By the time European and other visitors began describing Angkor in the 16th century and later, Angkor Wat was already a Buddhist site with resident monks, and it was never entirely abandoned. The topic is explored further in the account of Angkor Wat Hindu to Buddhist change on this site.
Buddha images were placed in the galleries and the central structure, and the long cruciform gallery is known for many Buddha statues left by pilgrims over the centuries. Inscriptions in the temple include records from later periods, some of them by visitors from other countries.
Layout, in brief
The temple is built as a rectangular enclosure surrounded by a moat, with a causeway to the west entrance. Inside are three rising galleries and a central group of towers, often interpreted as a representation of Mount Meru, the mythical mountain at the centre of the Hindu and Buddhist universe. The idea of Mount Meru symbolism is shared by both traditions. Long bas-relief galleries show scenes from Hindu epics and royal processions. Most of the carved themes are Hindu, so a visitor expecting scenes from the Buddha’s life will not find them as the main subject.
Buddhist use today
Angkor Wat is still a place of worship. Cambodian Buddhists come to pay respect to Buddha images, to light incense, offer flowers and make wishes. Monks may be seen in the temple, often in orange robes, and some blessings are given to visitors who request them, although this varies and should not be taken for granted. The role of monks at the site is discussed in the piece on Angkor Wat monks today.
Cambodian people may visit particularly at Khmer New Year and Visak Bochea. Angkor Wat appears on the national flag, which gives it a role in national identity that goes beyond religion.
Visiting respectfully
Angkor Wat is a heritage site with rules which are enforced and may change. Visitors are generally expected to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, especially to enter the upper level, and access to the highest terrace may be limited by queue, age or timed entry. Check the current official rules for hours, tickets and dress before you go, as this article gives none.
General points of conduct:
- Do not climb on carvings or lean on walls and statues.
- Keep your voice low, especially near Buddha images where people are praying.
- Do not touch monks, and ask before taking their photograph. Women in particular should avoid contact.
- Do not point your feet at images, and avoid sitting with your back to a Buddha statue.
- Do not buy or accept any item that appears to be an antiquity, as removing artefacts is illegal.
Heat is a serious consideration. The Angkor region is hot for much of the year, and the rainy season brings humidity and sudden storms. Carry water, rest in the shade, and take medical and travel advice appropriate to your health.
Seeing it in context
Angkor Wat is only one monument in a large landscape, and understanding its context makes a visit richer. The Angkor archaeological park contains many other temples built across several centuries, some Hindu, some Buddhist. The late 12th-century Mahayana temples, such as Ta Prohm, show a different style and purpose.
Living Cambodian Buddhism is best seen at active wats in towns and villages, where visitor customs are somewhat different. The overview of Cambodia Buddhist sites places the monument in the wider country.
A note on terms
Some websites call Angkor Wat the largest religious monument in the world, which is a common claim and probably true by area, but sources use different measures. The more important points for a visitor are that it is Hindu in origin, Buddhist in later use, and the focus of real devotion. It is also a place where Cambodian monks, families and visitors share space, which asks for patience from everyone.