Best Nature Spots to Explore around Angkor Wat, Cambodia 🌳🏺

Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous temples in the world, is more than just ancient architecture. The area surrounding this magnificent monument offers stunning natural beauty that’s waiting to be explored! Here are some of the best nature spots you should not miss:

1. Angkor Thom Forest 🌲

Located northwest of Angkor Wat, the Angkor Thom Forest is a lush expanse of greenery that serves as home to various wildlife species such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles. This forest is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park and can be visited on your temple exploration journey.

2. Preah Kbal Spean (The River of a Thousand Lingas) 🌊

Preah Kbal Spean, often referred to as “The River of a Thousand Lingas,” is an archaeological site nestled within the lush jungle. This sacred site features intricate carvings along the riverbed, including hundreds of lingams (phallic symbols representing Shiva). To reach Preah Kbal Spean, you’ll hike through a beautiful forest trail that offers fantastic opportunities for nature photography.

3. Beng Melea Temple and Flooded Forest 🏯🌳

Beng Melea is an off-the-beaten-path temple that’s partially covered by the dense vegetation of a flooded forest during the rainy season (June to November). Visiting this temple offers a unique experience as you can explore it while wading through shallow water and navigating through the overgrown ruins, surrounded by lush greenery.

4. Tonle Sap Lake 🐟🚣‍♂️

Tonle Sap Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, is home to a rich variety of wildlife and offers incredible opportunities for birdwatching. You can take boat tours around the lake to observe floating villages, fish farms, and numerous birds such as egrets, ibises, and pelicans.

5. Kulen Promtep National Park 🏞️🐘

Kulen Promtep National Park, located north of Angkor Wat, is home to the Phnom Kulen mountain range, waterfalls, and the sacred carvings of Reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom. The park also serves as a sanctuary for endangered species like the Eld’s deer and the Asian elephant. A visit to this national park offers a chance to connect with Cambodia’s rich history and natural beauty.

Exploring these nature spots around Angkor Wat will not only allow you to marvel at the ancient temples but also immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems of Cambodia. So, pack your camera, hiking shoes, and mosquito repellent, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! 🇰🇭🌿🏺