Do you agree...?

Discussion over which famous attractions should feature on a modern Seven Wonders of the World list has always been heated. In 2007, a poll was run to gain information into the people's choice. After receiving over 100 million responses, the decision was made to not include South East Asia's most famous, renowned temple: Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Having narrowly missed out on a top seven spot, join us in speculating why Angkor Wat Deserves to be in the Seven Wonders of the World.

Why Angkor Wat Deserves to be in the Seven Wonders of the World

There are many reasons that Angkor Wat Deserves to be in the Seven Wonders of the World, not least of which, is that it is the largest Hindu Temple complex in the world. Construction began on the site at the beginning of the 12^th century, and it is the main temple of the thousands that cover what is now the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. This vast city was the largest in the pre-industrialised world, and scientists now estimate its size as being over 1000 square kilometres. This ancient Khmer capital has some simply stunning architecture, some of which has been restored, and some of which seems to merge into the trees which grow through the walls of some buildings. Much of this is open to the public, with the Angkor Wat temple itself being the crux point of many tourists' travels.

The View from above the vast grounds of Angkor Wat - arguably the most famous temple in the south east

The magnificent temple of Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and a high outer wall. Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it has since become home to Buddhist monks, who in their bright robes add a spiritual air to an already fascinating and mysterious site. Walking around the temple, tourists are treated to a splendid display of architecture, most of which is constructed from sandstone. The Gopuras, or monumental towers are particularly awe inspiring, and they stand at the points of the three main galleries. There are a series of interconnected rooms and galleries throughout the complex each with a seemingly infinite number of carvings, relics and monuments... the temple becomes increasingly breathtaking by the minute.

Convinced that Angkor Wat Deserves to be in the Seven Wonders of the World?

Call us now to begin planning your personalised tour of Cambodia including a visit to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, or to arrange a stay in one of the most luxurious resorts in Cambodia!

Image credits: Flickr.com (Dennis Jarvis, Steve Jurvetson)