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Visit the ancient ruins of Tongwangcheng and explore its historical structures. Enjoy a walk around the site, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s also recommended to learn about the rich history of the area through local guides or informational displays.
Angkor Thom, also known as Angkor Thom, was the original capital of Cambodia and the most magnificent capital in Southeast Asian history. At its peak, it boasted a population of over a million. Destroyed by wars several times, it underwent several reconstructions before being abandoned in 1426 .
Atop the south gate is a stupa carved with the Four-Faced Buddha. The face alone is three meters long, with each head facing in a different direction, representing the four directional deities atop Mount Sumeru. Fifty-four stone statues stand on either side of the path. The statues on the left, with their peaceful and smiling faces, represent the benevolent deities of heaven, also known as Asuras.
The stone statues on the right, some with dejected expressions or ferocious faces, are the evil god Asura. These 108 statues guard the city of Tunwang. Legend has it that there's also an Indian myth , the churning of the Ocean of Milk, which depicts the conflict between the gods and the Asuras.
Siem Reap is located in a low-latitude area and has a tropical climate. May to October is summer, with temperatures hovering around 33°C; November to April is winter in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C, making it the best tourist season.
Recommended play time: about half a day
Entrance fee is included in the Angkor Wat pass
One-day tour: $ 37 / Three-day tour : $ 62 / Seven-day tour : $ 72
12:00 - 23:59
Tongwangcheng is an ancient city with historical significance, known for its military and cultural heritage. It was once an important center in ancient Cambodia, and its ruins offer insight into the country’s history during the classical period.
Tongwangcheng is located in Cambodia, near the city of Siem Reap. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Siem Reap. There is no metro service, but local tuk-tuks are also a popular way to reach the site.
The site is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
The entrance fee to Tongwangcheng is included in the general ticket for the Angkor Archaeological Park. Tickets can be purchased either online or directly at the ticket office in Siem Reap.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, though it may be helpful to purchase them online to avoid waiting in long lines at the ticket office. Tickets can be booked the day before or the morning of your visit.
A visit to Tongwangcheng typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore, depending on your interest in the historical details and the size of the area you plan to cover.
The main highlight of Tongwangcheng is its ancient ruins, including the walls and gate remnants. The surrounding landscape, with its temples and historical structures, also makes for a great visit.
Guided tours are available in English, French, and other languages. Audio guides are also available, providing detailed information about the history and significance of the site.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the ancient walls and near the central gate, where you can capture both the ruins and the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Start by entering through the main gate, then explore the city walls and the central ruins. Conclude your visit with a walk through the surrounding park or nearby temples for a fuller experience of the site.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Tongwangcheng. However, the site is an excellent place for daytime photography and exploration.
The site can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in the mid-morning to early afternoon. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water stations are available at the entrance. There are no restaurants or shops on-site, but there are local vendors selling snacks and drinks near the entrance.
The site is mostly accessible, though the uneven terrain and the ruins themselves may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will likely enjoy exploring the area, but should be supervised.
Cash is required for most purchases on-site, such as for small items or local souvenirs. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted within the park.
There are no restaurants inside the site, but nearby Siem Reap offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local Khmer cuisine to international restaurants.
In Siem Reap, you can find many vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Restaurants near the city center cater to these dietary preferences, though options at the park itself are limited.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available in Siem Reap, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options. Popular accommodations include the Sokha Angkor Resort and the Tara Angkor Hotel.
Nearby attractions include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip from Siem Reap, especially when exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Souvenir shops can be found around Siem Reap and at major temples, offering items like silk scarves, wooden carvings, jewelry, and traditional Cambodian artwork.
Transportation options to continue your trip include tuk-tuks, private taxis, or hired vehicles. Siem Reap is well-connected, making it easy to continue exploring other landmarks or head back to your hotel.
