The name “Angkor Wat” translates to the capital temple. It was built in the early 12th century in Cambodia by the King Suryavarman II of Khmer kingdom. It took 27 years to complete the construction and was first called “Varah Vishnu-lok”. The world famous temple was first a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Later it hosted both Hindu & Buddhist cultures starting in the 14th century.
Tourists visiting Angkor Wat also pay a visit to the nearby ruins of Angkor Thom and Bayon. These 2 fantastic Hindu temples served as the ancient capital of the Khmer empire.