Some travelers say, “Once you’ve seen one temple in Asia, you’ve seen them all.” Well, we’d have to disagree. Perhaps those travelers haven’t seen enough.
If your travel list involves checking off incredible temples, then Southeast Asia is where you want to go. There are a lot of good reasons to travel to this region of the world, and seeing this amazing architecture is one of them.
Not sure what temples to choose, or only have a little time on your itinerary? Then make sure you visit these must-see temples! You’ll soon see what we mean.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, cannot be missed for anything else on your trip. The entire area (and surrounding temples) have so much to offer visitors. We recommend going on a tour or buying a three day pass in order to see it all. Come at sunrise or sundown and climb through temple gates, walls, and structures. Here, you’ll feel like Lara Croft from Tomb Raider, which was actually filmed at one of the other temples here, Ta Prohm. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, make sure you leave more than enough time in your itinerary for this!
Wat Rong Khun, Thailand
If you don’t recognize the formal name, then perhaps the English name, “The White Temple” rings a bell. If this place is not on your Southeast Asia temple list, then you’re really missing out. Wat Rong Khun, located up in the north of Chiang Rai, Thailand, with make your jaw drop. How can we even find the right adjectives to describe this wonder? You’re just going to have to go see it for yourself! Go on a tour to make the most of your time here and learn the history of the temple.
Wat Pho, Thailand
We can’t mention Thailand without, of course, mentioning the famous Wat Pho Temple. The home of the Reclining Buddha, this place is absolutely magnificent, and just a quick visit here won’t do it justice. The Buddha is 141 feet long and definitely won’t fit inside the lens of your camera. You can try to get a few snapshots, but a picture won’t ever compare to what the eyes can see here. It’s no surprise that this temple was the birth of the Thai Massage. You’ll feel the soothing tranquility the moment you arrive.
Pha That Luang, Laos
The most important national monument in Laos, Pha That Luang, is a remarkably stunning temple. Also known as a Stupa, which is more like a Buddhist shrine, this place is very significant to the Laotian people. The gold structure is located right in the center of the capital, Vientiane, that’s existed since the 3rd century. This temple will leave you speechless as soon as it’s in your view, as the entire surrounding area is just as spectacular as what’s in the middle.
Uluwatu Temple, Indonesia
Indonesia is famous for a lot of beautiful temples, but the Uluwatu Temple is a must-see, especially if you don’t have too much time on your hands. And, it’s not so much the temple itself that’s pretty, but everything around it. What makes this temple so unique is that you’re going to have to work a bit to see it. Because it’s perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, be prepared to do a little hike in order to get there. The view from the top is incredible, and best of all, the entire area of Uluwatu has a lot to offer visitors. Do a tour to see as much as you can, and just make sure you watch out for the monkeys!
These are just a few of Southeast Asia’s must-see temples. Take a tour of the region to see as much of these gorgeous places as you can.
Amigo Tip: Remember to dress appropriately, as these temples are religious sites
