Wat Bo
St. 22, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Among the oldest temples in Siem Reap, Wat Bo is a compact Buddhist temple best known for its beautifully preserved paintings. Dating to the 19th century, these images depict scenes from the Hindu epic the Ramayana, known in Cambodia as the Reamker.
The basics
Although the imagery in the temple is of Hindu origin, Wat Bo is a Buddhist temple and features a large collection of Buddha statues as a result. Still, the paintings are the big draw, and if you aren't familiar with the tale they depict, a guide can help you out. The temple is a major stop on many Siem Reap tours as well as on multi-day tours across Cambodia.
Things to know before you go
Entry to the temple is free, but donations are accepted and welcome.
You should expect to remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Due to cultural beliefs, women should not touch monks, even to hand them something.
How to get there
The temple is located on the east side of the Siem Reap River, on the corner of Street 22 and Samdech Tep Vong. If you aren't staying in one of the many hotels nearby or visiting as part of a tour, simply flag down a tuk-tuk driver, and they’ll take you there.
When to get there
The temple is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It's wise to go first thing in the morning, as that's when most visitors to Siem Reap will be busy visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park so you'll have Wat Bo more to yourself.
Wat Preah Prom Rath
A 10-minute walk from Wat Bo, Wat Preah Prom Rath is a fantastic place to learn about Buddhism as it's practiced in Cambodia. It features colorful gardens filled with sculptures, a monastery, and temple halls. Although a temple has stood here since the 13th century, the current complex was built in the 20th century.
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