10 Must-See Temples in Southeast Asia

August 04, 2023

Southeast Asia is a region that’s rich in culture and history, and one of the best ways to experience this is by visiting its many temples. From ancient ruins to grand structures, each temple has its own unique story to tell. Here are 10 must-see temples in Southeast Asia that you should definitely add to your travel bucket list.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is one of the most famous temples in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. It’s the largest religious monument in the world and an iconic symbol of Cambodia. The temple was built in the 12th century and is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. And don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat – it’s truly breathtaking.

Angkor Wat Temple

Borobudur, Indonesia

Located on the island of Java, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Builders constructed it in the 9th century with nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, and a central dome. Over 2,500 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues decorate the temple

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

A stunning gold-plated stupa, the Shwedagon Pagoda, dominates the skyline of Yangon, Myanmar. It dates back over 2,500 years and is one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites. Gold leaf covers the pagoda and thousands of diamonds and other precious stones stud it.

Prambanan, Indonesia

Prambanan is a Hindu temple complex located near Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Builders constructed it in the 9th century with three main temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Intricate carvings and reliefs that tell stories from Hindu mythology decorate the temples.

Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is home to a small but highly revered statue of the Buddha made from green jadeite. The temple itself is a stunning example of Thai architecture, with intricate gold and glass mosaics covering its walls.

Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok

Ta Prohm, Cambodia

Ta Prohm is a temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. It was built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries and is famous for its overgrown jungle surroundings. The temple has been left largely untouched since its discovery, giving visitors a glimpse into what it would have looked like when it was first built.

Wat Xieng Thong, Laos

Wat Xieng Thong is a Buddhist temple located in Luang Prabang, Laos. It was built in the 16th century and is one of the most important temples in the country. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and mosaics, as well as its stunning location on the banks of the Mekong River.

Bayon, Cambodia

Bayon is a temple located within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. Builders erected it in the late 12th and early 13th centuries, and its towers are known for their giant stone faces.. The temple is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting Angkor.

Wat Arun, Thailand

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is named after the Hindu god Aruna and is known for its towering spires that are decorated with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain.

Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

Instead of a single temple, Hoi An Ancient Town in Vietnam is a collection of historic buildings and temples that date back to the 15th century. Therefore, you can explore a variety of architectural styles and cultural influences in this charming town. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional Vietnamese atmosphere.

Hoi-An-Ancient-port-town

In conclusion, Southeast Asia is home to some of the most beautiful and historic temples in the world. Whether you’re interested in Buddhism, Hinduism, or just appreciate stunning architecture, these 10 must-see temples are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.