The most iconic of the Angkor temples, Angkor Wat is the largest religious building in the world and the Khmer Empire’s greatest legacy. It’s the showpiece of the empire’s devotion to religion and the best example of their architectural skill. Angkor Wat is a powerful symbol of Cambodian culture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Angkor Thom was one of the most impressive cities of the Angkor period, and evidence of their extensive urban planning. This ancient city covers an area of 9 square kilometres surrounded by four walls 3 kilometres in length. Each wall has a gate which provides access to the complex over a moat. The most impressive gate is the South Gate, which is how you enter Angkor Thom on the small circuit. At the centre of the complex is Bayon, an extensively decorated temple with 216 gigantic smiling faces. Surrounding it are numerous other sites, which are best seen by walking between them.

We highly recommend stopping at Bayon Temple on the small circuit. The surrounding temples are also well worth strolling around. From the parking area (Bayon Park on the map), walk westwards along the stone concourse into Bayon temple. Do a half loop of the inner walls looking at the carvings before heading into the centre to get up close to the giant faces. Exit Bayon Temple northwards and when you see another temple on your left follow the thin stone causeway to Baphuon. Climb to the summit for wonderful views over the forest, before descending and winding your way through the trees to Phimeanakas, a Hindu temple surrounded by a pretty moat. Continue through the trees to small but pretty Preah Palilay, then return to the main path and head past the Terrace of the Leper King to the Terrace of the Elephants. Either get the tuk-tuk driver to pick you up here or walk back to where you parked the bike.

Ta Prohm is the Tomb Raider Temple with ancient walls crumbling under the constriction of the jungle. The complex is a maze of corridors, vaults, and closed courtyards. Many are piled up with boulders tossed aside by the advancement of the jungle. Bas-relief adorns many of the walls and porches, enhanced by the flickering shadow of huge encroaching trees. It’s a magical place and an essential stop on the Small Circuit. Don’t miss the door surrounded by room from the Tomb Raider film and the giant Crocodile Tree. The bas-reliefs on the Dancer’s Corridor are also exceptional.

If sunrise is too early to start for you, this is an excellent alternative. After breakfast at your guesthouse complete the Small Circuit in reverse (anti-clockwise) starting at Prasat Kravan. If you leave mid-morning, you should arrive at Angkor Wat about 3:30pm. Explore the interior of the temple first and then get photos from the libraries and over the ponds in the late afternoon (just before it closes at 5.30 pm) when gentle light streams onto its wall and towers. You can then walk up nearby Phnom Bakheng for sunset.