Why Angkor Wat is special
Angkor Wat in Cambodia is an architectural masterpiece. It was constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century, then - two centuries later - was mysteriously abandoned by the Khmer civilization.
The jungle soon overwhelmed Angkor Wat, hiding it for several centuries with thick tropical foliage. There was little left to see except an occasional protruding building stone.
In 1861 a French naturalist accidentally came across the jungle veiled ruins. Eventually archaeologists reclaimed Angkor Wat, exposing its magnificence.
Today's visitors are amazed at the building's ornate architectural details and exquisite stone carvings. Particularly arresting are the seductive dancing female ("apsaras") sculptures ringing Angkor Wat.

Just part of a huge complex

Angkor Wat is merely one of many structures in a vast human-built complex as geographically large as Paris. It is collectively called Angkor. The top subcomplexes besides Angkor Wat ("wat" means temple) are:

Ta Prohm - Photographers love this Angkor subcomplex. It clearly shows the on-going destructive forces of untamed jungle growth. The roots of banyan trees appear like giant octopus legs as they slowly entangle large buildings.

Banteay Srei - It's the tiny jewel of the Angkor environs. The Banteay Srei sculptures are outstanding.

Angkor Thom - Although Angkor Thom covers considerably more area and might have been grander than its neighbor Angkor Wat, its components are not as accessible and well preserved. It is more of interest to archaeologists than tourists.

Recent Angkor deterioration

Sadly, much of what was rescued and restored over the past century fell victim to recent civil warfare. Structures and carvings deteriorated when - through human neglect - the jungle repossessed the previously saved Angkor structures.
On the positive side, Cambodia is now making a conscientious effort to once again reclaim key Angkor sites from the destructive jungle.

What leading travel books say about Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is considered by many to be the most inspired monument ever conceived.
Southeast Asia
on a Shoestring
Lonely Planet

The plan of Angkor Wat is simple and audacious.
Southeast Asia
Fodor's