Wat Bo is a working Buddhist pagoda in the centre of Siem Reap that is one of the oldest temples in the city — founded in the 18th century and containing a main vihara (prayer hall) whose interior walls are covered with 19th-century murals depicting the Reamker (the Khmer version of the Ramayana). The murals are faded but still readable, with scenes of battles, demons, monkey warriors, and divine intervention rendered in the classical Khmer style with European influences from the French colonial period.
The temple functions as an active Buddhist community — monks in orange robes, schoolchildren in uniforms, lay visitors making offerings — and provides a counterpoint to the archaeological abstraction of Angkor. Free to enter (a small donation is appreciated), with early morning chanting around 5 AM and evening chanting around 6 PM providing the most atmospheric times.
Verified Facts
Wat Bo was founded in the 18th century
The murals depict the Reamker, the Khmer Ramayana
The murals date to the 19th century
Chanting occurs around 5 AM and 6 PM
Get walking directions
Street 23, Siem Reap
