While over ninety percent of Cambodians practice Theravada Buddhism, Cambodia’s spiritual history and practices are more eclectic than you might expect. Centuries ago, Cambodia was strongly influenced by Indian civilization including Hinduism. Today, the country is also home to small percentages of Muslims and Christians. Revering ancestors remains an important part of Cambodian life, and in the country’s rural regions, many hilltribe peoples continue to follow native animist faiths.

UNESCO-recognized Angkor Wat continues to be Cambodia’s spiritual epicenter. When Angkor Wat was first constructed in the 12th century, this stunning temple mountain was dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Years later, Angkor Wat and surrounding temples (such as Bayon) were transformed into sacred Buddhist centers. Today, Angkor Wat continues to be a major pilgrimage site for many Buddhists. AAT’s Cambodia tours center around exploring the Angkor temples in Siem Reap, and you’ll never forget the incredible beauty of the sunrise over Angkor Wat’s lotus-bud towers.

However, the Khmer Rouge sought to eradicate Buddhism and all forms of religious practice in Cambodia. The regime left its mark, and decades later, Buddhist teachings do not appear as frequently in Cambodian education or ideology as they did before 1975. Despite the devastation, Cambodia’s post-conflict recovery is focused on Khmer Buddhism, which continues to influence daily life. Buddhist monks in Cambodia also enjoy their own social class and high levels of respect.