Siem Reap, Cambodia — The majestic Angkor Wat has once again claimed the top spot as the best landmark in both Asia and the world in TripAdvisor’s highly anticipated Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025. It is the second consecutive year the iconic Khmer temple complex has received this recognition, underscoring its enduring appeal and cultural significance on the global tourism stage.
The announcement, made earlier this month, sparked celebrations in Cambodia, with Prime Minister Hun Manet expressing his pride on social media. “Congratulations to Angkor Wat for ranking as the most attractive travel destination in Asia in 2025,” he wrote on Instagram, sharing TripAdvisor’s list of the region’s top 20 landmarks.
According to TripAdvisor, Angkor Wat remains a clear favourite among global travellers, thanks to its vast historical footprint, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Built in the 12th century as the heart of the Khmer Empire, the temple complex spans over 400 square kilometres and continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
Trailing Angkor Wat in the Asian rankings are India’s Taj Mahal and Wat Pho in Bangkok, Thailand. The Taj Mahal, constructed more than 350 years ago by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife, remains one of the world’s greatest symbols of love and architectural grandeur. Meanwhile, Wat Pho — home to a 46-metre-long reclining Buddha and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage — continues to fascinate visitors with its spiritual and cultural significance.
Other landmarks on the top 10 list include the Great Wall of China (Beijing), Fushimi Inari-taisha (Kyoto), Shwedagon Pagoda (Yangon), Petronas Twin Towers (Kuala Lumpur), Cu Chi Tunnels (Ho Chi Minh City), Amber Fort (Jaipur), and Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) (Amritsar). Each of these sites, TripAdvisor notes, offers travellers a deeper connection to Asia’s diverse heritage and centuries-old traditions.
“TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Landmark Awards highlight some of the most historically significant and highly recommended destinations in Asia,” said Janice Lee Fang, Director of Communications for TripAdvisor Asia-Pacific. She added that the list serves as a valuable guide for travellers seeking memorable and meaningful experiences across the region.
TripAdvisor’s rankings are based on millions of reviews and ratings submitted over the past year, reflecting real visitor experiences. With its timeless architecture, spiritual depth, and historical significance, Angkor Wat continues to stand as a powerful symbol of Asia’s cultural legacy — and a must-visit destination for global explorers.
