APSARA National Authority Installs Visitor Benches Across Key Temples in Angkor Site to Enhance Visitor Comfort and Monument Preservation
In 2026, the Department of Tourism Development and Culture of the APSARA National Authority installed visitor benches at major ancient temples and essential locations throughout the Angkor site. The initiative provides tourists with comfortable resting spots to relieve fatigue while walking between temples, particularly benefiting elderly visitors, young children, and persons with disabilities who can now comfortably rest or admire the monuments from a distance.
Mr. Thes Sothear, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism Development and Culture, stated that the bench placement was conducted following detailed assessments of site locations, visitor traffic, and tourist needs. Beyond improving the overall visitor experience, providing dedicated seating deters tourists from sitting directly on ancient temple stones and alleviates congestion within temple corridors, thereby contributing directly to the conservation of centuries-old monuments.
He added that the benches are positioned under tree shade, allowing tourists to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape in a tranquil environment. For 2026, the APSARA National Authority plans to install a total of 225 benches across designated locations in the Angkor Park. Prior to installation, technical teams evaluated each cultural landscape to ensure the amenities suit temple dimensions and visitor capacity without compromising aesthetic heritage views or obstructing photo opportunities.
This deployment marks Phase 2 of the bench installation project. Alongside seating facilities, the APSARA National Authority has continuously upgraded visitor infrastructure across the park, including:
- Installing wooden walkways along designated temple visiting circuits
- Constructing viewing platforms at the southern pond in front of Angkor Wat for sunrise viewing and photography
- Fitting wooden staircases at temple entry and exit points
- Setting up directional signage and information boards throughout key temple grounds
