Angkor Wat North Terrace Restoration Progresses, 183 Meters to be Completed by 2026

Siem Reap Province, Cambodia – Twenty meters of the north terrace of Angkor Wat are currently undergoing restoration and structural reinforcement, adhering to technical principles by a team of experts from the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region (APSARA). Ms. Nong Boravy, an archaeologist at APSARA, stated that this marks the ninth phase of the project to restore the north terrace of Angkor Wat. The project commenced in 2013. Annually, APSARA, through its Department of Conservation of Monuments and Archaeology, implements phased restoration projects, with each phase covering 20 meters, aiming to enhance the value and aesthetic appeal of the terrace. As of 2026, the total length of the restoration project will reach 183 meters. The ninth phase of the restoration project began in mid-2026 and is scheduled for completion by the end of this year. Ms. Nong Boravy explained that the damage to the terrace is attributed to aging, lack of maintenance during past wars, leading to the deterioration of the foundations and the loss of original structure in the upper sections. Furthermore, vegetation and large trees growing along the terrace have also contributed to the risk of pushing and separating the stones, altering their original form. The restoration work involves dismantling stones, repairing them, building embankments, compacting soil, and reassembling the stones according to their original configuration. The terrace is constructed with seven tiers of sandstone at the base and three tiers of laterite. Ms. Nong Boravy expressed optimism that upon completion, the restoration will further enhance the attractiveness of the Angkor Wat terrace, drawing more tourists for viewing and photography. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer