Buddhism greatly suffered from the war and unfortunately, young monks do not always get the education they should in such places. The Ministry of Cults is doing its best to instil a new sense of discipline but the elders have almost all disappeared and it will take time for Buddhist culture to recover from the destruction of war.

Siem Reap has two shrines and many pagodas, but only four of them
are of any interest to visitors:
Both shrines are located close to Grand Hotel d'Angkor. They play an important role in the life of Cambodians, but hold limited interest for tourists. Preah Ang Check holds two standing Buddhas (facing Grand Hotel) while the second shrine, Yaa Tep, is the representation of a spirit and located at the roundabout between the bridge to RN6 towards Phnom Penh and the King Norodom Sihanouk's villa.

Wat Bo: Built in the 18th century, it is one of the oldest pagodas in town and a haven of peace in the heart of the city. Paintings depict the French colonial era. Located not far from Wat Bo Street.

Wat Damnak is also a very old pagoda and houses the Centre for Khmer Studies (a public library) on its compound. Nice colonial style buildings around.

Lastly, Wat Thmey, even more recent, should be visited for its stupa holding the remains of victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Located on the secondary road to the temples.