The Angkor Wat has a unique pyramid-like shape. This architecturally complex building has a central structure that was used as a astrological observery as well as a library nearby of important documents, books, almanacs, and charts that the monks used. The entire structure has a three mile moat around it. The moat has four gates: north, south, east, and the main entrance: west. Each entrance is followed by a path that leads to the walled courtyards. These courtyards are outside the inner structure and have many plants and elaborate gardens. The main entrance courtyard has a rock garden. The courtyards lead to the central structure. The westward gate is the most heavily decorated. It has carvings of naga (Hindu for snake) on its walls. There are also many sculptures and paintings on the main entrance.

The central structure is surrounded by the library, courtyards, and five main towers. These five towers represent the five peaks surrounding Angkor. The outer part has many turrets that are not as large as the five main ones. The walls are extremely decorated with pictures and carvings. The outer walls are decorated with Apsaras (Hindu for heavenly dancing girls). The inner walls of the main structure show pictures and scenes from Ramayana (a Hindu god) and Suryavarman II's lives. The five towers have carvings of Brahma, Suryavarman II, Ramayana, and other Hindu gods. The five towers used to have gold leafing on them, but it has since disappeared. The Angkor Wat also has many pillars holding up its elaborately carved, gold leafed walls.