There is nothing like Angkor anywhere on this planet. The temples are spread out over a vast 100sq kilometre
jungle site. At its core the 9sq Km Angkor Thom, or Great City, is
contained with high square walls with huge faces carved in the
spectacular gateways. Many of the fabulous sights within it, are a
world class attractions in their own right.
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| Angkr Wat Reflected |
Apsara |
Angkor Thom gate |
At the centre of the great city of Angkor lies the Bayon Temple. It has 52 towers with the huge serene faces of the Jayarvaman VII. To the north is the great plaza adjoining 300
meters long Elephant terrace which must have been a spectacular meeting place 800 years ago. Behind this are the ruins of the Royal Palace and the pyramid temple of Phimeanakas. The crowning glory is the huge dome of the Baphuon. This is under restoration at present and will be a spectacular sight when completed . The whole area is dotted with dozens of smaller temples all are of some interest
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| Bayon Face |
The Bayon |
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| Angkor Wat from Balloon |
But this is just the starting point. Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world is so big as to be hard to take in at once. The 200metre wide moat and causeway with the 350
meters entrance portico is impressive enough, but the grandeur within its square mile of walls is truly stunning. Over 1
kilometer of spectacular carvings lie within its outer galleries and a vast labyrinth of passages, courtyards and the five lotus flower towers at its centre.
This huge temple complex looks much the same as when it was first discovered. The high lichen covered walls are distorted by the movement of the earth beneath. 800 years of history lie twisted and broken with sinister root systems of huge trees enveloping doors and windows in a stranglehold. The distinction between organic and non-organic become blurred in the green pallor of light from the jungle canopy. The intensity of the jungle sounds here can be almost deafening.
It must be one of the most atmospheric places on Earth.
Preah Khan Another temple highlight is Preah Khan. This is the second largest temple enclosure. Within its square kilometre enclosure lies a temple complex which is almost as atmospheric as Ta Prohm. It is very much better preserved; though still has some eerie root formations; the most impressive being shown here. Preah Khan had an army of 50,000 to service the temple. It must have been an amazing sight. |
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| Further a field, lie two contrasting temples which can be visited in a single day trip. |
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Banteay Srei or Sanctuary of the Women has the finest carvings of all the Angkor Temples. It is around 1 hour drive from Siem Reap. It is a very popular excursion |
Beng Mealea is an extraordinary temple steeped in mystery and atmosphere. With jungle
unclear, the visitor is able to see this huge temple in its raw un-restored state |
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