Cambodian Temples, Part 1 & 2

We spent Friday visiting some of the ancient temples.  They're the reason Siem Reap is now on the map, having become a tourist attraction since the war ended in 1993.  They're a UNESCO World Heritage site.  These temples below were built in the 1000s-1200s.  Some were originally Hindu temples, converted to Buddhist temples when the king converted.  Tall ones were originally Hindu and shorter ones were built as Buddhist temples.  Today we will see some other temples and then the biggest one (Angkor Wat) @ sunset.  Tomorrow we also get to see a vocational school.  Do I see a new Moraine Park student exchange program?

With the combination of celebrating both the Chinese and Cambodia New Year, there were LOTS of people.  This is a densely populated area in terms of people, motorcycles and tuk-tuks.

Don says to mention that the weather is sunny & hot but not real humid.  The pool is very nice; we've enjoyed it along with the diverse group at the resort.

Bobbi, Don

Southgate entrance to Angkor Thom (Big City)

Angkor Thom; once had over 1,000,000 inhabitants

Chronicling a battle between Vietnamese & Cambodians & Chinese allies

Chronicling a battle between Vietnamese & Cambodians & Chinese allies

Smiling Buddha

The gum tree roots cannot be removed without destroying the walls.

Brick temple from 800 AD




Courtyard of 800 AD temple

Land mine victims playing music for donations

New Buddhist monk

Bas relief in Angkor Wat

At Angkor Wat (City Temple)

Waiting for fish

Sword temple in honor of king's dad

Intertwined snake temple surrounded by holy water



Strangled fig roots holding up temple



Are you game?





Ooh lah lah!