Joanna James
The bustling town of Siem Reap is sure to capture the imagination of the sightseer and culture lover. In the environs of this town, you will find a splendid selection of attractions that will entrance the discerning visitor.
Siem Reap's primary attraction is the splendid archaeological complex that is located adjacent to it. In fact, Angkor Wat is just the main temple compound in the vast Angkor Archaeological Park which was constructed by a series of local rulers between the 9th century and the 15th century. This immense compound features hundreds of different temples spreading over an area so vast that you will feel that there is much more to discover even after several visits. The principal complex of temples, Angkor Wat is renowned for its remarkable bas-relief sculptures depicting episodes from Hindu epics. Several other important temple complexes can also be found in the vicinity.
The well-known Phare Ponleu Selpak is Cambodia's esteemed circus, a spectacular presentation combining music, acrobatics, dance and a host of other varied performance arts as well as humour. This contemporary circus presentation blends a storyline across the performance, including elements of comedy and drama into the show. All of the artistes who perform in this show are graduates of the performance arts academy located in Battambang which trains youth from disadvantaged backgrounds in a variety of arts. Phare Ponleu Selpak is a lively and colourful spectacle which blends conventional circus abilities with contemporary relevance and facets of Khmer music and dance.
As you experience the attractions of Angkor Wat, the Angkor National Museum will provide you with plenty of background information regarding these historical sites. Within this fine museum, you will encounter descriptive information boards, audiovisual features and a good selection of Khmer artefacts obtained from the temples. By visiting this museum you will have the opportunity to gain an understanding of the various periods of the Angkorian era as well as the series of monarchs who tried to outdo one another in their efforts at building temples. When it comes to luxury hotels in Siem Reap an accommodation choice to consider from which this museum would be within easy reach would be Anantara Angkor Resort.
The Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre has the distinction of being the largest enclosure for butterflies in the entirety of southeast Asia. At this attraction, you will have the opportunity to observe innumerable varieties of butterflies flying freely in a vast enclosed garden featuring a host of tropical blooms and verdant foliage. Nature lovers in general and butterfly enthusiasts, in particular, will be entranced by this remarkable butterfly garden which provides a good respite from viewing all the historical temples. At this centre, you will also have the chance to view all the stages of a butterfly's life cycle which will be an informative experience.
Another interesting experience in the Siem Reap area is the zip line feature known as Flight of the Gibbon. This attraction which is located within Angkor Park features no less than ten zip lines extending over areas of jungle and provides a two hour long route. On your tour, you will encounter a number of suspended sky bridges, numerous platform stations and an abseil feature that will appeal to thrill seekers. You will also have the opportunity to gain a fascinating insight into the jungle ecosystem and its fauna and flora. You may even have the chance to spot a gibbon in the jungle since a few have been reintroduced into the wilderness in this region.
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