Joanna James
Siem Reap is Cambodia's unofficial tourist centre with hundreds of natural and man-made sites to visit, from astonishing temples, well-maintained colonial structures, impressive museums, and cultural parks to lakes and lush mountains.
This is where you can witness the symbol of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat and visit over 50 Hindu and Buddhist temples. These sites were built between the 9th and 12th centuries and are a representation of the height of Khmer architecture, craftwork, and civilisation. The park, at one time, was the most extensive pre-industrial municipality in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992.
Another significant spectacle here is the Terrace of the Elephants, a remarkable 300-metre-long wall embellished with delicate statues of elephants, a 5-headed horse, garudas, Khmer dancers and soldiers. Visitors who want to investigate the whole of Angkor Archaeological Park should buy multi-day access passes.
This wonderful museum holds over 1,000 relics from the Khmer Empire. Found near Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, this comprehensive museum is split into 8 showrooms based on the period, religion and royalty. Collections comprise antiques from the pre-Angkorian eras of the great Khmer kings Funan and Chenla, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, stone pellets with old Khmer and Sanskrit descriptions, as well as the customary outfits of the monarchs, queens, warriors, and Apsara performers.
Visitors are recommended to see the Angkor National Museum before visiting the temple sites. The museum presents the history via videos, touchscreen displays, and illuminating commentary on the Khmer civilisation to help you comprehend and value the amazing structures more.
The site is a little far from Siem Reap and has escaped the tourist radar somewhat. The temple location was constructed during the rule of King Jayavarman VII and his immense building programme. The King has dedicated the temple to his son, who perished in a battle against the Cham. You can see different Khmer and Cham war scenes depicted in the numerous bas-reliefs.
It is a sprawling, but rather low-rise temple constructed in the unique Angkor Wat technique. It was made around a similar time as Angkor Wat, and the impact of the former is in the edifices and handrails. The temple is also similar to the old Khmer temple of Phimai in Thailand. Most of the bas-relief sculptures are in good condition. The temple has been restored by archaeologists, who took it apart and reconstructed it.
The large lakes are one of the most impressive feats of Angkor. They are massive rectangular man-made reservoirs. Two of the biggest are located towards the east and west of Angkor Thom. The East Baray is 14 km broad, and the West Baray is 16 km.
It is believed that they were utilised for agricultural irrigation, but some surmise for religious and ceremonial purposes. There is a rock temple named a 'Mebon' on an island in the centre of the lake. Regardless of their initial intent, they are incredible accomplishments in engineering. Finding a luxury hotel in Siem Reap is not too difficult. With many choices available, the likes of Anantara Angkor Resort are a good option.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
