Angkor Wat Temple Complex, Cambodia

You’ve seen it in the movies and on television…and you are more than a bit curious… 

What is Angkor Wat? 

The answer is simple, the destination is not, but well-worth the effort for the curious, intrepid traveler.

Angkor Wat is the famous Hindu temple to the god Vishnu, located a few miles outside of Siem Reap, Cambodia.  Siem Reap, once the center of the Khmer empire, is now a rather quiet city which seems to exist for  tourists.

After you’ve checked into your comfortable, quiet hotel in Siem Reap you may wish to avail yourself of a soothing message…very welcome after traveling the long hours many miles you’ve come for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your hotel will probably have an in-house masseuse, swimming pool and the luxury amenities which will be so surprisingly available in this exotic corner of the world.

The best time to visit the vast temple complex (containing many temples and monuments) is in the morning, before the heat of the day overwhelms you…always carry bottled water with you and purchase it ONLY at your hotel!  A knowledgeable guide is preferred, but a good guide book will assist you in making your way around this vast collection of architectural wonders!!!  You’ll need a guide to interpret the mural-like carvings, which tell the stories of warriors, gods, goddesses ; victories and slightly risqué encounters.

There are ladders to climb to heights with breathtaking views, cool, shady corroders whose stone walls are covered in magnificently preserved carvings. Walk with care because many areas are being restored  There will be touring monks in saffron robes…don’t be surprised if they take your picture and feel free to ask you to pose with you for your camera.  Many are mendicants and will politely accept charity, but will not confront or pester or pester you.

The breathtaking site of  Ta Prohm will dazzle you!! This is the oft-photographed temple that has been left as it was found when this area was re-discovered.  The jungle has invaded and vast trunks and branches inundate the buildings.  You will be amazed how nature can reclaim vast areas of man’s endeavor!!

Before you say farewell to Angkor Wat, you must await sunset at Angkor Wat:  the golden hues of the magnificent towers glisten in the setting rays and the shadows elongate…the lake provides a mirror reflection of this amazing sight, and you will take a picture (in your camera or in your mind’s eye) that will be a momento of a fantastic adventure.