Tuesday, 3 December 2024

Dec 3 Cambodia Temple tours

 Today we headed for breakfast @ 7am and then for our tour of 3 famous Cambodian temples. First was the world famous Angkor Wat. A Hindu temple built in 1110- 1150AD making it almost 900 years old. The temple took approximately 30 years to build. It is considered one of the great cultural wonders of the world. It covers over 160 hectares. The intricate walk ways and carvings are incredible. The massive size makes it so hard to believe it was built by hand so many years ago. After climbing the steep stairs for a view we left the complex and visited the Angkor Wat museum.  So much history and so many Buddha’s it was overwhelming. A typical Cambodian lunch did not disappoint with curry chicken and rice. Back into the van and off to see another temple called Ta Prohm.  This one was built in the late 12th century. It has been kept more or less in its present state since it was discovered in the 19th century. The structures are very old with huge trees and roots intertwined around through and over. It was absolutely amazing walking through each area. After Ta Prohm we had all had enough, it is about 37° C with very high humidity. There was one more temple to visit so we decided to drive past for a few pics, but when we got there, we saw several monkeys playing, sunning themselves, and running around the gardens. After many pics of monkeys playing, I got some great pics of the temple of 4 faces or the Bayon temple. It was also stunning. Now back to the bus after stopping for a few beverages at the 7/11. Yes beer for $1 US and Diet Coke for 53 cents. Canada could learn a few things about prices. Lol Once back to the hotel we all ventured to the pool for a swim and then for supper at the hotel restaurant. Now relaxing before our countryside bike ride tomorrow. 



Arriving at Angkor Wat

One of the entrances 

Angkor wat complex 

Me at Angkor Wat 

The amazing pic of the complex 

Our group in front of Angkor Wat 

More walkways 

Garnet and Brenda listening to a story about the temple.
Note the intricate carvings on the walls 

In front of the carvings of women. 

The steep stairs under repair 

View from the top floor of the temple 

Another view from up top 

A statue inside the halls of Angkor Wat 

Another amazing view 

Angkor national museum 

The room of a Thousand Buddhas 

Ta Prohm temple

Huge trees growing into the walls 


More trees invading the walls and roof 


Bayon temple 
Zoom in to see the faces 

One of the faces of Bayon temple 

Mirror image photo of the entrance 
One side of the walkway contains gods of good and the other gods of evil. 

Monkeys. Mom and little baby.  
 Best part of the day. lol

So many monkeys. It was awesome. 

Triple the fun 



Pool time after a hot day of walking and learning 

A barking frog. Literally sounds just like a dog. 


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