Angkor Wat
WS and I knew that Angkor Wat was on our must see list when we decided to take our wandering journey. Recently up for the “new” Seven Wonders of the World (did not win), we were even more excited to be able to visit. When I found out how large the complex actually was, I talked WS into a week pass.
I do not think that was enough time. We opted for a bike versus a tuk tuk six out of seven days which made the going a little slower (and hotter), but I think it was a great way to appreciate the complex. We saw most of the complex but there was always more around the bend.
The temple of Angkor Wat is vast in itself. Each temple seemed to hold a different secret, from the carvings of Banteay Srey
to the Tomb Raider quality of Ta Prohm
to the many faces of Bayon (ever get the feeling someone is watching you?)
There were restored ruins, ruins in the process of restoration, and ruins in ruins. There was one temple, Baphuon, which was in the midst of restoration when the Khmer Rouge came into power, and all documents pertaining to the reconstruction of the temple were destroyed. It is referred to as the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle. But just like their history has shown, Cambodians are resilient and will not give up trying to put the pieces back together.
So can I do Angkor Wat justice in my blog entry? No. The photos speak more eloquently than my words ever could. Even better, see it for yourself. You will not regret the trip.
Nomadic Matt said:
Nothing on your trip to Kep!!! For shame!!!!
Anyways, I’m in Thailand tomorrow morning. Where are you? Bangkok? Stay there. We’ll meet up and I’ll show the city as we locals see it.
Are you traveling with a phone? e-mail me. I won’t be on again until wends morning when I land but I’ll check it. A friend is coming to meet me and we’re traveling for two weeks. come join.
Theresa said:
This is definitely one of the sites I’m really looking forward to seeing!
megan said:
Oh my, it looks amazing! Can’t believe I am going to be there in a few short weeks. I won’t have time for a week’s pass though, which is disappointing - looks like there is more than enough there to fill the days.
The photograph of the carving from Banteay Srey is amazing! Looking forward to reading about your next stop.
WanderingSean said:
Megan,
Give Angkor at least 3 days. With a tuk tuk driver you can cover quite a bit of ground. Rest up, drink tons of water, and hit it hard all day. You’ll have temple overload and a big smile at the end of day 3.