Angkor Wat is the main attraction, it's name dominates the entire area, even though it is just one temple complex among 50 in the area.
Built in the second half of the 12th century it is a funeral pyre for the Hindu god Vishnu. The temple covers a huge area of .93 miles by .8 miles. It is three levels high and is surrounded by 4 protective walls. The entrance to the temple is a succession of three doorways. Each leading to a vast open space between the next entrance.
Walking to the main temple took what seemed forever! The temple complex was huge, we spent the better part of the day exploring and taking photos. Here are a sample of them:
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A glance through the first entrance leading to the towers of Angkor Wat. |
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Inside the main entrance horses grace the field. In the distance are the five towers of the main temple. |
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The bas-relief lines the walls of the temple on all four sides. The carvings relate to the Khmers the many deeds of Vishnu. |
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The temple walls are decorated with beautiful Apsara
dancers. Each had a look and personality of their own.
(I think the King liked girls.) |
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| A well preserved Apsara | Solin a modern day Khmer beauty |
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The steps leading up to the temple are so steep, almost
like a ladder.
Here we had the benefit of a railing to hold onto to climb up. Without it, I doubt I would have made the trip. I might mention too that the steps are high. Considering I am above average height when compared to a Khmer, how did they ever climb those steps?
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This view from the top gives a better perspective of how
very steep and high the temple is.
I wanted the fire department to come and get me. |
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I was compelled to take this photo of a sleeping
monk. He was situated in the highest part of the temple, oblivious
to the world around him.
(By the way, all men in Cambodia are encouraged to be Monks for a period of time. It is considered a strong selling point for marriage if a young man has spent some time as a Monk.) |
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Even though this temple was originally Hindu, the Buddhist
showed up some time ago and placed Buddha in the entry ways.
They dress the Buddha in orange robes, like the monks. People come here to worship, as this scene depicts. |
to be continued...go to Floating Village.
