Liquid gold poured by a warm sunset
People loving scenic sunsets will enjoy every evening in Siem Reap, Cambodia, too. And they will have a new spot every afternoon. These spots are both inside and outside Angkor Arhcaeological Park. And when taking in the sunset experience, you can eat well and enjoy refreshments from stalls nearby.
This shot was taken near the West Baray, បារាយណ៍ខាងលិច, the gigantic manmade water reservoir from the middle of the Khmer Angkor imperial era. Nearly 900 years after its completion it still plays a vital role in water and flood management for the Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap city and the surrounding farmland.
The West Baray are used by locals and visitors alike, for leisure, bathing, boating, fishing and visit to the West Mebon temple on the artificial island in the Baray.
Built for the ages
Measuring appx 7.8 times 2.1-kilometre, West Baray is not a dugout. It is built with human made earthen dikes, with a height of 11,9 meters. The maximum capacity is 53 million m³ water. These 53 billion litres equal 14 billion gallons of water in medieval measurements.
It was finished appx 1066 CE, the same year England was conquered by the Norse rulers of Normandy.
West Baray is 12 kilometres from Central Siem Reap, mostly on flat, well-maintained roads. Easy to get to by tuktuk or car, or a nice, brisk bike ride morning or afternoon.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/09/01/golden-sunset-near-west-mebon/
#Angkor #ancient #art #architecture #sculpture #archive #worldculturalheritage #hinduism #khmer #empire #buddhism #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #greentourism #biking #sunset #sunsettrip #sunsetexperience #Cambodia #Kampuchea #southeastasia #westmebon #sunrise #westbaray #sightseeing #Water #reservoir #khmer #archive #architecture #siemreap #hydraulics #city #empire #visitcambodia #takeonlyphotos #leaveonlyfootprints 🎶🎶 #bikingintheangkorwonderland 🎶🎶
#Kampuchea
@AskDRZ
Thanks so much! During the 6 years when I lived in #ViệtNam, I visited #kampuchea several times. It's a beautiful place.
Inside this great collection of green is the remains of one of the oldest temples in Angkor Park
A colourful memory from that time I had lunch near Prasat Kôk Svay Pream. I had visited four temples in old Hariharalaya/Roluos group covering 400 years of architecture. Finally found this well covered, very old pre-Khmer empire temple site.
Nearly a 100 year older than Khmer Empire
Prasat Kôk Svay Pream, ប្រាសាទគោកស្វាយព្រាហ្មណ៍ in Khmer, is mostly covered by vegetation.
Only some small remains of a brick wall, an entrance gate and a lingam basin are relatively easy to be found. In front there of this is an entrance platform facing eastwards. The thick growth of green trees, palms and thick foliage including thorn bushes covers the rest of the site. It looks like it has been a moat of sort around the elevated area where this temple remains are.
When Prasat Kôk Svay Pream first was rediscovered, three lintels where found. They show the bridging of architecture and design from Sambor Prei Kouk of Chenla kingdom to Prei Khmeng and Kulen of early Khmer during the 700s CE.
The Chenla kingdom was the last Khmer kingdom before the Khmer empire was declared in 802 CE. Its capital was near Kampong Thom.
It is a nice and peaceful place, and not a lot of visitors. Or locals. Some friendly cows, though. Always lovely with something bovine out in the countryside.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/09/20/lunch-at-prasat-kok-svay-pream/
#2019CE #ancient #Angkor #AOTBT #offthebeatentrack #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #ប្រាសាទ #គោក #ស្វាយ #ព្រាហ្មណ៍ #រលួស #backcountry #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Cambodia #oldcapital #Hariharalaya #roluos #roluosgroup #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #angkoroffthebeatentrack #temple #Pagoda #Prasat #KôkSvayPream #rice #ricefield #roadtrip #siemreap #southeastasia #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
A colourful memory from that time I had lunch near Prasat Kôk Svay Pream. I had visited four temples in old Hariharalaya/Roluos group covering 400 years of architecture. Finally found this well covered, very old pre-Khmer empire temple site.
Nearly a 100 year older than Khmer Empire
Prasat Kôk Svay Pream, ប្រាសាទគោកស្វាយព្រាហ្មណ៍ in Khmer, is mostly covered by vegetation.
Only some small remains of a brick wall, an entrance gate and a lingam basin are relatively easy to be found. In front there of this is an entrance platform facing eastwards. The thick growth of green trees, palms and thick foliage including thorn bushes covers the rest of the site. It looks like it has been a moat of sort around the elevated area where this temple remains are.
When Prasat Kôk Svay Pream first was rediscovered, three lintels where found. They show the bridging of architecture and design from Sambor Prei Kouk of Chenla kingdom to Prei Khmeng and Kulen of early Khmer during the 700s CE.
The Chenla kingdom was the last Khmer kingdom before the Khmer empire was declared in 802 CE. Its capital was near Kampong Thom.
It is a nice and peaceful place, and not a lot of visitors. Or locals. Some friendly cows, though. Always lovely with something bovine out in the countryside.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/09/20/lunch-at-prasat-kok-svay-pream/
#2019CE #ancient #Angkor #AOTBT #offthebeatentrack #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #ប្រាសាទ #គោក #ស្វាយ #ព្រាហ្មណ៍ #រលួស #backcountry #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Cambodia #oldcapital #Hariharalaya #roluos #roluosgroup #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #angkoroffthebeatentrack #temple #Pagoda #Prasat #KôkSvayPream #rice #ricefield #roadtrip #siemreap #southeastasia #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
A quiet morning at the hospital temple Prei Prasat Ta Oun Temple
This is one of those temples that literally is off the beaten track. The only access is via a narrow bike trail, on the side of farmland with grazing cows. The trail gets very muddy in green season.
Localised well north of Angkor Thom, this temple was built in late 12th century. It is one of the over 100 hospital temples built during the reign of the great Khmer king Jayavarman VII. More known for his state temple Bayon with what is considered his portrait being repeated all over its façade.
Hospital temples were temples connected to a nearby public hospital. It was used for prayer, rites, offerings and probably as part of the therapy. It was an early example of public healthcare system built in scale. It shows how advanced and rich the Angkor empire was at its peak 450 years into its existence.
Compact and peaceful
It is not a large site, but it is one of the best kept examples of these hospital-temples built in Bayon style. Even the moat surrounding Ta Oun is in relatively good order. But it dries up during the hot season.
There are remains of a Gopura and a Library to the east of the main temple, and a smaller gate to the west. There are no remains of the hospital itself.
It is worth a visit not only for the insights into an important part of Khmer imperial history. Ta Oun is well off the main visitor’s area, is peaceful and often without any other visitors.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2025/02/16/ta-oun-temple/
#1280CE #ancient #AngkorArcheologicalPark #angkor #temples #angkorthom #angkorwat #angkorpark #AOTBT #architecture #archive #art #Asia #Biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #Kampuchea #khmer #kingdomofwonder #offthebeatentrack #Pagoda #PrasatTaOun #Temple #siemreap #southeastasia #taountemple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
This is one of those temples that literally is off the beaten track. The only access is via a narrow bike trail, on the side of farmland with grazing cows. The trail gets very muddy in green season.
Localised well north of Angkor Thom, this temple was built in late 12th century. It is one of the over 100 hospital temples built during the reign of the great Khmer king Jayavarman VII. More known for his state temple Bayon with what is considered his portrait being repeated all over its façade.
Hospital temples were temples connected to a nearby public hospital. It was used for prayer, rites, offerings and probably as part of the therapy. It was an early example of public healthcare system built in scale. It shows how advanced and rich the Angkor empire was at its peak 450 years into its existence.
Compact and peaceful
It is not a large site, but it is one of the best kept examples of these hospital-temples built in Bayon style. Even the moat surrounding Ta Oun is in relatively good order. But it dries up during the hot season.
There are remains of a Gopura and a Library to the east of the main temple, and a smaller gate to the west. There are no remains of the hospital itself.
It is worth a visit not only for the insights into an important part of Khmer imperial history. Ta Oun is well off the main visitor’s area, is peaceful and often without any other visitors.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2025/02/16/ta-oun-temple/
#1280CE #ancient #AngkorArcheologicalPark #angkor #temples #angkorthom #angkorwat #angkorpark #AOTBT #architecture #archive #art #Asia #Biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #Kampuchea #khmer #kingdomofwonder #offthebeatentrack #Pagoda #PrasatTaOun #Temple #siemreap #southeastasia #taountemple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
The mirror pond at Neak Poan temple
A morning bike to Neak Pean/Neak Poan (Khmer: ប្រាសាទនាគព័ន្ធ, “the entwined serpents”) is a fresh morning bike trip. The main temple tower dedicated to Avalokitesvara is this one in the mirror pond is worth the trip itself.
Neak Pean was built as a retreat and healing place at an artificial island. This island was put in the centre of a man made Baray/lake and water-reservoir.
In memory and honour of Dad
The surrounding Jayatataka Baray lays due east of the Preah Khan temple. This is the large temple complex J7 built in honour of his father.
Jayavarman VII had clear visions as mighty ruler of the Khmer Empire. This was the most beautiful of the more than 110 hospitals he initiated build for his people all over the core parts of his Empire. It is an architectural and water engineering marvel. Placed close by the large temple built in memory of his dad.
Tips for visits
Neak Pean is normally part of the Grand Circuit Tours of Angkor Park. It should be visited early after sunrise, before the soft breeze of the day breaks up the internal mirror pond tranquillity.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/12/25/neak-poan-hospital-temple-for-peace-of-mind/
#1250CE #ancient #angkor #wat #AngkorHeritage #angkorpark #apsara #architecture #mirror #forest #archive #art #artificial #lake #Asia #Avalokitesvara #ប្រាសាទ#នាគព័ន្ធ #biking #bikingadventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #jajavarmanvii #Jayatataka #Baray #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #kingdomofwonders #mirror #pond #NeakPean #neakpoan #Temple #Pagoda #Prasat #PreahKhan #roadtrip #Sculpture #SiemReap #southeastasia #theentwinedserpents #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
A morning bike to Neak Pean/Neak Poan (Khmer: ប្រាសាទនាគព័ន្ធ, “the entwined serpents”) is a fresh morning bike trip. The main temple tower dedicated to Avalokitesvara is this one in the mirror pond is worth the trip itself.
Neak Pean was built as a retreat and healing place at an artificial island. This island was put in the centre of a man made Baray/lake and water-reservoir.
In memory and honour of Dad
The surrounding Jayatataka Baray lays due east of the Preah Khan temple. This is the large temple complex J7 built in honour of his father.
Jayavarman VII had clear visions as mighty ruler of the Khmer Empire. This was the most beautiful of the more than 110 hospitals he initiated build for his people all over the core parts of his Empire. It is an architectural and water engineering marvel. Placed close by the large temple built in memory of his dad.
Tips for visits
Neak Pean is normally part of the Grand Circuit Tours of Angkor Park. It should be visited early after sunrise, before the soft breeze of the day breaks up the internal mirror pond tranquillity.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/12/25/neak-poan-hospital-temple-for-peace-of-mind/
#1250CE #ancient #angkor #wat #AngkorHeritage #angkorpark #apsara #architecture #mirror #forest #archive #art #artificial #lake #Asia #Avalokitesvara #ប្រាសាទ#នាគព័ន្ធ #biking #bikingadventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #jajavarmanvii #Jayatataka #Baray #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #kingdomofwonders #mirror #pond #NeakPean #neakpoan #Temple #Pagoda #Prasat #PreahKhan #roadtrip #Sculpture #SiemReap #southeastasia #theentwinedserpents #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
Modern colourful Lolei pagoda
The original, classic Khmer temple Prasat Lolei was placed on an island in an artificial water basin. It was the royal family temple in Hariharalaya. That was the last capital outside what we now recognise as the core Angkor Archaeological Park area around Angkor Thom north of Siem Reap.
The water is gone, but the four old temple towers are still there. Around the old temple grounds, a modern Buddhist monastery was built and still operating.
A modern Wat and Temple
The monks here were quite interested in talking to visitors, seeking information and some of them loved to practice their English. And some German too, come to that.
This photo is from inside the modern Buddhist temple, which is among the heaviest colourful temples I have seen in the Siem Reap area. But it is also very open to the sun light, making it a place of worship filled with light and colours.
I like religious buildings with this sort of character.
Under a hundred meter away, the 1100 years older holy towers connect the old and new continuous cultural history and heritage of Cambodia.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/10/10/prasat-lolei/
#2018CE #893CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #apsara #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archive #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទលលៃរលួស #biking #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #biking #adventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #khmercapital #leaveonlyfootprints #lolei #Temple #Pagoda #prasatlolei #roadtrip #roluosgroup #Roluos #siemreap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #worldculturalheritage #yasovarman #leperking #Bakong #Loleimonastery #Nikkor #Nikon #oldangkor #nationalroad6 #kingdomofwonder
The original, classic Khmer temple Prasat Lolei was placed on an island in an artificial water basin. It was the royal family temple in Hariharalaya. That was the last capital outside what we now recognise as the core Angkor Archaeological Park area around Angkor Thom north of Siem Reap.
The water is gone, but the four old temple towers are still there. Around the old temple grounds, a modern Buddhist monastery was built and still operating.
A modern Wat and Temple
The monks here were quite interested in talking to visitors, seeking information and some of them loved to practice their English. And some German too, come to that.
This photo is from inside the modern Buddhist temple, which is among the heaviest colourful temples I have seen in the Siem Reap area. But it is also very open to the sun light, making it a place of worship filled with light and colours.
I like religious buildings with this sort of character.
Under a hundred meter away, the 1100 years older holy towers connect the old and new continuous cultural history and heritage of Cambodia.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/10/10/prasat-lolei/
#2018CE #893CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #apsara #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archive #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទលលៃរលួស #biking #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #biking #adventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #khmercapital #leaveonlyfootprints #lolei #Temple #Pagoda #prasatlolei #roadtrip #roluosgroup #Roluos #siemreap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #worldculturalheritage #yasovarman #leperking #Bakong #Loleimonastery #Nikkor #Nikon #oldangkor #nationalroad6 #kingdomofwonder
Royal honour to the grandparents
Prasat Lolei, ប្រាសាទលលៃ, is the northernmost temple in the old capital of the Khmer empire Hariharalaya. Finished in 893CE, the temple group of four towers was dedicated to Shiva and to members of the royal family by king Yasovarman I.
The two tall brick temple towers were built in honour of the king’s grandparents. The two lower towers were for his parents. King Yasovarman I was not a big fan of his father’s plans of succession. He ended up making his own succession line and legitimized right to the throne via his grandmother’s family.
Last larger Hindu temple built in Hariharalaya
It was originally a temple on an island in a now dried out water reservoir called Indratataka Baray. This was the first Baray of many built by the imperial god kings of Angkor. A temple on an island surrounded by water is probably meant to symbolise Mount Meru, home of the gods in the Hindu pantheon.
Back then it was an Ashram nearby, today there is a modern pagoda and a monastery surrounding the classic site. The interior of the modern pagoda is worth a closer look.
This was the last large temple build by the god kings in Hariharalaya. Yasovarman I later moved the capital to Yaśodharapura centred around Phnom Bakheng, near Angkor Thom/Nokor Thom as it is known today.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/06/the-modern-prasat-lolei-a-colorful-cultural/
#2022CE #893CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #apsara #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archive #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទលលៃរលួស #biking #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #biking #adventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #khmercapital #leaveonlyfootprints #lolei #Temple #Pagoda #prasatlolei #roadtrip #roluosgroup #Roluos #siemreap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #worldculturalheritage #yasovarman #leperking
Prasat Lolei, ប្រាសាទលលៃ, is the northernmost temple in the old capital of the Khmer empire Hariharalaya. Finished in 893CE, the temple group of four towers was dedicated to Shiva and to members of the royal family by king Yasovarman I.
The two tall brick temple towers were built in honour of the king’s grandparents. The two lower towers were for his parents. King Yasovarman I was not a big fan of his father’s plans of succession. He ended up making his own succession line and legitimized right to the throne via his grandmother’s family.
Last larger Hindu temple built in Hariharalaya
It was originally a temple on an island in a now dried out water reservoir called Indratataka Baray. This was the first Baray of many built by the imperial god kings of Angkor. A temple on an island surrounded by water is probably meant to symbolise Mount Meru, home of the gods in the Hindu pantheon.
Back then it was an Ashram nearby, today there is a modern pagoda and a monastery surrounding the classic site. The interior of the modern pagoda is worth a closer look.
This was the last large temple build by the god kings in Hariharalaya. Yasovarman I later moved the capital to Yaśodharapura centred around Phnom Bakheng, near Angkor Thom/Nokor Thom as it is known today.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/06/the-modern-prasat-lolei-a-colorful-cultural/
#2022CE #893CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #apsara #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archive #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទលលៃរលួស #biking #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #biking #adventures #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #khmercapital #leaveonlyfootprints #lolei #Temple #Pagoda #prasatlolei #roadtrip #roluosgroup #Roluos #siemreap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #worldculturalheritage #yasovarman #leperking
Sunrise greeting at the first grand temple of the Khmer Empire
Mornings are the most pleasant time to visit Bakong Temple. The large stone temple gets very hot later in the day.
Bakong was the first mountain type of temple architecture design in the Khmer imperial era. It served as a state temple for king Indravarman I, in the first dedicated Khmer imperial capital at Hariharalaya.
Today this is the Roluos Group of temples east of Siem Reap City, Cambodia. Other well-known temples here is Preah Koh and Lolei.
Large Hindu influence
The temple was dedicated to Shiva, and its main consecrated image was a lingam called Sri Indresvara. This step pyramid mountain temple draws inspiration from other large Hindu temples in the region built around the same time. Most notably the fantastic Borobudur temple in Java, outside Yogyakarta.
Bakong temple was the last large construction in Hariharalaya. Indravarman’s son and heir Yasovarman I moved the capital to Phnom Bakheng in the early 900s. Bakheng Hill is just south of what we today call Angkor Thom, the big (capital) city.
For those interested in comparative historical timeline, this temple was finished as a state temple in 881CE. In Norway, the first unification of the kingdom under one superior king established the first larger Nordic kingdom.
#Firstcapital #khmer #empire #2018CE #ancient #881CE #Angkor #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archivephoto #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទបាគងរលួស #backcountry #bakong #BakongTemple #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #capitalcity #citylife #classic #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #humanheritage #imperial #Indravarman #Kampuchea #lolei #mobilephoto #monks #morningbiking #Note9 #novices #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #Pagoda #PrasatBakong #PrasatLollei #PrasatPreahKoh #ricefield #roadtrip #roluos #roluosgroup #SiemReab #SiemReap #southeastasia #sunrise #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
Mornings are the most pleasant time to visit Bakong Temple. The large stone temple gets very hot later in the day.
Bakong was the first mountain type of temple architecture design in the Khmer imperial era. It served as a state temple for king Indravarman I, in the first dedicated Khmer imperial capital at Hariharalaya.
Today this is the Roluos Group of temples east of Siem Reap City, Cambodia. Other well-known temples here is Preah Koh and Lolei.
Large Hindu influence
The temple was dedicated to Shiva, and its main consecrated image was a lingam called Sri Indresvara. This step pyramid mountain temple draws inspiration from other large Hindu temples in the region built around the same time. Most notably the fantastic Borobudur temple in Java, outside Yogyakarta.
Bakong temple was the last large construction in Hariharalaya. Indravarman’s son and heir Yasovarman I moved the capital to Phnom Bakheng in the early 900s. Bakheng Hill is just south of what we today call Angkor Thom, the big (capital) city.
For those interested in comparative historical timeline, this temple was finished as a state temple in 881CE. In Norway, the first unification of the kingdom under one superior king established the first larger Nordic kingdom.
#Firstcapital #khmer #empire #2018CE #ancient #881CE #Angkor #ApsaraAuthority #architecture #archivephoto #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទបាគងរលួស #backcountry #bakong #BakongTemple #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #capitalcity #citylife #classic #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #greentourism #Hariharalaya #Hinduism #history #humanheritage #imperial #Indravarman #Kampuchea #lolei #mobilephoto #monks #morningbiking #Note9 #novices #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #Pagoda #PrasatBakong #PrasatLollei #PrasatPreahKoh #ricefield #roadtrip #roluos #roluosgroup #SiemReab #SiemReap #southeastasia #sunrise #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
Prasat Bei – Trio of one out of four
Prasat Bei – ប្រាសាទបី – means three temples. On top of a small laterite platform of 10 x 24 meter there are these three towers, where the central one is fairly complete and in order. This temple tower rises 10 meter high.
The two flanking temple towers are not in that good condition, and the north one closest to the city moat around Angkor Thom was probably never properly finished. There are still some lintels with carvings left to see.
This is the largest in a quartet of temple sites on the west side of the Southern gate to Angkor Thom. Just to the east and west of this temple is the rather rudimentary remains of Sâk Krâop Temple I and II. Closer to the main road into Angkor Thom is Prasat Bay Kaek East – ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក.
Among the earliest Angkor Thom temples
The temple was built for the Hindu god Shiva during the reign of Yasovarman I early in the 900s. This great King was the god king who moved the Khmer capital from Hariharalaya to Yaśodharapura, the area where we today find most of the most famous constructions and temples of Angkor Empire. The first central location of the new capital was built on the nearby Phnom Bakheng.
This temple is 1,5 kilometre north of Angkor Wat. It is worth visiting to get an idea of the design of the first Angkor imperial capital and its temples.
#AncienT #1020CE #Angkor #PrasatBei #Angkorwat #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #capitalcity #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #leaveonlyfootprints #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #angkoroffthebeatentrack #2019CE #Pagoda #Prasat #BayKaek #EastPrasat #BayKaekEast #ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក #pyramid #roadtrip #SâkKrâop #Temple #SâkKrâopTemple #Sculpture #SiemReab #SiemReap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
Prasat Bei – ប្រាសាទបី – means three temples. On top of a small laterite platform of 10 x 24 meter there are these three towers, where the central one is fairly complete and in order. This temple tower rises 10 meter high.
The two flanking temple towers are not in that good condition, and the north one closest to the city moat around Angkor Thom was probably never properly finished. There are still some lintels with carvings left to see.
This is the largest in a quartet of temple sites on the west side of the Southern gate to Angkor Thom. Just to the east and west of this temple is the rather rudimentary remains of Sâk Krâop Temple I and II. Closer to the main road into Angkor Thom is Prasat Bay Kaek East – ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក.
Among the earliest Angkor Thom temples
The temple was built for the Hindu god Shiva during the reign of Yasovarman I early in the 900s. This great King was the god king who moved the Khmer capital from Hariharalaya to Yaśodharapura, the area where we today find most of the most famous constructions and temples of Angkor Empire. The first central location of the new capital was built on the nearby Phnom Bakheng.
This temple is 1,5 kilometre north of Angkor Wat. It is worth visiting to get an idea of the design of the first Angkor imperial capital and its temples.
#AncienT #1020CE #Angkor #PrasatBei #Angkorwat #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #Asia #ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #capitalcity #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #leaveonlyfootprints #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #angkoroffthebeatentrack #2019CE #Pagoda #Prasat #BayKaek #EastPrasat #BayKaekEast #ប្រាសាទថ្មបាយក្អែក #pyramid #roadtrip #SâkKrâop #Temple #SâkKrâopTemple #Sculpture #SiemReab #SiemReap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
That time I came to a fork in the road, and someone else choose the track most travelled. I felt obliged to choose the other one.
The area in and around Angkor Park and Siem Reap are excellent for off road biking and exploration. It is a healthy and green way to enjoy the marvels of the Khmer Empire, its origin and its later development.
Finding things not seen
I was on my way to find a couple of more secretive temples and old sites. I was trying to do that by a direct route via Bayon and Angkor Thom and north out of the Grand circle. This trip took me into dirt tracks not travelled by many.
Among things I did find were stuff like a river not supposed to be there. Some bridge and road maintenance. And a bunch of locals tending to rice fields, surprised by the pink skin visitor. But politely and smiling returning greetings of hello and well wishes for a good day.
As Khmer so often do.
It is, as always, important to respect the local’s privacy and integrity. Acting as a respectful, polite and responsible good guest in their home area are of the outmost importance. And of course, be a sensible traveller leaving only bike tracks and footprints and take only photos. Including not biking or walking into any private area or destroying any crop.
#2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #Asia #backcountry #banteaythom #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #AOTBT #bikingintheangwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #leaveonlyfootprints #offthebeatentrack #angkoroffthebeatentrack #Prasat #Komnap #rice #ricefield #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reab #SiemReap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
The area in and around Angkor Park and Siem Reap are excellent for off road biking and exploration. It is a healthy and green way to enjoy the marvels of the Khmer Empire, its origin and its later development.
Finding things not seen
I was on my way to find a couple of more secretive temples and old sites. I was trying to do that by a direct route via Bayon and Angkor Thom and north out of the Grand circle. This trip took me into dirt tracks not travelled by many.
Among things I did find were stuff like a river not supposed to be there. Some bridge and road maintenance. And a bunch of locals tending to rice fields, surprised by the pink skin visitor. But politely and smiling returning greetings of hello and well wishes for a good day.
As Khmer so often do.
It is, as always, important to respect the local’s privacy and integrity. Acting as a respectful, polite and responsible good guest in their home area are of the outmost importance. And of course, be a sensible traveller leaving only bike tracks and footprints and take only photos. Including not biking or walking into any private area or destroying any crop.
#2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorwat #architecture #archive #archivephoto #art #Asia #backcountry #banteaythom #bike #biking #bikingintheangkorwonderland #AOTBT #bikingintheangwonderland #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #citylife #classic #khmer #countryside #daytrip #dirttrack #Empire #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #leaveonlyfootprints #offthebeatentrack #angkoroffthebeatentrack #Prasat #Komnap #rice #ricefield #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reab #SiemReap #southeastasia #takeonlyphotos #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #worldculturalheritage
Early morning enthusiasm in the forest
That time I had to share the bike track with two very enthusiastic youngsters in the Siem Reap countryside near Angkor Thom.
Culture and nature
Water buffaloes are still of some importance in agriculture in Cambodia. Traditionally used for ploughing the fields and carting heavy loads, those tasks are increasingly done by mechanised tractors and specialised machinery. But for milk, meat, fortune and for breeding they are popular and even exported.
These animals live well of ordinary grass and water plants. All easily accessible food with no need of industrialised special fodder. They return valuable quality fertiliser in return, and they are important in keeping and being a vital part of the cultural landscape.
Respect and distance
These buffaloes are domesticated livestock, and normally quite docile. But they are each still 2 pointy ends backed by 200 kilo+ of bones and muscles, so respectful distance is smart when encountering these animals unexpected.
Me, sitting on my bike in a crossroad in front of these two fellows, continued out of their track on my way after I had taken this shot. I saw these two rumbling on their way crossing the road behind me.
Hope they enjoyed this moment as much as me.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2023/04/10/physical-distancing-pre-covid-times/
#2022CE #Angkor #angkorwat #archive #Asia #backcountry #bike #biketrip #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #bubalisbubalus #bubalus #bubalis #calf #calves #Cambodia #citylife #citywalk #classic #Khmer #dirttrack #domesticated #forest #run #greentourism #Kampuchea #Keepnothingbutmemories #khmer #Killnothingbuttime #Leavenothingbutfootprints #livestock #Morning #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #roadtrip #running #Siem #Reab #Siem #Reap #siemreap #countryside #southeastasia #sunrise #Takenothingbutpictures #travel #visitsiemreap #Water #buffalo #waterbuffalo #waterbuffaloes #youngfun
That time I had to share the bike track with two very enthusiastic youngsters in the Siem Reap countryside near Angkor Thom.
Culture and nature
Water buffaloes are still of some importance in agriculture in Cambodia. Traditionally used for ploughing the fields and carting heavy loads, those tasks are increasingly done by mechanised tractors and specialised machinery. But for milk, meat, fortune and for breeding they are popular and even exported.
These animals live well of ordinary grass and water plants. All easily accessible food with no need of industrialised special fodder. They return valuable quality fertiliser in return, and they are important in keeping and being a vital part of the cultural landscape.
Respect and distance
These buffaloes are domesticated livestock, and normally quite docile. But they are each still 2 pointy ends backed by 200 kilo+ of bones and muscles, so respectful distance is smart when encountering these animals unexpected.
Me, sitting on my bike in a crossroad in front of these two fellows, continued out of their track on my way after I had taken this shot. I saw these two rumbling on their way crossing the road behind me.
Hope they enjoyed this moment as much as me.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2023/04/10/physical-distancing-pre-covid-times/
#2022CE #Angkor #angkorwat #archive #Asia #backcountry #bike #biketrip #bikingintheangkorwonderland #bluesky #bubalisbubalus #bubalus #bubalis #calf #calves #Cambodia #citylife #citywalk #classic #Khmer #dirttrack #domesticated #forest #run #greentourism #Kampuchea #Keepnothingbutmemories #khmer #Killnothingbuttime #Leavenothingbutfootprints #livestock #Morning #offthebeatentrack #AOTBT #roadtrip #running #Siem #Reab #Siem #Reap #siemreap #countryside #southeastasia #sunrise #Takenothingbutpictures #travel #visitsiemreap #Water #buffalo #waterbuffalo #waterbuffaloes #youngfun
The magic staff establishing Battambang
Battambang is the prominent border city in West-Cambodia. It is rich in cultural and historical heritage. Among its most distinctive features are the remarkable statues positioned along the major roads leading into the city.
Ta Dambong and the Magic Staff
The most iconic of these statues is the multicoloured (blue, black, and red) figure of Ta Dambong holding a magical staff, said to have won him a kingdom. This statue is located at the eastern entrance to Battambang, along the main road from Phnom Penh.
The Lok Ta Dambong Kra Nhoung Shrine is one of the most visited sacred sites in the city. Visitors frequently stop to offer prayers and make offerings of food, drink, incense, and money, seeking good fortune and safe travels. It is also common for visitors to take selfies at the shrine as a gesture for a pleasant stay in Battambang.
Ta Dambong was a herdsman who discovered a magical staff that granted him the power to overthrow the reigning monarch and seize the throne.
When the king attempted to execute the sons of the former kings who had become monks the magic staff vanished into thin air—along with Ta Dambong’s royal power.
The prince reclaims the throne once held by his father.
The tale touches themes of royal legitimacy, social hierarchy, and the revered status of monks and holy men in Cambodian culture. But Ta Dambong is also celebrated as a folk hero. The city of Battambang (from "Bat-dam-bong") is named after him, and his figure is associated with good fortune and safe travel.
Battambang was established as a city during the peak of the Khmer Empire in the 12th century.
https://helloangkor.com/attractions/ta-dumbong-statue/
#2019CE #afternoon #art #ឡូរីជើងភ្នំបាណន់ #Bamboo #Train #bambootrain #Battambang #bluesky #Cambodia #Province #colonial #countryside #khmer #ancient #angkorarchitecture #archive #Buddhism #daytrip #history #imperial #Kampuchea #roadtrip #Sculpture #site #southeastasia
Battambang is the prominent border city in West-Cambodia. It is rich in cultural and historical heritage. Among its most distinctive features are the remarkable statues positioned along the major roads leading into the city.
Ta Dambong and the Magic Staff
The most iconic of these statues is the multicoloured (blue, black, and red) figure of Ta Dambong holding a magical staff, said to have won him a kingdom. This statue is located at the eastern entrance to Battambang, along the main road from Phnom Penh.
The Lok Ta Dambong Kra Nhoung Shrine is one of the most visited sacred sites in the city. Visitors frequently stop to offer prayers and make offerings of food, drink, incense, and money, seeking good fortune and safe travels. It is also common for visitors to take selfies at the shrine as a gesture for a pleasant stay in Battambang.
Ta Dambong was a herdsman who discovered a magical staff that granted him the power to overthrow the reigning monarch and seize the throne.
When the king attempted to execute the sons of the former kings who had become monks the magic staff vanished into thin air—along with Ta Dambong’s royal power.
The prince reclaims the throne once held by his father.
The tale touches themes of royal legitimacy, social hierarchy, and the revered status of monks and holy men in Cambodian culture. But Ta Dambong is also celebrated as a folk hero. The city of Battambang (from "Bat-dam-bong") is named after him, and his figure is associated with good fortune and safe travel.
Battambang was established as a city during the peak of the Khmer Empire in the 12th century.
https://helloangkor.com/attractions/ta-dumbong-statue/
#2019CE #afternoon #art #ឡូរីជើងភ្នំបាណន់ #Bamboo #Train #bambootrain #Battambang #bluesky #Cambodia #Province #colonial #countryside #khmer #ancient #angkorarchitecture #archive #Buddhism #daytrip #history #imperial #Kampuchea #roadtrip #Sculpture #site #southeastasia
When your home is a temple
Some of the temples and pagodas in Cambodia are marvels of intrinsic details. Sometimes the cohabitants are, too. Like this one at Wat Sampov at Phnom Sampov/Phnom Sampeau near Battambang.
The monkeys at most of these temple sites are peaceful. They are adjusted to be relatively safe and have access to food and water. But they are also nosy and cheeky, and any seasoned traveller know to keep their belongings, food and water well contained or hidden around these rascals. They will try to steal anything they fancy from the humans.
And never, ever feed the monkeys. It reduces their ability to hunt and gather their own food, leads to malnutrition, and they become more aggressive and can be dangerous towards humans.
Challenging small gene pools
Another challenge for these monkeys is the small number of members in some of the temple groups. That is causing some problems with inbreeding due to limited gene pools.
We are talking severe Habsburgian jaw and bulbous lips, to use a European reference to tragedy and disaster when science is absent. I have personally observed this inbreeding problem to have become lesser over the last few years. Hopefully it means the caretaking of these cultural heritage sites improves. Including for the animals.
The monkeys also ad personality to the visits to the temple, and scale to photos taken there. I would miss having them around, if they were to disappear from the temple grounds.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/05/04/when-your-home-iff-a-temple-some-of-the/
#2016CE #Angkor #architecture #art #batcave #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #countryside #gallery #gold #Hinduism #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #PhnomSampeou #roadtrip #Siem #Reap #siemreap #sightseeing #asia #southeastasia #templevisit #Cambodia #visitsiemreap #watsampeou #guardianhill #landscape #macaquemonkey #Mountains #nature #Pagoda #Phnom #Sampeau #PhnomSompov #teeth #temple #visitcambodia
Some of the temples and pagodas in Cambodia are marvels of intrinsic details. Sometimes the cohabitants are, too. Like this one at Wat Sampov at Phnom Sampov/Phnom Sampeau near Battambang.
The monkeys at most of these temple sites are peaceful. They are adjusted to be relatively safe and have access to food and water. But they are also nosy and cheeky, and any seasoned traveller know to keep their belongings, food and water well contained or hidden around these rascals. They will try to steal anything they fancy from the humans.
And never, ever feed the monkeys. It reduces their ability to hunt and gather their own food, leads to malnutrition, and they become more aggressive and can be dangerous towards humans.
Challenging small gene pools
Another challenge for these monkeys is the small number of members in some of the temple groups. That is causing some problems with inbreeding due to limited gene pools.
We are talking severe Habsburgian jaw and bulbous lips, to use a European reference to tragedy and disaster when science is absent. I have personally observed this inbreeding problem to have become lesser over the last few years. Hopefully it means the caretaking of these cultural heritage sites improves. Including for the animals.
The monkeys also ad personality to the visits to the temple, and scale to photos taken there. I would miss having them around, if they were to disappear from the temple grounds.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/05/04/when-your-home-iff-a-temple-some-of-the/
#2016CE #Angkor #architecture #art #batcave #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #countryside #gallery #gold #Hinduism #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #PhnomSampeou #roadtrip #Siem #Reap #siemreap #sightseeing #asia #southeastasia #templevisit #Cambodia #visitsiemreap #watsampeou #guardianhill #landscape #macaquemonkey #Mountains #nature #Pagoda #Phnom #Sampeau #PhnomSompov #teeth #temple #visitcambodia
Top gold itinerary in the Battambang hillside
The pagoda complex surrounding Wat Sampeou at the top of Phnom Sampov/Sampeou, "Ship Mountain" is concentrated variations of temple beauty. Before you get to the outlook points with a fantastic view to the surrounding Cambodian countryside outside Battambang.
Phnom Sampov is a cluster of hills northwest of Battambang city in the west of Cambodia. It takes about 30-40 minutes to get there from the city.
Walk up to the hill tops via the steep walkway or stairs or get a driver to drive you there. This hilltop is worth a visit either way.
But beware of the Macaque monkeys. These longtail Macaques are overly friendly because they expect to get, or steal, food from the visitors. Even if they are small animals, they are strong and can be ferocious.
There are several pagodas and temples on different sites in these hills.
Real Bat caves
Phnom Sampov is well known for the extensive caves under the hills. They each carry their own uses, cultural and religious significance and stories. Both of tradition, nature, happiness and deep tragedy.
By sunset, get down from the hills after some late afternoon shots of the warm sunset making the countryside soft and warm. Then, find a seat near the bat cave, and see thousands of bats leave for the nights hunt. The bat caves are near the entrance to the hills.
After seen the bats off, its time to go back to Battambang for the night. Enjoy food at one of the open-air restaurants near the river in the old French colonial city.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/21/top-gold-2/
#battambang #batcave #PhnomSampeou #watsampeou #stupas #temple #gold #bluesky #roadtrip #countryside #2019CE #Angkor #architecture #art #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #gallery #gold #Hinduism #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #Phnom #Sampeou #siemreap #sightseeing #southeast #asia #southeastasia #stupas #KR #deathcaves #tragedy #temple #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #watsampeou #PhnomSampov
The pagoda complex surrounding Wat Sampeou at the top of Phnom Sampov/Sampeou, "Ship Mountain" is concentrated variations of temple beauty. Before you get to the outlook points with a fantastic view to the surrounding Cambodian countryside outside Battambang.
Phnom Sampov is a cluster of hills northwest of Battambang city in the west of Cambodia. It takes about 30-40 minutes to get there from the city.
Walk up to the hill tops via the steep walkway or stairs or get a driver to drive you there. This hilltop is worth a visit either way.
But beware of the Macaque monkeys. These longtail Macaques are overly friendly because they expect to get, or steal, food from the visitors. Even if they are small animals, they are strong and can be ferocious.
There are several pagodas and temples on different sites in these hills.
Real Bat caves
Phnom Sampov is well known for the extensive caves under the hills. They each carry their own uses, cultural and religious significance and stories. Both of tradition, nature, happiness and deep tragedy.
By sunset, get down from the hills after some late afternoon shots of the warm sunset making the countryside soft and warm. Then, find a seat near the bat cave, and see thousands of bats leave for the nights hunt. The bat caves are near the entrance to the hills.
After seen the bats off, its time to go back to Battambang for the night. Enjoy food at one of the open-air restaurants near the river in the old French colonial city.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/21/top-gold-2/
#battambang #batcave #PhnomSampeou #watsampeou #stupas #temple #gold #bluesky #roadtrip #countryside #2019CE #Angkor #architecture #art #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #Cambodia #gallery #gold #Hinduism #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #Phnom #Sampeou #siemreap #sightseeing #southeast #asia #southeastasia #stupas #KR #deathcaves #tragedy #temple #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #watsampeou #PhnomSampov
Just a nap in a restful and truly colourful place
The mountain of Phnom Sampov/Sampeau, “Ship Mountain”, outside Battambang is a collection of beautiful temples and monasteries in several variations. Located in several places in the mountains.
Add the many large caves, and Phnom Sampov represents a lot of Cambodian history, culture and nature. From the mythical parts to the more modern demanding.
In the east area of the mountain, a pagoda and stupa complex are surrounding the monastery at Wat Sampeou. From there it is several outlooks with a fantastic view to the surrounding Cambodian countryside.
And as the day even here gets hot, the smart one gets some rest. Surrounded by the paintings of the cultural heritage Cambodia is known for.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/21/top-gold-2/
#khmer #wat #phnomsampeau #temples #pagoda #wallpainting #global #culturalheritage #2016CE #Phnom #Sampou #ancient #Angkor #architecture #archive #art #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #life #countryside #culturalheritage #daytrip #Empire #global #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #Pagoda #Phnom #Sampov #phnomsampeau #roadtrip #south #east #asia #southeastasia #temple #templesvisit #Cambodia #Wallpainting #wat #worldculturalheritage
The mountain of Phnom Sampov/Sampeau, “Ship Mountain”, outside Battambang is a collection of beautiful temples and monasteries in several variations. Located in several places in the mountains.
Add the many large caves, and Phnom Sampov represents a lot of Cambodian history, culture and nature. From the mythical parts to the more modern demanding.
In the east area of the mountain, a pagoda and stupa complex are surrounding the monastery at Wat Sampeou. From there it is several outlooks with a fantastic view to the surrounding Cambodian countryside.
And as the day even here gets hot, the smart one gets some rest. Surrounded by the paintings of the cultural heritage Cambodia is known for.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/21/top-gold-2/
#khmer #wat #phnomsampeau #temples #pagoda #wallpainting #global #culturalheritage #2016CE #Phnom #Sampou #ancient #Angkor #architecture #archive #art #Battambang #bluesky #Buddhism #life #countryside #culturalheritage #daytrip #Empire #global #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #Nikkor #Nikon #Pagoda #Phnom #Sampov #phnomsampeau #roadtrip #south #east #asia #southeastasia #temple #templesvisit #Cambodia #Wallpainting #wat #worldculturalheritage
Old, steep steps at Preah Vihear
After the long stone layered access road from the mountain temple gate in the north, there is a steep step to enter the first temple building/Gopura.
As interesting as the building itself, is the construction and the decoration on the stairs.
The main steps are large and old stone fitted together like they were during building a thousand years ago. For every 3rd step, there is a sidestep suitable for a person or some decorative item.
This steep entrance step is only for the first temple building. After that, the rest of the 6 main buildings and support libraries are spread out on a relatively level ground. Stretching south to the steep cliff, were you find a fantastic view to the north of Cambodia.
Cambodian World Cultural Heritage
The name "Preah Vihear" comes from the Khmer words "Preah" (sacred) and "Vihear" (abode or shrine). The temple is also sometimes referred to as "Phnom Preah Vihear" (mountain of Preah Vihear).
The large temple complex was built during 250 years, starting over one thousand years ago. Several god kings of the Khmer Empire added to the buildings and site details.
It has been a Cambodian World Cultural Heritage site for nearly twenty years.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/20/a-drop-of-colour-and-a-drop-of-water-a-good/
#ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #Preah #Vihear #Temple #preahvihear #Cambodia #Kampuchea #templevisit #buddhism #hinduism #angkor #art #architecture #bluesky #isaan #sisaket #water #well #worldculturalheritage #roadtrip #2019CE #colorful #colourful #culturalheritage #cambodia #ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #PreahVihearTemple
After the long stone layered access road from the mountain temple gate in the north, there is a steep step to enter the first temple building/Gopura.
As interesting as the building itself, is the construction and the decoration on the stairs.
The main steps are large and old stone fitted together like they were during building a thousand years ago. For every 3rd step, there is a sidestep suitable for a person or some decorative item.
This steep entrance step is only for the first temple building. After that, the rest of the 6 main buildings and support libraries are spread out on a relatively level ground. Stretching south to the steep cliff, were you find a fantastic view to the north of Cambodia.
Cambodian World Cultural Heritage
The name "Preah Vihear" comes from the Khmer words "Preah" (sacred) and "Vihear" (abode or shrine). The temple is also sometimes referred to as "Phnom Preah Vihear" (mountain of Preah Vihear).
The large temple complex was built during 250 years, starting over one thousand years ago. Several god kings of the Khmer Empire added to the buildings and site details.
It has been a Cambodian World Cultural Heritage site for nearly twenty years.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2021/04/20/a-drop-of-colour-and-a-drop-of-water-a-good/
#ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #Preah #Vihear #Temple #preahvihear #Cambodia #Kampuchea #templevisit #buddhism #hinduism #angkor #art #architecture #bluesky #isaan #sisaket #water #well #worldculturalheritage #roadtrip #2019CE #colorful #colourful #culturalheritage #cambodia #ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #PreahVihearTemple
An intricate entrance gate at Preah Vihear
In the north of Cambodia, on the mountain range bordering the Kingdom in the north, lays the levelled temple complex of Preah Vihear.
The details in the ornamentation on this temple is stunning. This gate to one of the four gopuras at this temple is an example.
The temple of Preah Vihear is dedicated to the god Shiva. The top lintel is often dedicated to showing symbols and rites connected to Shiva, but in almost equal amount to Vishnu.
It tells about the details in the religious practice over the 250 years the Angkor Empire built this temple complex.
The doors “enfilade”/side areas are rich with scenes from Khmer, Veda and Hindu mythology – like churning of the sea of milk, Khrishna Govardhan.
There are several compositions that is repeating in different variations at Preah Vihear. One example is built around a central motif, almost always a head of kala or lion, which develops into a symmetrical decoration.
Cambodian World Cultural Heritage
The name "Preah Vihear" comes from the Khmer words "Preah" (sacred) and "Vihear" (abode or shrine). The temple is also sometimes referred to as "Phnom Preah Vihear" (mountain of Preah Vihear).
The large temple complex was built over a period of 250 year, starting over one thousand years ago. Several god kings of the Khmer Empire added to the buildings and site details.
Preah Vihear has been a Cambodian World Cultural Heritage site for nearly twenty years.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1224/
#ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #Preah #Vihear #Temple #preahvihear #Cambodia #Kampuchea #templevisit #buddhism #hinduism #angkor #art #architecture #bluesky #isaan #sisaket #water #well #worldculturalheritage #roadtrip #2019CE #colorful #colourful #culturalheritage #cambodia #ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #PreahVihearTemple
In the north of Cambodia, on the mountain range bordering the Kingdom in the north, lays the levelled temple complex of Preah Vihear.
The details in the ornamentation on this temple is stunning. This gate to one of the four gopuras at this temple is an example.
The temple of Preah Vihear is dedicated to the god Shiva. The top lintel is often dedicated to showing symbols and rites connected to Shiva, but in almost equal amount to Vishnu.
It tells about the details in the religious practice over the 250 years the Angkor Empire built this temple complex.
The doors “enfilade”/side areas are rich with scenes from Khmer, Veda and Hindu mythology – like churning of the sea of milk, Khrishna Govardhan.
There are several compositions that is repeating in different variations at Preah Vihear. One example is built around a central motif, almost always a head of kala or lion, which develops into a symmetrical decoration.
Cambodian World Cultural Heritage
The name "Preah Vihear" comes from the Khmer words "Preah" (sacred) and "Vihear" (abode or shrine). The temple is also sometimes referred to as "Phnom Preah Vihear" (mountain of Preah Vihear).
The large temple complex was built over a period of 250 year, starting over one thousand years ago. Several god kings of the Khmer Empire added to the buildings and site details.
Preah Vihear has been a Cambodian World Cultural Heritage site for nearly twenty years.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1224/
#ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #Preah #Vihear #Temple #preahvihear #Cambodia #Kampuchea #templevisit #buddhism #hinduism #angkor #art #architecture #bluesky #isaan #sisaket #water #well #worldculturalheritage #roadtrip #2019CE #colorful #colourful #culturalheritage #cambodia #ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ #PreahVihearTemple
Morning at the West terrace and docks of the East Baray
The East Baray was a water reservoir built early in the Khmer Empire after the relocation of the capital to modern day Angkor Thom.
Today Yasodharatataka, East Baray in Khmer, is a dried-out water basin. It is mostly taken over by the jungle but with some rice paddocks and vegetable and fruit farming.
Slightly smaller than the still existing and large man-made construction West Baray, East Baray was 2 km wide and 7 km long. With a depth of 3 meter, it contained 50 million cubic meters of water.
East Baray is due east of Victory gate and the Elephant terrace in front of the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom. The docks and terrace on the West side is the remains of the important entrance to the west, close to the core area of the Khmer Imperial Capital. Its importance can be traced by the complexity of the docs, and the lion guards and statue remain. It is placed well into the jungle, and not very often visited. Fresh excavations are being done on a hospital temple nearby.
This photo is taken at nearing the end of the peak of green season, when the sun getting stronger and the wet spell are fewer. The green season in visible in how green vegetation and moss are covering and highlighting the remains of buildings, stairs and docks. The area in between is more neutral.
For most visitors, photogs or not, some downpours are good when visiting an area filled with natural and cultural marvels like the Angkor Park:
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cambodia/temples-of-angkor/attractions/eastern-baray/a/poi-sig/1571818/1002179
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #bikefriendly #Cambodia #capitalcity #life #citywalk #countryside #daytrip #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #southeastasia #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #wet #worldculturalheritage
The East Baray was a water reservoir built early in the Khmer Empire after the relocation of the capital to modern day Angkor Thom.
Today Yasodharatataka, East Baray in Khmer, is a dried-out water basin. It is mostly taken over by the jungle but with some rice paddocks and vegetable and fruit farming.
Slightly smaller than the still existing and large man-made construction West Baray, East Baray was 2 km wide and 7 km long. With a depth of 3 meter, it contained 50 million cubic meters of water.
East Baray is due east of Victory gate and the Elephant terrace in front of the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom. The docks and terrace on the West side is the remains of the important entrance to the west, close to the core area of the Khmer Imperial Capital. Its importance can be traced by the complexity of the docs, and the lion guards and statue remain. It is placed well into the jungle, and not very often visited. Fresh excavations are being done on a hospital temple nearby.
This photo is taken at nearing the end of the peak of green season, when the sun getting stronger and the wet spell are fewer. The green season in visible in how green vegetation and moss are covering and highlighting the remains of buildings, stairs and docks. The area in between is more neutral.
For most visitors, photogs or not, some downpours are good when visiting an area filled with natural and cultural marvels like the Angkor Park:
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cambodia/temples-of-angkor/attractions/eastern-baray/a/poi-sig/1571818/1002179
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #bikefriendly #Cambodia #capitalcity #life #citywalk #countryside #daytrip #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #Kampuchea #khmer #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #southeastasia #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #wet #worldculturalheritage
Greenlight the best time to visit Cambodia
Sometimes it is nice enjoying the rain cleaning up the air and colours in Angkor Thom. Sitting in a comfortable shelter with other visitors and staff is a sociable affair, too.
Green season in Cambodia starts in June/July and reaches its peak in September/October. Planning to visit during the summer in Europe, or when the Autumn is at its darkest and coldest in the northern hemisphere, those are the best time to enjoy Cambodia.
And to visit the architecture and art from the ancient Khmer empire.
The afternoon rainfalls are short, and they freshest the air and cools down the temperature. And they make everything grow healthy green. Including shrouding the ancient temples and imperial sites in green, softening the outline and enhancing the contrasts.
Making the photography conditions are excellent, the temperature is awesome, the crowds are small, and the cost of food, drinks and accommodation are as pleasant as ever.
For those who enjoys other senses as much, they can look forward to the fresh scent after a shower has cleaned the air, and the fragrance of green nature in it growing season. And the aroma of delicious food made from fresh vegetables and fruit. The sound of birds and insects wakening after a fresh spell is part of natural wonder. And the sound of different sort of monsoon is something to ponder.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/01/01/embracing-the-rain-visiting-angkor-park/
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #bayon #bike #bikefriendly #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #Buddhism #Cambodia #citywalk #daytrip #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #south #east #asia #southeastasia #statetemple #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #wet #worldculturalheritage
Sometimes it is nice enjoying the rain cleaning up the air and colours in Angkor Thom. Sitting in a comfortable shelter with other visitors and staff is a sociable affair, too.
Green season in Cambodia starts in June/July and reaches its peak in September/October. Planning to visit during the summer in Europe, or when the Autumn is at its darkest and coldest in the northern hemisphere, those are the best time to enjoy Cambodia.
And to visit the architecture and art from the ancient Khmer empire.
The afternoon rainfalls are short, and they freshest the air and cools down the temperature. And they make everything grow healthy green. Including shrouding the ancient temples and imperial sites in green, softening the outline and enhancing the contrasts.
Making the photography conditions are excellent, the temperature is awesome, the crowds are small, and the cost of food, drinks and accommodation are as pleasant as ever.
For those who enjoys other senses as much, they can look forward to the fresh scent after a shower has cleaned the air, and the fragrance of green nature in it growing season. And the aroma of delicious food made from fresh vegetables and fruit. The sound of birds and insects wakening after a fresh spell is part of natural wonder. And the sound of different sort of monsoon is something to ponder.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/01/01/embracing-the-rain-visiting-angkor-park/
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #bayon #bike #bikefriendly #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #Buddhism #Cambodia #citywalk #daytrip #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #south #east #asia #southeastasia #statetemple #temple #travel #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #wet #worldculturalheritage
Green season morning in Angkor Park
Prasat Top Khang Kaeut (Eastern Prasat Top) temple is a small Hindu temple with several images of the Hindu God Vishnu. The temple is mostly unvisited and very peaceful. The vegetation makes for some stunning photo opportunities during the green season.
The vegetation has taken over most of the surroundings. During green season it gets extraordinary for photos, with deep, green moss and fresh green all around the still very visible temple.
Religious tolerance in the Khmer Empire
Top Khang Kaeut was built during the reign of Jayavarman VII, the great Buddhist god king, and was initiated in 1295CE. It was dedicated in honour of Mangalartha, a son of a Hindu Brahmin priest/guru kept in high regard by the great king. That gives a glimpse into the religious tolerance and transformation of the Empire into Buddhism as the main religion.
This is the last significant Hindu Temple built in the Khmer Empire before the major change to Buddhism as state religion.
Pleasant green season
The Green season in Cambodia starts in June/July and reaches its peak in September/October. To visit during this time period are among the best time slots to enjoy modern Cambodia.
The afternoon rainfalls are short, and they freshen up the air and chills the temperature. And they make everything grow healthy green.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/05/15/the-secret-temple-in-angkor-thom/
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #Asia #bayon #bike #bikefriendly #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #Buddhism #Cambodia #citywalk #countryside #daytrip #EasternPrasatTop #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #Mangalartha #Pagoda #Prasat #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #south #east #asia #southeastasia #statetemple #temple #travel #Vishnu #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #greenseason #worldculturalheritage
Prasat Top Khang Kaeut (Eastern Prasat Top) temple is a small Hindu temple with several images of the Hindu God Vishnu. The temple is mostly unvisited and very peaceful. The vegetation makes for some stunning photo opportunities during the green season.
The vegetation has taken over most of the surroundings. During green season it gets extraordinary for photos, with deep, green moss and fresh green all around the still very visible temple.
Religious tolerance in the Khmer Empire
Top Khang Kaeut was built during the reign of Jayavarman VII, the great Buddhist god king, and was initiated in 1295CE. It was dedicated in honour of Mangalartha, a son of a Hindu Brahmin priest/guru kept in high regard by the great king. That gives a glimpse into the religious tolerance and transformation of the Empire into Buddhism as the main religion.
This is the last significant Hindu Temple built in the Khmer Empire before the major change to Buddhism as state religion.
Pleasant green season
The Green season in Cambodia starts in June/July and reaches its peak in September/October. To visit during this time period are among the best time slots to enjoy modern Cambodia.
The afternoon rainfalls are short, and they freshen up the air and chills the temperature. And they make everything grow healthy green.
https://drzinasia.wordpress.com/2024/05/15/the-secret-temple-in-angkor-thom/
#greensseason #2019CE #ancient #Angkor #angkorpark #angkorthom #angkorwat #architecture #archive #art #Asia #bayon #bike #bikefriendly #bikingintheAngkorWonderland #Buddhism #Cambodia #citywalk #countryside #daytrip #EasternPrasatTop #Empire #forestgreen #moss #greentourism #Hinduism #history #imperial #J7 #JayavarmanVII #jvii #Kampuchea #khmer #Mangalartha #Pagoda #Prasat #roadtrip #Sculpture #Siem #Reap #siemreap #site #south #east #asia #southeastasia #statetemple #temple #travel #Vishnu #visitcambodia #visitsiemreap #wat #greenseason #worldculturalheritage
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