The mist fogged the way to the temple and yet hundreds of tourists raised to the entrance…each trying to find their step…each trying to mark their spot. It was a surreal moment…excitement and anxiousness filled the air.
It was a little past 5:30 in the morning when the colors of the sky slowly changed and there it was…the glorious sunrise…the glorious temple. It was a beautiful sight!
Dancing
The soil was still wet from the rain and I could feel the water seeping into my shoes but I could care less. I was too ecstatic to be there… I felt so blessed.
Dress: Forever 21, Bag: Fab find from a local market, Summer Hat: SM Department Store, Shoes: Toms, Watch: Skagen, Earrings: Gift from a friend
Angkor Wat has five towers – four in the corners and one in the middle. This is the most prominent architectural feature of the temple. As you go up, you will notice this theme. It is believed that, “Angkor Wat is a miniature replica of the universe and represents an earthly model of the cosmic world.” It is quite unbelievable how they were able to build such a monument.
Prasat Bayon
For me, this is the Mona Lisa of Angkor Wat. Cambodians also fondly describe it as the Smile of Angkor . While I found the Angkor Wat magnanimous, the Bayon is definitely more charming and memorable because of its bizarreness and maze of galleries. The 2000 large carved faces combined with the indistinguishable, dark and narrow pathways create a moving and nostalgic experience.
Upper Left: the entrance to the Royal Palace
Upper Right and Lower Left Photos: Sculptures from The Terrace of the Leper King
The Terrace of the Leper King was quite interesting. Outside it looked liked one big block of ruined cement but inside, the walls had many little details and carvings that it felt like they were storybook pages.
Lower Right Photo: Prasat Baksei Chamkrong
(The Bird that Shelters Under its Wings)
According to the legend, the king fled during a war and was saved when a large bird swooped and spread its wings to shelter the him.
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Other Tips for Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, Cambodia:
1. Bring snacks and keep yourself hydrated. If you can’t stand the heat, the best time to go are the months of November and December.
2. Don’t forget your umbrella.
3. Bring baby wipes and alcohol so you can freshen-up once in a while.
4. Make sure that you have a shawl and sarong in your bag because they won’t let you inside some temples if your dress is above your knee.
5. Start with the smaller temples before you proceed to Angkor Wat, this way you build the momentum of your tour and surprise yourself.
6. If you will take the Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour, wait for the sun to fully rise before you enter the temple. You need enough light to see and appreciate the small details and carvings on the walls.
7. Don’t push yourself and know your limit. If you can’t see all the temples in one day, come back the next day. It’s better to take your time and enjoy each sight rather than rush and get sick.
8. You don’t need to rent an air-conditioned car. Take the tuk-tuk as you go around Angkor Wat or Siem Reap. You’ll be surprised that it’s quite breezy plus it’s more enjoyable and authentic.
