• Helene RimbergThe Grand AdventureHelene Rimberg
    Avíes from the outsideA view from the east entranceLong "hallway" along the perimeter that houses the bas reliefsA bas relief - rising a horse drawn carriage into battleChurning the Ocean milkOne of the hallwaysReconstruction is ongoingEverywhere you looked there was artOn the top levelThe jungle comes right up to meet the templeLike the levels below it's a squareLooking down to 2nd levelMany onlookers

    Angkor Wat

    March 28 in Cambodia ⋅ ⛅ 35 °C

    Apparently, seeing sunrise behind Angkor Wat is the thing to do so of course we set out to see it at its finest. Wake up very early and take a Tuktuk to be at the gates at 5:00 - when they open. Walk in the dark under a star filled sky. Cross the moat and enter the complex. Find a spot by one of the reflecting pools and wait, watching as the sky begins to lighten. Lots of people around but not crazy crowded. Very beautiful sight! Walk around the outside and out to the eastern gate. Return to the temple, first viewing the fabulous bas reliefs - mostly telling the stories of epic battles (usually involving gods and demons). Angkor Wat is unique among the temples in that it has never been left to deteriorate. Through time it has been repeatedly repaired and restored. So no boulders laying around - all very tidy. Climb to the top level for a great view. Return to town and ‘chill” in our hotel. Do a few errands before venturing out for indian dinner.Read more