Small Circuit: Ta Phrom

Our next destination is also one of Angkor's most iconic sights. Popularized by the Lara Croft: Tomb Raider movie, Ta Phrom is a rubble strewn temple best known for the giant ficus trees that have taken root in the temple. Indeed, the giant roots that wound their way into the stones make for a stark contrast between nature and human construction. I wandered around transfixed at the sights. As I made my way around the temple, Leftfield's Song of Life - a track that was played in the movie at the Ta Phrom scene - got stuck in my head.

While I was a Ta Phrom, I looked around in vain for the Dinosaur of Ta Phrom, an Atlas Obscura listing that claims that there is a carving of a stegosaurus-like creature in the walls of the temple. Rather frustratingly, the listing isn't very specific on where exactly the carving is located. I did not find it despite my best efforts.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/ta-prohm

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