Backpacking in Cambodia (Part 4): Temple Exploration at the Angkor Archaeological Park
We had exactly one day to spend at the Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap. As soon as our bus arrived, we checked in at the Bou Savy Guesthouse, had a quick breakfast and then it was time to explore.
Because of the vastness of the Angkor Park, it would be impossible to visit all the temples in a day. If you want to visit all temples, perhaps three days would be best. However, Eliel and I felt that one day would be enough for us. Our driver recommended that we focus on the following: the Angkor Wat Complex, Bayon Temples, the Pink Temples and Ta Prohm.
The one day pass costs $20 and it grants you entrance to all temples.You also get an ID card that need to present at every entrance.
Seeing the temples up close is an awesome experience. I've seen lots of photos, and I did not expect them to be so grand and mesmerizing in person. The structures were huge and the temples felt so alive. It felt so unreal to be walking inside such amazing works of art. This is one of those places that are just so much better to see in person.
Our first stop was the famous Angkor Wat.
It was extremely hot and humid and again, I was so glad I brought my handy dandy fan.hehe It's a life saver.
We also got to see the giant faces of Bayon. It doesn't look as impressive in the photos, but I promise you, they are amazing in person.
We had lunch at a nearby restaurant. What a lovely relief from the heat.
After lunch, we got to explore the Pink Temples. These are smaller structures, but the designs are very intricate and the color is really pretty.
And then finally, we were at our last stop for the day, the Ta Prohm Temples, which were made famous by the movie Tomb Raider. I think the younger kids may not know this movie anymore, but back in the day, Lara Croft was a big deal. This was my favorite because of all the trees that provided cover from the sun. The air was a lot cooler compared to the other temples.
 |
| Isn't that amazing? Nature reclaiming ownership of the land. |
 |
| My favorite place. |
 |
| So hard to take photos because of all the people. |
That night, we tried their famous happy pizza, which didn't really make me happy.haha
To end the day, we just had to check out Pub Street.
All I had was a Coke Light.
And a banana pancake. hehe
That ends our day in Siem Reap.
The next morning, we were off to Thailand!
Read about the rest of our Cambodia adventure here:
Cambodia Part 1: Backpacking in Cambodia
Cambodia Part 2: The Historical City of Phnom Penh
Cambodia Part 3: Island Life at Koh Rong Samloem
Cambodia Part 4: Temple Exploration at the Angkor Archeological Park
For more on our 16-day Indochina backpacking trip (full itinerary + expenses), click on the photo below.
 |
0 comments