Cambodia's Exotic Angkor Wat
This majestic complex consists of hundreds of temples covering 500 acres of land. It wasn"t long ago that you could walk through these ruins without seeing another person for hours. Where once it was abandoned and looted of precious pieces, it is now a thriving attraction receiving over a half a million visitors a year. With admission being $20 per day it is a real deal by western standards.Mother nature has done her work well reclaiming the land once ruled by a great empire. The jungle had almost swallowed up the temples of Angkor, until great efforts were made in restoration. In recent years many temples have been restored to their original grandeur. The Main Temple of Angkor Wat is well preserved and a breathtaking sight. Its five main towers jut into the air as high as 66 meters (215 ft) from its 1.6 km (1 mile) long base.
You can witness the strength of nature by visiting the temple of Ta Prom. Left in its original state, vines and roots twist through the complex breaking apart solid rock as trees rise through its roof far into the air. Not to be missed is Angkor Tom. Imposing statues of 54 Gods and 54 Demons line the causeway leading up to the temple.
Take your time to visit the temples, there is a lot to see. Study the intricate etchings in the walls, walk to the many ruins or take a look at the complex from above. You can climb to the top of Bakhen Hill for free at sunset or you can hire a hot air balloon to fly you over the jungle for a breathtaking view.
The main town near Angkor Wat is Siem Reap. It is being restored nicely as tourist flock to the area and you can take a walk to see the French Influence left behind by their occupation. Colonial buildings and baguettes are just a few things that will remind you of a little piece of France.
For a different view, check out the old market. It will give you a real sense of life in Cambodia as vendors line the aisles with everything from live fish that they will clean before your very eyes, to fresh fruit. It is recommended to look for trinkets and souvenirs here instead of at the more expensive tourist stores.
If you have the time, a trip the the house of Aki Ra is a must. This man has been helping to clear the millions of landmines in Cambodia for over a decade. At his hut he has some of his decommissioned land mines on display that he gathered himself. It is a testimony to the work that he and so many others have done for this struggling country.
It is unbelievable to think that there are four to six million live landmines scattered throughout the country. People die by the thousands and it is common to see victims all over the country living as amputees. Aki Ra"s hard work is paying off however as government officials and civilians alike are taking notice.
Siem Reap has everything a tourist needs. A tropical destination, it can be enjoyed any way you want. Stay in world-class hotels and relax by the pool, eat in fine dining rooms and splurge on a massage. Others may choose to stay in small guest houses and munch on street meat while mingling with the local people. You can shop at craft stores and silk boutiques or barter in the local markets.
Take a tuk tuk out to see the beautiful countryside and you will witness time standing still. Farmers wearing traditional conical hats walk with their oxen down the street, women work in the rice paddy fields and children fish in the river. Take a tour of a nearby silk farm or watch exotic birds thrive on Ton Le Sap Lake. South East Asia"s largest fresh water lake, it is home to an important bio reserve for threatened large water birds.
Siem Reap is definitely a unique destination for anyone to visit. Rich in history and wildlife, Filled with beautiful scenery and culture. It is a must see destination for anyone wanting to take a trip outside of the ordinary.