There is no doubt that tourists flock to Siem Reap, Cambodia for the plain reason that it houses one of the greatest temples on earth; Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, it has caught the publics interest and it is wowing travelers from around the world.
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.
Be sure not to miss visiting Ta Prom. This is the temple that has been completely left in its original form. Trees and jungle have grown right out of the structure. Another must not miss temple is Angkor Tom. A famous sight where 54 Gods and Demons line the road. They have been badly looted, but with restoration efforts, many heads are now back on the statues.
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.
Angkor Wat isn't the only sight to see in Siem Reap, this town is quickly becoming the fastest growing city in Cambodia. One can check out beautifully restored Colonial Buildings in the Old French Quarter. Stop at a cafe and enjoy a coffee and baguette and feel as though you are in an historical corner of France rather than South East Asia.
You will be quickly jolted back to reality once you pop into the Old Market; lines of stalls filled with everything you could possibly need, vie for your business. Live fish and fresh meat, fruit and herbs will ignite your senses. Tourists and locals mingle together and you can find all of the souvenirs that you need at a fraction the price of the other stores in town.
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.
In actual fact there are an estimated 6 million landmines posing a danger to the people of Cambodia. Already there are tens of thousands of victims ranging from amputees to deaths. This museum is a place that has helped to bring awareness to the plight of the country's people.
Siem Reap certainly has a lot to offer besides Angkor Wat. Relax at a 5 star hotel enjoying the tropical setting. Eat at world class restaurants and shop at fine silk markets. If elegance isn't in your budget, never fear there are options for roadside food stands to small family run diners and you can stay at hostels or quaint guesthouses. Whatever your choice, Siem Reap is a vacation destination to suit all of your needs.
Take a day to go out to see the countryside. The largest fresh water lake in all of South East Asia is located close to Siem Reap and you can visit one of several silk farms. Hire a taxi or a tuk tuk and enjoy the natural setting. See oxen pull carts and watch people work in the rice paddy fields. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time watching life slowly unfold before your eyes.
If you are looking for something different for our next trip abroad. Put Cambodia on your list. It will be the most exciting and interesting vacation you have ever had in your life.
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.
Be sure not to miss visiting Ta Prom. This is the temple that has been completely left in its original form. Trees and jungle have grown right out of the structure. Another must not miss temple is Angkor Tom. A famous sight where 54 Gods and Demons line the road. They have been badly looted, but with restoration efforts, many heads are now back on the statues.
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.
Angkor Wat isn't the only sight to see in Siem Reap, this town is quickly becoming the fastest growing city in Cambodia. One can check out beautifully restored Colonial Buildings in the Old French Quarter. Stop at a cafe and enjoy a coffee and baguette and feel as though you are in an historical corner of France rather than South East Asia.
You will be quickly jolted back to reality once you pop into the Old Market; lines of stalls filled with everything you could possibly need, vie for your business. Live fish and fresh meat, fruit and herbs will ignite your senses. Tourists and locals mingle together and you can find all of the souvenirs that you need at a fraction the price of the other stores in town.
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.
In actual fact there are an estimated 6 million landmines posing a danger to the people of Cambodia. Already there are tens of thousands of victims ranging from amputees to deaths. This museum is a place that has helped to bring awareness to the plight of the country's people.
Siem Reap certainly has a lot to offer besides Angkor Wat. Relax at a 5 star hotel enjoying the tropical setting. Eat at world class restaurants and shop at fine silk markets. If elegance isn't in your budget, never fear there are options for roadside food stands to small family run diners and you can stay at hostels or quaint guesthouses. Whatever your choice, Siem Reap is a vacation destination to suit all of your needs.
Take a day to go out to see the countryside. The largest fresh water lake in all of South East Asia is located close to Siem Reap and you can visit one of several silk farms. Hire a taxi or a tuk tuk and enjoy the natural setting. See oxen pull carts and watch people work in the rice paddy fields. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time watching life slowly unfold before your eyes.
If you are looking for something different for our next trip abroad. Put Cambodia on your list. It will be the most exciting and interesting vacation you have ever had in your life.
About the Author:
Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an Adventure Couple from Canada. Together they have Check outed over 35 countries on 5 continents. Each new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike and trek their way around the earth. Check out their website theplanetd.com for new tips and information on exciting destinations around the world. For photos of their travels visit picturetheplanet
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