Angkor Wat is a temple complex in the ancient city of Angkor in Cambodia. It is world renowned, and the largest temple complex in the area. It was built in the 12th century, and is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. Since it’s so popular, I tried to focus on different angles and features.
1: This is a great view of the outer wall framed in a window, with the lush jungle beyond.2-3: Detailed sandstone carvings and reliefs like these are abundant within the temple complex. The unfortunate thing about sandstone is that it’s soft, so it will continue to deteriorate over time. These particular reliefs portray Devatas, which are female deities. 4: A reflecting pool within the complex. Can you imagine this full of water and monks doing cannonballs?5: It’s amazing how much attention to detail was put into these buildings. Almost every surface has some sort of design carved into the stone.6: An overhead view of part of the complex. The way the sandstone has been stained over time, gives the scene an otherworldly look.7: This photo was taken at the rear of the complex. If you are willing to take the time to escape the throngs of tourists, you can be rewarded with peace and quiet, and unique tourist-free photos.8: From this angle at the rear of the complex, you can see three of the five towers. Four are arranged in a square, with the fifth and tallest one in the center.9: The over 400 acre temple complex is surrounded a huge moat. You can see the entrance path, and the temple itself in the distance, while a weathered lion stands guard in the foreground.10: The temple itself is an active place of worship to the Hindu God Vishnu. If you happen to visit, you are expected to be respectful of the local customs and culture.
