2006 10 Thailand & Cambodia – Day 13

There is some restoration going on but the first site of Angkor Wat is amazing.

These are not modern day built temples and the apparent ancient hand craft makes it all the more interesting visit.

Walking around Angkor Wat.

Many pictures are carved along some of the ways.

Wall carvings

Wall carvings.

Walking around the temple.

Many more people here than I had expected even though our guide said it may be crowded.

Climbing up to the center of the wat is quite an adventure as the steps are just a little steep with not much for handle rails.

A view from the center of the temple

View from temple

Many places inside these temples and other places in the area are set up to allow you to show your respect.

Views from inside the temple.

View from inside the temple.

Walking around the temple and its grounds for 3 hours is a unique experience for anyone.

I wonder about the actual builders of these magnificent temples as I compare them to the temples of Egypt and Peru. My travels have now taken me to sites that I have only dreamed of. Many believe these sites were built for the effect of an enigma and to open up our minds to a different view of life. If this is true our not it is how I look upon these temples. The mathematical clues and mysteries that go into the Pyramids of Giza, Machu Picchu and Angkor Wat is something that hasn't been completely explained.

Walking around the temple.

Walking around the temple.

Inside the temple.

Outside of the temple.

A moat surrounds the temple.

We drive back to town for lunch and then do a few more stops of other wats.

With all the rain and abundance of heat the trees take root just about anywhere.

Most of my group along with our tour leader while in Siem Reap.

The root system slowly finds the cracks between the blocks and then expands. Mother Natures display is amazing.

Some of the Laura Croft movie "Tomb Raider" is filmed here. Where she sees the little girl and butterfly is in the center on the upper level.

Some of markets near the Wats.

Watching the sunset at the top of our final Wat for the day. The clouds spoiled the moment and it was just a short ride back to Siem Reap.