It is a mysterious, exotic land of fathomless tradition and revolution which allures visitors. The country, a repository of some of the architectural splendours of the world, stuns the visitor into silence. I have read about Angkor Wat but had the opportunity to see this world heritage site only recently.
Very few of us know that Angkor Wat is a cluster of temples in Siem Reap, in the kingdom of Cambodia, built in the early part of the 12th century by a south Indian king Suryavarman-II. Angkor Wat is the symbol of old and modern Cambodia and its pride also. The tall spires, which resemble the Dravidian gopuram, kissing the horizon, evokes imagery few other regions do. Angkor Wat stands majestically in Siem Reap which is about 45mininutes by air from Bangkok and is now declared one of the seven wonders of the world.
Before we explore the genesis of the temples, lets us catch a glimpse of the Cambodian life, arts, climate, et al.
Cambodia is a land of immense cultural and historical contrasts. The Khmer empire ruled much of South West Asia whose stamp is discernible in the neighbouring countries. Cambodia’s capital is Phnom Penh and its languages are Khmer, French and English. About 95 per cent of the population follows Theravada Buddhism. The ethnic groups consist of Khmer, Chinese Khmer (Islam), Vietnamese and hill tribes (north-east).
Cambodia shares international borders with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.
Like India, Cambodia has two distinct seasons – summer, which runs from May to October, and the dry period, which runs from November to April. The ideal time to visit this country is between November and January. The two international airports are Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
The Tonie Sap lake in the heart of Cambodia is one of the richest fresh water fishing spots in the world. It is a haven for many migratory birds in the world. Its jungle and mountains are a storehouse of rich flora and fauna. There are inhabitants who still haven’t got a feel of the outside world.
Cambodia’s cuisine is believed to be unique and the country produces delicious organic meat and fruits.
In spite of its old world grandeur and new age junk there is mystery and melancholy seamlessly woven to make it a land of beautiful surprises and some shocks. Who can forget the enfant terrible of Cambodia?
It is a mysterious, exotic land of fathomless tradition and revolution which allures visitors. The country, a repository of some of the architectural splendours of the world, stuns the visitor into silence. I have read about Angkor Wat but had the opportunity to see this world heritage site only recently.
Before we explore the genesis of the temples, lets us catch a glimpse of the Cambodian life, arts, climate, et al.
Cambodia shares international borders with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.
Cambodia’s cuisine is believed to be unique and the country produces delicious organic meat and fruits.
