‘Breathtaking’ is a word which is often over-used, but the magnificent temples of the ‘Lost City’ of Angkor are worthy of that description. Home to a lost civilization, and the world’s largest religious construction in stone, Angkor Wat’s lotus flower towers surround airy courtyards. Steep stone staircases, their walls covered with intricate carvings, representing the best of Khmer art and architecture, lead to turrets which offer wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. 

 

 

....for more info see The Lonely Planet 

 

In contrast to this, Ta Prohm temple has an extraordinary, completely unique atmosphere, used to great effect in films such as ‘Tomb Raider’. 

 

Little restoration work has been carried out here, and the visitor’s impression is that the temple and the jungle are as one, as the trees have now merged with the building itself, sprouting from the walls and even the roof. 

Angkor Thom - originally a huge walled city and home to thousands - surrounded by a moat with the temple of Bayon at its centre, possesses a unique mystical and spiritual grandeur. 

 

Gigantic smiling faces look down serenely on the tourists below. 

Lake Tonie Sap, fed by the Mekong river, is the most important lake in South East Asia. A visit to the floating village there gives a glimpse into a way of life which is centuries old. Villagers who live here in simple shacks adapt to the rising and falling water levels, moving their homes when they need to, moving the floating shops, schools, churches and health center with them. To witness this watery lifestyle is a unique experience. 

Back on land, green and luxuriant forests, jungle banana plantations and rice paddies add to the diversity of scenery which offers a visual feast –probably best enjoyed while seen from the local mode of transport – the tuk tuk. From the corner of the eye, fishermen can be seen in the lakes and rivers, using the same methods which have been used for hundreds of years. Schoolchildren wobble on bikes which are much too big for them. A group of saffron clad monks pass by on their way to visit a temple. Nearing Siem Reap, the traffic is busier as we pass the shops, hotels and markets of this bustling little town. 

 

The Cambodian people themselves offer a welcome which is warm and genuine. The majority live modest and simple lives, many of them working on the farms and rice paddies. Their natural courtesy and their pride in their country are truly inspiring, given the dark periods in their history which they have endured. It is fitting that the lotus flower, the Buddhist symbol of the progress of the soul through the waters of experience into the bright sunshine of enlightenment, grows so freely here.