Must See Destinations in Cambodia
Cambodia
boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and, along
with its long history and rich culture, it is fast becoming one of
the most sought-after destinations for all travelers. Because of its
vast array of natural beauty and spectacular cultural monuments, it
can be a challenge to decide where to go and what to see there. Here
are five of some of the best points of interest that this wonderful
and unique place has to offer.
Number One - The Bayon Temple
In the historical
Angkor Thom region sits an enormous temple, which was one of the last
to be built in this spectacular Ancient City. It was the only
Angkorian state temple to be built specifically as a Mahayana
Buddhist shrine and has over 200 large stone faces placed facing in
all directions. The stone-faced statues that were carved with a smile
are said to be an early portrait of King Jayavarman
VII.
The walls
surrounding the temple are also an attraction of its own due to its
large historical collection of bas-relief which contain historical
and mythological images alongside some unusually mundane scenes such
as men sat in prayer or a woman giving birth. The 1.2km wall has over
11,000 carvings, so it’s easy to spend hours here admiring the
intricate carvings and design of the temple.
Number Two - Angkor Wat
Angkor
Wat
or “Capital Temple” was built as a Hindu temple but later was
converted into a Buddhist complex and is one of the largest religious
monuments in the world. Angkor Wat takes up a rectangular area of
about 208 hectares—that’s equal to 500 acres. According to
legend, this temple was built by Indra for his
son Precha
Ket Mealea. The initial construction took place in the first half of
the 12th
century during the reign of Suryavarman II. Angkor Wat is easily a
prime example of a classical style of Khmer architecture.
This temple is a
must see and definitely a once-in-a-lifetime moment for anyone. For
the best experience, download
a walking tour
to your iPhone. You’ll get the best tips and information to make
the most of your time there.
Number Three – Tonlé Sap
Tonlé Sap is a
freshwater river in the whole of Southeastern Asia; however, it’s
particularly important for many historical and geographical elements
of Cambodia. The Tonlé
Sap
lake drains into the Mekong lake at Phnom Penh during the dry season,
from November to May, and creates a complex hydrological system that
waters Cambodia’s famous mosaic flood planes. According to legend,
the formation of Cambodia was based around these planes as the Khmer
people were colonized by peaceful Indian neighbors. The two cultures
later combined to form the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Being surrounded by
water means there is enough fish for everyone. During the floods the
surrounding areas quickly become a breeding ground for fish. Nobody
is allowed to fish until the water levels drop, but when they do,
many locals set up their fishing boat and cruise out for lunch. The
Vietnamese also come to fish in these waters, and they primarily
supply the country's market. The fishermen are extremely respectful
of their natural habitat and use every single part of the fish to
make some sort of profit.
Image courtesy of
Patrik
M.Loeff
under CC
BY-NC-ND 2.0
Number Four – Bokor Hill Station
If
you’re into things that go bump in the night, then Bokor Hill
Station is for you. Bokor
Hill Station
was built by the French in the 1920s during the retreat from Phnom
Penh. This was later used in the 1940s when Japan invaded Cambodia.
Khmer resurrected the town in the late 1950s, making use of the land
and facilities during the aftermath of the first Indochina
War.
Nowadays the town is used as a tourist hotspot and is open to anyone
who is willing to tread through the eerie grounds. Walking through is
an experience in itself as it allows you to physically see and feel
the emotion the violent conflict left behind. This place isn’t only
for the thrill seekers but for anyone willing to see the raw
reflections of what history really looks like.
