Angkor Wat: A visual treat and an example of the assimilation of cultures in the region

Breaking of the Dawn, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Assimilation of cultures : The temple 'Angkor Wat' is located in the Siam Reap province of Cambodia. The temple is located in the midst of a dense forest and I still wonder why. The structure is modest yet stunning especially due to the architectural brilliance. The sun rises from behind the temple which makes this unique. While it resembles Hindu temples in the subcontinent, it also assimilates with the Buddhist pagoda style. Until I reached the temple, I was not aware of the connection to the Indian subcontinent. The temple stands as a symbol of the union of two kingdoms and spread of a new religion in the subcontinent. An erstwhile Cambodian King was married to an Indian Princess, leans back to the Golden Age where the Maurya rule transcended boundaries in the South Asian subcontinent.

Temple Premise, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Reaching Siem Reap: The journey to the province is around three to four hours. There are several options to choose from like a bus, taxi and a direct flight too. It is better to arrive a night before in Siam Reap and stay at a hotel. There are some old style hotels with Burmese teakwood finishings which is common in the region. There are several hotels in the area and restaurants to explore. You can also visit the market for shopping local goods.

At the temple premise: It is advisable to reach around 4 am in the morning in the temple precinct to see the sunrise. The tour or hotel can arrange the transport. Once you are there you have to get a ticket. Its a busy tourist spot and usually big crowds are lining up. There is a little walk required to the temple premise so arriving early is better to avoid missing the sunrise. Unfortunately, it was not the best day for me as I did not catch the sunrise yet captured the colors of the sky. I have never seen such a delightful display of colors even on a cloudy morning.

There is a lot to walk around and enter the different temple precincts. The structures are dilapidating in some parts. There is a lake running through the forest. There is a lot of peace and calm which I can even feel now as I write this post.

My journey to this temple still reminds me of the sudden burst of colors I visualized as I walked to the temple. Keep an eye out for the colors as you capture the visuals in your journey that will leave you mesmerized.

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