Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the grandest and most sublime of all the Khmer temples. Angkor Wat means "city pagoda," which is a fitting name because the temple was the center piece of a huge thriving city. Built as a Hindu shrine, Angkor Wat was later "converted" to Buddhism.

One such example of the conversion to Buddhism is the huge statue of Vishnu (currently located near the main entrance), which once probably stood in the center tower at the summit of the pyramid which is Angkor Wat.

To put it midly, Angkor Wat is majestic. Extensive renovation has denied access to the upper most levels of the wat, which was mildly disappointing. (But then again the view looking up the 50 degree stair cases--replete with very narrow, very worn steps--is VERY different than the view from the top looking down!) So, the decision whether or not to climb the final assent to the summit was made for me.

Gallery of Bas-Reliefs

Throughout the temple, wonder abounds. From the massive size of the moat (completely dug by hand using primitive tools) to the massive size of the temple, Angkor Wat was designed as the ultimate tribute to the Hindu gods. Just seeing the huge blocks of stone stacked one upon the next forming the towering gopuras makes the accomplishment seem even more remarkable. The artistry reflected at Angkor Wat represents thousands of hours of man-hours. The stone carving is astounding. Of particular note is the Gallery of Bas-Reliefs, the Battle of Kurukshetra, the Procession of Suryavarman II, Judgment of Yama, Heaven and Hells, the Battle of Lanka, and of particular note, the Churning of the Sea of Milk (approximately 150' long all of which except for about 6' was closed for renovation).

All throughout the temple, apsara dancers are carved. Notice the well-worn features on the photo above. Foreigners, no doubt.