Grand Circuit 2006

Angkor Thom - South Gate

Angkor Thom, a walled, moated royal city, was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. Jayavarman VII built an enclosed city around existing structures such as Baphuon and Phimeanakas and then added some of Angkor's greatest temples such as Bayon as well as the outer wall and moat.

Bayon

The giant stone faces of Bayon have become icons of Khmer art and architecture. There are 37 standing towers, many displaying 4 carved faces in the cardinal directions. Many believe that the faces represent a combination of Buddha and Jayavarman VII.

Baphuon

Baphuon is the huge temple mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom. Largely collapsed and in ruins, it is currently being restored. .

Prasate Suor Prat, Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King

Twelve laterite/sandstone towers opposite and parallel to the Terrace of the Elephants, potential used to settle legal disputes and matters of criminal justice... the belligerent parties were kept int he towers for a few days. The one to emerge in ill health was declared the loser by divine decree. The Terrace of the Elphants is a 300 meter long terrace adorned with cared elephants and garudas. The Terrace of the Leper King is named for the statue of the Leper King that sits on top. Some say that when the statue was found, its lichen covered condition gave it the appearance of leprosy. Others say that it is a statue of the leper king of Khmer legend. .

Phimeanakas, Thommanon

Phimeanakas is a steep laterite/sandstone pyramid. It served as the king's temple. Thommanon is a small temple built at the same time as Angkor Wat. The detailed carvings are in very good condition.

Ta Prohm

This monastic complex has been intentionally left partially unrestored with massive fig and silk cotton trees growing from towers and corridors. Ta Prohm was built by Jayavarman VII and dedicated to his mother. It was originally constructed as a Buddhist monastery and controlled over 3000 villages, thousands of support staff and vast stores of jewels and gold.

Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng was the first major temple to be constructed in the Angkor area. The foundation is carved from the existing rock. A great place to view the sunset.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan originally served as a Buddhist monastery and school. For a short while, it was also the residence of Jayavarman VII while Angkor Thom was being constructed. Preah Khan means sacred sword. It was dedicated to Jayavarman VII's father.

Neak Pean

A small island temple in the middle of the last baray constructed by a Khmer king in the Angkor region. Neak Pean means coiled serpents and is so named for the snaked coiled at its base. The temple is faced by a statue of Balaha, the horse, saving drowning soldiers.

Ta Som, East mebon, Pre Rup, Banteay Kdei, Sras Srang

Ta Som is a small classic Bayon-style monastery. Pre- Rup is a well-restored temple-mountain with detailed carvings and a good view of the countryside. East Mebon is dedicated to Shiva in honor of King Rajendravarman II's parents. Banteay Kdei is a large monastic complex, which served as a Buddhist monastery under Jayavarna II. Across from Banteay Kdei, Sra Srang is a picturesque Baray built in the mid 10th century.

Siem Reap

 

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