Siem Reap: Temples Part 2

Preah Khan is a Buddhist temple constructed in the late 12th century in the Bayon style.  Preah Kan means “sacred sword.” It is a huge complex that once served as a Buddist monastery and school.  It is thought that King Jayavarman VII lived there while his permanent home in Angkor Wat was under construction.

Neak Pean Temple is a small island temple in the middle of the last baray constructed by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century.  The temple sits at the axis of a cross or lotus pattern of eight pools.  The water was thought to have healing properties.  We were in the dry season there was no water when we were visiting.

Ta Som Temple is another temple constructed by King Jayavarman VII.  It is a classic Bayon-style monastery complex. There is a huge tree growing through and destroying one of the gates. Conservationist are trying to decide the best action.  The interior of the temple is a smaller version of Ta Prohm.

East Mebon Temple is a Hindu temple built during the late 10th century under King Rajendravarman II.  The mountain-like temple has three rising levels and five towers.  It was built on an island in the middle of the now dry Eastern Baray when the capital was moved back to Angkor

Banteay Srey translate to “citadel of the women.” It is also referred to as the Pink Temple becuase of the pink sandstone used to build this late 10th century temple for King Rajendravarman. It was constructed when the Khmer Empire was gaining power and territory.  Many consider this as the most beautiful temple and our guide’s favorite.

The delicate and ornate carvings made the temple look like a cake. As we were getting ready to leave we saw a green snake. Our guide did not know which kind of snake but thought it was poisonous. We moved on quickly.

Pre Rup Temple was built in the late 10th century for King Rajendravarman II.  This Hindu temple was thought to be a funerary temple but is now thought to have been the state temple.  It was the second temple built after the capital was returned to Angkor and is similar in construction to the East Mebon Temple.

We made one more trip to Angkor Wat our last day. We woke up early to enjoy the sunrise.  It was even more crowded early in morning than our previous visit.

We came across a group of monkeys playing, eating and “monkeying” around until a guard encouraged them to move along.