Friday, January 23, 2009

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Last weekend a friend and I got the chance to take a trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, which is the site of a host of temple ruins dating as far back as the 9th century. We saw a variety of architecture and the history surrounding this area is amazing. Here are some pics from our trip...




The main temple of the Angkor Wat complex at sunrise.





Right before sunset outside of Angkor Wat





Sunset with a beer sitting on ruins.



This is from a landmines museum outside of the city. A cambodian man who grew up as a child soldier in the Khmer Rouge has dedicated his life to the education, locating and disarming of landmines throughout Cambodia.




A neat temple that was built in a miniture scale. The doors located at the middle of each building are only about two feet high.






A shot in the ruins.







Ancient script carved into a doorway of one of the temples. It's a beautiful script that reminds me of Thai.








You SHALL NOT PASS.








A nice afternoon in a lush valley near a waterfall. Chillin' with cattle.





Enjoying the waterfall after a short hike.





Along the stream leading to the waterfall monks have carved the stones into Hindu and Buddhist images.






Partner in crime.





Our "private" tour of Angkor Wat given to us by a security guard who spoke Thai. At the moment they are doing rennovation of the upper areas of the temple, so it's off-limits. However, for a few bucks you make your way up there to see some awesome views!






This guy was a natural in front of the camera. As soon as people begin snapping pictures he was rolling around striking a pose.





An intricate carving in an archway in a side corridor of Angkor Wat.






Angkor Wat!