About this experience
The Angkor Temple is depicted on the flag of Cambodia, and the scale of the construction of the 1000-year-old complex still raises questions for scientists. For a whole day, we will be 'guests' of the god Vishnu - the place was considered his earthly residence - and stroll through the temple grounds. I will tell you about the legends of the sacred city, and at the same time introduce you to the modern customs and culture of the local residents.
What to Expect
Ancient Culture and Modern Traditions
For several hundred years, the ancient Khmer civilization (9-13th century CE) created the unique complex of the Angkor temples. This place was considered the earthly embodiment of the god Vishnu's abode. To this day, the construction technologies, the intricacy of stone carving, and the precise arrangement of the buildings raise many questions for historians and other scholars. We will spend a whole day exploring the ancient complex and getting acquainted with a distant culture. Along the way, I will talk about the country's modern life, its culture, and traditions. We will have a taste of the national cuisine, visit mango plantations, and see how the most important product in the country - rice - is grown.
What We Will See and Learn in Angkor
- 'Small Circuit' of the Angkor Temple Complex: temples such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Phnom Bakheng, Baphuon, Ta Keo, Terrace of the Leper King, Terrace of the Elephants. You will see the largest sacred building in the world. And you will be introduced to a temple, each of the 54 towers of which is adorned with 4 faces of Buddha.
- 'Grand Circuit' of the Angkor Temple Complex: temples like Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup. You will see a temple, every centimeter of which is covered with carvings depicting scenes from the ancient Indian epic of Ramayana. You will stroll through a group of temples dedicated to Buddha, get to know the unique hydraulic system of the ancient civilization (and learn how it influenced the course of the empire's history).
Organizational Details
- I will meet you in the morning at the hotel and bring you back after the tour
- A dress code must be observed on the temple complex grounds: shoulders and knees must be covered. It is advisable to bring a head covering and sunscreen.
Additional Expenses
- Transport (minivan for up to 8 people) - $75
- Entrance tickets to the complex - $37/person
- Lunch of traditional Khmer dishes (optional)
- We can also take a hot air balloon ride over the Angkor complex - $20/person
