Angkor Thom - Bayon

Friday, September 30, 2022

 Zen in Stone 

In the heart of Angkor Thom, built in the 12th century, stands the most unique structure in Cambodia. More than 200 serene faces adorn these towers

As the world was still reeling from the effects of post covid travel restrictions, I had this whole place to myself. It was amazing to see such beauty just waiting to be admired. I wish I could have stayed a whole day there...just gazing at each face!

All I could hear while sitting on this stone were monkeys fighting and screeching in the distance. It felt almost like all of mankind have gone extinct and the nature had taken over the land.

These faces are said to resemble the King that built this place. 

Face to face with royalty!

I really enjoyed walking through the nooks and corners of this temple. The corridors were complicated and I could see the smiling faces from different angles even from inside the structure. If Sam did not come with me, I am sure I would have been completely lost and still be wandering inside that perpetual maze!

They have carved a reclining Buddha using the same stones used to build the structure. Can you see his head resting on the ground? Just the huge scale of this sculpture is breathtaking!

I wish I had more time to walk up the stairs and admire every nook. I had to keep running. So much to see...so little time...

The amount of carvings in each square inch of this place is mind blowing. If it takes me this long to walk the extensive grounds and admire the details, can you imagine how many hours went into planning and hand carving each detail???

The South gate

Lunch time

Miles to go before we sleep and miles to go before we sleep!