With torches we cross the causeway, lights reflect into the edge of a dark vacancy. The mystery is just beginning, one I have been waiting for. We think all we need is light.
Great Hornbill as the sun hits
1,500 Apsaras dance to connect heaven with our earth. They display different costumes, jewellery, hairstyles and dances.
A young Long-tailed Macaque
Angkor Wat was designed as a temple to Vishnu, the principal deity in Hinduism, and oriented to the west, where Vishnu was said to reside. His statues once occupied these inner shrines. Buddhism became the state religion iand this area became a repository for thousands of Buddha images left by pilgrims. Many Buddhas were damaged or destroyed by King Jayavarman VIII in the 13th century as part of a campaign to restore Hinduism.
Buddhist-blessing. You wear the cotton bracelet until it falls off.
The best carvings are of Battle of Lanka from the Ramayana.
Ravana’s demons vs Rama’s monkey troops (the goodies).
An internal ‘library’.
Looking west, the direction the temple faces, towards the home of Vishnu. Hundred of Swifts scoop food out of the sky.
Pre-wedding photoshoots underway in the temple grounds. Fifty or so couples arrive every day with family and friends, and a crew in tow, for pre-wedding photography. Traditional costumes have become the fashion among Khmer couples.
