angkor temple complex in cambodia. Ancient temples of Cambodia: description, history and interesting facts. Excursion program options

Once upon a time I read in a beautiful picture book about ancient temple in the middle of the jungle. And I had a dream to see Angkor - an amazing temple complex built in the period from the 9th to the 13th centuries by the ancient Khmers. This ancient architectural structure is both the main attraction of Cambodia and its pride. located a few kilometers from the city of Siem Reap. They are popular among tourists from all over the world and each of them wants to visit Angkor Wat - the largest Hindu temple in the world and a real treasure of the Khmer Empire. To look at them, I came to Cambodia three times in different times, and each time I discovered something new for myself.

What is Angkor?

Angkor- This is an area in Cambodia, in which numerous ruins of the temples of the ancient Khmer Empire are concentrated, which flourished at the beginning of the last millennium. It contains entire constellations of ancient Khmer cities, which combine a variety of architectural styles. Each of the temple cities is connected to the other, and at the same time they are independent and are different stages in the development of the empire. Some temples (for example) were forgotten immediately after the overthrow of the king who built them, others ceased to have value after another form of construction was found, like the unfinished Ta Keo. But each of them is unique.

The central part of the territory of Angkor is city ​​of angkor thom, surrounded by a deep moat with water and walls 8 meters high and 3 kilometers long. On it was a huge palace built under Jayavarman VII, in which the king and people close to him lived, as well as temples and important government agencies. The most famous of them are the Bayon Temple, the terraces of the elephants and the leper king, as well as Royal Palace and the temple-mountain Bapuon located next to it.

Basic information:

Where is Angkor and how to get there

Angkor is located in Cambodia, north of the lake near the city of Siem Reap. It is located on a flat area, like the ancient city, among fields and forests south of the Kulen plateau. GPS coordinates of Angkor: 13° 26′ 0″ N, 103° 50′ 0″ E. The dimensions of Angkor are amazing, its length is 24 kilometers from west to east and 8 kilometers from north to south.

Get to Angkor can be done in several ways:

Angkor Wat on the map of Southeast Asia

What is the Angkor Temple Complex?

Angkor temple complex is an architecturally unique collection of temples made of stone (mainly sandstone and laterite), differing in shape: temple-mountain, temple at ground level, Angkor Wat (a unique combination of temple-mountain and temple at ground level), temple-monasteries , and huge cities Angkor Thom and Koh Ker. The complex of temples was built by the Khmer civilization in the period from the 9th to the 12th century on the territory of modern Cambodia. The main attraction of the temple complex is the temple of Angkor Wat, covering an area of ​​2.5 km2. And Banteay Srei, built in 967, is considered the most beautiful temple Angkor, according to many travelers, and this is especially noticeable in the morning rays of the rising sun.

Pink sunrise and Angkor Wat temple silhouette

- these are amazing Khmer ceremonial structures that are not similar to each other. They are combined into a grandiose temple complex in terms of scope and historical significance, built during the reign of the Khmer Empire (IX-XVI centuries).

It will take several days to see all the temples of Angkor, as the archaeological park covers an area of ​​​​about 200 km 2. The most famous of the temples is Angkor Wat, and the neighboring Angkor Thom and Bayon are known as the most outstanding architectural monuments of the Khmer Empire, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Basic information about the temples of Angkor:

Temple Mount- This is a ceremonial structure on the territory of modern Cambodia in the form of a stepped pyramid, personifying Mount Meru and fully embodying the cosmogony of Hinduism. It was dedicated to the god Shiva, was the center of religious life among the ancient Khmers and the repository of the royal linga. This form of the temples of Angkor was characteristic of the beginning of the heyday of the Khmer civilization (from the 9th to the 10th century). The ditch around represents the ocean in which the earth is located, the walls of the temple are mountain ranges, and the second ditch is considered the sea. Examples of a temple-mountain are Bakong, Phnom Bakheng, and the Ta Keo temple, also part of the Angkor temple complex, was never completed.

Temple at ground level- Khmer type of temples dedicated to the ancestors, a characteristic feature of which are massive platforms at the base, as well as rich sculptural decoration of stairs, facades and passages and skillfully carved stone pediments. A real masterpiece of such carving was the design of the temple of Banteay Srei. This form of temple construction was also characteristic of the first half of the existence of the Khmer empire. Preah Koh is said to be the first ground level temple, followed by Prasat Kravan and Lo Lei.

During the construction of Angkor Wat in the 12th century, Khmer engineering tried to embody both of these temple forms in one structure, and the result was temple-mountain at ground level. This time is considered the golden age of Khmer architecture. There were other attempts to build a similar engineering and architectural masterpiece, as a result of which Beng Melia and Banteay Samre appeared in the temple complex of Angkor.

Temples-monasteries- These are huge ceremonial structures that occupy a vast territory as part of the Angkor temple complex in Cambodia. They were mostly built under King Jayavarman VII (a supporter of Mahayana Buddhism) and were surrounded by numerous buildings richly decorated with bas-reliefs and sculptures. The most famous temple-monasteries are Ta Prohm and Preah Khan.

angkor wat in cambodia

Angkor Wat- This main temple huge complex of Angkor. It was built in the XII century and became the pearl of the Khmer architectural style- Finally, a balance was found between cosmology, between politics, architecture and the capabilities of people. And now Angkor Wat still amazes people with its sophistication and it is its five lotus towers that adorn the coat of arms of Cambodia.

Angkor Wat is located next to Siem Reap, and all the routes that tuk-tuk drivers offer tourists pass through it. So, when you come to Siem Reap, you will definitely see it!

Angkor Wat on the map

Basic information about Angkor Wat in Cambodia:

Routes around Angkor

A visit to Angkor should be carefully prepared, because there are many temples, and all of them are interesting in their own way. First of all, it is necessary to draw up a route, deciding which of the temples of the huge temple complex will be included in it and which will not. Fortunately, travelers and tukers in Siem Reap have long since solved this problem.

What is the big and small circle of Angkor

is an inspection of the main attractions of the temple complex, built during the power of the Khmer Empire. During organized excursion tourists who come to the city of Siem Reap, which is located near Angkor Wat, are accommodated in hotels, and during the day they visit ancient temples. Self-guided tour to Angkor is more popular among travelers. There is nothing complicated about how to organize it. To do this, you need to hire a transport with a driver in Siem Reap, who will take you from one inspection site to another, or you can rent a bicycle or motorbike in the city and ride yourself.

It is possible to come to Angkor from neighboring countries. A very popular tour from Pattaya to Cambodia, during which an organized group with Russian speaking guide brought by bus to Siem Reap for 1-2 days to show the main attraction - Angkor Wat. There are also excursions from Ho Chi Minh City and Sihanoukville.

The most interesting thing that awaits you during an excursion to Angkor:

• Go watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Admire the many-faced Bayon temple, whose faces, in different lighting conditions, are either smiling or sad
• Visit the ruins of Ta Prohm from Lara Croft: Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie
• Rise above Angkor hot-air balloon
• You can ride an elephant to Mount Bakeng and watch the sunset there
• Buy souvenirs, knitwear and black pepper at the market
• Go to the evening Apsara dance show

Hotels in Siem Reap

Upon arrival in the first place you need to be accommodated in advance booked hotel or find it with the help of a tuker, who will certainly offer his help in exchange for a promise to take you to the sights of Angkor. There are a lot of hotels in Siem Reap - for every taste and budget: cheap guesthouses for $10 and expensive villas for $100 or more.

• Important: all the details about the city of Siem Reap and what hotels there are,

You can compare prices for hotels in Siem Reap and choose the most suitable one right here:

How to watch Angkor - all options

Apart from organized trip by bus to Angkor or by hiring a tuk tuk with driver in Siem Reap, there are several other options. Starting in 2016, it became possible to view the temple complex on a rented motorbike or electric bike. This is the most important innovation and it concerns mainly independent travelers.

• The first thing that catches your eye when walking around Siem Reap is the rows of new motorbikes. Now they are rented out to everyone! So there was an opportunity independently explore the temples of Angkor on a motorbike. Previously, the tuk-tuk guild was against tourists moving around the temple complex on their own (unless no one touched the cyclists, they just waved their hand at them!). But now tukers have lost some of their audience. You can rent a motorbike on any street - prices are from 12 to 20 dollars. From an enterprising Chinese, the owner of a souvenir shop, we took a motorbike, which is convenient to ride together. Initially, he rented for $15 (in other offices he went for $20), but we bargained for $13. And the bike was good, Japanese, new and powerful. And the number on this bike was capital. Motobike is, of course, real freedom for independent travelers who have either already been to Siem Reap and roughly represent the territory archaeological park, or for the independent and daring who only need a map or a navigator for adventure.
• Bicycles are also rented out - the price is from a dollar to two a day, depending on the place. We rented from our hotel and paid $1.50 for one day, and if we rode two days or more, the price would drop to a dollar a day. In addition, cycling tours of the temples of Angkor with a guide are now in vogue. Indeed, in Europe it is customary to ride bicycles, why deny yourself this on vacation? And the whole company, 5-10 people each, hires a guide, sits down on bicycles and rides together between the temples. How much they pay the guide for his torment, I can’t even imagine.
• There is also a new option - electric bikes. But, they say, they are still low-power, slow and they have weak batteries. That is, they will fit to ride around the city of Siem Reap. But it’s better not to ride them to temples, otherwise who knows who else will carry whom ... The price of electric bikes is $10. On the roads, we even sometimes saw green signs where you can charge your electric bike for free. How it works in reality is not tested on myself. We rode an electric bike around Bagan at the time, and decided that, subject to certain rules, an electric bike is quite useful when visiting the countless pagodas of Bagan. About our e-bike rental experience in Bagan.
• Tuk Tukers there are still a lot and they are happy to offer their services and take you around the temples of Angkor. Read about how important it is to choose a good tuker. By the way, as we found out, tuk-tuk is the name for tourists. But the Cambodians themselves call their carts with a motorcycle - remork.
• angkor wat hot air balloon. There is also the opportunity to view the main temple of Angkor from a bird's eye view. You can go up in a hot air balloon for $20.

Nice bikes for rent

Motobikes are also now available for rent

Tuk-tuk prices in Siem Rim

Here are approximately these prices you can navigate in 2016-2017 on excursions to Angkor Wat

Tickets to Angkor

The cost of tickets for visiting the temples of Angkor has not changed for many years.

• 1 day - $37
• 3 days - $62 (ticket valid for 10 days)
• 7 days - $72 (valid for a month)

Tickets - nominal, more precisely "facial". They have your instant photo taken by the cashier at the sale, they cannot be shared with other people.

The availability of tickets is now checked at every temple, and they look not only for their validity period, but also often compare your appearance with the photo on the ticket. The caretakers at the entrance every day put a mark that you have already visited the park today, so that you can’t cheat and walk on a three-day ticket large quantity days.

You can skip days and visit the temples of Angkor at a convenient time. During the day, you can enter and leave the park as many times as you like. At the first visit, the workers of the archaeological park will still note that you have already been there that day.

What else you need to know about Angkor

Rules for visiting Angkor:

• Working hours. All temples open at 7:30 am and close at 5:30 pm. Before and after tourists are not allowed into the territory of the temples. The exceptions are Angkor Wat, which opens at 5 am so that travelers have the opportunity to meet the dawn here, and Pre Rup and Phnom Bakeng are open from 5.00 to 19.00. Here you can watch both sunrise and sunset. But in fact, almost everyone goes to meet the dawn in Angkor Wat, and at sunset they gather on Bakeng Hill. It is worth adding that guards are on duty near each of the temples, so it is unlikely that it will be possible to easily enter at the wrong time.
• Dress code. The temples of Angkor are not active, so you can walk around the territory in shoes that should be comfortable, because in the heat the stones become very hot. However, in flip-flops walking up the stairs will be extremely inconvenient. It is better to choose clothes that are light and comfortable, but not overly open.
• Be careful on stairs. Some temples, especially Ta Keo, with its steep and high stairs, are worth visiting with caution. Keep your hands free when you're on ladders so you can always grab on. Be as vigilant as possible and look under your feet!
• Mines in Cambodia. Do not forget that Cambodia, just a few decades ago, experienced a terrible civil war, and not all of its lands are free of mines. Areas near Phnom Kulen Mountain, the Kbal Spean River and the Koh Ker Pyramid are still mined. Don't stray off the hiking trails and don't ignore the "Danger! Mines!" This is not a joke or a prank.
• Drink water. Always take enough drinking water with you!

I saw an excellent aerial panorama of the world-famous Cambodian temple, was impressed, and decided to tell you more. But for starters, be sure to fly over this ancient structure anyway. Soak up the spirit of an ancient civilization. The huge temple with pointed towers is a miracle of symmetry. Symbolizes sacred mountain from Indian mythology. Around the temple are moats, which symbolize the oceans washing the foot of the divine mountain. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. It is interesting for its galleries, towers, pavilions and gates, richly decorated with stone carvings, but all of them are inferior in grandeur to the central temple.

In 1150, the gigantic Angkor Wat complex was erected in Cambodia. Most likely, the construction took about 30 years, so we can assume that Angkor Wat began to be built somewhere in 1110. The ruins of Angkor lie about 240 km northwest of the capital of Cambodia (formerly Kampuchea) - the city of Phnom Penh, not far from big lake Tonle Sap. Although, in theory, the temples of Angkor Wat are the place in India, as they are a typical example of Hindu architecture.
Clickable 3000 px Angkor Wat is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and serves as both a sanctuary and a tomb for Suryavarman himself. Angkor Wat for the Khmers, who ruled from the 9th to the 15th century in Cambodia, is something like a heavenly palace in which the spirit of kings can reside. In front of the temple is a moat 200 meters wide. During the rainy season, which in Cambodia can last up to 4 months, the moat is filled with water. In addition, several more lakes have been dug within the city. The only way to get inside is through the main portal in the wall that surrounds Angkor Wat in a 260 square kilometer area.
The temple itself is built from several platforms, following one after another. The first platform (180 by 180 meters) is 3.5 meters high, the second platform (110 by 115 meters) rises by 7 meters, and the third (75 by 75 meters) is 13 meters above the ground. All three terraces are surrounded by galleries with gable roofs. The towers are interconnected by absolutely symmetrical galleries. All buildings are symmetrically located. This is strange, because in ancient times the Khmers were not familiar with the laws of balance. All buildings in Angkor Wat are distinguished by the severity of lines and clarity. Lush jewelry does not match this. Each stone of the temple is covered with carvings or bas-reliefs. What is only the gallery of the first platform 600 meters long. There are 8 panels here with total area over 1000 square meters. Most of all, scenes from the life of the gods are depicted. Lots of erotic motives. The most popular figure found here is the dancing goddess Apsara. In the center of the complex on the Bayon temple is depicted the face of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, one of the main characters of Buddhist mythology. In addition to the images of the gods in the temples, there are historical paintings. For example, those that depict local rulers, warriors going to battle.
There are 5 main shrines in the temple. The first is located in a 60-meter tower, which can only be entered through gates, stairs and open courtyards. Around this tower are four more, where the remaining shrines are kept. There are more than 200 small temples in Angkor Wat.
Usually tourists start their trip to Angkor Wat from western entrance. Climbing up a short flight of stairs to the first cross-shaped terrace guarded by giant stone lions, one enters a long sidewalk leading to the center of your journey. The gaze falls on the gopura (gopura - entrance, entrance in Hindu terminology) with three towers, the upper part of which is dilapidated. The shape of this gopura is so developed and elongated that it almost looks like a separate building. A long closed gallery, through which one has to pass, extends along the moat in both directions. This is the main facade of Angkor Wat. In the middle there is a passage narrow enough for the main entrance, and along the edges of the gallery you can go through huge arches located at ground level. Arches used to serve as passageways for elephants, horses and carts.
From the main entrance, the guides lead tourists to the right and lead them to the end of the gallery, paying attention to the windows with chiseled columns and skillfully carved bas-reliefs on the walls. At the end of the gallery you can see all five towers of Angkor.
In the courtyard, on the left and right, there are two small buildings - these are libraries. They, like all the buildings of Angkor Wat, have the shape of a cross. Behind the libraries there are two swimming pools (65×50 meters). The left one is always filled with rainwater, while the right one is usually dry. Standing in front of the left pool, you can clearly see the 10 towers of Angkor (five of them are reflected in the water).
Between the first and second levels of the complex there are cross-shaped passage galleries with square columns dividing the courtyard into four parts. Some columns are decorated with Khmer and Sanskrit inscriptions. All the rest of the free space is given over to elegant rosettes, cornices and bas-reliefs. In fact, there is no place that the carver's hand would not touch. Further up the stairs you can get to the gallery of the second level (100 × 115 meters). Its main feature is the image of more than 1500 sculptures of beautiful goddesses.
The next third, and last, level was allowed to visit only the king and the monks. Twelve stairs with 40 steps each - one in the center of each side and 2 at the corners - rise at a 70 degree angle to the most important level. The steps are very narrow, so you need to go up sideways, and go down with your back, that is, facing the steps.
Angkor Wat could not reach us. There were too many who wanted to destroy it, even after Angkor Wat was opened. Today, traces of shooting are visible on the walls of the temple. According to the political beliefs of the Khmer Rouge, the country needed to be freed from religious dependence, so numerous figures of the gods were beheaded. Now, after two decades, restoration work begins. Oddly enough, but this powerful complex was learned relatively recently - about 100 years ago. Lost in the Cambodian jungle near Lake Tonle Sap, the French traveler Charles Emile Buivo wandered for a long time among dense thickets, giant trees, frightened by predators and tortured by clouds of mosquitoes, but suddenly stumbled upon an ancient city. Prior to this, the existence of this complex was not even suspected. This is how Angkor Wat (“Capital Pagoda”) was “extracted from oblivion” - the pearl of the craftsmanship of the ancient Khmers, the world's largest religious building, erected in the middle of the 12th century, during the reign of King Suryavarman II.

The history of the Angkor period dates back to 800 BC, when the Khmer king Jayavaman II declared the independence of Kampuchea (Cambodia) from Java and founded the capital of the new state - the city of Hariharalaya, located in the north of Lake Tonle Sap. From that moment on, Jayavaman II was active in seizing the territories of neighboring states, and by 802 BC Kampuchea owns lands that now belong to China and Vietnam. In the same year 802, he declares himself a full-fledged ruler and creates a cult of worship of the god Shiva.

In 889, Yasovarman I ascends the throne and decides to start building a new capital - Yasodharmapura, which in Sanskrit means "holy city". Keeping the tradition, he also, like his predecessors, builds a huge reservoir. The construction of reservoirs was associated not only with the life and needs of the city, but also with the observance of the tradition, the roots of which go back to the myth of sacred mountain Meru, surrounded by a great ocean. Mount Meru in religious construction was symbolized by a temple surrounded by water, and the lingam *, located inside the temple, symbolized the ruler, who was the viceroy of God on earth. Yasovarman I built his temple on the hill of Phnom Bokeng and surrounded it with a moat, which was filled with water from the reservoir he created. During his reign, Yasovarman I built many temples and carried out no less reforms.

Over the next 300 years, the great rulers of the Khmer Empire built many temple complexes, which, after many centuries, brought to us the story of the life of a great civilization. The last temple was erected during the reign of Jayavaman VII. After his death, centuries-old construction stopped.

To date, the Angkor temple complex is listed World Heritage UNESCO.

Interesting fact: all the temples of Angkor were built without the use of cement and any other binding materials. During the construction of temples, blocks of sandstone were most often used, which were interlocked according to the principle of a castle, and the fortress walls were laid out from tuff.

Angkor Wat is surrounded by a 190 m wide moat. In the old days, crocodiles were bred in it. On the western side of the moat, a stone dam crosses, which is the entrance to the territory of the temple. The territory of Angkor Wat is walled with a length of 1025 m by 800 m. A long and wide road leads from the gate to the temple, laid along an embankment that rises almost one and a half meters above the ground.

Angkor Wat has survived much better than many other buildings of the Angkor complex, which is explained by the fact that after the last settlements left these places, Buddhist monks lived in Angkor Wat. They live here and now.

The complex was discovered on January 22, 1861 by the French traveler Henri Muo. In the 1970s, some of the buildings and sculptures of the complex were vandalized by Pol Pot's soldiers. In 1922, along with other buildings, the city of Angkor was taken under the auspices of UNESCO.

A bicycle is a good idea for walking around the temples. Of course, only if you intend to stay in Siem Reap for more than a day.

Most of the local population prefer this type of transport when they visit Angkor, which means you have the opportunity to be closer to the local population, which entails not only joy and pleasure, but more low prices for food and drinks on the territory of the temple complexes.

White Bicycles is a fairly large local bike rental company. They are supported by many hotels and guest houses, because the main percentage of their income goes to charity, in support of educational programs for children from low-income families.

Taxis are a fairly common option for traveling around temples. It is convenient for those who want to "touch" the treasures of Angkor, but prefer such trips in an air-conditioned car cabin. The negative side of such walks can probably be that you find yourself isolated from sounds, smells and many other delights.

The cost of one day taxi rental ranges from $25 to $35. Basically, the price depends on what time you plan to start walking around the temple complexes. If you prefer to meet the sunrise on one of the wonderful terraces of Angkor Wat, then the cost of renting a taxi will be higher.

Renting mopeds by foreigners in Siem Reap is prohibited by law. However, some manage to bring a moped from Phnom Penh. If you have found a way to rent a moped, we strongly recommend that you leave it for paid parking lots, because there is a huge possibility of theft or theft.

Mysterious Cambodia is lost among the jungles of Southeast Asia, striking contrasts between untouched nature and noisy cities with bright colors. The country is proud of its ancient temples, one of which is Angkor Wat. A huge sacred building keeps the secrets and legends of the city of the gods and the capital of the ancient Khmer Empire.

The height of the three-level complex, built of several million tons of sandstone, reaches 65 m. On an area larger than the territory of the Vatican, there are entire galleries and terraces, magnificent towers, the facades of which began to be built and hand-painted under one emperor, and ended under another ruler. The work continued for 30 years.

The history of the creation of the temple of Angkor Wat

The capital of the Khmer Empire was built over 4 centuries. Archaeologists believe that the area of ​​the city was 200 square meters. km. Over four centuries, many temples appeared, some of them can be seen today. Angkor Wat was built in the era when Suryavarman II ruled the ancient state. The king died in 1150, and the complex built in honor of God Vishnu, after the death of the emperor, took him to the tomb.

In the 15th century, the Thais captured Angkor, and local residents, who, according to historians, were about a million, left the city to the south of the state and founded a new capital. One of the legends tells that the emperor ordered the priest's son to be drowned in the lake. God was angry and sent a flood to the prosperous Angkor.

Scientists still do not understand why the conquerors did not settle in a rich city if the locals left it. Another legend tells that the mythical goddess, who turned into a beauty and descended from heaven to the king, suddenly fell out of love and stopped coming to the emperor. In the days when she did not appear, Angkor suffered from misfortune.

Description of the building

The giant temple complex impresses with its harmony and smoothness of lines. It was built on a sand hill from top to bottom, from the center to the periphery. The outer courtyard of Angkor Wat is surrounded by a wide moat filled with water. The rectangular structure measuring 1300 by 1500 m consists of three tiers, denoting the natural elements - earth, air, water. On the main platform there are 5 majestic towers, each symbolizing one of the peaks of the mythical Mount Meru, the highest one rises in the center. It was built as the abode of God.

The stone walls of the complex are decorated with carvings. On the first tier there are galleries where bas-reliefs in the form of ancient Khmer characters rise, on the second there are figures of celestial dancers. The sculptures are amazingly combined with the architecture of the temple, in the appearance of which one can feel the influence of two cultures - Indian and Chinese.

All buildings are located symmetrically. Despite the fact that Angkor Wat is surrounded by water bodies, the area never gets flooded even during the rainy season. A road leads to the main entrance to the complex, located in the western part, on both sides of which there are sculptures of snakes with seven heads. Each gate tower corresponds to a certain part of the world. Under the southern gopura is a statue of Vishnu.

All the buildings of the temple complex are made of very smooth, as if polished stones, tightly fitted to each other. And although the Khmer solution was not used, no cracks or seams are visible. From which side a person would not approach the temple, admire its beauty and grandeur, he will never see all 5 towers, but only three of them. Such Interesting Facts they say that the complex, built in the XII century, is an architectural masterpiece.

The columns, the roof of the temple are decorated with carvings, and the walls are decorated with bas-relief. Each tower is shaped like a beautiful lotus bud, the height of the main one reaches 65 m. All these structures are connected by corridors, and from the galleries of one level you can get to the second, and then to the third.

At the entrance to the first tier there are 3 towers. It has preserved panels with pictures from the ancient epic, the total length of which is close to a kilometer. To admire the bas-reliefs, you need to pass through a series of majestic columns. The ceiling of the tier impresses with carvings made in the form of a lotus.

The towers of the second level are connected by corridors with those located on the first tier. The patios of the space were once filled with rainwater and served as pools. The central staircase leads to the third tier, divided into 4 squares and located at a height of 25 meters.

The complex was not built for ordinary believers, but was intended for the religious elite. Kings were buried there. The origin of the temple is interestingly told in the legend. The Khmer prince managed to visit Indra. The beauty of his heavenly palace with graceful towers struck the young man. And God decided to give Preah Ket the same, but on earth.

Opening to world culture

After the inhabitants left Angkor, Buddhist monks settled in the temple. And although in the 16th century a Portuguese missionary visited him, Henri Muo told the world about the miracle of the world. Seeing the towers among the jungle, a traveler from France was so amazed by the magnificence of the complex that he described the beauty of Angkor Wat in his report. In the 19th century, tourists went to Cambodia.

In difficult times, when the Khmer Rouge led by Pol Pot ruled the country, the temples became inaccessible to scientists, archaeologists, and travelers. And only since 1992 the situation has changed. Restoration money comes from different countries, but it will take more than one decade to restore the complex.

In the late nineties, an English historian suggested that the sacred temple is a projection of part of the Milky Way on earth. The placement of structures resembles the spiral of the constellation Draco. As a result of a computer study, it was found that the temples of the ancient city really reflect the location of the Dragon stars, which was observed more than 10 thousand years ago during the equinox, although it is known exactly when Angkor Wat was built - in the 12th century.

Scientists have put forward a hypothesis that the main complexes of the capital of the Khmer Empire were already built on pre-existing structures. Modern technologies unable to recreate the grandeur of the temples, which are supported by their weight, not fastened with anything and fitted perfectly.

How to get to the Angkor Wat temple complex

Where the city of Sien Reap is located can be found on the map. It is from him that the journey to the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire begins, the distance is no more than 6 km. How to get to the temple, each tourist chooses on his own - by taxi or tuk-tuk. The first option will cost $5, the second $2.

You can get to Sien Reap:

• by air;
• by land;
• on water.

Planes from Vietnam, Korea, and Thailand arrive at the city's airport. Buses run from Bangkok and the capital of Cambodia. A small boat departs from Phnom Penh on Tonle Sap Lake in summer.

The cost of visiting the complex depends on what the tourist wants to see. The price of a ticket to Angkor starts at $37 per day, and the route is 20 sq. km. km. For a week of walking ancient city and acquaintance with almost 3 dozen temples you need to pay $ 72.

There are always a lot of travelers on the territory of Angkor Wat. To take a quality photo, it is better to go to the backyard and try to stay there until sunset. You can wander through the majestic towers and galleries, painted with battle scenes, on your own or as part of an excursion.

A moat with water surrounding the perimeter of the complex forms an island with an area of ​​200 hectares. To get to it, you need to go through stone bridges, leading to 2 opposite sides of the step pyramid of the temple. To the western entrance, near which 3 towers flaunt, a pavement of large blocks has been laid. To the right of the shrine stands a huge statue of the god Vishnu. On both sides of the road there are libraries with exits to the west, north, east and south. Artificial reservoirs were placed near the temple.

Before the eyes of tourists who have climbed to the second tier, a bewitching picture of the main towers will appear. Each of them can be approached by stone narrow bridges. The grandeur of the third level of the complex indicates the perfection and harmony of Khmer architecture.

Research conducted by scientists and archaeologists on the territory of the ancient capital of a prosperous empire will reveal new secrets of the mysterious and majestic temple Angkor Wat. The history of the Khmer era is restored thanks to inscriptions on sculptures and architectural masterpieces. Many facts indicate that people lived here for a very long time, and the city of the gods was founded by the descendants of an ancient civilization.

A breathtaking spectacle will open up to travelers who decide to fly over the temple complex in a helicopter or hot air balloon. Travel companies are ready to provide such a service.

Angkor Wat has been added to the List of Wonders of the World

Angkor Wat is unparalleled in beauty and state of preservation. Its grandeur and magnificence surpass those of the Pharaohs, its impression is stronger than that of the Pyramids, and its artistic expressiveness can only be compared with the Taj Mahal. Angkor Wat is located 6 km (4 miles) north of Siem Reap, south of Angkor Thom. Angkor Wat can only be entered and exited through the western gate.

"You can find many photos and videos about Angkor Wat, but perhaps the best of all virtual is the panorama of Angkor Wat, made by airpano.ru"

angkor wat was built in the first half of the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu. The construction of the temple lasted about 30 years.

History of Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest and best preserved object of the Angkor group. The perfection of its structure, balance, proportions, relief and sculpture make it one of the greatest architectural monuments in the world.

"Wat" means "temple" in Khmer. Probably this word was added to the word "Angkor" when it was occupied by Theravada followers in the 16th century. After 1432, when the city of Phnom Penh became the capital of the kingdom, Buddhist monks became responsible for Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat was built for the burial of King Suryavarman II in it. Drawing a parallel between the setting sun and death, the temple faces west. Also in favor of this theory are the bas-reliefs, arranged from left to right in accordance with the Hindu funeral ritual.

Architectural plan of Angor Wat

When walking along Angkor Wat itself, it is very difficult to determine its architectural plan due to the huge size of the temple complex. Such complexity and beauty both attract and distract attention. From afar, Angkor Wat looks like a colossal stone massif. accessed by a long paved road.

The height of Angkor Wat from the ground to the top of the central tower is more than it might seem: 65 meters. The temple consists of three triangular or square levels (1-3). Each subsequent one is smaller and higher than the previous one.

The first and second levels are bordered by covered galleries with columns. The third level is supported by five towers - four in the corners and one in the middle. These towers are the most expressive architectural element Angkor Wat. Sometimes this form of arrangement is called quinkans. The levels rising one above the other give the towers a conical shape.

Symbolism

Angkor Wat is a miniature stone replica of the universe. and is a terrestrial model of a space device. The central tower rises in the center of the temple, symbolizing mythical mountain Meru at the center of the universe. The five towers correspond to the peaks of Mount Meru. The outer wall symbolizes the mountains at the end of the world, and the moat surrounding the temple complex symbolizes the oceans.

Location of Angor Wat

Although Anggor Wat is the most photographed Khmer architectural monument photos cannot convey all its greatness. Frank Vincent wrote about this 100 years ago: “The sight of this miracle makes an indelible impression: beauty, romance, grandeur - all this must be understood and appreciated. It is impossible to look at this temple without awe, without the feeling that you soared into heaven. Probably the most impressive building in the world."

Angkor Wat covers a rectangular area of ​​208 hectares (500 acres). The territory of the temple complex is fenced with a laterite wall. The complex is surrounded by a moat, which can be crossed by a long paved sandstone road (250 m (820 ft) long, 12 m (39 ft) wide). The road serves as the main entrance to the complex. The ditch is 200 m (656 ft) wide, with a 5.5 km (3.4 mi) perimeter.

The western entrance begins with a staircase leading to a cross-shaped sandstone terrace at the base of a long paved road. On both sides of the terrace, huge stone lions sit guarding the temple. Ahead you can see the end of the paved road and the gate with three towers of various heights. These towers at the entrance partially block the view of the five towers in the central area of ​​the temple. A long passage with square columns and a curved roof extends along the moat from left to right from the tower located at the entrance. This is the magnificent façade of Angkor Wat and an example of classical Khmer architecture.

Almost 70 years ago, after visiting the terrace of Angkor Wat, Helen Churchill Kandy wrote: " Any architect would have been delighted with the harmony of the façade - a continuous row of columns leading from the far corners to the central entrance, where three towers with ruined tops are located.". Initially, the facade was another row of columns with a roof. Round holes in the columns testify to this.

"Before walking down the paved road, turn right, go down a couple of terrace steps and walk a couple of meters along the path. This way you can enjoy the view of all five towers of Angkor Wat. Return to the center of the terrace and walk along the main paved road towards the main part of the temple. The left side of the paved road is made of older sandstone than the right side, which was restored by the French."

In the 20s of the XX century, when Casey walked along this paved road, he noticed one feature of its structure. The slabs it consisted of were irregularly shaped, which meant they had to be chiseled to fit together. In the midday light, the road looks like a long strip of moiré. On the left side of the road, almost reaching its middle, there are two sandstone feet. They belong to one of the statues at the entrance to Angkor Thom and were brought to Angkor Wat in this century when the paved road was being repaired.

The tops of three sections of this tower - one in the center and two on the sides - have collapsed. The approaches at either end of the gallery may have served as a passageway for elephants, horses and wagons, since they are located on the lowest level.

When Helen Churchill Candy saw these passages in 1920, she noted that the idea of ​​building a passageway for elephants was very unusual. The statue of standing Vishnu (with eight arms) is to the right of the tower at the entrance. On the left, traces of the original color are visible on the ceiling of the tower. Continue west along the second path (350 m (1148 ft) long, 9 m (30 ft) wide).

On both sides there is a low balustrade resembling the body of a snake. The balustrade is supported by small columns. If you look to the west, you can see the famous panorama of Angkor Wat depicted on the Cambodian flag. Standing at this point, I want to take a picture of five wonderful domes - friends of the sky, sisters of the clouds? And understand whether you are in the real world or in a fictional fantasy. Six pairs of solemn staircases with platforms on both sides of the road lead to the courtyard.

The staircase is flanked by a continuing snake-shaped balustrade. Such a structure is sometimes referred to as a landing platform. At the end of the balustrade, a snake rushes to the sky at right angles and gracefully spreads its nine heads in the shape of a fan. In the courtyard, just beyond the middle of the paved road, are two buildings that house the library. These "precious caskets of Khmer art" are perfectly shaped.

The large central area, columns and steps are arranged in the shape of a cross. For strength, some columns were replaced with cement ones. The original column is located in front of the left building of the library. There are two reservoirs in front of the library buildings (length - 65 m (213 ft), width - 50 m (164 ft)). The pond on the left is filled with water, while the second is usually empty.

"After passing the library, but before reaching the pools, turn left and follow the road for about 40 m (131 ft) to a large tree. From this point you have an excellent view of the five towers of Angkor Wat, especially at sunset. The path leads to a cruciform terrace, known as the "Terrace of Terror. This terrace is located directly in front of the main tower at the entrance to Angkor Wat."

The terrace is characterized by supporting columns and carved designs at its base. On three sides of the terrace there are stairs, on both sides of which sit lions. Ritual dances were held here. It is possible that it was from this point that the king watched the processions and received foreign guests. In the 1920s, Casey noted: “It is impossible not to feel that just a few hours ago this place was pulsing with life. Torches burned over the altars. Priests whispered ritual prayers. Dancing girls fluttered up the stairs ... It was only an hour or two ago, no more …".

Opens from the terrace beautiful view to the gallery of the first level, which is called the "Gallery of Bas-reliefs" (215 x 187m (705x614 feet)). The outer side, which is closer to the visitors, is a row of 60 columns. The inner side is a continuous wall decorated with bas-reliefs.

"At this point, you can either continue straight ahead towards the central towers, or turn right to view the Gallery of Bas-reliefs. The cruciform galleries are the link between the first and second levels. This unique architectural design consists of two covered galleries with square columns in the form of a cross "The courtyard is divided into four equal parts and decorated with ponds and stairs. Several decorative elements in these galleries are windows with balustrades, rosettes on the vaults, an apsara border under the cornices and ascetics at the base of the columns."

"Some of the columns in the galleries of this courtyard have inscriptions in Khmer and Sanskrit. On both sides of the courtyard there are two libraries that are inferior in size to the libraries near the entrance to the complex. The right library - the 1000 Buddha Gallery - once contained many images relating to to the period of decline of Angkor Wat. Only a few such images have survived to this day. The left library - the Hall of Echo - got its name due to its unusual acoustics. "

"To hear the echo, you need to go to the end of the gallery, stand in the left corner with your back to the wall, hit yourself on the chest and listen carefully. If you want to visit the library, go through the door at the end of the gallery. This library opens good view to the upper level of Angkor Wat."

"Go back to the center of the cruciform galleries and continue towards the central towers. You have to climb stairs. The outer wall of the second level gallery - the one closest to the visitors (100 x 115 m, 328 x 377 ft) - is solid and undecorated. Perhaps this was done in order to create a suitable environment for the meditations of the priests and the king."

The severity of the outer wall of the gallery of the second level is compensated by its interior decoration. The walls of the gallery are decorated with over 1500 apsaras (celestial dancers). These beautiful graceful creatures delight visitors.

When you first enter the courtyard, such a multitude of dancing female figures may seem monotonous. But if you come closer and look closely, you can see that they are all different and differ in hairstyles, attire and jewelry. These ethereal inhabitants of heaven are depicted in Angkor Wat in twos or threes.

In the 17th century, the Cambodian poet Pang wrote of the Apsaras: " Millions of graceful creatures fill you with such emotions that your eyes do not get tired, your soul is renewed, and your heart is saturated! They were not carved by human hands! They were created by the gods - living, beautiful women!"On the third level of Angkor Wat, only high priests and the king were allowed. On the third level there are no covered galleries, like on the other two, but this level is the basis for five central towers, one of which is the most sacred image of the temple.

The height of the square base (length - 60 m) of the upper level is 13 m and rises 40 m above the second level. In the center of each side there are twelve stairs with 40 steps each. At the corners there are two more stairs with an angle of inclination of 70°, providing access to this level.

The third level is a space in the shape of a cross and is characterized by covered galleries and four paved courtyards. At the top of each staircase are a tower and columns. The tower at the entrance is connected to the central structure by corridors supported on both sides by double rows of columns. There are four towers in the corners of the upper level. Steps simultaneously connect and separate different parts of the structure. The upper level is surrounded by a narrow covered gallery with a double row of columns, and on the outside there are windows and balustrades. The central sanctuary rises 42 m above the upper level. The height of the largest of the five towers is equal to the height of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The central sanctuary houses the sacred image of the temple. Initially, there were four passages facing the four cardinal directions, however, they were closed some time after the sacking of Ankhgor Wat in the middle of the 15th century. Almost 500 years later, French archaeologists discovered a vertical depression in the center of the upper level at a depth of 27 m, which contained many gold items. From the top of the temple you can finally see the entire architectural plan of Angkor Wat. A view of stunning beauty opens up, confirming the ingenious ability of Khmer architecture to create harmonious proportions.

"Walk around the perimeter of the upper level outer gallery to enjoy the view of the surrounding countryside, the paved road to the west and the central group of towers. The gallery is not high enough to provide a full view of the surrounding area. But you can still see enough to realize what It took courage for the architects to erect this temple complex.You will be able to see the northwestern part of the moat up to the towering lotus-shaped peak that belongs to the central shrine.From this point, Angkor Wat seems so vast that it is difficult to realize that such a grandiose structure was erected by people ."

Gallery of bas-reliefs

"They attract attention with their beauty and keep it with their unusualness.", Helen Churchill wrote Kandy in bas-reliefs in 1920. The gallery of bas-reliefs encircling the first level of Angkor Wat is 1200 m 2 of images carved from sandstone. The bas-reliefs cover most inner wall on all four sides of the galleries. Their height is 2 m.

The details, the quality of composition and execution give them the right to be among the greatest examples of world art. The columns located along the outer wall of the gallery create an interesting play of light and shadow on the relief. The result is a textured wallpaper effect that looks more like the work of painters than sculptors. The bas-reliefs are incredibly richly decorated - a creation of power, calmness, imagination and fantasy, and giving the impression of "the highest dignity", as one visitor wrote 50 years ago.

The bas-reliefs are divided into 8 parts - two on each wall of the square gallery. Each part reflects a specific theme. Moreover, in the corners of the Eastern Gallery there are two pavilions, which also depict various themes.

Panels with bas-reliefs are arranged horizontally and usually consist of two or three parts. In some places, the edges of the panels are also decorated. The themes for the bas-reliefs were taken from two main sources - the Indian epic and sacred books and military items of the Angkor period. Some scholars suggest that the location of the bas-relief depended on the theme reflected in it. For example, the bas-reliefs on the east and west walls depict themes associated with sunrise and sunset. The word "ba" means "low" or "shallow" and means the degree of relief projection. The method of creating reliefs at Angkor Wat was that the craftsmen cut out the background, thus leaving the image itself in the relief. The surface of some reliefs seems to be polished.

This can be explained by two theories. The presence and location of polished areas in important parts of the relief suggests that this was the work of visitors who constantly touched the surface. Traces of gilding and paint, in particular black and red, are also visible on some reliefs. This may be the remains of a primer or a fixing agent. Some of the bas-reliefs depict the most common objects and phenomena. The river is depicted as two parallel vertical lines, between which a fish swims. As in Egyptian art, the rank of a person is determined by the size of his image: the higher the rank, the larger the size. In the battle scenes, a broken handle on the leader's umbrella signifies defeat. The temporal remoteness of the scene is determined by the number of planks placed one above the other: the higher such a "wall", the more ancient the depicted event. Figures with legs apart and bent knees means being in flight.

Visit to the Bas-relief Gallery

Those who want to stay longer in this wonderful Bas-Relief Gallery are sure to discover something new, because Angkor Wat offers visitors many pleasant surprises.

"Remember that the bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat should be viewed from left to right. Enter from the western entrance, turn right and enter the gallery, and then continue counterclockwise. If you start viewing from another point in the gallery, then make sure that the temple remains on your left. If your time in Angkor Wat is limited, we advise you to see the following bas-reliefs."

This scene is the main theme described in the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. The scene depicts the last battle in Kurukshetra - one of the Indian provinces - between cousins ​​​​who were at enmity with each other. The Kaurava and Pandava armies approach each other, heading towards the center of the panel. The belonging of warriors to a particular clan can be determined by their headdresses. The scene begins with the infantry entering the battle, while the musicians play a rhythmic melody. This bas-relief depicts hand-to-hand combat, in which many warriors died.

Senior officers and generals, depicted on a large scale, watch the battle from chariots or mounted on elephants and horses. The tension of the scene gradually increases and culminates in hand-to-hand combat. Bisma (pictured at the beginning of the panel), one of the heroes of the Mahabharata and the leader of the Kauravas, was hit by an arrow and is now dying, surrounded by his loyal warriors. Arjuna (a man with a shield depicting the face of the demon Rahu) shoots an arrow at his half-brother Karna and kills him. After death, Krishna (with four arms) becomes the driver on Arjuna's chariot.

"Currently preparing to publish photos of the galleries."

Corner Pavilion (Southwest)

East

South

North

South (historical) gallery - King Suryavarman II's army

This gallery depicts a magnificent triumphal procession of warriors returning from a battle between the Khmer and their enemies. The relief depicts the combat methods used, mostly hand-to-hand combat, since in those days people still knew nothing about technology and firearms.

In the background, trees and animals are incredibly believable and naturalistic. The central figure of this gallery is Emperor Suryavarman II, on whose orders the temple complex of Angkor Wat was built. Suryavarman II is depicted twice in the gallery. He is signed with his posthumous name, which suggests that the inscription was made after his death. The triangular holes randomly carved into the gallery may have contained valuable items stored at Angkor Wat. On the upper tier, the emperor, on whose body gilding is visible, holds a meeting on the top of a mountain surrounded by forest.

The whole army comes together for inspection, and the commanders, mounted on elephants, unite their troops, who begin to march towards the enemy. The rank of the commander can be determined by the inscription next to his image. Emperor Suryavarman II sits astride an elephant (a conical headdress, a sword over his shoulder). He is surrounded by servants holding 15 umbrellas. Vishnu is seated on Garuda, who sits on a flagpole near the king's elephant. Standard-bearers, musicians and jesters take part in the lively and noisy procession of the Sacred Fire. Brahmins sing to the accompaniment of cymbals. Royal offerings are carried in palanquins.

Toward the end of the panel: Troops of Thai warriors (in frilled floral skirts, braided hair, feathered headdresses, short mustaches) join the procession, led by an elephant-mounted commander. It is likely that the Thai troops were mercenaries from Louwo Province (now Lopburi Province) who bolstered the Khmer army. Khmer warriors wear helmets decorated with horns of various animals (deer, horses). Some of the shields depict monsters.

Pit court. Heaven and hell.

On three tiers, the judgment of humanity carried out by Yama is depicted, and on the other two tiers, heaven and hell. Judging by the inscriptions, 37 heavens are depicted here, where you can wander through beautiful palaces, and 32 hells with scenes of punishment and suffering. Heaven and hell are separated from each other by curtains and apsaras. At the bottom of the lower tier, a row of Garudas is depicted. The roof of the gallery was destroyed by lightning in 1947, but then the ceiling was restored by the efforts of the French. The riders depicted at the beginning of the panel show traces of gilding. The bottom of the panel was severely damaged and the cracks were sealed with cement.

Lower tier: Chief Judge Yama (many-armed, wields a staff, and rides a buffalo) points out to his assistants the upper road, representing Heaven, and the lower road, representing Hell. The spirits of dead people await his verdict. Yama's assistants push the villains into the door leading to Hell, where they bear various punishments. For example, those people who were constantly handed over during their lifetime are sawn in half, and the bones of criminals are broken. Some of the punished are wearing iron shackles, while others have nails stuck in their heads. Upper tier: Garudas and apsaras support the heavenly palace floating in the air.

Eastern Gallery - Whipping the Milky Sea

This is the most famous bas-relief of Angkor Wat, based on the ancient Indian epic "Bhagavata Purana". In this scene, angels and demons are churning the Sea of ​​Milk to obtain amrita, the elixir of life. They want to return the lost treasures - the source of immortality, the goddess of wealth Lakshmi, milk white elephant Indra and the beauty nymph. These objects symbolize well-being and prosperity. This event takes place during the second advent of Vishnu, when he returned in the form of a turtle.

The stage occupies three tiers. In the lower tier, various sea animals are presented - both real and mythical. The lower tier is bordered by a snake. On one side of the middle tier there is a row of 92 demons (round bulging eyes, helmets with crests), and on the other side a row of 88 gods (almond-shaped eyes, conical headdresses). Demons and gods churn the sea with the body of the serpent Vasuki. They are assisted by Hanuman, the monkey god. Vishnu in the guise of a tortoise holds the Mandara mountain on his shell, around which the whipping takes place. Vishnu is at the bottom of the Sea. The demons hold the snake by the head, and the gods by the tail. Rhythmically rotating the long body of the serpent, they churn the sea with it.

Gods and demons obey the three gods (their images are larger). Indra stands over Vishnu, and on the right, the ally of the gods Hanuman tickles the snake Vasuki. Upper tier: Various female spirits appear during the churning of the sea. In this scene, Vishnu is again depicted, but already in the form of a man. He controls the churning of the sea, which, according to legend, lasted over a thousand years.

Other creatures are also depicted here - for example, the three-headed elephant of Indra, apsaras and the goddess of beauty Lakshmi. On sea ​​waves a deadly poison is seen, which was vomited by the Vasuki snakes. Fearing that the poison could destroy the gods and demons, Brahma asks Shiva to drink the poison, which will leave an unhealed mark in his throat. Shiva obeys and as a result produces amrita. The demons rush in to intercept the elixir. Vishnu rushes to the rescue, taking the form of the charming beauty Maya. Vishnu manages to save the precious liquid.

Inscription

In the middle of the East Gallery there is an interesting inscription dating back to the beginning of the 18th century - the time when Angkor Wat was a Buddhist monastery. The inscription tells of a governor of one of the provinces who built a small tomb to store the bones of his wife and children. The tomb is in poor condition, but it is clearly visible. It is located right in front of the inscription in the gallery.

Victory of Vishnu over Demons.

The bas-reliefs in the East Gallery and in the southern part of the North Gallery must have been completed later, in the 15th or 16th century. This is evidenced by a certain stiffness, ceremony in the depiction of figures and a low level of skill. The demon army is heading towards the center of the panel. In the center is a four-armed Vishnu seated on Garuda.

Then comes the battle scene. Vishnu strikes his enemies advancing from all sides, throwing their bodies away from him. Demon leaders (mounted on animals or riding in chariots pulled by monsters) are surrounded by warriors. They are joined by another group of warriors (with bows and arrows) led by their leaders, who ride chariots or sit astride huge peacocks.

Krishna's victory over the demon king Bana

At the beginning of the panel, Vishnu, in the form of Krishna, sits on Garuda. Agni, the many-armed god of fire, sits astride a rhinoceros behind Vishnu. This scene has been depicted several times. Surrounding the city the wall is on fire, preventing Krishna and his army of gods from entering the city. This scene with Krishnu is also repeated several times on the panel. Garuda extinguishes the fire with water from the sacred river Ganges. The many-armed demon Bana (riding a rhinoceros) is approaching the army of the gods from the other side. Right panel area: Krishna (1000 heads, arms crossed over chest) kneels before Shiva, who is seated on a throne on Mount Kailash with his wife Parvati and son Ganesa (with the head of an elephant). They ask Shiva to have mercy on Banu.

Battle between gods and demons

The 21 gods of the Brahman pantheon walk in procession, carrying their classical attributes and sitting on their traditional animals. Scenes of opposition of one god to one demon are depicted. In the background is a battle between the armies on the side of the gods and on the side of the demons. The god of wealth Kubera (with a bow and arrows) appears astride a yak, the god of war Skanda (many-headed and many-armed) - on a peacock, Indra? on an elephant, four-armed Vishnu on Garuda. The god of death and justice (with a sword and shield) Yama stands in a chariot drawn by horses. Varian, the water god, harnessed and saddled a five-headed serpent.

Corner Pavilion (Northwest)

North

West

South

East

Western Gallery - Lanka Battle

This scene from the Ramayana is a long and fierce battle between Rama and the demon king Ravana (10 heads and 20 arms) depicted in the center of the gallery. This is one of the most impressive bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat. The battle taking place in Lanka (the island of Sri Lanka) ends with the defeat of Ravana, who kidnapped the beautiful wife of Rama Sita. The central figures are warrior monkeys fighting on the side of Rama.

The cruelty of war is compared with the grace and agility of monkeys. Near center: Rama stands on Sugriva's shoulders under a hail of arrows; near Rama are his brother Lakshmana and an old demon. Nearby, the demon king Ravana (10 heads and 20 arms) rides in a chariot drawn by mythical lions.

Between them is depicted Nala leaning on the heads of two lions. Nala is the monkey who built the Rama bridge to Lanka. Nala tosses the body of the warrior he has defeated over her shoulder. The Monkey Prince pulls an elephant tusk from his three-pronged headdress and hurls the tusk and the demon to the ground.

There is a small kingdom of Cambodia, its interesting places never cease to amaze. Everything that may be of interest to tourists is located in the southeast of Asia. The foundation was the first century AD, the state of Funan was built. At the beginning of the seventh century, it began to be called Cambodia or "Kampuchea" - the country of the Khmers, who made up the majority of the inhabitants. They practiced mainly Hinduism and Buddhism. The state of Cambodia came to independence only in 1953, having gone through a difficult path of political restructuring.

Today, Cambodia remains a kingdom and preserves the cultural traditions of its ancestors. The culture of this state is in great demand among tourists. Cambodia is becoming a favorite destination for tourists due to its beautiful nature and architecture. Cambodia Angkor Wat is one of the interesting sights of the town.

angkor wat temple

IN ancient capital Cambodia Angkor Wat can be reached in several ways, for example, by car or minibus. There are several excursions designed for several days. The temple complex is located in Cambodia, near the city of Siem Reap. You can get to this city by any transport, bus, plane and even a steamboat. If you decide to spend or, you can become a member of the excursion, they are regularly held in Angkor Wat.

Let us draw your attention to the fact that all the temples located on a huge site are called the Angkor complex, in addition, there is also the temple of Angkor Wat, it was erected by the ruler Suryavarman II. This temple is considered the main one and is called the pearl of Angkor.

From Bangkok

Search for cheap flights

Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap or Siem Reap (the name is pronounced in two ways) involves several steps:

• you need to get to the border (to the town of Aranyaprathet);
• you won’t be able to cross the border without a Cambodian visa, so you should worry about having it in advance;
• get from the border (Poipet town) to Siem Reap.

Tours from Bangkok to Angkor Wat exist both individual and group.

Where to stay in Angkor

So, we have already found out where Angkor is located. The closest location to the complex is the city - Siem Reap. There you can stay at any hotel you like, because you still have to get to it by transport. There are a large number of hotels in the city, any vacationer, if necessary, can choose the right hotel for himself. It is possible to rent a bike (but, again, it will be difficult to get to the right place) or go by bus.

A bit of history

Angkor Wat, whose history is quite interesting, was founded around the 10th-12th centuries. At that time, Angkor was one of the most major cities planets. Temples from that time became known even far from the Khmer empire.

In 1431, the troops of Siam almost completely defeated and plundered the city, after which all the inhabitants had to leave their homes and go in search of new ones. Since that time, Angkor and more than 100 palaces and temples that remained intact were hiding under the arches. rainforest. Until, at the end of the 19th century, the French naturalist Ann Muo presented a sufficient number of works that were created and written in honor of Angkor.

It became known that even Rudyard Kipling released his "The Jungle Book" about Mowgli only after he had the good fortune to become a visitor to the beautiful Angkor. In 1992, the temple complex was taken under the supervision of trustees from UNESCO.

Temples of Angkor

The temples that are part of the usual Angkor ticket are referred to by the guides as nearby temples, and those located a little further from Siem Reap are called distant ones. The nearby temples are part of several itineraries designed as a guided tour through the town square: the small circle and the big circle of Angkor. The temples of Batni Sri and Batni Samri are also included in the complex, but are located at a short distance from the excursion path.

Visits to the small and large circles of Angkor are designed for several separate days, as they take very large area. One small circle is about 17 km. The mileage of the big circle is 26 km.

There is a certain scheme where you can find desired temple. The red line indicates that you are traveling in a small circle, the green line indicates a large circle . Excursions to Angkor Wat you can choose according to the route you are interested in.