March 12 ~ Siem Reap, Cambodia

Ta Prohm Temple

Probably one of the most popular and photographed temples, Ta Prohm was brought to the world’s attention by the Lara Croft: Tomb Raider movie starring Angelina Jolie. With tree roots cascading down the side of walls, or perched precariously on top of ancient structures, you definitely feel like you are entering into a jungle domain. 

Entrance to Ta Prohm

Constructed in the late 12th and early 13th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist monastery and university.

“After the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 17th century, the temple of Ta Prohm was abandoned and neglected for centuries. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Ta Prohm has been left in much the same condition in which it was found: the photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the jungle surroundings have made it one of Angkor’s most popular temples with visitors.” ~ Wikipedia

Ta Prohm

Each of the temples we visited over the two-day period had something that differentiated it from the other, and in this case it was definitely the trees and entangling roots.

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There were intricate carvings in sandstone still showing crisp details.

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Gus joined us for the day. And we found out that another person in our group also travels with a “pet”. Somehow it is mildly reassuring to find out we are not alone 🙂

Gus at Ta Prohm

And columns and pillars and piles in ruin…

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Near both the entrance and exit we had the opportunity to listen to small bands comprised of members who had been seriously injured by land mines left after the war.

Playing instruments with missing limbs

Our group ranges in age from 26 to 73. And thankfully there are NO SMOKERS! We decided this was a great place for our group photo.

Intrepid Cambodia Group

Left to right: Dave, Jenny, Tim, Joanne, Michael, Massimo, Josephine, Wayne, Ethne, Colin, Nicola, Lisa, Jen, Agata

GRATITUDE MOMENT: Today I am grateful that the movie industry introduced the world to this beautiful monument and was instrumental in drawing attention to Cambodia, the plight of her people and giving a huge boost to their economy through tourism.

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