Around Other Siem Reap Temples

The big boys of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm get most of the attention in Siem Reap, justifiably so. They're blockbusters. There are still plenty of smaller delights to see, with the bonus of fewer crowds and random, amusing details.

Preah Neak Pogan, a little jewel, perfectly set within a serene water surround.

Heading up for sunset at Pre Rup. 

Fashion shoot! These days, you don't just stand in front of a famous place and have your picture taken. Now, you get swanked out, find a suitable location and pose it up, complete with posse ready to critique the shoot.

Temple fowl.

Monks also need help sometimes. Temple guard.

Plastic flowers.

Tussling At Ta Prohm

After Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm is probably the most popular temple to visit in Siem Reap. It's frequently referred to as the "Tomb Raider" temple, ever since Angelina Jolie showed up to rock some skimpy explorer shorts awhile ago. A king builds it, a starlet lays claim to it, whether she meant to or not.

It's easy to see why the temple made the movie cut. It oozes exotic jungle mood, mainly since the decision was made only to partially restore the temple. It's a bit of an illusion, to think that you're looking at a temple the way it was discovered in the early 20th century. In fact, most elements have been rebuilt or at least cleared. A smattering of crumbling walls and giant trees go a long way to convincing the public they can be Indiana Jones for an hour.

 The crowds are ready for the romp.

The atmospheric interior, exotic and refined at the same time.

Cathedral trees.

The trees are a nice touch, all alive, slithering over the heavy rock.

Occasionally there's an uninterrupted view, when the crowd is corralled a bit.