< Previous90 Text by Natasha P Cambodia’s most-visited city is undoubtedly Siem Reap, seeping with its history of ancient kingdoms and glorious architecture that sits within Angkor Archaeological Park. Travellers from every corner of the world arrive daily at the humble airport, each keen to explore the magnificent and sacred ruins of the Khmer Empire. The indisputable architectural masterpieces were built between the 9th and 15th centuries, to the wonder of modern-day builders and engineers. "The temple stands solitary and alone in the jungle, in too perfect order to be called a ruin, a relic of a race far ahead of the present in all the arts and sciences", said D.O. King. In 1992, they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, renovation projects are ongoing, funded by many countries, highlighting the importance of preservation and protection of cultural heritage around the world. SIEM REAP NEXT DESTINATION A day before you visit the great temples of Angkor Archaeological Park, a visit to Angkor National Museum is highly recommended for a better understanding of the Khmer Empire, the Khmer kings and the significance of various aspects of those civilizations. Artefacts and arts from the Khmer Empire are displayed throughout the museum with signage, and interactive presentations are available in some of the six areas, such as the Gallery of 1,000 Buddha Images. (www.angkornationalmuseum.com) After the museum, you will ready to explore the highlight of Siem Reap. English historian Arnold Toynbee once said: “Angkor is not orchestral; it is monumental. It is an epic poem which makes its effect, like the Odyssey and like Paradise Lost, by the grandeur of its structure as well as by the beauty of the details; an epic in rectangular forms imposed upon the Cambodian jungle." Many visitors arrive at Angkor Archaeological Park before dawn to watch the sun rise over the dramatic silhouette of Angkor Wat, a sight that takes one’s breath away. Just Angkor Wat itself ideally requires several hours, or even a good part of a day, to discover. Do make sure you stay in Siem Reap long enough to also visit Ta Prohm, where the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider was filmed and you will be amazed at the sight of nature reclaiming its space from human construction. Bayon, located in Angkor Thom, is perhaps the most distinctive temple with its massive stone towers each engraved with four faces to represent the 54 provinces of the Khmer Empire back in the 13th century. Around 30 kilometres north from Angkor Wat sits Banteay Srei, another Khmer architectural and artistic masterpiece one should not miss. Every inch of the pink sandstone temple is covered with delicate engravings of the gods of the threefold world. For a change from manmade structures visit Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Enjoy the ambience of the floating villages and observe the local lifestyle – you’ll also see youngsters hopping from one boat to another to sell soft drinks to visitors, and crocodiles that are kept in cages. Sunset here is very pleasant. Next >