“Ta Prohm”
Cambodia November 2016 (11 photos)
For my first post of the year, a blockbuster title just seemed appropriate. 🙂
Angkor is a large region, north of the Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, where the Khmer kings ruled from the 9th century to the 15th century. Each king would build temples as their legacy in stone, to honour the Hindu and Buddhist deities they worshipped. In time the Khmer empire subsided and the temples were forgotten, doomed to be lost to the jungle. It was only within the last 100 years or so that the temples (in varying states of decay) were “rediscovered” and reclaimed from the jungle. Many of the temples are undergoing restoration, but being one of the poorer countries of this World, money dries up quickly and work stops, perhaps never to be resumed.
In this short series of posts, I will present photos of some of the 31 temples I visited across the Angkor region, venturing with my guide as far as the northern and the western borders of Cambodia with Thailand.
These first 4 photos were taken at Ta Prohm, perhaps one of the most famous of the temples due to the giant trees that have overgrown and grow on the temple. Also, appearing as a backdrop to Angelina Jolie in the Tombraider movie may have boosted its fame. As a result of its popularity, tourist hordes descend upon it daily. Against the odds, I was lucky to get some decent wide shots with no tourists in view.
Due to the large crowds, the authorities decided to install walkways to protect the area. Sadly, at least to me, this detracts from the character of the location.
Would you believe the title for this series came to me as I was booking my flights online? 🙂
“Banteay Kdei”
Above and the following 3 photos were taken at Banteay Kdei, another temple overrun by the jungle. I purposefully used a photo with a man in it above for perspective.
The beauty of the hand carvings from so long ago is incredible.
The mix of photographic editing is deliberate. The vintage cream treatment really appeals to me for this location.
Note the stones were all laid by hand with no bond or cement between them.
“Pre Rup”
Finally in this post, are some shots of Pre Rup, which has virtually unobstructed views to the west. Approaching sunset it is standing room only at the top.
Position. Position. Position.
Edit: I’ve just seen Paula’s latest Photo challenge and this is one of the uncommon times when I can contribute.
Etcetera Etcetera Etcetera 
Great shots of an amazing place, young Woodster 🙂
Many thanks, Scotty. Hot and humid but worth the effort to visit.
How incredible the force of the roots!
Absolutely. The jungle quickly took over where man left off.
Beautiful pictures. Processing in vintage style very well underlines the age of these temples.
Thank you. My thoughts as well.
Fine set!
Thank you, Harrie.
These are fabulous pix! I love the power of the trees to take back what was theirs 😉 Sad about the walkways, but whadda gonna do? Rope it all off? It’s always a tough choice on how to maintain an area.
Thank you very much.
I agree there’s a balance between keeping the temples open to visitors and preserving what’s left. At least all the temples are open to visitors and efforts are underway to preserve the heritage.
It is difficult to understand that these photos are real, and on the other hand to think what has haappened in temples, who lived there?
Amazing!
It does seem a bit surreal at times seeing the jungle reclaim the temples. It’s an amazing experience.
Nice to see you back LD and with a beautiful set of images as usual. I like the effect a lot, my favourite being the delightful carved dancer. And I’m not sure I would be so relaxed poised on chunks of stone that aren’t bonded together and obviously tumbling to the ground, as that last photographer was!
Thank you very much, Jude. I saw some antique style printed photos of Angkor, and immediately loved the effect.
I must admit, I was a bit tentative with my steps at times. Surprising much of the stonework has held up very well.
George Clooney staring as the Wood Dragon when they make the movie??
just LOVE all the photos and the b& w and chrome ones especially.
always wanted to go there…. will enjoy this series instead.
thanks Draco 🙂
Thanks, Debbie. Maybe Mat Damon. George is getting a bit on in years. 🙂
Apparently Angkor is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world at the moment. No doubt increased tourist numbers that will have an effect on these beautiful ruins.
yeah its become pretty popular, i believe. did you know that theres a lot of astronomical research to say it was aligned to Cygnus?
yeah point taken about george C, a bit too old in the tooth. Matt Damon it is. 🙂
I did read something about that. Most of the temples are in perfect east-west orientation.
yes that’s it….. a lot of the ancient sites were aligned to particular stellar bodies… Angkor Wat is the only one I know of aligned to Cygnus. the theory – or one of them – is that they were built to align earth after the tilt – so that people could navigate their way to observing the heavens -realigning to ‘true east and true west’…. the rivers in China all run west-east too, which is another interesting but possibly random fact. 🙂
There’s a lot we don’t understand.
Seeing the conditions these ruins are in, I wonder if the hordes of tourists that you mention can do damage to them.
In time, no doubt. But the authorities have taken steps to combat this by building walkways and stairs. Some of the temples have restrictions on number of visitors.
I trust no hearts were injured – or removed – during the taking of these images.
“Bali Mangthi Kali Ma!!!” 🙂
I survived. 😉
Welcome back, Draco! What a spectacular return…a wonderful set of photographs. The ancient ruins, the ornate stone work, and huge trees and root systems bring back memories of the sensory and emotional overload I felt at Machu Picchu several years ago. Amazing places…
Thanks, Mic. Angkor is often described as the Machu Picchu of Asia. Sensory and emotional overload is a great description for what I felt as well.
Through your photographs I can see why both statements would be true.
Thank you, Mic.
Apparently most of the salient comments have already been made, but what really caught my attention was the enormous tree with its contorted roots. Amazing all around, both structures and tree.
janet
Much of the jungle has been cleared in Cambodia, but these trees are a reminder of what once was.
Those amazing trees always get me showing how nature finds its way. Great shots.
Thank you. Those trees are amazing to see. In some areas entire walls remain standing only because trees are growing on them and supporting them with their root structure.
It must have been such a spiritually-rich experience to see such beauty and history.
Indeed. It’s hard to believe such sites could just be “lost” for so long.
Brought back very nice memories of the place. Superb Photographs! 🙂 And love the title 😉
My pleasure. It’s not an easy place to forget. Although I could have done without the heat and humidity. 🙂
I’ve been sitting on that title for a while. Glad to finally publish it. Maybe I can strike a movie deal. 😉
Remarkable captures of the trees and the temples.Wow, you visited 31 temples!! Looking forward for more…
Welcome back, Dragon. 🙂
Thank you, Amy. No half measures on my part. 🙂 I figure if you’re going to pay all that money to visit, see as much as you can. Especially since everywhere is so far from Australia.
It probably takes a day or so to get there from Australia. It took us some 20 hrs (including transferring flights) from TX to BKK!
When possible, I deliberately break my trips into segments as I don’t like tight schedules for interconnecting flights. So I flew from Sydney to Singapore and spent 4 days there, before flying to Siem Reap. On the return I spent overnight in Singapore before continuing home.
I shall consider that in the future. Did you like Singapore?
It’s a food mecca. I had a 4 meal a day strategy. But the heat and humidity can be oppressive.
🙂 🙂
SO HAPPY TO HAVE YOU BACK, LD! I smiled even before I read a word.
These are wonderful photos. I was there 10 years ago, but your photos are 1000 times sharper and better than mine. I, actually, think your photos are better than the real scene.;-)
Have a great day.
Thank you, Helen. Just thinking of that title makes me smile. 🙂 🙂 🙂
I’m glad my photos could remind you of your own visit to Angkor. The real thing is better, except for the heat and humidity. 🙂
Thanks for this great post Lignum. It’s a place I have always wanted to visit so thanks for taking me there so beautifully 🙂
You’re welcome. Apparently it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. You won’t regret visiting if you can get there.
i templi sono stupefacenti, cesellati ed ornati in ogni più piccolo centimetro di costruzione, ma sono gli impianti radicali degli alberi ad avermi oltrmodo colpita! rassomigliano a lunghe mani di demoni che ghermiscono, pronte a distruggere le costruzioni fatte dagli umani!
la foto del tempio rilesso nell’azzurro incredibile!
immagino quali grandi emozioni avrai riportato da queso viaggio-avventura
felice sera
Annalisa
L’uomo contro la natura. Natura di solito vince dopotutto. E ‘un posto molto bello e sereno. Grazie mille.
Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples take you deep into something magical and eerie. It is always a pleasure to wander through them with other people’s picutres. And yours are particularly beautiful. Thanks for taking me back, again…
I agree, it’s a special place. You just stand in awe of the temples and the trees. I’m glad my photos could take you back there.
a m a z i n g ♥ you have captured the magic of these places so beautifully…
I’ve seen photos these giant trees (from the first shots), but they really seem impressive in your photos…
I was wondering when will you be back Lignum 🙂
Thank you, Alex. The trees dominate the temples and reminds us that we are temporary. It’s a special place to visit.
Oh, fabulous! Thanks for the Virtual visit – I was meant to go a couple of years ago, but my health nosedived, and I shan’t get there now….
Happy to show you around. Sadly, “life” does get in the way our plans sometimes.
It does indeed, and sometimes very suddenly…
all too often.
Magnificent photos. I loved Siem Reap.
Thank you. Siem Reap is so different to what I’m used to. I really enjoyed it. I miss the tuk tuk rides. I filmed a few of them on my phone. 🙂
Welcome back 😀 Great images and as others have said the processing choices are perfect. Would have been an amazing trip.
Welcome back 🙂 2nd attempt to comment! Great images and perfect choices in the processing. Must have been an amazing trip.
Thank you. I received both comments. I think the system experiences lags every now and then and things don’t work as they should, or after a delay.
It was a wonderful trip. I was in Cambodia for 10 days. Enjoyed it immensely. 🙂
Beautiful series.
Thank you, Vince.
It sounded like you wanted to fly into the face of adventure and come out roaring on top. Love the BW shots and those massive trees really are something.
It’s a grand sight to behold. I’m glad I also got away from the crowds to the more remote areas where few tourists go.
good post
Thank you.
Just magnificent. The title of the series is absolutely perfect for a secret agent such as yourself. 😉 Have you ever seen the documentary “Quest for a Lost Civilization” by Graham Hancock? You can watch it on YouTube. He has a fascinating theory about ancient civilizations such as Angkor and ancient astronomers. You may be very surprised to learn which particular constellation is connected to Angkor. A special synchronicity for you. ✨
Thank you very much. Wow! There’s a Constellation Draco and the Temples of Angkor mirror on Earth the Draco in the sky? Fascinating stuff.
Yes, very fascinating. Good to hear that you think so, too.
We can’t profess to know or understand everything. Best to keep an open mind.
Just watched some more. The links extend to Easter Island, I see.
Yes, that’s why I watched it before I went. 😉
🙂
Beautiful photos, I do love the trees that are growing among the ruins. I think it is great that you managed to get some shots without tourists, against the odds indeed!
Thank you very much. The atmosphere of the scene is lost with crowds in the photo.
I like your article, very inspiring and thank you for your post
Thank you very much.
Quite surreal, aren’t they? I like the use of black and white too, Draco. You must have had an amazing time! 🙂
Surreal in that jungle setting, most definitely. I definitely enjoyed my time there, apart from the heat, but Sydney was hotter recently so I shouldn’t complain.
Brilliant post Mr Draco .. what an adventure! The jungle is doing a mighty job of reclaiming. Top shots 😃
Thank you very much, Julie. The eternal struggle of man vs nature. 😉
Incredible collection of shots!
Thank you very much.
Nature takes over.
Exactly your kind of place. 🙂
What a beautiful surprise this is, Draco! I am very flattered that you linked 🙂 Mesmerising place. Your captures are wonderful, especially in black and white. Thank you.
Thank you very much, Paula. It’s a fascinating place steeped in history. Glad I could contribute to one of your challenges.
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Great virtual tour and nice photos! Thanks for reminding me this fantastic place – I have been here a couple years ago :)! Bye. K
Thank you very much, Kamila. Memories that last forever. It’s a beautiful place.
Thank you 🙂 !
🙂
You can always be counted on to take me to places I would never see on my own. Despite the walkway I just love the third image in your post. I can easily see myself there, lost in a world of intrigue.
Thank you very much. I guess I have a slight OCD component. For the atmosphere of the shot, yes I would love for the walkway to not be there. Actually being there, it didn’t affect my experience of the temple. 🙂
Great work and good location too. I can understand how much efforts it is required to click a perfect shot. Appreciate your work.
Thank you.
Beautiful the way you work with the temples. I always wanted to go there and by your photos, it’s like I just did. I look forward to more.
Thank you very much. I do hope you get to see it for yourself one day.
Amazing
Cheers.
super captures and post
Thank you very much.
Well captured
Thank you.
Incredible photos
Makes me want to go there
and feeds my mind with
lots of questions about why
the tree and the roots appear to be
in top of this ancient structure.
Maybe I’m naive but how exactly
does that happen or
It is simply a fluke of nature that a tree
Would find a resting ground or a
place to grow
in top of this ancient temple
Or did the temple get built
Underneath a beautiful tree
With very deep roots?
Thank you. Such are the vagaries and wonder of Nature. But there does seem to be a magical synergy between the jungle and the ancient temples. It makes you wonder about our temporary existence on this planet.
The scientific response is a lot more succinct.
Maybe I should just say I like
the photos and leave it at that.
You are free to volunteer any comment you wish to make. Many people don’t give comments. That’s human nature.
The trees!!! 😮 They have overwhelming character, and in some cases are literally overwhelming – a building. Like arms and hands grasping man made things. They all seem so different too. Funny how some areas you go to, the trees all the look the same, but here, they really don’t.
I like the vintage look you’ve given some of the pictures, it suits the venue very well.
I agree with you about about the man made walkways, but I guess they must have been worried about feet wearing away steps… maybe?
Very haunting indeed, and I mean that in the best sense of the word, kind of magical haunting. You did it great justice. I’m sure some people viewing this will have to visit now! 🙂
It’s a strange sight seeing all those trees just growing over the temples. In some areas the tree roots are destroying the buildings, and in some areas the tree roots are supporting the buildings, stopping them from collapsing. And to think the temples were lost/forgotten for so long, hidden by the jungle. The power of Nature is unmistakeable.
Thank you very much. I hardly did any sepia tinting until now. It was just a perfect match.
It’s an attractive kind of sepia. Some sepia colours can be a bit overwhelming, but that shade compliments perfectly. It does look very near to genuine old photos. 🙂
Thanks, Suzy. It takes a bit of experimenting to work out the right settings.