The charming yet mysterious kingdom of Cambodia has drawn thousands of visitors over the years eager to discover its magical glory. The beautiful land now glows with the achievement of peace after three decades of war and visitors are now welcomed with open arms by the lively Cambodian people. The pristine environment including ancient forests and unspoilt beaches adorn the country's legacy. Temples that hold an intriguing appeal within and the unique yet subtle cuisine are just a few reasons why a visit to Cambodia is well worth it. This region in the heart of Southeast Asia is home to many extraordinary attractions such as the Phnom Bakheng.
The Hindu temple Phnom Bakheng dedicated to Shiva was built in the shape of a temple mountain where Angkor's first city was established, at the end of the 9th century. It is presently a popular tourist magnet presenting picturesque sunset views of the much larger temple Angkor Wat. Created during King Yasovarman's reign on top of a hill, the temple is surrounded with lush greenery.
In the Khmer language, Phnom means ‘hill' and this temple has a height of 65 meters; the design's elements are significantly similar to that of the Bakong which was built almost 20 years earlier. Formerly called "Yasodharesvara" after the master-idol of the kingdom, the temple is a step pyramid of ascending square terraces. Even though it was abandoned in 928, Jayavarman V momentarily reformed it in 968.
Although the climb along the steep hill after walking around the Angkor Archaeological Park may be quite exhausting, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking view of the sun moving down over the Western Baray making the mystical towers of Angkor Wat gradually disappear one by one. Glorified by its prominence and position over the surrounding landscape the temple succeeds in portraying its monumental character as the shelter and base of the Linga Shri Yasodharesvara.
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor is an exceptional hotel Siem Reap has to offer, which offers personalised pampering. This Siem Reap hotel is spread over 15 acres of stunningly landscaped French gardens exuding ancient Cambodian grandeur infused with the best of modern luxuries.
The Hindu temple Phnom Bakheng dedicated to Shiva was built in the shape of a temple mountain where Angkor's first city was established, at the end of the 9th century. It is presently a popular tourist magnet presenting picturesque sunset views of the much larger temple Angkor Wat. Created during King Yasovarman's reign on top of a hill, the temple is surrounded with lush greenery.
In the Khmer language, Phnom means ‘hill' and this temple has a height of 65 meters; the design's elements are significantly similar to that of the Bakong which was built almost 20 years earlier. Formerly called "Yasodharesvara" after the master-idol of the kingdom, the temple is a step pyramid of ascending square terraces. Even though it was abandoned in 928, Jayavarman V momentarily reformed it in 968.
Although the climb along the steep hill after walking around the Angkor Archaeological Park may be quite exhausting, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking view of the sun moving down over the Western Baray making the mystical towers of Angkor Wat gradually disappear one by one. Glorified by its prominence and position over the surrounding landscape the temple succeeds in portraying its monumental character as the shelter and base of the Linga Shri Yasodharesvara.
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor is an exceptional hotel Siem Reap has to offer, which offers personalised pampering. This Siem Reap hotel is spread over 15 acres of stunningly landscaped French gardens exuding ancient Cambodian grandeur infused with the best of modern luxuries.