Ancient Temples and Floating Communities in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Inside a temple with large tree roots

Whenever someone mentions Siem Reap in Cambodia, people automatically think of the famed Ankor Wat temples. Built between 1150 and 1113 A.D. its one of the largest collection of temples in the world and the name means: 'Temple City."

Although, it was originally built as a shrine to a Hindu god Vishnu, it became a Buddhist temple as time progressed. 

Many people remember Harrison Ford and the film Indian Jones which was filmed on location at Ankor Wat. This setting was also used for the Tomb Raider film starring Angelina Jolie. I was naturally keen to investigate these awe inspiring monuments to the gods and was glad I made my way to see them. 

Ankor Wat Temples, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Ancient trees with long roots wrap around some of the temple ruins making it a surreal experience. It was hard to imagine that these temples which inspired great religious fervour were left to ruin, and were rediscovered by Portuguese missionaries around 1580 A.D. At one time, there were over 1000 temples on site.

Following on from the visit to the temples, one of the other places I visited was the Ton Le Sap river community which can be reached by water taxi. It was an eventful ride as we spotted a water snake in the river and the lady next to me decided to scream her lungs out. I was really glad neither of us landed in the water to keep the snake company!

The floating village was interesting to visit, but it made me sad to learn a few facts:

Child using a floating box to cross the Ton Le Sap River

• 12 per cent of children die before the age of five
• Many die due to malnourishment and lack of medical care
• Annual household income averages $500
• There is a floating orphanage to house children who have lost parents
• Many children are exploited for the tourism industry