Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom, located in present day Cambodia, was the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire. It was established in the late twelfth century by king Jayavarman VII. It covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north.

History Details

Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride.

Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however. Yasodhrapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest, and Angkor Thom overlapped parts of it. The most notable earlier temples within the city are the former state temple of Baphuon , and Phimeanakas , which was incorporated into the Royal Palace. The Khmers did not draw any clear distinctions between Angkor Thom and Yashodharapura: even in the fourteenth century an inscription used the earlier name. (Higham 138) The name of Angkor Thom — great city — was in use from the 16th century.

The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. Thereafter the existing structures continued to be modified from time to time, but any new creations were in perishable materials and have not survived. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609, when an early western visitor wrote of an uninhabited city, "as fantastic as the Atlantis of Plato" which some thought to have been built by the Roman emperor Trajan. (Higham 140) It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people.

Angkor Thom is in the Bayon style. This manifests itself in the large scale of the construction, in the widespread use of laterite, in the face-towers at each of the entrances to the city and in the naga-carrying giant figures which accompany each of the towers.

The guided visit of Angkor Thom - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)
• Angkor Discovery (4days)
• Angkor Explorer    (5days)
• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)
• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Angkor Wat

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - 6km north of Siem Reap Town.

Date of Construction: Early-Mid 12th century AD

King: Suryavarman II

Style: Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is visually, architecturally and artistically breathtaking. It is a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of any visit to the temples of Angkor.

At the apex of Khmer political and military dominance in the region, Suryavarman II constructed Angkor Wat in the form of a massive 'temple-mountain' dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu. It served as his state temple, though the temple’s uncommon westward orientation has led some to suggest that it was constructed as Suryavarman II’s funerary temple. Other temples of the same style and period include Thommanon, Banteay Samre , Wat Atwea and Beng Mea Lea , which may have served as a prototype to History Details

Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and an exterior wall measuring 1300 meters x 1500 meters. The temple itself is 1 km square and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. The walls of the temple are covered inside and out with bas-reliefs and carvings. Nearly 2000 distinctively rendered apsara carvings adorn the walls throughout the temple and represent some of the finest examples of apsara carvings in Angkorian era art. But it is the exterior walls of the lower level that display the most extraordinary bas-reliefs, depicting stories and characters from Hindu mythology and the historical wars of Suryavarman II. It is in the viewing of the bas-reliefs that a tour guide can be very helpful.

The northern reflecting pool in front is the most popular sunrise location. For sunrise, arrive very early, well before sunrise begins. The sun will rise behind Angkor Wat providing a silhouette of Angkor’s distinctively shaped towers against a colored sunrise sky. Some of the best colors appear just before the sun breaks over the horizon.

The visual impact of Angkor Wat, particularly on one's first visit, is awesome. As you pass through the outer gate and get your first glimpse, its size and architecture make it appear two dimensional, like a giant postcard photo against the sky. After you cross through the gate and approach the temple along the walkway it slowly gains depth and complexity. To maximize this effect you should make your first visit in optimal lighting conditions, i.e. after 2:00PM. Do not make your first visit to Angkor Wat in the morning when the backlighting obscures the view.

The first level of is the most artistically interesting. Most visitors begin their exploration with the bas-reliefs that cover the exterior wall of the first level, following the bas-reliefs counterclockwise around the temple. Bas-relief highlights include the mythological Battle of Kuru on the west wall; the historical march of the army of Suryavarman II, builder of Angkor Wat, against the Cham, followed by scenes from Heaven and Hell on the south wall; and the classic ‘Churning of the Ocean Milk’ on the east wall.

The temple interior is not as densely carved as the first level exterior, but still sports hundreds of fine carvings of apsaras and scenes from Hindu mythology. A guide can be quite helpful in explaining the stories of the various chambers, statues and architectural forms to be found in the interior. At the upper-most of your tour of the temple, the central tower on the third level houses four Buddha images, each facing a different cardinal point, highlighting the fact that though Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple, it has served as a Buddhist temple since Buddhism became Cambodia’s dominant religion in the 14th century. Some say that it is good luck to pay homage to all four Buddha images before departing Angkor.

The guided visit of Angkor Wat - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Bakong Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Roluos Group

Date of Construction: Early 9th century AD

King: Indravarman

Style: Preah Ko

History Details

Roluos Group :The most impressive member of the Roluos Group, sitting at the center of the first Angkorian capital, Hariharalaya. Bakong stands 15 meters tall and is 650x850m at the outer wall. Constructed by the third Angkorian-era king as his state-temple, Bakong represents the first application of the temple-mountain architectural formula on a grand scale and set the architectural tone for the next 400 years. The temple displays a very early use of stone rather than brick. Though begun by Indravarman I, Bakong received additions and was expanded by later kings. The uppermost section and tower may have been added as late as the 12th century AD. Some of the lintel carvings, particularly on the outer towers, are in very good shape. Picturesque moat and vegetation surround Bakong.

The guided visit of Bakong Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in Cambodia Classical & Beach:

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Baksei Chamkrong Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Near the South Gate of Angkor Thom

Date of Construction: Mid 10th century AD

King: Harshavarman

Style: Bakheng

History Details

Towering 12-meter tall brick and laterite step-pyramid. Harshavarman I began construction or perhaps dedicated statues at the site in the early 10th century. It was later improved/restored by Rajendravarman II shortly after the capital was returned to Angkor from Koh Ker. According to inscriptions on the doorway, Rajendravarman II consecrated the temple with the installation of a golden Shiva image in 947AD. It may have also served as a funerary temple. Combine with a visit to the South Gate in the morning or Phnom Bakheng  in the evening. Lighting is best in the morning..

The guided visit of Baksei Chamkrong Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as.

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Bamboo Train

The bamboo train is a unique and creative form of ad-hoc local transportation.

History Details

The bamboo train consists of a small motorcycle engine-powered bamboo card that rides the railroad tracks, picking up and dropping off passengers, cargo, animals, and motorcycles along the way.

When it meets on-coming train or bamboo train, it can be disassembled and taken off the rails in a minute or two, allowing the other to pass. Cambodia is currently in the process of upgrading its rail system. When the Battambang tracks are replaced, the Bamboo Train will likely come to an end. If you ever wanted to try the bamboo train, it’s now or never.

Lonely Planet review for bamboo train

The bamboo train is one of the world's all-time classic rail journeys. From O Dambong, on the east bank 3.7km south of Battambang's Old Stone Bridge, the train runs southeast to O Sra Lav, via half an hour of clicks and clacks along warped, misaligned rails and vertiginous bridges left by the French.

Each bamboo train - known in Khmer as a norry (nori) - consists of a 3m-long wood frame, covered lengthwise with slats made of ultra-light bamboo, that rests on two barbell-like bogies, the aft one connected by fan belts to a 6HP gasoline engine. Pile on 10 or 15 people or up to three tonnes of rice, crank it up and you can cruise along at about 15km/h.

The genius of the system is that it offers a brilliant solution to the most ineluctable problem faced on any single-track line: what to do when two trains going opposite directions meet. In the case of bamboo trains, the answer is simple: one car is quickly disassembled and set on the ground beside the tracks so the other can pass. The rule is that whichever car has fewer passengers has to cede priority, though motorbikes pull rank, so if you bring one along - or have a convincing inflatable moto decoy - you'll get VIP treatment.

What happens, you may ask, when a bamboo train meets a real train barrelling down the track? First, Cambodian trains don't barrel, they crawl. Second, bamboo train conductors know the real train's schedule. And third, the real train can be heard tooting its horn from a great distance, providing more than enough time to dismount and disassemble.

Hiring a private bamboo train from O Dambong to O Sra Lav costs USaround US$8, though it's much cheaper to take a share-norry with locals transporting veggies, charcoal or wood to market. Sadly, rumour has it that bamboo trains will soon be banned, especially if the rail line to Phnom Penh is - as planned - upgraded.

Banteay Kdei Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park

Date of Construction: Late 12th - Early 13th century AD

King: Jayavarman VII

Style: Angkor Wat/ Bayon

History Details

Sprawling, largely unrestored, monastic complex in much the same style as Ta Prohm. It was originally constructed over the site of an earlier temple, and functioned as a Buddhist monastery under Jayavarman VII. As with other works of Jayavarman VII's era, it is a tightly packed architectural muddle, which like Bayon, suffered from several changes in the plans at the time of construction. It was also built using an inferior grade of sandstone and using poor construction techniques, leading to much of the deterioration visible today. A restoration project is underway on many of the towers and corridors, and some areas are blocked off. The foundation stele of the temple has not been found so there is no record of to whom it is dedicated. The 13th century vandalism of Buddha images that is seen on many Jayavarman VII temples is quite apparent on Banteay Kdei. Combine with a visit to Srah Srang, which is just opposite the east entrance.

The guided visit of Banteay Kdei Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Baphuon Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Central Angkor Thom

Date of Construction: Mid 11th century AD

King: Udayadityavarman II

Style: Baphuon

History Details

The Baphuon (Khmer: ប្រាសាទបាពួន) is a temple at Angkor,Cambodia. It is located in Angkor Thom, northwest of the Bayon. Built in the mid-11th century, it is a three-tiered temple mountain built as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. It is the archetype of the Baphuon style. The temple adjoins the southern enclosure of the royal palace and measures 120 metres east-west by 100 metres north-south at its base and stands 34 meters tall without its tower, which would have made it roughly 50 meters tall. Its appearance apparently impressed Emperor Chengzon of Yuan China's late 13th century envoy Chouy Ta-Kuan during his visit from 1296 to 1297, who said it was 'the Tower of Bronze...a truly astonishing spectacle, with more than ten chambers at its base.' In the late 15th century, the Baphuon was converted to a Buddhist temple. A 9 meter tall by 70 meter long statue of a reclining Buddha was built on the west side's second level, which probably required the demolition of the 8 meter tower above, thus explaining its current absence. The temple was built on land filled with sand, and due to its immense size the site was unstable throughout its history. Large portions had probably already collapsed by the time the Buddha was added.

By the 20th century, much of the temple had largely collapsed, and restoration efforts have since proven problematic: a first effort begun in 1960 was interrupted by the coming to power of the Khmer Rouge, and records of the positions of the stones were lost. A second attempt started in 1995 by a team of French -led archeologists as of 2005 was still ongoing, restricting visitor access. As of November 2010, partial visitor access was once again allowed, though not to the central structure.

In April 2011, after 51 years, the archaeologists finished the restoration of the temple. King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia and Prime Minister Francois Fillon of France were among those who first toured the renovated temple during the inauguration ceremony on July 3, 2011.

The guided visit of Bapuon Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Bayon Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Central Angkor Thom

Date of Construction: Late 12th century AD

King: Jayavarman VII

Style: Angkor Wat

History Details

If you see only two temples, Angkor Wat and Bayon should be the ones. The giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognizable images connected to classic Khmer art and architecture. There are 37 standing towers, most but not all sporting four carved faces oriented toward the cardinal points. Who the faces represent is a matter of debate but they may be Loksvara, Mahayana Buddhism's compassionate Bodhisattva, or perhaps a combination of Buddha and Jayavarman VII. Bayon was the Jayavarman VII's state-temple and in many ways represents the pinnacle of his massive building campaign. It appears to be, and is to some degree, an architectural muddle, in part because it was constructed in a somewhat piecemeal fashion for over a century.

The best of Bayon are the bas-reliefs on the exterior walls of the lower level and on the upper level where the stone faces reside. The bas-reliefs on the southern wall contain real-life scenes from the historical sea battle between the Khmer and the Cham. It is not clear whether this represents the Cham invasion of 1177AD or a later battle in which the Khmer were victorious. Even more interesting are extensive carvings of unique and revealing scenes of everyday life that are interspersed among the battle scenes, including market scenes, cockfighting, chess games and childbirth. Also note the unfinished carvings on other walls, likely indicating the death of Jayavarman VII and the subsequent end of his building campaign. Some of the reliefs on the inner walls were carved at a later date under the Hindu king Jayavarman VIII. The surrounding tall jungle makes Bayon a bit dark and flat for photographs near sunrise and sunset..

Read one of our guest's comments:

Mr.Joseph Poyyathuruthy from India

E-mail: terryjose@gmail.com

“Bayon the temple that impressed me most”

I had done a lot of home work before going to Siem Reap and I was surprised that many people rated Bayon over Angor Wat which is the most famous temple in Angor Archaeological Park. Bayon was the first temple I visited on the first day and it was really a mesmerizing one,. I just could not resist appreciating it from the out side for almost 30 minutes before I decided to enter. The fearsome beauty of this unbelievable temple really captured my heart.If you are a keen photographer it is advised to visit this temple in the morning so that you get full details of the temple in your photographs.The west side of the temple gives you some nice view for photographs. You will need a good camera with pretty high zoom to capture the details especially the "smile of Angor". My camera with 42X zoom was found to be very useful here,

The guided visit of Bayon temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Beng Mealea Temple

Beng Mealea, its name means "lotus pond" is a temple in the Angkor Wat style located 40 km east of the main group of temples at Angkor, Cambodia, on the ancient royal highway to Preah Khan Kompong Svay.

History Details

Sprawling jungle temple covering over one square kilometer. The temple is largely overrun by vegetation and very lightly touristed, giving it an adventurous, ‘lost temple’ feel. Photographers: trees growing from the broken towers and galleries offer some of the best ‘tree in temple’ shots aside from Ta Prohm. Constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style under the same king that built Angkor Wat, Beng Melea preceded and may have served as a prototype of sorts for Angkor Wat.Though there are some lintel and doorway carvings, there are no bas-reliefs and the carvings are comparatively sparse. When the temple was active, the walls may have been covered, painted or had frescos. In its time, Beng Melea was at the crossroads of several major highways that ran to Angkor, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear (in northern Cambodia) and northern Vietnam. Regular admission ticket are not required but there is a separate $5 entrance fee.Beng Mea Lea is located 63km east of town. The road is now in good condition and the trip from Siem Reap takes 1-2 hours. Graded dirt road with occasional flooding in the rainy season.

The guided visit of Beng Mea Lea Temple  - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in Angkor Explorer:

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Chong Khneas

Chong Khneas is the floating village at the edge of the lake closest and most accessible to Siem Reap.

History Details

If you want a relatively quick and easy look at the Tonle Sap, boat tours of Chong Khneas are available, departing from the Chong Khneas boat docks all day long. Take a motodup or taxi the 11-15km from Siem Reap to the boat docks where there are always boats waiting for passengers. A two-hour boat trip through the floating village and the boats may carry as many as 15 other people.

The boatman will probably point out the differing Khmer and Vietnamese floating households and the floating markets, clinics, schools and other boatloads of tourists. Chong Khneas, while interesting, is over-touristed and is not as picturesque and 'unspoiled' as floating villages further from Siem Reap. The boat trip usually includes two stops: one at a touristy floating 'fish and bird exhibition' with a souvenir and snack shop, and the other at the very highly recommended Gecko Environment Centre, which offers displays and information introducing the ecology and biodiversity of the lake area.

CYCLOS

The humble bicycle rickshaw known locally as the 'cyclo' (from the French 'cyclopousse') can be a romantic, even practical form of transportation, especially if time is not a factor. Slow and relaxed, cyclos are easier on the nerves than motos, the canopy offers a drier, cooler ride and sitting in front provides a much better view of the passing street scene.

History Details

The cyclo was first introduced in Phnom Penh in 1937 and has since become an iconic fixture a vestige of the French colonial period that can be found in cities through old French Indochina. As traffic increases and other forms of transportation become available, the cyclo is slowly losing its place in Phnom Penh. A cyclo ride should cost about the sames as a moto.

TheCYCLOS Tour with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Kampong Khleang

Kampong Khleang is located on the northern lake-edge about 35 km east of Siem Reap town, more remote and less touristed than Kampong Phluk.

History Details

Visitors to Kampong Khleang during the dry season are universally awestruck by the forest of stilted houses rising up to 10 meters in the air. In the wet season the waters rise to within one or two meters of the buildings. Like Kampong Phluk, Kampong Khleang is a permanent community within the floodplain of the Lake, with an economy based in fishing and surrounded by flooded forest. But Kampong Khleang is significantly larger with near 10 times the population of Kampong Phluk, making it the largest community on the Lake.

The area can be reached by boat from the Chong Khneas docks or by a combination of road to Domdek on Route #6 and then boat to the village, the best method depending on the time of year. During the dry season, boats cannot get all of the way to the main villages.

Kampong Phluk

Kampong Phluk is a cluster of three villages of stilted houses built within the floodplain about 16 km southeast of Siem Reap.

History Details

The villages are primarily Khmer and have about 3000 inhabitants between them. Flooded mangrove forest surrounds the area and is home to a variety of wildlife including crab-eating macaques. During the dry season when the lake is low, the buildings in the villages seem to soar atop their 6-meter stilts exposed by the lack of water. At this time of year many of the villagers move out onto the lake and build temporary houses. In the wet season when water level rises, the villagers move back to their permanent houses on the floodplain, the stilts now hidden under the water. Kampong Phluk's economy is, as one might expect, based in fishing, primary in shrimp harvesting.

Kampong Phluk sees comparatively few foreign visitors and offers a close look at the submerged forest and lakeside village life. The area can be reached by boat from the Chong Khneas or by road. Make arrangements through your guesthouse of tour operator, or charter a boat at the Chong Khneas docks. During the wet season, drive to Roluos village just off Route #6 east of Siem Reap and then take a boat through the flooded forest the rest of the way. During the dry season the road is clear, making the boat unnecessary. Much of the road has recently been improved, now paved most of the way.

Lo Lei Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Roluos Group

Date of Construction: Late 9th century AD

King: Yasovarman I

Style: Pre Rup/Bakheng

History Details

Roluos Group  Ruins of an island-temple built in the middle of a now dry baray, Indratataka, the first large-scale baray constructed by a Khmer king. Lolei consists of four brick towers on a double laterite platform. It was the last major temple built at Roluos before Yasovarman I moved the capital to the Angkor area. Though the towers are in poor condition, there are some lintel carvings in very good condition displaying the distinctively detailed Preah Ko style. An active pagoda has been built amongst the ruins. Of the Roluos Group ruins, allocate the least time Lolei.

The guided visit of Lo Lei Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in Cambodia Classical & Beach:

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Neak Pean Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park/Grand Circuit

Date of Construction: Late 12th century AD

King: Jayavarman VII

Style: Bayon

History Details

A small island temple located in the middle of the last baray (the Preah Khan Baray or Jayatataka) to be constructed by a Khmer king in the Angkor area. The central temple sits at the axis of a cross or lotus pattern of eight pools. Originally known as Rajasri, Neak Pean took its modern appellation, which means ‘coiled serpents,’ from the encoiled nagas that encircled the temple.

The temple is faced by a statue of the horse, Balaha, saving drowning sailors. Though originally dedicated to Buddha, Neak Pean contains several Hindu images. Neak Pean may have served an absolution function, and the waters were thought to have healing properties. During the dry season when the water is low, check out the animal and human headwater spouts at the outside center of each pool. Neak Pean is most photogenic in the wet season when the pools are full.

The guided visit of Neak Pean Temple  - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Phnom Bakheng Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Near the South Gate of Angkor Thom

Date of Construction: Late 9th - Early 10th century AD

King:Yasovarman I

Style:Bakheng

History Details

The construction of this temple mountain on Phnom Bakheng (Bakheng Hill), the first major temple to be constructed in the Angkor area, marked the move of the capital of the Khmer empire from Roluos to Angkor in the late 9th century AD. It served as King Yasovarman I's state-temple at the center of his new capital city Yasodharapura. The foundation of Bakheng is carved from the existing rock edifice rather than the laterite and earthfill of most other temples.

Bakheng's hilltop location makes it the most popular sunset location in the area, offering a view of the Tonle Sap Lake and a distant Angkor Wat Temple in the jungle. (A good photo of Angkor Wat in the distance requires at least a 400mm lens.) The temple is usually overcrowded at sunset, sometimes even completely overrun by tourists. Due to overuse and damage, the main stairway up the mountain has been closed and an alternate path to the top has been opened. Elephant Ride sup and down the hill are also available from about 4:00PM till sunset. $15/person up the mountain. $10 per person down the mountain.

The guided visit of Phnom Bakheng Temple  - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Phnom Penh

WELCOME TO PHNOM PENH

A mixture of Asian exotica,the famous Cambodian hospitality awaits visitors to the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Situated at the confluence of three great rivers, the ‘four arms‘of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac , form right in front of the Royal Palace.Phnom Penh is the commercial, political and cultural hub of the Kingdom and is home to over two million of the country’s estimated 14 million people. It is also the gate way to an exotic land….

The world heritage site, the largest religious complex in the world, the temples of Angkor in the west, the beaches of the southern coast and the ethnic minorities of the north eastern provinces.

History Details

The city offers several cultural and historical attractions including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. There are also a wide variety of services including five star hotels and budget guest houses, fine standard dining places, side walk noodle shops, neighborhood pubs, international discos and more.

Phnom Penh, like other Asian-city tourist destinations, is in the midst of rapid changes. Over the past few years, the numbers of restaurants and hotels have grown considerably and in the last year there was a huge increase in the number of visitors. Three overland border crossings were opened in 1998 and now there are daily direct flights from several Asian cities. Even travel within the country is easier road condition gradually improving, several airlines flying domestic routes,and regular bus service to major cities like Sihanouk ville and Kampong Cham.Getting around Cambodia is no longer concern.

INTRODUCTION TO PHNOM PENH

Situated at the confluence ofthe four great front rivers “Chatomuk or four faces” of the Mekong, Tonle Sap,And Bassac. Phnom Penh is located at the confluence of four rivers-the Lower Mekong, The Upper Mekong, The Bassac and Tonle Sap. Phnom Penh covers an areaof 41 square kilometers. It is a major political, economic, cultural,communication and tourism center for home and world service.

The city is divided into three sections-The north, an attractive residential area; the south or the French part of the city with its ministries, banks and colonial houses; and the center or the heart with its narrow lanes, markets, foods stalls and shops.Over the past four years, the city has undergone tremendous changes. Businesses are springing up constantly, and tourism is once again booming.

Cambodia has managed toretain its charm and character. Cyclos that weave through traffic with ease, Broad Boulevard, old colonial buildings, parks and green spaces remind one of the country’s French heritage, and above all its people who always have a smile for you Phnom Penh offer several cultural and historical attractions. It is acharming mix of ancient monuments and modern landmarks that consist offive-star hotels and international standard entertainment centers. Cambodia canbe enjoyed any time of the year though the ideal months are November and February.  During this time of the year the humidity levels are relatively low and there is little likelihood of rain.

HOW TO GET TO PHNOM PENH

Phnom Penh can be reached by either domestic flights, international flights or overland and speed boat from neighboring provinces. Phnom Penh is a fairly easy city to get around. Though traffic is getting more congested these days, you can still travel the length of the city in less than 40 minutes. Regarding the economical boom these days,the traffic increases significantly, reaching the popular tourist destinationsin less than 20 minutes.

Phnom Penh The major arrivalof international visitors in Phnom Penh is by air at Phnom Penh international airport and overland. Most of the flights to the country passed through the airport of Phnom Penh are from Asian cities. Many international as well as regional airlines operate daily flight service. Visas are available at airports and most overland border crossings.

On arrival at airport, taxis and motorcycle taxis (motodups) or tuk-tuks (Motorcycle trailers) can be hired just out side the arrival lobby. Now the meter taxis are available. Taxis cost $7.00 for the 20-30 minute ride into the city centre. Cheaper, slower and less comfortable, motor cycle taxis can be hired for $2.00 into town. Tuk-tuk cost $4.00 for a pleasant and comfortable ride to the heart of the city. An usual taxi to the airport from town costs about $5-7$. Allow a minimum of 30-40minutes to get to the airports, as you might get into some traffic jams during the rush hour.

Bus

One can reach city by busalso as there are regularly scheduled air-con buses operate between Phnom Penh and Poi-pet, a border city of Thailand and from Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam).

Port of Phnom Penh

The ferry port in Phnom Penhis on Sisowath Quay (the riverfront road) at Street 104, just north of the main river front park restaurant area. Getting to Phnom Penh by ferry is another option. Though the way is little time consuming. If you are arriving in Phnom Penh, there are always motor taxis and car taxis waiting for fares. Motorcycle taxis run about R1500-R3000, car taxis about $3-$5 and tuk-tuks costs   $2-$4 to down town hotels.

The guided visit of Phnom Penh - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Preah Khan Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park/Grand Circuit

Date of Construction: Late 12th century AD

King: Jayavarman VII

Style: Bayon

History Details

Preah Khan is a huge, highly explorable monastic complex. Full of carvings, passages and photo opportunities. It originally served as a Buddhist monastery and school, engaging over 1000 monks. For a short period it was also the residence of King Jayavarman VII during the reconstruction of his permanent home in Angkor Thom Temple. Preah Khan means 'sacred sword.’ In harmony with the architecturally similar Ta Prohm, which was dedicated to Jayavarman VII's mother, Preah Khan is dedicated to his father. Features of note: like most of Jayavarman VII's monuments, the Buddha images were vandalized in the later Hindu resurgence. Some Buddha carvings in the central corridor have been crudely carved over with Bodhisattvas, and in a couple of odd cases, a lotus flower and a linga. Also note the cylindrical columns on the building west of the main temple. It is one of the only examples of round columns and may be from a later period.

The guided visit of Preah Khan Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Preah Ko Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park - Roluos Group

Date of Construction: Late 9th century AD

King: Indravarman I

Style: Preah Ko

History Details

Roluos Group: Six towers displaying set on a platform, all beautifully preserved carvings . Originally surrounded by walls and gopuras of which only vestiges remain. Preah Ko was one of the first major temples of the empire at the early Khmer capital of Hariharalaya. Preah Ko (Sacred Bull) derives its name from the statues of bulls at the front of the central towers.

The guided visit of Preah Ko Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in Cambodia Classical & Beach:

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)    

Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

The 'bird sanctuary' at the Prek Toal core area of the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve has been called "the single most important breeding ground in Southeast Asia for globally threatened large waterbirds."

History Details

The Biosphere covers 31,282 hectares at the northwest tip of the Tonle Sap Lake and plays host to species including Greater and Lesser Adjuncts, Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork, Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, Grey-Headed Fish Eagle and many more species. Of the three Biosphere core areas on the Tonle Sap Lake, Prek Toal is the most accessible from Siem Reap and the most popular with birdwatchers. The best time of year for viewing is the dry season when flocks of migratory birds congregate at Prek Toal. As the dry season progresses and the water recedes, the number of birds increases but the travel to some of the more important viewing areas becomes more difficult.

Roluos Group

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park-Roluos Group

Date of Construction: Late 9th century AD

History Details

The Roluos Group is a collection of monuments representing the remains of Hariharalaya, the first major capital of the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire. It has become known as the ‘Roluos Group’ due to its proximity to the modern town of Roluos. The ancient capital was named for Hari-Hara, a synthesis of the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu. Though there was an existing settlement in the area before the rise of Angkor, Hariharalaya was established as a capital city by Jayavarman II and served as the Khmer capital for over 70 years under four successive kings. Setting the pattern for the next four centuries, the first great Khmer temples (Bakong, Preah Ko, Lo Lei) and baray (reservoir) were constructed at Hariharalaya. The last king at Hariharalaya, Yasovarman I, built the first major temple at Angkor,Phnom Bakheng, and moved the capital to the Bakheng area in 905 C.E. With the exception of a 20 year interruption in the 10th century, the capital would remain at Angkor until 1422 C.E., 12km southeast of Siem Reap.

The The guided visit of Roluos Group - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in Cambodia Classical & Beach:

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Sacred Phnom Kulen & Waterfall

Phnom Kulen is the most sacred of all Khmer Pilgrimage sites. This holy place is set on a 20 km long lime stone plateau which is mostly forested. This picturesque location is only 1 hour drive from Siem Reap. The approach on a mountain road is very scenic and provides some of the best landscape views in the Angkor area.

History Details

The Kulen Waterfalls are apopular bathing place for local families. The area is a good place to meet locals, as only few foreigners go here. The Kulen waterfalls are the most impressive waterfalls in Cambodia. They are spectacular, especially duringthe rainy season.

Visit the Wats and the Reclining Buddha. Go onward to see an area of Hindu lingams in the riverbed and the so called "Buddha'sfoodprint", a holy water spring. Depending on your interests,explore temples above the water falls and animal figures and carvings scattered around on the hill.

As there are opportunities for swimming, bring your bathers!

Siem Reap International Airport

Siem Reap International Airport is the airport serving Siem Reap, Cambodia, a popular tourist destination owing to nearby Angkor Wat. It is the busiest airport in Cambodia in terms of passenger traffic.

History Details

The airport was developed by Archetype Group. Its new terminal was inaugurated on August 28, 2006. The airport sits 7.5km from town, close to the temples, occasionally affording spectacular views of Angkor Wat during landings and take offs. Outside the terminal is a ticket booth for registered taxis into town. Independent taxis and motorcycles wait just outside the airport. The price is the same for both: motorcycles are $2 and cars are $7 into town. Most hotels offer free transportation from the airport but you must notify them in advance of your arrival.

The Cambodian government has plans to replace the airport with a new one, 60 km from Siem Reap.

Airlines and destinations

Ta Prohm Temple

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park.

Date of Construction: Mid 12th - Early 13th century AD

King: Jayavarman VII

Style: Bayon

History Details

Of similar design to the later Jayavarman VII temples of Preah Khan and Banteay Kdei,this quiet, sprawling monastic complex is only partially cleared of jungle overgrowth. Intentionally left partially unrestored, massive fig and silk-cotton trees grow from the towers and corridors offering some of the best ‘tree-in-temple’ photo opportunities at Angkor.

Flocks of noisy parrots flit from tree to tree adding to the jungle atmosphere. Ta Prohm is well worth an extended exploration of its dark corridors and open plazas. This temple was one of Jayavarman VII's first major temple projects. Ta Prohm was dedicated to his mother. (Preah Khan, built shortly after Ta Prohm in the same general style, was dedicated to Jayavarman VII’s father.) Ta Prohm was originally constructed as a Buddhist monastery and was enormously wealthy in its time, boasting of control over 3000 villages, thousands of support staff and vast stores of jewels and gold. Of the monastic complex style temples, Ta Prohm is a superior example and should be included in almost any temple itinerary.

The guided visit of Ta Phrom Temple - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

•    Angkor Highlights (3days)

•    Angkor Discovery (4days)

•    Angkor Explorer    (5days)

•    Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

•    Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Terrace of the Elephants

The Terrace of the elephants was built by King Jayavarman VII.The wall shows carving of mahouts and their elephants. This area was once used as an audience hall and for public ceremonies of the kings.

History Details

The Terrace of the Elephants is part of the walled city of Angkor Thom, a ruined temple complex in Cambodia. The terrace was used by Angkor's king Jayavarman VII as a platform from which to view his victorious returning army. It was attached to the palace of Phimeanakas, of which only a few ruins remain. Most of the original structure was made of organic material and has long since disappeared. Most of what remains are the foundation platforms of the complex.

The terrace is named for the carvings of elephants on its eastern face. The 350m-long Terrace of Elephants was used as a giant reviewing stand for public ceremonies and served as a base for the king's grand audience hall. It has five outworks extending towards the Central Square-three in the centre and one at each end. The middle section of the retaining wall is decorated with life size garuda and lions; towards either end are the two parts of the famous parade of elephants complete with their Khmer mahouts.

The guided visit of Terrace of the Elephants - with experienced and licensed local tour guides - is of course included in all our Angkor and Cambodia tour packages, such as

• Angkor Highlights (3days)

• Angkor Discovery (4days)

• Angkor Explorer    (5days)

• Classical Cambodia Tour (6days)

• Cambodia Classic & Beach (8days)

Tonle Sap Lake

The lake sits only about 15 km south of Siem Reap town. If you take the ferry between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap you will cross the lake and dock at the village of Chong Khneas. There are several ways to see the culture and wildlife of the lake area depending on the amount of time you have and your interest.

History Details

Cambodia's Great Lake, the Boeung Tonle Sap (Tonle Sap Lake,) is the most prominent feature on the map of Cambodia - a huge dumbbell-shaped body of water stretching across the northwest section of the country. In the wet season, the Tonle Sap Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, swelling to an expansive 12,000 km2. During the dry half of the year the Lake shrinks to as small as 2500 km2, draining into the Tonle Sap River, which meanders southeast, eventually merging with the Mekong River at the 'chaktomuk' confluence of rivers opposite Phnom Penh. But during the wet season a unique hydrologic phenomenon causes the river to reverse direction, filling the lake instead of draining it. The engine of this phenomenon is the Mekong River, which becomes bloated with snow melt and runoff from the monsoon rains in the wet season. The swollen Mekong backs up into the Tonle Sap River at the point where the rivers meet at the 'chaktomuk' confluence, forcing the waters of the Tonle Sap River back upriver into the lake. The inflow expands the surface area of lake more than five-fold, inundating the surrounding forested floodplain and supporting an extraordinarily rich and diverse eco-system. More than 100 varieties of waterbirds including several threatened and endangered species, over 200 species of fish, as well as crocodiles, turtles, macaques, otter and other wildlife inhabit the inundated mangrove forests. The Lake is also an important commercial resource, providing more than half of the fish consumed in Cambodia. In harmony with the specialized ecosystems, the human occupations at the edges of the lake is similarly distinctive - floating villages, towering stilted houses, huge fish traps, and an economy and way of life deeply intertwined with the lake, the fish, the wildlife and the cycles of rising and falling waters.

Chong Khneas

Chong Khneas is the floating village at the edge of the lake closest and most accessible to Siem Reap. If you want a relatively quick and easy look at the Tonle Sap, boat tours of Chong Khneas are available, departing from the Chong Khneas boat docks all day long. Take a motodup or taxi the 11-15km from Siem Reap to the boat docks where there are always boats waiting for passengers. A two-hour boat trip through the floating village and the boats may carry as many as 15 other people. The boatman will probably point out the differing Khmer and Vietnamese floating households and the floating markets, clinics, schools and other boatloads of tourists. Chong Khneas, while interesting, is over-touristed and is not as picturesque and 'unspoiled' as floating villages further from Siem Reap. The boat trip usually includes two stops: one at a touristy floating 'fish and bird exhibition' with a souvenir and snack shop, and the other at the very highly recommended Gecko Environment Centre, which offers displays and information introducing the ecology and biodiversity of the lake area.

Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

The 'bird sanctuary' at the Prek Toal core area of the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve has been called "the single most important breeding ground in Southeast Asia for globally threatened large waterbirds." The Biosphere covers 31,282 hectares at the northwest tip of the Tonle Sap Lake and plays host to species including Greater and Lesser Adjuncts, Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork, Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, Grey-Headed Fish Eagle and many more species. Of the three Biosphere core areas on the Tonle Sap Lake, Prek Toal is the most accessible from Siem Reap and the most popular with birdwatchers. The best time of year for viewing is the dry season when flocks of migratory birds congregate at Prek Toal. As the dry season progresses and the water recedes, the number of birds increases but the travel to some of the more important viewing areas becomes more difficult.
Kampong Phluk

Kampong Phluk is a cluster of three villages of stilted houses built within the floodplain about 16 km southeast of Siem Reap. The villages are primarily Khmer and have about 3000 inhabitants between them. Flooded mangrove forest surrounds the area and is home to a variety of wildlife including crab-eating macaques. During the dry season when the lake is low, the buildings in the villages seem to soar atop their 6-meter stilts exposed by the lack of water. At this time of year many of the villagers move out onto the lake and build temporary houses. In the wet season when water level rises, the villagers move back to their permanent houses on the floodplain, the stilts now hidden under the water. Kampong Phluk's economy is, as one might expect, based in fishing, primary in shrimp harvesting.

Kampong Phluk sees comparatively few foreign visitors and offers a close look at the submerged forest and lakeside village life. The area can be reached by boat from the Chong Khneas or by road. Make arrangements through your guesthouse of tour operator, or charter a boat at the Chong Khneas docks. During the wet season, drive to Roluos village just off Route #6 east of Siem Reap and then take a boat through the flooded forest the rest of the way. During the dry season the road is clear, making the boat unnecessary. Much of the road has recently been improved, now paved most of the way.

Wat Thmei

Wat Thmei is a modern pagoda concealing a dark past, with a memorial stupa containing the bones of victims of the Khmer Rouge during 1975 – 1979. There are plenty of young monks keen to practice their English here. It’s located on the left fork of the road to Angkor Wat.

History Details

Pagodas and monks welcome visitors and tourists. Please always remember to not disturb prayer or eating times, women are not allowed to touch monks, bow slightly in the presence of older monks, don’t point soles of feet or fingers towards monks or Buddha statues, sit with feet tucked behind rather than crossed, hats off in the monastery grounds, take off your shoes in the building, speak softly, ask before taking pictures, don’t enter closed buildings without permission, contribute what you can to the donation box.

Angkor Archaeological Park

The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to the magnificent Khmer temple ruins of Angkor, including the legendary Angkor Wat, Bayon and dozens of other ancient ruins  of the Angkorian-era (9th-13th century) Khmer Empire. The Park encompasses more than 400 square kilometers just outside Siem Reap City in northwestern Cambodia and is a World Heritage Site.

History Details

The temple ruins of Angkor contained within the Angkor Archaeological Park represent the remnants of the millennium-old Angkorian-era capitals of the ancient Khmer Empire. The Khmer people were and are the dominant ethnic group in Cambodia. The name ‘Angkor’ refers to the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire that stretched across much of mainland Southeast Asia between the 9th and 15th centuries A.D., and also refers to the capital city of the Empire that was centered north of Siem Reap Cambodia. The Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses the main temple ruins of the Angkorian capitals located in the Siem Reap area. Most of these temples were constructed between the 9th and 12th century A.D. and represent the pinnacle of ancient Khmer architecture, art and civilization. At its height, the Age of Angkor was a time wealth and power for the Khmer Empire. The capital city at Angkor was populated by more than a million people, Khmer kings constructed vast waterworks and grand temples and the Empire's military, economic and cultural dominance held sway over the area of modern Cambodia, as well as much of Thailand, southern Vietnam and Laos.
 
Siem Reap City is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. There are no hotels within the Park grounds and most visitors stay in Siem Reap where almost all of the area's  hotel and restaurants are located. Siem Reap City is just south of the Angkor Archaeological Park with the Park entrance located only 3km north of town. With the exception of the Roluos Group of temples 13km east of Siem Reap, the most important temple ruin are within 6-25km north of town, the closest major temple being Angkor Wat. To arrange your visit to the Angkor Archaeological Park you will need to decide how long to stay, purchase an admission pass, arrange transportation to the temples, obtain a guidebook or tour guide and plan out your temple itinerary.

 * You must possess an admission pass (an 'Angkor Pass') to visit the temples and sites in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Passes may be purchased at the main entrance on the road to Angkor Wat. One-day tickets only can be purchased at the secondary tollgate on airport road entrance Angkor Wat near  and a Banteay Srey.

Passes are sold in one-day ($37), three-day ($62) and seven-day ($72) blocks. The three day pass is valid for one week, i.e. 3 days to be used within the week, not necessarily consecutively. The seven day pass is valid for one month, i.e. 7 days to be used within the month, not necessarily consecutively.

A one-day visit allows you to see the highlights of the most famous temples but very little more. Three days is sufficient to visit all of the major temples once, a few of the minor ones and have a little extra time at your favorites. Seven days is enough time to really explore some of your favorite ruins and visit many of the minor structures as well. One passport-sized photo is require at time of purchase of three and seven day passes. If you do not have a photo, free photos are provided at the main entrance, though this can be a time consuming process at peak entrance hours.

Visiting hours are 5:00AM - 6:00PM. Angkor Wat closes at 6:00PM,Banteay Srey closes at 5:00PM Kbal Spean  and  at 3:00PM. Always carry your ticket. It will be checked upon each park entry and at major temples. There is a significant fine for not possessing a valid ticket inside the park. A regular admission ticket is not required to visit Phnom Kulen, Koh Ker or  Beng Mea Lea, but there is a separate entrance fee of $20, $10 and $5, respectively.

*There are dozens of temple ruins in the Angkor Archaeological Park spread across more than 400 square km. all in different states of ruin and displaying a  range of artistic and architectural styles. To get the most from your limited time at the Park you will need to plan a temple itinerary. Your personal depends largely on how much time you have and your level of interest, though some temples are ‘must sees.

*Wear light, airy, covering clothing to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so bring a hat, sunglasses and perhaps sunscreen. Consider buying a traditional Khmer scarf (krama) to keep the sun off your neck. Carry a raincoat during the wet season, though you will probably only need it in the afternoon. You should have mosquito repellent for sunrise and sunset hours. Wear practical shoes for climbing narrow steps and walking on uneven surfaces. For serious temple explorers, a flashlight, notebook and compass can come in handy. Books, refreshments, trinkets, postcards and film are available from small vendors throughout the temple complex.

Apsara Dance

No visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one traditional Khmer dance performance, often referred to as 'Apsara Dance' after one of the most popular Classical dance pieces. Traditional Khmer dance is better described as'dance-drama' in that the dances are not merely dance but are also meant toconvey a story or message. There are four main modern genres of traditional Khmer dance:

1) Classical Dance, also knownas Court or Palatine Dance (lakhonpreah reach troap or lakhonluong);

2) Shadow theater (sbeik thom and sbeik toot);

3) Lakhon Khol (all-male masked dance-drama.);

4) Folk Dance (Ceremonial andTheatrical).

History Details

As evidenced in part by the innumerable apsaras (celestial dancers) that adorn the walls of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian temples, dance has been part of Khmer culture for well more than a millennium, though there have been ruptures in the tradition over the centuries, making it impossible to precisely trace the source of the tradition. Much of traditional dance (especially Classical) is inspired by Angkorian-era art and themes, but the tradition has not been passed unbroken from the age of Angkor.

Most traditional dances seen today were developed in the 18th through 20th centuries, beginning in earnest with a mid-19th century revival championed by King Ang Duong (reigned 1841-1869). Subsequent Kings and other Khmer Royals also strongly supported the arts and dance, most particularly Queen Sisowath Kossamak Nearireach (retired King Norodom Sihanouk's mother) in the mid-20th century, who not only fostered a resurgence in the study and development of Khmer traditional dance, but also helped move it out of the Palace and popularize it.

Queen Sisowath Kossamak trained her grand daughter Princess Bopha Devi in the art of traditional dance from early childhood, who went on to become the face of Khmer traditional dance in the 1950s and 60s both in Cambodia and around the world. Many traditional dances that are seen in performances today were developed and refined between the 1940s and 1960s under the guidance and patronage of Queen Sisowath Kossamak at the Conservatory of Performing Arts and the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh. Almost all of the Theatrical Folk dances that are presented in modern performances were developed during this period. Like so much of Cambodian art and culture, traditional dance was almost lost under the brutal repression of the Khmer Rouge regime of the late 1970s, only to be revived and reconstructed in the 1980s and 90s due, in large part, to the extraordinary efforts of Princess Bopha Devi.