Angkor Wat contributes 20% of Cambodia's economy. The prices being charged were certainly tourist prices, at least 100% markup for food and drink. The memorabilia was by bargaining. A $11 article could be purchased for $3 - $6.
The Temple complex was surrounded by a moat which was dug by hand. The site is over 162 hectares. The most is about 100m wide.
The temple was built in the 12th century by the Hindu king, but now is a Buddhist temple
The walls of the temple were covered with carvings depicting various mythologies and stories from both the Hindu and the Buddhist religion. The king decided that the temple would be multicultural and included Buddhist myths. Some of then about the life and times of their kings. Of course the various wars formed a major part of the display. Our guide explained a number of stories, however, after the first half dozen I couldn't remember the details.
Some parts of the temples are basically ruins, natural depreciation, and walking around the uneven stone surfaces and well worn steps took toll on the legs. It was a nearly windless day, and the ambient temperature was high.
Some photos at around dawn. Cloud cover hid the sun.
The temple complex
On the way to Angkor Thom we came across some elephants walking along the road.
Some photos from Angkor Thom
We then went to Ta Prohm. Notice the trees growing in part of the temple.
The lunch we all thought would be provided was an optional extra and although time was included we had to pay for the meal. I did not feel hungry, probably due to heat and the walking, so I just had a papaya shake.
On my return I decided that I would just have a reasonably early dinner and then relax my legs, which were complaining. Had a tropical storm whilst I was having dinner. The eating place had a tin roof so was a very pleasant dinner, atmosphere and food.
I had beef stir-fry and a banana shake.
Bugger about not getting to see the sunrise.
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