Kola Nut Travel - Cambodia

It’s easy to fancy yourself a 21st century “Indiana Jones” when you enter the jungle infested ruins of the Ta Phrom temple at Angkor Wat. The tumbling moss-covered stones exude a spiritual calm, enhanced by massive tree roots that have laid claim to various walls and doorways. Ta Phrom has been left as it was found, a startling reminder of Nature's power to reclaim what is hers. The complex of Angkor Wat temples is the main tourist attraction of Cambodia. These 1000-year-old structures have been described as the crown jewel of the country, transporting visitors in time and spirit.

The 'Lost City' of Angkor remained undiscovered until French archaeologists stumbled upon it in the late 19th century, and ever since it has continued to amaze all who see it for the first time. At the height of its glory, an estimated one million people lived there, making it the largest metropolis in its time. The main temple is reached by crossing a giant stone causeway that spans the 600-foot moat on the west side of the complex. This is in itself is an incredible feat of engineering. The towers and carvings within tell the stories of ancient myths and legends. No less impressive is the neighboring Bayon Temple with its enigmatic Buddha-like stone heads that seem to smile at you from across the centuries.

Siem Reap is the nearest town to Angkor Wat. It is quite a small town and you can easily walk around to explore the city. Siam Reap draws visitors because of its proximity to Angkor, but the town is charming in its own right – and a welcome respite after spending a day clambering over temple ruins. Here there are markets, picturesque parks and an active nightlife. The huge natural reservoir lake, Tonle Sap, is just to the south of Siem Reap and provides a relaxing boat trip and a glimpse into the fascinating life of its floating village.

Phnom Penh is the capitol of Cambodia and is spread out on the banks of two rivers. The main sights in town include Wat Phnom from where you have great views over the city, and the Silver Pagoda in the Royal Palace complex, where you can see the emerald Buddha and a Buddha made of solid gold. The National Museum is also worth a visit. Other sights include the Phnom Temple, the Orchid Garden, the central market and a 15th century pagoda or you can take a boat ride on the Mekong River to see the floating village. One of the most enjoyable things to do is simply taking a walk along the Tonle Sap River in the late afternoon when the locals are out eating, entertaining, praying and soaking up life.

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