Destination Siem Reap, Cambodia

Magical and mystical, Angkor Wat is a mesmerising marvel that stops you in your tracks. I had come to Cambodia because I wanted to see this 12^th-century temple, the country's most beloved treasure.

You hear about it, you read about it and with so much hype surrounding it, you prepare to be a little disappointed when you actually see it. But, Cambodia's best-preserved religious monument and one of the largest ever constructed on the planet, is a wonder that is hard to sum up in words. You have to see it for yourself to comprehend its true genius.

Angkor Wat is a mesmerising marvel that stops you in your tracks

The Cambodians are so proud of this vast 500-acre complex that it features on the national flag. An architectural genius of the Khmer Empire, it was commissioned by King Suryavarman lI. Initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, in the 14^th century, it became a Buddhist temple. 

The temple, which is surrounded by a huge moat, has a dazzling array of different designs and carvings that tell of the stories of Hindu mythology.

Gods looking composed and peaceful,

Angkor Thom (Great City) is up there with Angkor Watt when it comes to wowing the crowds. The last capital of the Khmer empire gives a new meaning to the word unforgettable. The colossal stone-carved faces that flank the long causeway, demons with their scowling faces on the right and gods on the left looking composed and peaceful, is a sight you can never forget.

Demons with their scowling faces 

The astonishing Bayon Temple is at its heart. Fifty-four towers covered with huge smiling faces. Other gems are the Terrace of Elephants, which tells the story of a fabled battle in Khmer history, the Royal Palace, the Leper King Terrace, a statue which dates back to the 12^th century and Phimeanakas and Baphoun, both temples.

Banteay Srei Temple (citadel of the women)

You should also try make time to to visit the 11^th-century pyramid-shaped Temple of Shiva and the Banteay Srei Temple (citadel of the women) which was built in AD967 using pink-tinged stone, and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The intricate carvings here are exquisite.

We also took time to go to a local monastery where we had a blessing ceremony which was a great experience.

After two days of visiting holy places you might feel a little jaded but not to see the Buddhist temple Ta Prohm would be to miss a real treat.

Buddhist temple Ta Prohm

If you wondered what it would be like when the European explorers came across an undiscovered temple, then this is the place to head. It appears as if the jungle as engulfed it. Shrouded in shadows with trees spreading and winding their roots over walls and terraces you feel as if you have stumbled on another world.

Face carved in tree at Ta Prohm

Siem Reap is not only the gateway to the Angkor temples, it is actually a buzzing town that is a super combination of chic hotels, a good culinary scene, unusual boutiques and interesting arts.

Tuk-tuks are the best way to get around the dusty streets of this city. Fares are cheap so everybody uses them.

Siem Reap

The Angkor Night Market gives you a flavour of Cambodian life. Stall after stall is packed with souvenirs, handicrafts, silks and cheap clothing. Pub Street is the place to go if you want to party.

To savour traditional Cambodian culture take in dinner with an Apsara dance show. It is on every tourist’s itinerary. This ancient art portrayed on the walls of Angkor’s temples, is centuries old. Every gesture is said to have its own special meaning.

Pub Street

Like many countries Cambodia, once a French colony, has had some bleak moments in its past. Between1975 and 1979, the communist Khmer Rouge headed  by Pol Pot, has left an indelible mark on the country’s psyche. While Cambodia has moved on leaps and bounds since then, its history has played its role in making this fascinating country and its people what they are today.

I left Siem Reap feeling all the richer for having been there.

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there

I flew from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with Vietnam Airlines. For details of international flights and connections as well as best rates visit vietnamairlines.com
UK passport holders will need a visa for the Kingdom of Cambodia which you can get at the border or online, or through a visa service

I stayed at the five-star Angkor Century Resort and Spa angkorcentury.com