Angkor

If you really want to discover Angkor, then you will have to stay in Cambodia a week or longer. The preserved temples are layered with history, the rule of kings and an interesting blend of Hinduism and Buddhism.

The temples themselves are a visible interpretation of the holy world. The whole of the temples represent the home of the gods, Mount Meru, which is often surrounded by a moat symbolizing the Cosmic Ocean. Due to the heavy influence from India, there are many statues of Shiva's linga situated in yoni, Vishnu in his various incarnations and multi-headed Naga protecting the entrances.

Bayon is known for the mysterious faces that decorate its towers facing all directions while Ta Prohm is famously overtaken by heavy strangler fig trees. Different temples are constructed from different elements ranging from lava rock, laterite, sandstone, red clay and more. Some walls are burnt black from fire or green with moss. You will find images of female Aspara, elephants, gods and bas reliefs relaying holy stories while others share everyday life that are, to us, centuries old.

The history and stories are endless, the architecture combined with nature truly awesome, with details always left undiscovered by travelers who even stay for months on end. You can still escape the throngs of visitors by waiting for the guided tours to pass and then take the opportunity to take a photo in the temples as if you and/or your companions were the only ones present.