Friday, 5 September 2008

Temple watch: Off the beaten track

The Phnom Penh Post

Written by Dave Perkes
Thursday, 04 September 2008

ONE of the most mysterious and atmospheric venues in Angkor is the West Gate of Angkor Thom, at the end of a recently-improved gravel track. It is used by locals as a route from villages to the ancient reservoir of Western Baray, and tourists are a rarity.

The old laterite road has been subject to wear, so new wooden ramps were constructed this month as further protection.

A pleasant diversion on this route is the small temple tower of Prasat Top West. The temple, which can be accessed via a narrow track, is a very peaceful spot and a great place to get away from the crowds. To help find it, watch for some Apsara Authority bollards on the left of the main route about 800 metres from the Bayon.

For those who want a peaceful walk, the walls of Angkor Thom have a wide path at the top, with a sloping earth bank forming the inner wall. You can easily take the route from any of the five main gates, and see any of the four Prasat Chrung Corner temples. The route from the North Gate to the West Gate is best for the afternoons. The walk from the East, or Victory Gates, to North Gate is best in the mornings.

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