The Khmer Empire was successful in building what seems to be the largest religious monument in the world, gradually becoming the symbol and icon of Cambodia. It's no wonder why many tourists would want to visit the famous Angkor Wat temples.
Travelers Today reported that despite the price increase commencing last February, an influx of travelers still visits the famous sites. Also, the same site shares that Cambodian officials have even placed a limit in sunset-watching to 300 people on the top of Phnom Bakheng after it was seen that the effects of overcrowding would ruin the place. If people wanted to visit the off-beaten tracks, here are alternative sites to see more than just Angkor Wat.
Banteay Chhmar is one of the country's temples built during the Angkor era in the Banteay Meanchey province. There are a couple of interesting bas-relief carvings found on the stone walls, like their prince battling a demon and some military exercises done by Khmer men.
It suffered numerous lootings over the years because of its historical value. Officials have wanted Banteay Chhmar enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site to protect the temple for future generations further. It has nine other satellite temples that travelers can visit and take a look at their towers and columns though filled with foliage through the centuries.
Travelers can also delve into other than the famous Wat which is the previous Capital of the Khmer Empire, Koh Ker. As it was once a glorious city of Angkor period, expect amazing carvings, statues or buildings found in the vicinity. The largest temple found in Koh Ker is the seven-stepped building named Prang. The best way to savor the experience is by hiring the local community in taking an Ox Cart ride around the site.
Sambor Prei Kuk is one temple that should be visited by travelers in case Angkor Wat gets intensely crowded. The Sambor housed the 1,400-year-old city Chenla with over 140 temples, statues, and bas-reliefs that can be found in the area. The most famous icon found at the site is the three-faced head at the center.
All in all, Cambodia does not lack in religious sites. There are plenty of temples waiting to be discovered by tourists who want to tread the off-beaten track.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
