Saturday, July 21, 2007

Angkor Wat: In Pictures (Part 2)

Two special apsaras can be found in Angkor Wat, and they can be found in the central tower complex, facing the three towers. Although hundreds of apsaras grace these same walls, these two are unique.

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And the reason they're special? They actually show teeth in their smile.

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The dizzying height of the steps leading to the three towers. Two of the three towers were under reconstruction/restoration during our visit and thus, were off-limits to tourists.

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Unfortunately, Nins has acrophobia and prevailed upon Charlie's interest to climb up and go inside the celebrated tower. The sight of tourists cautiously going up and down the steep and eroded steps (from centuries of wear) did little to persuade Nins to make the most out of this trip.

Oh look, an upskirt shot!

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Rails were placed on one the side of the steps so tourists could hold on for dear life while descending or ascending the steps.

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Up next: pictures from the last leg of the Angkor Wat tour. We then head off to our next temple, Bayon.


Friday, July 20, 2007

Angkor Wat: In Pictures (Part 1)

Enough talk. Here are more photos of Angkor Wat, its carvings and other such things.

Enjoy!

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Unfinished carving on one of the pillars. Close-up shows faint lines of the unfinished portion, as against the detail and depth of the finished portion.


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One of the many apsaras in Angkor Wat. (Notice her weathered chest? It could only mean one thing.)


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One of four pools where worshipers washed their head and feet before entering the central towers.



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Within these walls surrounding the pool are the eroded and steep steps leading to the central tower complex.


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Eye on the Prize: tower as seen from the pool


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Headless Buddhas stacked around the pool: reminders of a bitter history


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In the walkway dividing the four pools, worshipers continue to adorn this Buddha (and tourist continue to surround it)



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Up close, minus the annoying tourists (including the one taking this picture)

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Up next: Photos from the Central Tower Complex