Triad of Temples

Even those who know very little about Cambodia are sure to recognize Angkor Wat—the intricate temple complex built in the 12th-century features on the country’s national flag and is among the world’s most important archaeological wonders. Originally built as a Hindu temple, Angkor Wat transitioned to a Buddhist site with shifts in the country's political landscape, and remains one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Arguably more captivating is Angkor Thom. Enclosing several temples within its walled complex, including the Terrace of Elephants and the enigmatic Bayon, Angkor Thom is considered the last great capital of the Khmer empire. Completing the triad is Ta Prohm, popularly known as the ‘Tomb Raider’ temple after the 2001 Angelina Jolie film. Shrouded in a jungle, Ta Prohm is a fantastic feat of man and nature. In view of its preservation, restoration work by a team of Indian archaeologists has been underway since 2004.