Baksei Chamrong is a much under credited and valued temple. This magnificent ziggurat style temple is located close to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the main entrance to the ancient Angkorian city to the north of Siem Reap in northern Vietnam.
The Towering Beauty of Baksei Chamrong
It is an impressive 12 metre (40ft) brick and laterite pyramid that dates back to the early 10th century. It is thought that either construction was started by King Harshavarman I, or that he at least dedicated statues on the temple site. It was then either improved, restored or indeed built by Rajendravarman II. This was at the time that the capital of the ancient Khmer kingdom moved from its former home in Koh Ker to Angkor Thom. Nowadays Koh Ker is jungle, but in its day, it was an extremely important Khmer capital city. It is located about 120 km (75miles) from Angkor.
Inscriptions on the doorway state that Rajendravarman II did indeed consecrate the temple in 947AD with the installation of a golden Shiva image. It is here that the confusion over who built it lies. It is thought that Baksei Chamrong also served as a funeral temple.
Top Tips
Because of its location, the light hits this temple at a great angle in the mornings. If you are a photographer make sure you get there early to get the best shots.
It can easily be combined with your visit to Angkor Thom as you enter via the south gate, just inform your tuk tuk driver that you want to pay a visit.
As with all Angkorian temple sites, indeed most sites throughout the region of Southeast Asia, please remember that this is a hugely significant religious site for the local Cambodian people. Try not to offend local people, dress and behave modestly.
Previously published:
1: Ak Yom https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-1-ak-yom
2: Angkor Thom https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-2-angkor-thom
3: Angkor Wat https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-3-angkor-wat
4: Bakong https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-4-bakong
I have been developing the InSeAsia website for three years. It genuinely is a labour of love. I have lived in Southeast Asia for 9 years and have no plans to ever leave.
Please up vote, comment and re-steem, and come and check us out
Website: https://www.inseasia.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InSeAsia/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inseasia/