Bakong was the first sandstone temple mountain (an architectural representation of Mount Meru) constructed by rulers of the Khmer empire at Angkor in 802AD. There is an active Buddist temple on the site and a few temple boys were laying up for lunch...the monks being out collecting their food donations.

Labels: Asia, Bakong, Cambodia, Roulos, Siem Reap, Temple

As I was wandering around the outer boundary of Bakong Temple, I was passed by several children on their way home from school. Some were on foot, but most were riding knackered old bicycles. These were adult bikes, donated by overseas charities and are well oversize for most children. But as many kids have to walk up to 10km to school they are much prized.

Labels: Asia, Cambodia, Roulos, Siem Reap, Temple

Preah Ko (Sacred Bull) was built in 879AD by the Khmer King Indravarman I. This was the first Khmer temple I visited in Cambodia. It is part of the Roulous group a few miles from the main group at Angkor. It's named after the three sandstone bulls in front of the temple who represent Nandi, Shiva's mount.
In the final image, Nandi is being ridden by one of the hundreds of child beggars who ply the temples.

Labels: Asia, Cambodia, Roulos, Siem Reap, Temple