Ta Som, Enveloped by Nature: A Portal to Serenity
Ta Som Temple, Grand Circuit, Siem Reap, Cambodia
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Introduction
Tasas Temple, built in the late 12th century, is a Buddhist temple dedicated to the father of King Jayavarman VII, known for his smiling face. Although the temple is not large and the central area is damaged, restoration work is being carried out by the World Monuments Fund. Surrounding the temple are Kapok trees, and the West Gate is particularly noteworthy as a huge ancient Banyan tree engulfs the stone gate with a Buddha's head, creating a spectacular and mysterious sight. At the center of the temple is a single-story tower surrounded by three walls, with east and west entrance pavilions each adorned with four faces, with the faces on the east pavilion displaying beautiful smiles. Passing through the first entrance pavilion, you will enter the second courtyard, where the walls are made of red laterite and there are sandstone cross-shaped towers at the entrance. Within the courtyard, there are two libraries housed in a pile of random stones, and the main tower is cross-shaped with four archways. From the open area on the north side, you can have a clear view of the central sanctuary, courtyard, and libraries. In addition to the temple itself, the Banyan tree landscape at the West Gate is also a picturesque spot for photography. Address Ta Som Temple, Grand Circuit, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Tasen was originally a temple
