Popular Photography Magazine

Ancient Worlds: Angkor Wat

Captivating people, breathtaking vistas, awe-inspiring natural phenomena, rare and exotic animals—we know what makes the best photos. And we know where to find them. Read on to learn where to go to get the shots of your dreams. Consider this your ticket to amazing images.

Photo Credit: Alison Wright
Siem Reap, Cambodia

The center of the capital of the Khmer Empire until the 15th century, Angkor Wat, after the Khmer’s decline, remained lost to the outside world until 1860. The temple complex is considered one of the world’s most important architectural sites. The central tower is surrounded by four smaller towers and adorned with intricate statues and carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Most of the temples face east, so the best light is the morning, while west-facing Angkor Wat gets the best light in the afternoon.

Must-get shots: A reflection of the temple complex in the waters of the moat, and the massive Bodhisattva head carvings of Ta Prohm, the only temple that’s been left largely unrestored.

For more info: www.tourismcambodia.com.

This Photo: Monk, Ta Prohm Temple
Photographer Alison Wright advises shooting the temple complex around dawn or sunset, when the monks visit. “The key to avoiding the crowds is to go in an anti-clockwise direction,” she says. “Most people end up on Bakheng Hill watching the sunset, but there’s no subject then except the sun.”