After my short dessert-like exploration at Pre Rup, I rode my way through the scorching heat of the sun to reach Ta Som Temple. A 4km ride north of Pre Rup Temple. By this time, I was already having regrets not taking the mountain bike compared to the granny bike I was using. I wasn't expecting to be riding that far already.
The temple's remoteness charmed my inner fiber as it greeted me in its semi-ruined state. Heaps of rubbles lay around its perimeter while other parts of the walls are being held in place by wooden supports. However other structures still stand tall despite the years of decay. The intricate carvings of female Buddhist deities have also survived and hold immense clues to its rich culture and history. Huge ficus trees surrounds the walls and adds power to its enchanting presence.
The most prominent feature of Ta Som is this huge ficus tree engulfing the main eastern gopura. Others may say these trees caused damaged to the ruins, I say that they hold the structures in place and have help preserved the history of these temples. Besides that, its now a picturesque backdrop that entices more travelers to visit this uncommon temple. I actually waited about 10 minutes just to have a shot under this famous tree.
Ta Som is a Buddhist temple built by his royalty King Jayavarman VII within the late 12th century. This small but distinguished Bayon style temple was referred to as "The Jewel of the Propitious White Elephant" which was documented at Preah Khan Temple.
The layout of this temple is the same of Banteay Kdei and Ta Prohm but smaller and simplier. The temple consists of two enclosures made of laterite materials however the outer wall has mostly vanished and the main gopura remains. The inner wall provides four access way entering to the main tower or shrine. Two small libraries can be found outside the main tower.
Ta Som was also one of those "untouched temples" when it was founded meaning it wasn't restored right away so that it would also have that jungle feels like in Ta Prohm Temple. World Monuments Fund started the restoration only in 1998.
If you want to escape the crowds but still be mesmerized and enchanted by the temples in Angkor Wat Heritage Park, then don't forget to drop by at Ta Som Temple. You won't regret it. Thank you for dropping by. Sending you love and light.
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