Travel and Adventure
This temple complex is located southeast of Ta Prohm. It is not as well preserved as Ta Prohm. Built at the end of the 12th century, the construction material is a much softer sandstone. Bantaey Kdei has not been restored. You will see many halls and towers that have crumbled. However, there is still a lot standing and the mixture gives a unique perspective.
This is a small temple just east of the Victory Gate to Angkor Thom. It is very similar to Thommanon Temple just across the road. Both are Hindu temples. Chau Say Tevoda was constructed in the 12 century.
A nice stop to do along with Thommanon. Chau Say Tevoda is slightly different in that it has a stone walkway and outline of a moat can still be seen.
Thommanon is a Hindu temple built in the 12th century. It is rather small and located as you exit from Angkor Thom through the Victory Gate. The grounds are flat and open with all the underbrush cleared away. The carvings at Thommanon are in great condition. There is only one tower at this temple.
Most people stop here when leaving Angkor Thom on the way to Ta Keo. Just across the road is Chau Say Thevoda, another Hindu temple.
Directions: East of the Victory Gate at Angkor Thom.
The Elephant Terrace is part of the Royal Palace complex serving as part of the east wall. It is said that this is where the King would watch parades of his army. The front wall of the terrace and beautifully carved elephants. There are also three dimensional versions with the trunks of the elephants almost acting as a decorative column.
The terrace, as it is called, consists of two walls, an inner and outer wall. The inner is said to have been built first and that the outer was built later to replace the inner wall which was deteriorating and falling down. Reports suggest this terrace was used as ceremonial location or for cremations. The walls are separated by a trench allowing visitors to see both side which are heavily carved bas-reliefs of Apsaras and Buddhas. I found this very impressive and plan to spend more time exploring the features of the walls.
