One of my favorite things to do at Ta Prohm is to take a close look at the beautiful carvings around the complex. Some still have great detail. Every structure and every wall seem to have carvings of a Buddha or ornate relief. None are the same. There is so much to see at Angkor, few people take the time to really check these works out. They are art unto themselves. Take time to go beyond the big picture of the temples. Look closely. You will be amazed at what is in store.

This little carving has become quite popular in recent years. Some think it is evidence that dinosaurs existing during human times. Being that Ta Prohm was constructed around the 12 century, they hardly had the technology to determine what a Stegosaurus looked like even if they unearthed some dinosaur bones. Others believe is is a Rhinoceros with leaves behind it. There is even another suggestion that it is a hoax put there as a joke.

I can tell you that I don’t believe this is a hoax in any way possible. Anyone that has been there can tell it is very obvious it is old and similar to the other carvings along that area and through Ta Prohm.

I think its great to let people make their own decision. To find the “Stegosaurus” walk to the far west of Ta Prohm. In the center of the second wall is a doorway (see photo with the woman in green). To the left on the outside in the corner, below the tower, is a vertical line of Bas-relief carvings. There you will find it.

This is probably my favorite of all the Angkor temples. Ta Prohm is also referred to as Temple of the Jungle. Much has been untouched by Archeologist other than to clear paths through the ruins. Ta Prohm was built in the late 12 century. It is a fairly large complex of towers and corridors linking courtyards and temples.

This temple can become very overrun with tourist all day. Its unique sights make it very popular. It is difficult to take a photo without someone standing in your shot. There are a number of trails and walkways weaving throughout Ta Prohm. with a little patience and walking you can definitely get some beautiful photos.

I enjoyed Ta Prohm so much, I returned on my last day in the ruins. I made sure this was my first stop at 7am. I had the entire place to myself. The silence and sun rising through the over grown trees was amazing. The moss covered stone of the temple took on an illuminating green color. I highly recommend going to Ta Prohm very early in the morning. It was a very special time.

Ta Prohm is known as the temple of the jungle for good reason. More than any other temple in Angkor, the jungle is battle to reclaim its domain. Many of the structures at Ta Prohm have amazing growth of trees and vegetation sprouting through rocks or growing over doors and windows. Walls are being wrapped by jungle trees like nothing I have ever seen.

The view is surreal. The best time to see this is in the early morning hours. With no one around, it can send chills down you spine in a good way. I felt like I never wanted to leave.

There is so much of this over growth, you have to take time and wander around. Much of the experience is taken away when viewing this with many people.

You have to go early morning for the full experience.