TA PROHM: the mother temple
Ta Prohm Roots 2008
"This huge temple complex looks very similar to when it was first discovered. The high lichen covered walls are distorted by the movement of the earth beneath. 800 years of history lie twisted and broken, with sinister root systems of huge trees enveloping doors and windows in a stranglehold.The distinction between organic and non-organic become blurred in the green pallor of light from the jungle canopy. The intensity of the jungle sounds here can be almost deafening"
I wrote this after my first visit in 2002. Ta Prohm and the temples have changed a lot in the last few years and visitor numbers have increased. In spite of this; Ta Prohm is one of the Wonders of Cambodia and is justifiably near the top of places to see here!
I wrote this after my first visit in 2002. Ta Prohm and the temples have changed a lot in the last few years and visitor numbers have increased. In spite of this; Ta Prohm is one of the Wonders of Cambodia and is justifiably near the top of places to see here!
You are in Angkor Temples - Angkor Wat- Angkor Thom - Bayon - Ta Prohm - Preah Khan - Eastern Temples
This tiny figure protected by tree roots, is hard to find! Ta Prohm Deity
Angkor has many grand and spectacular things to see; but sometimes its the smaller things that really excite. The Deity surrounded by tree roots is situated in a busy area and is passed by hundreds of thousands every year; but most never see it. Having a good guide who looks beyond the normal field of vision; can bring forth a lot of details and intimate knowledge to really enhance the experience of being here at Angkor.
A documentary about Angkor Splash of Color features in 2008 featured myself in Ta Prohm searching for this deity. Splash of Color TV Cambodia. Temple Watch Article on the Future of Ta Prohm
 New Platform
When the early 20th Century temple restorers started work in Angkor, it was decided to leave the ruin of Ta Prohm un-restored to give an impression of what it was like to discover a lost temple. The fabulous tree roots and atmosphere has been one of Angkor’s major draw ever since. Safety considerations and visitor numbers have meant that restoration and maintenance were needed.
Repairs to the western entrance Gopura has now been finished and the western cruciform terrace with Naga Balustrade is on the way to completion. The well known tree with strangler fig over a doorway in the Central Sanctuary has been opened up to visitors with new walkway and fencing. The new viewing platform at the famous East Gopura; will deter people crawling over the tree and carvings; however it is likely to upset photographers, who with patience could wait for the groups to go. With time, the wood will weather, so the platform will not be so noticeable. Looking at what has been going on at the temple in the last few years; the principle of not restoring Ta Prohm has long since been abandoned; so how far should the temple restoration go? Dave Perkes February 2009 (Temple Watch Article in Phnom Penh Post)  Plan of Ta Prohm |
 Ta Prohm Roots taken in 2002 |
for more information on our tours to Angkor and beyond see https://www.peaceofangkor.com
