Ta Prohm, Angkor, Cambodia Engulfed by the surrounding forest, the temple of Ta Prohm was never restored (exceptions being made for structural strengthening to prevent further deterioration) and was left in the original state as when the first Europeans "discovered" Angkor in the middle of the 19th century.  Since Ta Prohm was deserted several hundred years ago, the site has slowly been reclaimed by the forest.  Parts of the temple have been eroded yet held in tact by the massive trees that grow upon its towers and walls.  Ta Prohm provides an interesting glimpse into the unique marriage between the man-made world and the natural world.

Constructed under the reign of the proflific builder King Jayavarman VII in the mid 12th to early 13th centuries, Ta Prohm still retains a sense of discovery for the modern traveller similiar to that of the early European explorers.  As you wander through the huge temple complex, you notice that some corridors have completely collapsed under the weight of time while others are held in place by the huge roots of centuries old trees.  Each temple in Angkor has its own personality: Angkor Wat is powerfully overwhelming with its awesome size, the Bayon is mysterious with its omnipresent faces and Ta Prohm is romantic in its relationship with nature.  Due to this romatic personality, Ta Prohm has proven to be a favorite with the visitors to Angkor.

A perfect example of Ta Prohm's continuing struggle with nature.

A view just inside the western entrance to Ta Prohm.

The forest engulfing an inner gallery of Ta Prohm.

One of the towers of Ta Prohm.  Notice how the top of the tower is providing a home for some shrubs and trees.

A banyan tree serving its dual role as destroyer and preserver of this beautiful doorway in Ta Prohm.

An engraving of an apsara (heavenly nymph or celestial dancer) in Ta Prohm.  Notice how the sandstone blocks have been displaced by the passage of time.

Engravings of apsaras that adorn the walls of Ta Prohm.

Detailed bas relief depicting heavenly deities.

Example of the crumbling sandstone blocks that give Ta Prohm its unique charm.

View of the northeast corner of the inner gallery of Ta Prohm.

A gallery intertwined with the roots of a giant kapok tree.

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