Cambodia is a kingdom in Southeast Asia that borders Thailand to the east and northeast, however the Angkor Empire once extended over much of Thailand, Laos and some of modern day Myanmar.  The Area of the empire is evidenced by many Khmer type temples found throughout the region.  The Angkor Empire was ruled by the Khmer people and the Khmer people still are found living throughout the region fully embedded in their countries culture and traditions.  The Khmer Empire began in the year 802 and managed to remain in control of this region until the 1500s.  The capital of this Empire can be found in major archaeological sites of Angkor (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). 

I took the opportunity to visit the Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap for a morning to get a brief overview of the history behind the great city of Angkor. 

​Angkor is located just 5 kilometers north of Cambodia's Siem Reap which is services by their own international airport.  Also, Siem Reap is located approximately 400 kilometers east of Bangkok. There are more than 35 beautifully restored temples in the Angkor area and this number continues to grow.  Angkor must have been an amazing site during the heyday of the Khmer Empire. 

I only had a day to tour the temples and only got to visit and photos and videos from my tour are found below for Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Phrom, and Baphuon Temples.  

Here is a video of my tuk tuk ride to the Siem Reap Airport as I was leaving:

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are an ancient Hindu Shrine that can be found on the side of a mountain just outside the city of Kuala Lumpur. As you climb the 272 steps up to the caves you are sure to be visited by many monkeys. The monkeys are harmless if you ignore them, but be warned if you do give them attention they will expect you to feed them.

National Mosque and National Islamic Museum

Malaysia is mostly a Muslim country and in the heart of Kuala Lumpur there is a museum dedicated to the Malay Muslims, with the National Mosque being situated next door.

Central Market

The Central Market of Kuala Lumpur is a great place to see the work of local artisans and sample some of the region’s foods.

Menara Kuala Lumpur Tower

The revolving restaurant at the top of the KL Tower is the best place to go for a panoramic view of the city. Once a year, a competition is held to see who can race up the steps to the top of the 421 meter tower. The tower also acts as the Islamic falak observatory, which identifies the crescent moon that marks the beginning of many Muslim ceremonies and rites.

Petronas Towers

At just under 452 meters, the Petronas Towers are the second highest buildings in the world. The only building that is higher is the Taipei 101 in Taiwan. The Petronas Towers are two buildings joined in the centre by the Millennium Bridge. You can visit the bridge, but be prepared for a bit of a wait. The queues can be long and you may need to stand in line most of the morning to purchase a ticket.  At the base of the towers is Suria KLCC shopping mall, which houses an array of expensive fashion boutiques and elite stores. The towers’ base is also home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Sultan's Palace 

His Majesty Sultan Azlan Shah is the current King or Sultan of Malaysia. Covering over 28 acres, the Istana Negara is the Sultan’s official residence. The beautiful and richly decorated palace overlooks the Klang River.

Thean Hou Temple

The Thean Hou Temple is an amazing, six-tiered Chinese Buddhist temple dedicated to the Goddess Tian Hou (The Heavenly Mother). Built by the Hainanese community in 1987, the temple’s prayer hall houses three alters and there are also several fountains where you can dedicate your prayers.

Pha That Luang

Wat Ho Phakeo

Patuxai The Victory Gate

Sisaket Temple

Wat Si Muang

Buddha Park