Explore ancient ruins of Ta Prohm at dawn in Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia have incredibly varied and beautiful landscapes. Their climates vary from the relative cold of Hanoi in the north to the tropical climate of Saigon and Phnom Penh in the southern reaches of the peninsula. Each country has its own highlights from the amazing temple complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia to the UNESCO heritage sites of Hoi An in Vietnam. The great link between them all is the huge snaking Mekong river which provides some awe inspiring river cruising options, particularly between My Tho in Vietnam and Tonle Sap lake, a few hours drive from Angkor Wat (Siem Reap).

Aside from the majestic river systems supporting all kinds of human and wildlife, there are mountains to the north (Vietnam) and a particularly interesting diversion to Sapa, north Vietnam. Once you have absorbed the culture and sights of each country, a stunning array of beach escapes awaits you from the amazing new Song Saa private island off the south coast of Cambodia, to the rustically luxurious but altruistic Six Senses Con Dao on its own paradise island.

Ta Prohm is the modern name of the temple near Siem Reap in Cambodia. It was built largely in the late 12th century and early 13th century, originally being named Rajavihara (“Royal Monastery”) when almost 80,000 people were required to live in or visit the temple, including over 2,700 officials and 615 dancers! Having been built without mortar, trees eventually took root after the temple was abandoned, loosening the stones, however the trees growing out of the ruins have now made it one of the most popular temples with visitors.

You might recognise the temple from its depiction in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, a part which has seen the temple gather nicknames such as the “Tomb Raider Temple” or the “Angelina Jolie Temple”.

Head out on an early morning tour of this wonderful sight to experience it before the crowds arrive and in the beautiful dawn light.