Oudong work in progress but still worth a look!

The 17th Century Khmer Capital of Oudong is 40kms from Phnom Penh.  The Main Stupa houses some bones of the Buddha and the other stupas are the final resting place for  many Khmer Kings, It is a relatively quiet place which to escape the city for a while and gives great views over the Cambodian countryside.

Oudong from Village

Steep steps

The Stupa

 

Prasat Vimean Sour

 

 

I first heard of this place through Jim at the California 2 in Phnom Penh. He had this amazing photo of this ornate Angkor Wat style temple in the wall of his bar. It was built in 1999 and it is close to the ancient city of Oudong.

 

                

 

Prasat Romea Sothea

Leaving Prasat Vimean Sour I saw a building to the right which looked like a huge aircraft hangar. As we neared it I could see that this some kind of temple. from a distance it looked ugly; very ugly. As we approached, its hideous ugliness drew me irresistibly  through  its gross portal.

 

  

 

 

I approached the monstrous building I was almost feeling nauseous as I observed this  colossal parody of the classic proportions and style of Angkor. Some of the detailing ws so ugly that it was beautuful.

 

 

 

 

 

All images and text © Dave Perkes 2006 www.peaceofangkor.com