Cambodia - 2010

Angkor Temples & Tonlé Sap


In 2010, I traveled to Cambodia to explore the extraordinary Khmer temples of Angkor and the unique life on Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.


The days began among ancient stones, wandering through Angkor Wat at sunrise, climbing the terraces of Bayon with its serene stone faces, and exploring Ta Prohm where tree roots embrace centuries-old ruins. Each temple revealed a different chapter of the once-great Khmer Empire.


Beyond the temples, I visited the floating villages of Tonlé Sap, where houses, schools, and markets rest on stilts or drift on the water. Life here moves with the rhythms of the lake, offering a fascinating glimpse into a world adapted to the rise and fall of the seasons.


This journey was a step back in time — a blend of history, culture, and daily life that made Cambodia an unforgettable destination.

A row of decorative signs and markers at an arctic circle landmark site under blue skies.
Rusty bicycles abandoned in flooded rice paddies with storm clouds gathering overhead.
Farmers work in muddy rice fields planting young seedlings during the traditional agricultural season.
Farmers working in agricultural fields with traditional bamboo baskets and tools in rural farmland.
Rows of bright green rice seedlings growing in neat lines along a muddy field ready for transplanting.
Ancient stone temple entrance with intricate carvings and statues at Wat Phu Champasak ruins in Laos.
Ancient stone carvings depicting ornate figures and decorative details on temple walls at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Small wooden boats navigate across a wide expanse of muddy river water during low tide conditions.
Ancient stone pillars and corridors of Angkor Wat temple ruins in Cambodia shown in a panoramic view.
Ancient bas-relief stone carvings depicting detailed figures and scenes along a temple wall in Southeast Asia.
Ancient stone carvings of Apsara dancers in traditional dress adorn the walls of Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia.
Ancient Khmer stone carvings depicting dancers and mythological figures adorn the walls of Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia.
Long hallway in ancient stone temple with repeating columns and archways creates dramatic perspective at Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
Panoramic view of ancient stone corridors with sunlit arches and columns in Angkor Wat temple complex.
Ancient stone corridors and carved pillars stretch through the historic temple ruins of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Ancient Angkor Wat temple wall carving showing intricate stone bas-relief of celestial figures in traditional Khmer style.