Battle of Lanka Gallery — Attraction in Siem Reap

Spectacular sculpture in high relief. It is impressive in detail, execution and scope. the frieze seems to go on for ever and ever. I hear people talking about getting a guide to explain every scene to you, and I respectfully disagree. Appreciate its artistry and detail, appreciate the scope, but standing around for an hour in a 100 degree heat and having Hinduism explained to me just so I can forget it three days later? Nah! I'd rather that it stays mysterious and beautiful. I prefer that it touched my soul than my intellect, and I'm a historian! Not everything is about knowing all...

Angkor is amazing. Nothing can prepare you the beauty of this place. I feel blessed and privileged to have been here (my advice is take the 5 day pass). Its amazing to think all the artisans mastering the art of carving all those stones and bas-reliefs, the engineering to build those massive temple. All the Kings, battles, Apsaras, Devas.. precious and extensive bas-reliefs and devatas...

This is the West Gallery which includes many detailed scenes depicting the Battle of Lanka. Notice the darker colour of the bas-reliefs here. This is unfortunately due to many tourists touching the carvings and transferring natural oils to the sandstone walls. Yes - it adds colour. Sadly, it also means damage to these 800 year old...