Baksei Chamkrong, Cambodia
Copyright © Timothy Tye. Stock Photo for Sale
Baksei Chamkrong
Cambodia
Baksei Chamkrong is a temple mountain located close to the south gate of Angkor Thom, at the foot of Phnom Bakheng. The name Baksei Chamkrong means "the bird with sheltering wings", and is quite likely a modern name that has nothing to do with the structure.
Baksei Chamkrong was built in the early to middle 10th century by King Harshavarman, who dedicated it to the memory of his parents. The temple was later restored by King Rajendravarman.
The pyramid rises on four tiers to a height of 13 meters. The base is 27 meters square while the top tier is 15 meters square. At the top is a tower, or prasat. Housed inside is the statue of Shiva and his consort Devi. The tower faces east. On the door frame are inscriptions praising early Khmer kings. On the lintel is a carving showing Indra on a three-headed Airavata.
Baksei Chamkrong is best visited in the morning, when the sunlight is coming from the east to illuminate its front.
