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  • 17 MAY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokScenes0517029.jpg
  • 17 MAY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The roofline of Wat Arun with the Thonburi section of Bangkok behind it. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokScenes0517028.jpg
  • 17 MAY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Hanuman figures support the central prang at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokScenes0517027.jpg
  • 17 MAY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Khmer style central prang at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66.80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokScenes0517026.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Young monks from Wat Arun get off a cross river ferry in Bangkok. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok057.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman prays in Wat Arun in Bangkok. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok038.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman prays in Wat Arun in Bangkok. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok037.jpg
  • 17 MAY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A figure from the Ramakien (Thai version of the Ramayana) in a niche at Wat Arun.  Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokScenes0517030.jpg
  • 09 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: The central Prang at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok191.jpg
  • 09 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The feet of a Garuda (Guardian) at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok190.jpg
  • 09 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Buddhas at Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok189.jpg
  • 09 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Architectural detail of Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.  Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok188.jpg
  • 09 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok187.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A monk blesses an amulet for a man and his girlfriend in Wat Arun in Bangkok. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok056.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A monk blesses an amulet for a man and his girlfriend in Wat Arun in Bangkok. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok055.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Buddhist monks chant and pray in Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok036.jpg
  • Mar. 9, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Buddhist monks chant and pray in Wat Arun. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai..Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok035.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    Bangkok008.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
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  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The central chedi at Wat Arun flanked by satellite chedis. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
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  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Angkor Wat  scene through a window in the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
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  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists wait on the west side of Angkor Wat to see the sunrise from behind the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703015.jpg
  • 08 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunrise on the central prang at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.  Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok179.jpg
  • 08 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunrise on Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.  Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok178.jpg
  • 08 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunrise on Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.  Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok177.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok176.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok175.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok174.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: A sunset cruise passes Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz
    Bangkok173.jpg
  • 07 MARCH 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead to the two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva". Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). In the ensuing era when Thonburi was capital, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng. The later King Rama II. changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam. He restored the temple and enlarged the central prang. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. As a sign of changing times, Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai. Photo By Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
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  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A motorcycle taxi drives out of Wat Arun in Bangkok. The famous central prang of the temple is in the background. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923032.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Buddhist monk walks out from the monk housing area to the main prayer hall at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The famous central prang of the temple is in the background. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923030.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923029.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923028.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923027.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923026.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923025.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Figures of Hanuman, the Monkey God at Wat Arun. The figures are scheduled to be a part of the renovation of the temple. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923024.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Figures of Hanuman, the Monkey God at Wat Arun. The figures are scheduled to be a part of the renovation of the temple. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923023.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tourists climb down from the top of the central prang at Wat Arun in Bangkok on the last day that tourists will be allowed to climb the chedi. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923022.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists climb down from the top of the central prang at Wat Arun in Bangkok on the last day that tourists will be allowed to climb the chedi. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923020.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Workers put up scaffolding around a chedi at Wat Arun in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923019.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   An angel at Wat Arun. The angel figures are scheduled to be renovated by Thai artisans during the renovation of the temple. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923018.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists sign a sheet that covers the central prang at Wat Arun on the last day that tourists will be allowed to the top of the prang. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923017.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:     A satellite prang the supports the famous central prang at Wat Arun with the Chao Phraya River the city of Bangkok in the background. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923016.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tourists climb the stairs of the famous central chedi at Wat Arun on the last day the stupa would be open for climbing. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923015.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:     The main entrance to Wat Arun with the Chao Phraya River and city of Bangkok in the background. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923014.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:     A satellite prang the supports the famous central prang at Wat Arun. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923013.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tourists climb the stairs of the famous central chedi at Wat Arun on the last day the stupa would be open for climbing. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923012.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tourists climb the stairs of the famous central chedi at Wat Arun on the last day the stupa would be open for climbing. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923011.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  An angel at Wat Arun. The angel figures are scheduled to be renovated by Thai artisans during the renovation of the temple. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923010.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The famous central chedi at Wat Arun framed by the gate to the temple. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.           PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923007.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists wait to catch a ferry to take them across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok to Wat Arun on the last day the world famous stupa at the temple is open to the public. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923006.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Tourists wait to catch a ferry to take them across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok to Wat Arun on the last day the world famous stupa at the temple is open to the public. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923005.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923004.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923003.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923002.jpg
  • 23 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Wat Arun, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Bangkok. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). The world-famous stupa, known locally as Phra Prang Wat Arun, will be closed for three years to undergo repairs and renovation along with other structures in the temple compound. This will be the biggest repair and renovation work on the stupa in the last 14 years. In the past, even while large-scale work was being done, the stupa used to remain open to tourists. It may be named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The height is reported by different sources as between 66,80 meters and 86 meters. The corners are marked by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The temple was built in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya and originally known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam. Wat Arun officially ordained its first westerner, an American, in 2005. The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The temple's distinctive silhouette is the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    WatArun0923001.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  The west side of Angkor Wat late in the afternoon. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0704006.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Inside Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0704004.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A headless statue in Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0704002.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Looking into Angkor Wat from a portal on the north side of the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0704001.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A tourist uses his smart phone to photograph the Angkor Wat sunrise. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703055.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Water falls around a praying man during a blessing by a Buddhist monk at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703054.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a woman by splashing her with water at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703053.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist nun in Preah Khan in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703051.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a woman by splashing her with water at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703052.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist nun in Preah Khan in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703050.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist nun in Preah Khan in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703049.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Interior of Preah Khan in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703048.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A bas relief of an Aspara dancer at Preah Khan in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703047.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A stone hallway at Preah Khan, a temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703046.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk in his monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex.  Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703045.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Buddhist novices at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. The dots, which look like bruises, on the novice in the background, are from "cupping therapy." Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703044.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Buddhist novices at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. The dots, which look like bruises, on the novice in the background, are from "cupping therapy." Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703043.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a woman by splashing her with water at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703042.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a couple by splashing water on them at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703041.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a couple by splashing water on them at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703040.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a couple by splashing water on them at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703039.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a woman by splashing her with water at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703038.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk blesses a woman by splashing her with water at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703036.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk conducts a blessing ceremony for a woman in a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703035.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Buddhist monk conducts a blessing ceremony for a woman in a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703034.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Buddhist novices at a small monastery near the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703033.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A Cambodian woman prays in the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703032.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists crowd around a Cambodian woman in the Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703031.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A tourist gets a blessing from a Cambodian woman in the Bayon temple inside the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703030.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A tourist gets a blessing from a Cambodian woman in the Bayon temple inside the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703029.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Stone heads in Bayon, one of the temples in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703027.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Stone heads in Bayon, one of the temples in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703026.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Stone heads in Bayon, one of the temples in the Angkor Wat complex. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703025.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  The west side of Angkor Wat is silhouetted by the rising sun. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703021.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  The west side of Angkor Wat is silhouetted by the rising sun. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703020.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A tourist uses his smart phone to photograph the Angkor Wat sunrise. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703019.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703018.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists wait on the west side of Angkor Wat to see the sunrise from behind the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703016.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists wait on the west side of Angkor Wat to see the sunrise from behind the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703014.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  Tourists wait on the west side of Angkor Wat to see the sunrise from behind the temple. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703013.jpg
  • 02 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  The west side of Angkor Wat is silhouetted by the rising sun. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703012.jpg
  • 01 JULY 2013 - ANGKOR WAT, SIEM REAP, SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA:  A naga, or mythological serpent, guards the west entrance to Angkor Wat at sunset. Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. The temple was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat was dedicated to Vishnu. It is the best-preserved temple at the site, and has remained a religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It is a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors. The temple is admired for the architecture, the extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls. The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer; Angkor, meaning "city" or "capital city", is a vernacular form of the word nokor, which comes from the Sanskrit word nagara. Wat is the Khmer word for "temple grounds", derived from the Pali word "vatta." Prior to this time the temple was known as Preah Pisnulok, after the posthumous title of its founder. It is also the name of complex of temples, which includes Bayon and Preah Khan, in the vicinity. It is by far the most visited tourist attraction in Cambodia. More than half of all tourists to Cambodia visit Angkor.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AngkorWat0703011.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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