Ancient Past Dissolving Away, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, the main building amidst the myriad of complex temples built in the 12th century under Hindu influence, has been one of Cambodia’s most world renowned attractions drawing in hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.

In order to accommodate the modern day influx of tourism, the Angkor Wat grounds have obviously had to adapt and evolve in terms of road access, amenities and grounds maintenance in order to ensure that the masses remain satisfied enough to keep coming back and bringing with them their tourist Riels (Cambodian currency).

The influx of tourism has brought about great prosperity to the city of Siem Reap, home of Angkor Wat, however it is also important to recognize that a path of natural destruction has also followed this boom in tourism. High levels of traffic coming in and out of Angkor Wat on a daily basis have left high levels of acidity in the city’s air, thus leaving devastating effects on the temples themselves.

Structural damage is being seen more and more on building facades as colors are changing, walls are crumbling and in some cases, entire sections are being closed off for safety reasons.

Copyright Jennifer Campos 2010