Siem Reap’s Best Angkor Temples Off The Beaten Track: A Photo Trip

Thinking about heading to Siem Reap, Cambodia? It’s almost impossible to resist the call of the Angkor temples, I’d say. Everyone, yes everyone, goes to Angkor Wat, and while it really is magnificent, you know, seeing the same spots as every other tourist isn’t always ideal, is it? Sometimes you just want to discover something that very few folks get to see, right? That’s what makes a photo trip focusing on the Angkor temples off the usual tourist routes such a great prospect. So, are you all set to learn about some hidden jewels that provide really cool photo opportunities, far from the maddening crowds? Then keep reading, ’cause I’m about to give you my inside scoop!

Why Stray from the Well-Trodden Path?

Okay, Angkor Wat is quite astounding, like it’s a marvel of ancient engineering, so I hear. I have seen it for myself and can only confirm that all those rumors you have heard, well, those are true. But honestly, after sharing the same sunrise view with what felt like half the planet, I sort of wanted something a little bit different. Exploring temples that see fewer visitors lets you get, well, a different kind of vibe, I believe. You can take photos without folks getting in the way all the time and it’s easier to actually feel the spirit of the place, you know? It’s nearly like stepping back in time to a lost place that no one remembers anymore. Moreover, less-traveled temples usually give you a totally different perspective on Khmer history and architecture.

On my trip, one thing I was after, was to find the tranquility that’s often missed at better-known locations. You too, can benefit from finding a quiet corner at a hidden temple, taking a minute to take it all in, hearing just the wind whispering through the stones, and just picturing what life might have been like centuries ago. Believe me when I tell you: those types of experiences become the very best kind of travel memories.

Beng Mealea: The Jungle Temple

Now, Beng Mealea. I found this place quite amazing. It’s basically, a temple that the jungle has decided to really embrace, I reckon. Located about 40 kilometers east of the main Angkor group, it gives a completely different vibe from the precisely maintained Angkor Wat. This is just raw nature joining hands with ancient art, kind of. When you’re walking through its corridors, you’re likely scrambling over stones and pushing past vines. It is, in some respects, kind of adventurous! You get the feeling that you’re one of the very first explorers to uncover this ruined treasure, you know?

Photo tip for you: Go look for the way the light plays through the collapsed structures – those areas can produce some very striking pictures. The contrast between light and shadow, and the textures of the stone and foliage, all give an abundance of creative opportunities. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the detailed carvings that are still visible amid all the destruction, since these provide intimate insights into the temple’s history. Oh, but watch your step – it’s a jungle out there. Actually, watch your head too, because there might be falling rocks, I think!

Koh Ker: The Pyramid of Cambodia

If you are in for a longer drive (around two and a half hours from Siem Reap), Koh Ker is quite the spot. This was once the capital of the Khmer empire for a short period and it has some pretty awesome structures, very cool, actually. The main attraction here? That would be Prasat Thom, a stepped pyramid that rises high above the surrounding forest, kind of.

Unlike the other temples which are fairly flat, Prasat Thom is shaped kind of like the pyramids that you can find in South America, is that right? Climbling to the top will earn you panoramic views, even though parts of the structure are closed now for safety reasons. The trip to Koh Ker, very, is more than worth it; you’ll also encounter other less restored temples in the area. This provides an interesting look into the conservation efforts, I feel. These temples really, in some respects, will offer you the solitude that you just can’t find at Angkor Wat, you know?

For photographers: The early morning light is simply wonderful here. It softens the harshness of the stone and makes it look ancient and even, somewhat mystical. The sheer scale of the pyramid really allows you to experiment with compositions, particularly if you use a wide-angle lens to seize its complete grandeur. Get closer for detailed shots of the sandstone carvings that manage to still retain great detail.

Banteay Srei: The Citadel of Women

Banteay Srei is very special, rather. This temple, that some know as the “Citadel of Women,” it is thought, is famed for its elaborate carvings made out of pink sandstone, which I think makes it absolutely lovely. Although it’s receiving increased attention, it’s smaller size and slightly out-of-the-way spot allows it to have far fewer crowds compared to the major temples, you see?

The detail at Banteay Srei is just absolutely spectacular, you can actually spend hours looking closely at the walls. Photo tip: Try to find ways to photograph the detailed devatas (female deities) and narrative scenes carved into the walls. Also, think about going in the late afternoon, very, because the setting sun kind of brings out the warmth of the pink stone. Capturing these carvings during the golden hour can give your images a glow, you know? Keep an eye out, too, for the reflections in the temple’s pools; these create serene and balanced compositions.

Ta Som: The East Gate Temple

Ta Som is often less crowded, partly because it’s a bit further out on the grand circuit. So you can easily get a more private feel. The east gate is absolutely encompassed by a giant tree, quite amazing. This really does make it an iconic photo spot, it is thought.

Think about how the roots grab the ancient stones when photographing here, very, because that would be cool, wouldn’t it? This image very well may encapsulate the power of nature. Explore beyond the gate: the interior courtyards provide quiet spots for reflection, with stone carvings and architectural details, you know? Try using wide apertures to isolate elements such as statues, especially if you really would like to get shots without visitors in the background.

Planning Your Off-the-Beaten-Path Photo Trip

So, planning a trip like this calls for a bit of preparation, you know? Unlike going directly to Angkor Wat, these temples may demand extra travel and possibly a bit more flexibility. Here’s how you too can put things together, basically:

Hire a Good Driver: Very well, one of the best things you can do would be hiring a tuk-tuk or a car driver. Having a driver who understands where these temples are and how to get there actually saves loads of time. Negotiate a daily rate up front, I would recommend.
Start Early: Beginning your days really early helps, since the light for photos is much better and you tend to beat some of the heat and the (albeit smaller) crowds, basically.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks: A few of these spots don’t have vendors nearby, you see, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks, like your everyday adventurer.
Respect Local Customs: I mean, these are holy sites, that is, so dress respectfully (covering shoulders and knees) and ask before photographing monks.
Permits: Double-check which permit is necessary to access the outer temples; in some instances, Angkor passes may not be sufficient.

Other Gems Worth Visiting

So, should you have some time to explore even more, think about checking out these places. The following spots give more chances to explore:

Preah Khan: Large, and less restored compared to Angkor Wat. That’s quite fun, really.
Neak Pean: A little island temple in the middle of a artificial lake, actually offering tranquil photo opportunities.
Ta Nei: Quite a smaller temple, somewhat lost in the forest; expect a real remote kind of atmosphere.

Some Final Thoughts

Taking a photo trip of the Angkor temples off the usual routes brings a whole new feel to the experience. From jungle-swallowed ruins to detailed pink sandstone carvings, such sites will really give something memorable, they will. So it will be something for both your camera and your memories, should you decide to accept this challenge, very. Therefore, are you set for finding your very own forgotten temple?

You see, getting away from the famous sites offers an enriching travel experience. It’s about having real experiences, seeing it firsthand, and saving those quiet moments, you see. It’s pretty likely these times will give you not just memorable photographs but profound insights into Cambodia’s culture, like your journey becomes truly priceless. Anyway, that’s just my point of view. Maybe I am right, and maybe I am wrong.