Amazing Angkor: A Guide to the Buddhist Temples of Siem Reap

May 13, 2018 | Views: 4,654

Angkor-feat

As the country with the largest majority of Buddhists in the world (97% of Cambodians are active practitioners of Buddhism according to the ‘Global Religious Landscape’ report by the Pew Research Centre), Cambodia is a nation rich with spirituality. Called ‘wat’ in Cambodia, Buddhist temples can be found everywhere and one cannot walk down a street without passing a saffron-robed monk.

Another indication of how deeply spirituality is intertwined with everyday living in Cambodia is that three of the country’s most important annual holidays are big Buddhist festivals:

  • Meak Bochea’ or ‘Magha Puja’, commemorating the auspicious occasion of 1,250 Buddhists coming together spontaneously to venerate the Buddha at Veluvana bamboo grove, is celebrated on the day of the full moon every third lunar month;
  • Visak Bochea Day’, the Cambodian name for ‘Wesak Day’, celebrates the birth, Enlightenment and parinirvana of the Buddha;
  • The 15-day long ‘Pchum Ben’ also known as ‘Ancestors’ Day’ or the ‘Hungry Ghost Festival‘ culminates in a three-day public holiday.
Cambodia 01 - Meak Bochea

Monks in Cambodia celebrating Meak Bochea, one of the biggest holidays of the year. Held on the full moon of the lunar calendar in March, Buddhists celebrate with a candlelight procession. Image credit: Flickr

Cambodia is where the world’s largest religious structure ever built can be found — Angkor Wat, the greatest legacy of the mighty Khmer Empire. Meaning ‘Temple City’, Angkor Wat was originally constructed as a Hindu temple but gradually transformed into a Buddhist one commencing from the late 12th century.

A visit to Angkor Wat is an experience of a time in our history when spirituality influenced every facet of society, from living ethics and the arts to the government and building architecture. Early in 2017, Angkor Wat was voted “the world’s most popular landmark” by travel portal TripAdvisor. This is not the first time either; Angkor Wat was also ranked the “#1 sight in the world” in 2015 by the largest travel guide book publisher in the world, Lonely Planet.

Cambodia 02 - Visak Bochea

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia was named the world’s most popular landmark in 2017 by the popular travel website Tripadvisor

 

VIDEO: The #1 sight in the world, as voted by Lonely Planet

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Cambodia is also home to ancient Angkor, one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World”. In its heyday, it was a megacity the size of present-day Los Angeles and was home to hundreds of thousands (and estimated at up to three-quarters of a million people when the Khmer civilisation was at its peak).

Cambodia Khmer Stele

A rare inscribed sandstone stele with a figure of the Buddha and finely inscribed on all sides. (Khmer, Baphuon Period, 11th Century) 33½ in. (85 cm.) high. Image credit: Christie’s

Influenced by the Mahayana Buddhism of the great Nalanda University in India — regarded as the world’s oldest university — the Khmer kings established a civilisation with a foundation based on Indian Shaivite and Mahayana Buddhist cosmology that produced progressive life and social sciences, cutting-edge building technology and an empire that stood for 600 years.

The province of Siem Reap is where most of Cambodia’s ancient Khmer temples can be found. The wats of ancient Khmer which make this country so popular with tourists, also make it a top choice destination for Buddhist pilgrims to reconnect with their Buddha-nature and to pay homage to the spiritual awakening which inspired some of the world’s greatest monuments ever built by man.

Siem Reap is also the location of Cambodia’s most sacred mountain. Mount Kulen or ‘Phnom Kulen‘ is a distinguished pilgrimage site for local Hindus and Buddhists containing many historical shrines such as Preah Ang Thom, a 16th-century Buddhist monastery which houses Cambodia’s largest reclining Buddha statue carved from solid rock. Siem Reap has also been named by TripAdvisor as “The Top Destination in Asia” and placed second in the list of “Traveller’s Choice Top 25 Destinations in the World” for 2017.

Cambodia 03 - Siem Reap TripAdvisor Top Destinations

For 2017, TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website, placed Siem Reap as the second most popular destination in Asia.

 

Siem Reap: An Overview

In the north-west of Cambodia, close to the borders of Thailand, Siem Reap Province was the seat of the ancient Khmer Empire at Angkor — the source of Cambodia’s rich spiritual history. The capital city of the province, also called Siem Reap, is the second largest city in Cambodia and the gateway to over a thousand of Angkor’s temple structures.

Attracting millions of visitors in recent years, Siem Reap is a buzzing cosmopolitan city (and the country’s most developed) catering to every kind of traveller — from guesthouses for backpackers to boutique hotels, diverse world-class cuisines, spas, shopping, and a creative cultural scene that includes artisans, contemporary art galleries and museums. It is also home to the famous Phare, Cambodia’s leading circus known as the “Cambodian Cirque du Soleil.” The city’s airport is the second biggest international airport in Cambodia.

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Once a laid-back river town that served as the gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has since become a destination entirely of its own

Cambodia 05 - Phare Cambodian Circus

The Phare Cambodian Circus is a contemporary circus in the tradition of the Cirque Du Soleil with a cast of talented young Cambodian performers accomplished in acrobatics, contortion, aerial ballet, balancing, tightrope walking, fire dancing, vaulting, juggling, music, dance, drama, mime and comedy.

 

VIDEO: What to do in Siam Reap, Cambodia

Apart from Angkor, Siem Reap has its own allure, with enticing dining options, stylish shops, genial residents and a laid-back river town ambiance.

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VIDEO: Things to Do and What to Eat in Siam Reap, Cambodia

This insightful travel vlog looks at Food and Beverage social enterprises in Siem Reap — restaurants and cafes that serve highly-rated cuisine along with contributing valuable resources and time to the local Cambodian community.

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Angkor Archaeological Park

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992, Angkor Archaeological Park is a 400-square kilometre site containing the magnificent remains — nearly 40 temple structures — of the Khmer Empire. Gradually built over half a millennia from the 9th to the 15th centuries, Angkor is now known to be the largest pre-industrial city in the world.

The most iconic monuments at Angkor Park are the Angkor Wat Temple and the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom with its giant faces of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of Compassion, carved in stone.

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Laser surveys conducted in 2012 and 2015 revealed that the temples in Angkor Park were once surrounded by a sprawling urban network spread over an area larger than modern-day Paris. Image credit: © flickr user: chrisjunker, licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The early temples of Angkor were built as Hindu temples but became Buddhist in the 12th century when Jayavarman VII converted to Mahayana Buddhism. Following his conversion, this Khmer king commenced on an ambitious era of sophisticated development including the building of the new capital city of Angkor Thom containing the monumental Buddhist temples of Bayon, Ta Prohm and Preah Khan. The rule of Jayavarman VII is regarded as “the golden era” of the Khmer.

Cambodia 07 - Angkor 2 (Map)

With over 150 significant monuments, Angkor was the crown jewel of the Khmer civilisation. Apart from being an outstanding cultural heritage site, it is also an ecological site with reservoirs (the famous barays), ponds and canals as well as forests and rice paddies. Home to around 130,000 local inhabitants scattered over 112 villages, Angkor is a living heritage site. Moreover, it is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists both from Cambodia and from abroad who come regularly to pray, organise sacred ceremonies and worship their deities in the pagodas inside Angkor Wat, in front of Bayon Temple as well as in Bakong and Lolei. Monks still live in pagodas and monastic life continues as it was in the past. Due to its outstanding universal values, the 401 sq km site has been included on UNESCO´s World Heritage List since 1992. Source: Official Angkor Park website, http://www.angkor.com.kh

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Cambodia 09 - Angkor 3 (Lidar)

In 2007, an international team of researchers using satellite photographs and other modern techniques concluded that “Angkor had been the largest pre-industrial city in the world,” with an elaborate infrastructure system connecting an urban sprawl of at least 1,000 square kilometres to the well-known temples at its core. Angkor is considered to be a “hydraulic city” because it had a complicated water management network, which was used for systematically stabilising, storing, and dispersing water throughout the area. This network is believed to have been used for irrigation in order to offset the unpredictable monsoon season and to also support the increasing population. Although the size of its population remains a topic of research and debate, newly identified agricultural systems in the Angkor area may have supported up to one million people. Source: Wikipedia; Image credit: Damian Evans/Cambodian Archaeological Lidar Initiative

After the Mahayana Buddhist rule under Jayavarman VII and his son Indravarman II, the Khmer Empire reverted to Hinduism for a short period but eventually returned to becoming a Buddhist kingdom until its fall to the Thai kingdom of Ayutthaya. Many of the remaining temples in the Angkor Archeological Park, originally built as palatial dwellings for the gods, continue to be holy pilgrimage sites for Cambodians and foreign visitors, including monks.

The Angkor Archaeological Park registered two million tourists last year and entry into the park is via a ticketing system. Visitor details along with tips for pilgrims to Angkor Park and the temples in Siem Reap are listed in the section below.

 

VIDEO: A clip on Angkor Wat from the documentary ‘Prajna Earth’, the second part of The Journey Into Buddhism ‘Yatra Trilogy’ series.

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Angkor Wat

The only man-made building to have a place on a country’s national flag, Angkor Wat is the pride of Cambodia. Surrounded by moats and built in the “temple-mountain” style, Angkor Wat is a highly symbolic mountain-like building topped by five towers. Called ‘gopuras’, the five towers represent the five peaks of the mythical Mount Meru.

“Grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome” was the judgment of young French explorer Henri Mouhot when he first stumbled across Angkor Wat in 1858. He described the complex as “a rival [to the temple] of Solomon, erected by some ancient Michelangelo”.

Cambodia 10 - Angkor Wat 1 (Henri Mouhot)

In 1858, Henri Mouhot, a French naturalist and explorer, travelled to Indochina to conduct a series of botanical expeditions. An English version of his travel journal was published in London in 1864. In it, he introduced the Temple of Angkor to the western world, and this publication, with his exquisitely detailed engravings, helped to popularise the now famous complex of ruined temples. Image credit: A drawing of Angkor Wat by Henri Mouhot from 1864

This temple, originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, was built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century and remains the largest religious complex in the world. Unrivalled in scale and grandeur, the temple’s five gopuras rise above a 400-acre precinct — four times larger than Vatican City. The period when Angkor Wat was built also marks the beginning of the golden age of the Khmer Empire. Later in the century, Angkor Wat was converted into a Buddhist temple by King Suryavarman II’s successor, Jayavarman VII.

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A statue of Buddha Shakyamuni at the entrance to the inner sanctuary of the central tower of Angkor Wat

Although Angkor Wat’s precious statues and art were targeted for destruction by the Khmer Rouge during their violent reign in the late 70s, and were looted and sold on the black market in the following decades, there still remains many archeological treasures to be viewed and admired. Glorious to behold even with their heads removed, Buddha statues sit in meditation along the corridors of Angkor Wat as a silent reminder of both Cambodia’s past glory and its violent history.

Constructed in the form of a mandala and positioned to align with astrological events, Angkor Wat has long corridors and open galleries with 1,700 devatas (deities) and 1,200 square metres of Hindu epics carved into the bas-reliefs decorating the temple’s walls. The most renowned is the creation epic ‘Churning the Ocean of Milk’ depicting the beginning of time and the creation of the universe in an equally epic 49-metre-long wall carving — Vishnu commanding a giant naga to be pulled back and forth by 108 devas (gods) and asuras (demons), churning the primordial ocean for a thousand years until ‘amrita‘, the nectar of life develops. It is a tale that represents the divine paradox where the forces of dark and light work relentlessly together for one’s spiritual awakening.

Country: Cambodia Site: Angkor Wat Caption: Churning of the Sea of Milk bas relief, long view Image Date: c1996 Photographer: John Stubbs/WMF Provenance: Site Visit Original: from slide collection

View of the 49-metre wall with its intricately sculpted bas-relief ‘Churning the Ocean of Milk’ at Angkor Wat.

The place of the Khmer kings in Angkor Wat has long passed down the corridor of time but for the Buddha, it is still ever present. Like most of the temples in Angkor Park, Angkor Wat houses many active Buddhist altars and shrines complete with larger-than-life Buddha statues carved from stone which are cared for by local monks from nearby temples and the laity with daily venerations and offerings of candles, joss-sticks (incense sticks), flowers and fruit. One of the most popular sites in Angkor Wat, with many shrines for veneration, is ‘Preah Poan’ — the Hall of a Thousand Buddhas.

One of the best times of the year to visit Angkor Wat is during any one of the three big Buddhist holidays. On Magha Puja and Wesak Day, Angkor Wat becomes a sea of saffron as thousands of monks converge on the temple grounds to offer devotional chanting and recitations, pray and meditate. During the 15-day-long Cambodian Ancestor’s Day Festival called ‘Pchum Ben’, the altars and shrines in Angkor Wat are a venue of feasts, as long lines of food, cakes and fruits are laid out in front of Buddha statues together with incense, flowers and other offerings, to appease and relieve the sufferings of the deceased in the afterlife.

Cambodia 13 - Angkor Wat 4 (Visak Bochea)

Monks from all over the country and region gather for the annual Visak Bochea or Wesak Day festival

 

Angkor Thom

Sited after Angkor Wat in the archaeological park is Angkor Thom — the last capital of the ancient Khmer — built progressively over a few centuries by successive kings but mostly (including the iconic Bayon Temple) by the Buddhist King Jayavarman VII. Unlike Angkor Wat which was built as a temple, Angkor Thom was a whole city comprising of temples, palaces and other buildings for civic use including hospitals. Meaning “Great City”, the magnificence of Angkor Thom is in the sum of its parts, right from the entry bridge which is flanked by 54 devas and asuras on each side.

While wooden palatial and civic buildings only have their foundations remaining today, the buildings that are still standing after centuries are the ones worthy enough to have been constructed from stone — the temples built to house the divine.

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Angkor Thom was a fortified city enclosing temples, monasteries, residences of palace officials and the military, as well as buildings for administering the kingdom

 

The Bayon

Set in the centre of the ten square kilometre city of Angkor Thom, all the buildings in this last (and most impressive) capital of the Khmer Empire radiate outwards from the iconic Bayon Temple. Dedicated to the Buddha of Compassion, Bayon has 37 peaks containing more than two hundred stone faces of Avalokiteshvara. Each larger-than-life face is ten feet in height.

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The magnificient Bayon Temple is located at the centre of Angkor Thom

Much smaller in size than Angkor Wat but no less impressive, Bayon is composed of three enclosures with tightly spaced galleries. The main gallery is on an upper terrace and, similar to Angkor Wat, all of Bayon’s gallery walls are filled with superbly carved bas-reliefs.

Uniquely, the bas-reliefs found in Bayon and many of the temples of Angkor Thom also feature depictions of important events and everyday living in this great ancient city. These ‘snapshots’ carved into the stone walls of the outer enclosure are an invaluable window looking back hundreds of years, documenting the people of the ancient Khmer civilisation and their lives.

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The well-preserved bas reliefs of Bayon Temple depict scenes of major events and Khmer life from the period between the 12th and 14th centuries

Although built as a Buddhist temple, the Bayon, like most ancient temples in Southeast Asia, contains tributes to Hindu cosmology — the inner enclosure has walls with reliefs of scenes from the popular Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.

The Bayon’s main gallery on the top level is where the famous “face towers” of the temple can be found. At the centre of this gallery is the central gopura with a sanctuary that, during the time of the Khmer, was the original location of the famous Buddha statue of Bayon — a 3.6 metre tall Buddha in meditation pose, sheltered from the elements by the flared hood of the serpent king Mucalinda.

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The famous “face towers” of Bayon

This statue was thought to be lost but then was found in 1933 at the bottom of a well. The magnificent 12th century Buddha has since been restored and is now on display in its own pavilion outside the Bayon. In the sanctuary today, sits a newer statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.

Cambodia 19 - Bayon 4 (Original Bayon Buddha)

The famous Bayon Buddha sits in meditative equipoise on the trunk of a naga coiled three times to serve as a throne, and whose seven heads spread into a hood to shelter the Enlightened One. This statue was originally located in the central sanctuary of the Bayon temple but is now housed at Vihear Prampil Loveng (Wat Prampei Loveng)

Besides the central gopura, the inner galleries and smaller towers of the Bayon also have sanctuaries and chapels. Some still house the original Buddha statues as centrepieces while others feature more recent replicas. All of these are active shrines of worship and, from time to time, serve as temporary chapels complete with a variety of Buddha statues and altars for making devotions and offerings.

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The many shrines in Bayon Temple make these ancient ruins an active site for Buddhist devotion. Shrines like this can also be found in many other temples in Angkor Park

 

Baphuon Temple

Older than Angkor Wat, Baphuon is said to have been one of the most spectacular of Angkor’s temples during its heyday. Located north-west of Bayon, it was also constructed as a pyramidal representation of the mythical Mount Meru.

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The Baphuon, one of the largest and oldest temples at Angkor Park, lay in hundreds of thousands of pieces for decades, interrupted by the civil war. Restoration works commenced in 1995 and the temple was reopened to the public in 2011.

The temple of Baphuon was the centre of the old Khmer capital that existed before the construction of Angkor Thom. When first built, Baphuon was the state temple of King Udayadityavarman II and was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Later in the 15th century, the Baphuon was converted to a Buddhist temple and a massive 9-metre-tall by 70-metre-long reclining Buddha was built into the wall on the west side.

Cambodia 20 - Baphuon 20 (Reclining Buddha)

When the Baphuon was converted into a Buddhist temple in the 15th century, a massive 70-metre-long reclining Buddha was built into the side of the west wall

When it was found, much of the temple had collapsed and restoration efforts were challenging, particularly after the Khmer Rouge came to power in the 70s and all archaeological records marking the positions of the stones were lost. Nicknamed “the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle”, a team of archaeologists started in 1995 to reassemble the temple from 300,000 stones! After 16 years, the Baphuon Temple was fully restored and reopened its doors to the public in 2011.

 

Terrace of the Elephants

Named for the carvings of elephants on its eastern face, the Terrace of the Elephants was used as a royal viewing gallery for Jayavarman VII — a platform for the Khmer king to view his victorious returning army — and for public ceremonies.

Attached to the Phimeanakas Palace, it also served as a base for the king’s grand audience hall. It is a 350-metre-long stage famous for its life-size reliefs of garudas and lions, and facing either end are marching elephants complete with mahouts.

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During the heyday of the Khmer Empire, the Terrace of the Elephants was the stage for royal processions and ceremonies

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Preah Palilay

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The Buddha statue in the pavilion at the entrance of Preah Palilay was missing its head until the early 1930s when it was found entangled in the roots of a tree

Set in a forested location a short walk from the Terrace of the Elephants and the Phimeanakas Palace is Preah Palilay, a small Buddhist temple. According to Khmer folklore, Preah Palilay takes its name after the Parileyyaka Forest that features in the stories of the Buddha.

Surrounded by towering trees, this temple is highly regarded for having many Buddhist carvings largely intact and in better condition than those vandalised and destroyed in other Angkor temples, first by the Hindu Khmer revival under Jayavarman VIII then by the Khmer Rouge.

Under a pavilion at the front of the temple grounds is a large Buddha statue that was missing its head until it was found entwined in the roots of a tree in the early 1930s. Sitting serenely on a lotus, Buddha Shakyamuni, in the iconic “calling the earth to witness” mudra, greets visitors at the start of a cross-shaped terrace with seven-headed naga balustrades leading to the main entrance of the temple.

 

VIDEO: Cambodia Preah Palilay

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At the doorways of the gopura of Preah Palilay are exquisite carvings with scenes from the life of the Buddha. One scene with elephants, monkeys and peacocks is believed to be from “The offerings of the animals to the Buddha in the forest of Parileyyaka”. Other scenes include the offering of rice-milk by Sujata and the subjugation of the elephant Nalagiri. These scenes also feature exquisite carvings depicting a reclining, seated and standing Buddha in each.

Close to the site is a Buddhist monastery, and the regular presence of monks and nuns at the temple provide Preah Palilay with a living spiritual energy. The temple also has on its grounds the remains of two guardians called dvarapalas and a lion.

 

Tep Pranam

Consisting of little more than an elevated cross-shaped terrace, Tep Pranam was once the base of a pagoda. Although it is listed as one of the least impressive structures in the Angkor Archeological Park, Tep Pranam is undoubtedly an important temple to visit for Buddhist pilgrims.

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To this day, the Buddhist shrines at Tep Pranam carry great religious significance for many Cambodians who come here to pray and make offerings

Tep Pranam means “the adoring God” and this temple is home to two enormous 16th century Buddha statues which have been restored in cement from their original sandstone blocks. The first, towering at 6 metres in height, is Buddha Shakyamuni seated on a lotus in the “calling the earth to witness” mudra. The other has the Buddha standing at 4 metres tall in the “absence of fear” mudra with both palms facing outwards. Each magnificent stone Buddha statue is under a gazebo with shrines for devotions and many Cambodians visit to make prayers and offerings.

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A Buddha statue sitting in the lotus position in Tep Pranam. The 6-metre-high statue dates back to the 16th century, but was restored in 1950

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The Standing Buddha at Tep Pranam has been reconstructed with a mixture of concrete and its original sandstone pieces. Standing at over 4 metres in height, the Buddha’s hands are in the “absence of fear” mudra. Right image credit: National Museum of Cambodia. Left image credit: travelvideophoto.com

A stele found near Tep Pranam has inscriptions on its four sides telling of an ancient Buddhist monastery or “asrama” founded by King Yasovarman at the end of the 9th century. The inscriptions also describe the various rules of asrama. It is quite common to find monks and nuns living in retreat in wooden huts on the wooded fringes of Tep Pranam.

 

Preah Khan

One of the largest temple complexes in Angkor, Preah Khan was built by Jayavarman VII in the baroque Bayon style with many finely carved bas-reliefs. More than just a temple, Preah Khan was founded as a Buddhist university housing more than a thousand teachers, monks and nuns along with royal residences. The monastic complex is older than Angkor Thom and it is believed that this may have been a miniature city that served as a temporary capital while Angkor Thom was being constructed.

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Cambodia 29 - Preah Khan 2

Built as a monastery for Buddhist learning, Preah Khan is not to be missed for anyone making a pilgrimage to Angkor

A large stone stele at Preah Khan provides detailed historical information of its founding and role as a centre for Mahayana Buddhist worship and learning. The inscriptions on the Preah Khan Foundation Stele start with invocations to the Three Jewels, Lokeshvara (Avalokiteshvara) and Prajnaparamita. The stele also describes Preah Khan to be a dedication to the king’s father, Dharanindravarman, who is represented by a statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara constructed in his likeness at the temple’s central sanctuary.

Cambodia 30 - Preah Khan 3 (Stele)

Extracted from ‘The Stele Inscription of Preah Khan, Angkor Text with Translation and Commentary’ by Thomas S. Maxwell, University of Bonn

Cambodia 31 - Preah Khan 4 (Bas Relief)

Many of the magnificent bas-reliefs on the walls of Preah Khan are very well preserved

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In the central shrine of Preah Khan is a stupa where visitors and pilgrims can make offerings and perform devotions

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A replica of the kneeling Prajnaparamita statue from Preah Khan is on display at the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh

At its height, Preah Khan once had shrines devoted to 430 secondary deities, but nearly all of the Buddha statues and images were either completely destroyed or defaced by the Hindu revivalist, Jayavarman VIII, including the Avalokiteshvara statue in the central sanctuary. In its place today is a stone stupa that is also the main shrine for devotions at Preah Khan.

One of the finest Khmer statues found at Angkor Park was from Preah Khan — a kneeling Prajnaparamita, the Bodhisattva who represents the “perfection of wisdom”. The original is presently at the Musée Guimet in Paris and a replica is on display at Cambodia’s National Museum in Phnom Penh.

 

Ta Prohm

Most famously known as the “Tomb Raider Temple,” Ta Prohm provided the location in the blockbuster movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie. Unlike most Angkor temples which have had their sites cleared and structures restored, Ta Prohm has been preserved almost exactly as it was found — a temple reclaimed by nature complete with tentacled roots and large trees growing out of the ruins. It is this fantasy-like enchanted forest atmosphere that makes Ta Prohm one of the most popular temples at Angkor.

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Ta Prohm achieved international fame for being the location set for the action-adventure movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie as the main star

Originally known as ‘Rajavihara‘ (meaning “Monastery of the King”), Ta Prohm was a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in the 12th century by Jayavarman VII who dedicated it to his mother.

Shrines at Ta Prohm

As with Preah Khan which had the likeness of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara dedicated to his father, the great Buddhist Khmer King dedicated Ta Prohm to his mother in the form of the Bodhisattva Prajnaparamita.

The temple was an important Buddhist monastery and university, and was home to over 10,000 people including thousands of monks and nuns. It also contained a stele which provided detailed records of its construction, purpose and maintenance.

400 years after European explorers rediscovered Ta Prohm, the temple’s appearance is not so different from when it was found. It was decided that Ta Prohm should remain exactly as it was to show the conquering power of nature over man.

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Inside Ta Prohm’s dark maze-like corridors and galleries, pilgrims will find some of the most magical-looking Buddhist shrines in Angkor.

Many Buddhist scenes can also be found here including a bas-relief illustrating the “Great Departure” of Siddhartha from his father’s palace and a scene from the Jataka Tale of Prince Vessantara who, after giving away his two children as servants, poured water into the hands of the Brahmin Jujuka as a symbolic act of renunciation in order to practise the virtue of charity.

Other reliefs are of devatas, meditating monks and ascetics, and dvarapalas (temple guardians).

Cambodia 38 - Ta Phrom 4 (Bas Relief)

Ta Prohm was built by King Jayavarman VII in honour of his mother, whose image was used for the main statue of the temple, Prajnaparamita, a symbol of wisdom in Mahayana Buddhism. Image credit: passenger6a.com

 

VIDEO: Journey Inside the Ghostly Temple of Trees

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Neak Pean and Krol Ko

100 metres from each other, Neak Pean and Krol Ko are two temples in Angkor with symbolic representations of Buddhist cosmology in accordance with Mahayana tradition. Meaning ‘twin nagas’ or ‘entwined nagas’ — ‘neak’ being the Khmer word for naga — Neak Pean is a small but astounding temple. It is set on an artificial island built on a small lake with a central gopura encircled by a pair of nagas, claimed to be Nanda and Upananda of Lake Anavatapta. According to Buddhist cosmology, Anavatapta is a mythical lake at the centre of the world in the Himalayas with waters that can cure illnesses and remove suffering.

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Neak Pean is a small temple built on a man-made island on a lake with shrines that reflect Buddhist cosmology

Neak Pean was built by Jayavarman VII as a hospital and place of healing dedicated to the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Once, four sculptures stood on the bed of the lake but the only one remaining today is that of ‘Balaha’, Avalokiteshvara emanating in the form of a horse. This sculpture of a flying horse rising from the water with a group of men holding onto its tail recounts the tale of Balaha rescuing merchants at sea from an ogress.

Out of four statues that previously arose from the lake, the last remaining is that of Balaha, an emanation of Avalokiteshvara in the form of a horse

From the shores of the lake, visitors get to Neak Pean either via a long wooden walkway or by boat. The temple structure itself contains pools of water with four small chapels at the corners. Inside are carved stone heads — a king, lion, horse and elephant respectively — that serve as waterspouts. The water is channeled from the central pool to smaller basins in each chapel. At present, all the chapels in Neak Pean are active shrines housing small stone Buddhas for devotions, and devotees also come here to collect the healing waters.

Cambodia 41 - Neak Pean 3 (Shrine)

Neak Pean, originally built as a centre of healing, continues to attract visitors and pilgrims from all over Cambodia. The waters from the shrines are also sought after as they are believed to contain healing properties.

Krol Ko, a small temple structure a short distance from Neak Pean is believed to be the chapel for the hospital. On its grounds are pediments with intricate reliefs of both Hindu and Buddhist origins — among the most famous is the restored pediment with Avalokiteshvara.

Cambodia 42 - Krol Ko

Krol Ko means ‘Shed of the Oxen’ in Khmer. The temple is located northwest of Neak Pean, 100 metres from the road. The well-preserved stone carvings at Krol Ko feature scenes with Avalokiteshvara and make this small temple worth visiting.

 

Ta Som

Relatively smaller than most of the temples in Angkor, Ta Som is a compact temple consisting of a single shrine enclosed by walls and entrance gopuras that have well-preserved towers. Although clearly built as a Buddhist temple in the Bayon style, with each tower featuring the four faces of Avalokiteshvara, little is known about the temple’s history and purpose.

Ta Som was built by King Jayavarman VII at the end of the 12th century, dedicated to his father Dharanindravarman II.

Like its more famous counterpart Ta Prohm, Ta Som is a temple that has been reclaimed by nature. It is most famous for its east entrance which has a gopura completely enveloped by a giant Bodhi tree. Its doorway, which appears as an opening through the tree’s long flowing roots, is also one of the most photographed sites in Angkor.

Another must-see at Ta Som is a large lintel with exquisite reliefs depicting Avalokiteshvara surrounded by a crowd offering devotions. The temple is also rich in architectural detail with finely carved stone sculptures of nagas and garudas.

For a long time, Ta Som remained in a state of advanced ruin but it has since been recently restored.

 

VIDEO: Ta Som Temple

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Cambodia-V7a-TaSom.mp4

 

Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang

The next in the long list of temples built by Jayavarman VII is Banteay Kdei, a Bayon-style monastery constructed between the 12th and 13th centuries. Often overlooked by tourists, Banteay Kdei, which means “A Citadel of Chambers”, has gopuras crowned with towers featuring giant carvings of Avalokiteshvara’s face on all four sides.

Cambodia 44 - Banteay Kdei 1

Banteay Kdei is the Khmer name meaning “A Citadel of Chambers” or “Citadel of Monks’ Cells”

It is widely believed that this monastic complex was dedicated to the prolific Khmer King’s Buddhist teacher. Built as a residence for monks, Banteay Kdei is filled with Buddhist-themed bas-reliefs and stone carvings. While much of it has been defaced, there are still many in relatively good condition including a giant Buddha Shakyamuni statue in meditation position at the central shrine. Another well-preserved Buddha image can be found at the entrance to the moat.

Up until the 1960s, monks were still living at Banteay Kdei. In the late 90s, archaeologists unearthed a large cache of nearly 300 Buddhist statues and artefacts — these have since been taken off-site for study and archival purposes.

Built as a monastery, Banteay Kdei was occupied by monks at various intervals over the centuries until the 1960s

Banteay Kdei is also recommended as an alternative site to watch the sun rise over Angkor, away from the hordes of visitors at Angkor Wat especially during peak season. It offers a quiet but no less magical view of the sun rising and reflecting off the mirror-like surface of Srah Srang.

Located by the Banteay Kdei Temple, Srah Srang, the “Royal Bathing Pool” or “Pool of Ablutions” was built by an earlier king and later renovated by Jayavarman VII. This massive 20,000 square feet pond was used only by the king and members of the royal family. The sides of the pool are decorated with delicate carvings and stone statues of lions and nagas. A wooden temple once stood on a small man-made island at the centre of the pond; however, all that remains today is its stone base.

The long promenades lined with naga balustrades are a quieter but no less magnificent alternative to Angkor Wat for watching the sunrise

 

Prasat Bat Chum

Less popular with the average tourist, Prasat Bat Chum, a small temple consisting of three gopuras at the top of a terraced hill, will hold interest for the Buddhist pilgrim. Built in the 10th century by the predecessor of King Jayavarman VII at a time when the Khmer Empire was still Hindu, it is the first Buddhist temple ever built in the Angkor region.

Prasat Bat Chum is considered to be the first Buddhist sanctuary in Angkor. Its three towers were dedicated to the Mahayana Buddhist trinity of Buddha Shakyamuni (central gopura), Avalokiteshvara (southern gopura) and Prajnaparamita (northern gopura)

There are Buddhist inscriptions on the doorjambs of Prasat Bat Chum, crediting the ‘architect’ or official in-charge of the construction of the temple. This individual has been identified as the same person also responsible for building Srah Srang. Records also show that there were once houses and a Buddhist monastery located near the temple but these structures were made of wood and are now long gone.

During the excavations in the 1950s, flagstones showing yantras were found. These were later reconstituted to match the Buddhist divinities mentioned in the doorjamb inscriptions.

 

Other Temples to Visit in Angkor Park

Koh Ker, Kbal Spean, Phnom Bakheng, Phimeanakas, Banteay Srei and Prasat Phnom Kron are among the more significant temples to visit, particularly for their Hindu Khmer art and architecture. The Roluos group of temples is a remote collection of structures and another of the Khmer Empire’s early capitals before Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom were built. All the temples in the Roluos group were built for Hindu devotions, while two modern pagodas can be found at Prasat Bakong and Prasat Lolei. Both are very popular places of worship for the local Khmer and Cambodian population.

Cambodia 49 - Roluos 1

The Roluos group, built in the late 9th century, is the oldest site in Angkor Park that is open to visitors

The carvings on the temples of the Roluos group is, according to some prominent art historians, “the most beautiful of all Khmer art”

 

Getting to Angkor Park

 

VIDEO: Before You Visit Angkor Wat, Here’s What You Need to Know

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Cambodia-V8a -Before-Visit.mp4

 

Opening Hours

Angkor Park is managed by the ‘Authority for the Protection and Safeguarding of Angkor and the Region of Angkor’ (APSARA Authority). Its operating hours are from 7.30 am to 5.50 pm, except the following temples which open earlier and close later for sunrise and sunset views:

  • Angkor Wat and Srah Srang: Open from 5.00 am to 5.30 pm
  • Phnom Bakheng and Pre Rup: Open from 5.00 am to 7.00 pm

 

Getting In: The Angkor Pass

To gain entry into Angkor Park, an entrance ticket — called an ‘Angkor Pass’ — must be purchased beforehand. There are three types of passes with prices as follows:

  • 1-Day Angkor Pass: USD $37
  • 3-Day Angkor Pass: USD $62 (any three days within seven days from purchase date)
  • 7-Day Angkor Pass: USD $72 (any seven days within a calendar month from purchase date)
Cambodia 53 - Angkor Pass

Entry into Angkor Park is with an Angkor Pass

Angkor Passes are only issued at the official ticket office (open from 5.00 am to 5.30 pm daily), operated by Angkor Enterprise for APSARA Authority. It is located on the corner of Street 60 and Apsara Road, the road to the West Gate entrance, which is the entry gate closest to Angkor Wat. Every private car rental or tuk-tuk driver knows where it is.

Cambodia 51 - Angkor Enterprise 1

Cambodia 52 - Angkor Enterprise 2 (Ticket Counters)

Angkor Enterprise Ticket Office

The Angkor Pass requires a photograph of the visitor, which is taken at the ticket counter during the time of purchase. Every visitor is required to be present in person for the pass to be issued.

There are strict dress codes which apply to all visitors, men and women alike, forbidding exposure of knees and shoulders and revealing clothing. If you are not dressed appropriately, you will not be issued a pass.

All Angkor Passes are non-transferable and fines are severe, from USD $100 up to $300 if you lose your pass while in the park. So do remember to keep your passes safely on your person at all times!

With every Angkor Pass purchased, USD $2 goes to the Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital Fund — a non-profit hospital which has treated 18 million children since 1992. Kantha Bopha operates solely through donations and gives treatments to Cambodian children for free.

Cambodia 52 - Angkor Entrance Tickets Regulations

Angkor Entrance Tickets Regulations. Click to enlarge.

Visitors who meet the following conditions are exempt from having to purchase a pass to enter the park:

  • All Cambodian nationals
  • Foreigners of Cambodian birth or whose parents are Cambodian (either father or mother). A ‘K’ type Cambodian visa is required.
  • Foreigners who have been granted Cambodian citizenship. A national identity card is required.
  • Children aged 12 and below. Proof of age with either passport or national identity card is required.

Angkor Passes can only be purchased with cash. The ticket office does not accept credit or debit cards. ATMs are available at the office premises but it is recommended that you prepare all the necessary cash beforehand because queues for the ATM can be very long (and slow!) during peak hours, especially in the morning with crowds of visitors rushing to get in for the sunrise.

For the latest information, visit the APSARA official website: angkor.com.kh

TIP: Avoid morning crowds and purchase your passes after 5.00 pm on the day prior to your visit, especially if you are only getting a one-day pass. Tickets sold after this time are valid for the following day, plus you will be able to enter the park on the evening of the purchase to catch an extra view of the sunset!

 

Getting Around

 

Tuk Tuks

Also called ‘remorks‘ or ‘remorques‘, as they were known by the French, tuk tuks are said to be the best way to get around Angkor Park. These open-sided two-wheeler carriages pulled by motorcycles seat two people comfortably and are a breezy enjoyable ride. They are cheaper than hiring a car and driver. Plus, they allow you to get closer to where you want to go, which can be a temple, a restaurant or even an elephant!

Tuk tuk rates generally start from USD $8 for a standard 8-hour day to USD $20 for the entire day (before sunrise till after sunset). Hotels in Siem Reap are usually happy to make tuk tuk bookings for you but the rates may be higher than if you were to organise it on your own. Learn more about getting around by tuk tuk at http://www.movetocambodia.com/living-in-cambodia/transportation/getting-around-by-tuk-tuk/

Cambodia 54 - Tuk Tuk

Tuk tuks are the most popular mode for getting to and around Angkor Park

 

Hired Car and Driver

If you are travelling in a group or with elderly companions, or if you just like the comfort, then an air-conditioned car or mini-van is easy to hire in Siem Reap. In particular, when it comes to visiting temples outside Angkor Park such as Beng Mealea or Phnom Kulen, hiring a car and driver is highly recommended as the journey to these remote locations can take several hours on bumpy roads.

Most hotels will be able to arrange a hire car and driver which generally starts from USD $30 to $40 a day and more for bigger cars like mini vans or luxury models.

 

Motorcycle Taxis

If you’re travelling alone and are the adventurous sort, then hiring a motorcycle taxi — called ‘motodup’ in Cambodian or ‘moto’ for short — is just the thing for you. Motos are zippy rides and can go off road which means you’ll be able to see places and sights most travellers in tuk tuks and cars may not be able to. The downside is that it’s not as comfortable especially during the rainy season — be sure to have a poncho with you if you choose to get around by moto.

Motodups are usually hired for an entire day and cost only USD $8 from before sunrise till after sunset.

 

Bicycles

For the super adventurous with lots of time to explore the park at leisure, bicycles can be a really enjoyable mode of getting around Angkor. Bicycle hires start from as little as US $2 to $3 a day for a basic bicycle and between USD $6 to $7 for a mountain bike.

REMINDER: If you are planning on cycling in Siem Reap and Angkor, make sure you have travel insurance and take all necessary safety precautions — wear a helmet, get a bike light, etc. — because roads in Siem Reap and to Angkor are heavily trafficked and road accidents are common.

 

Getting a Guide

Because Angkor is an enormous park with many temple sites, it can be an overwhelming experience especially for first-time visitors. Therefore, hiring a local guide to help you plan which temples to visit, to help you get around and to learn more about the temples is an option worth considering.

Official Angkor guides, trained and licensed by the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism can be hired through your hotel or travel company.

Cambodia 55 - Official Angkor Guide

Hiring a trained guide is highly recommended for first-time visitors to Angkor Park

The price for hiring a guide can range from USD $25 to $40 a day for just the guide and up to USD $70 for a package which includes a guide, an air-conditioned vehicle with driver and bottled mineral water.

RECOMMENDATION: For visitors planning on making a proper Buddhist pilgrimage, allocate a minimum of three days (if you can) at Angkor Park. For the first day, hire a guide to help you get oriented with the many temples in the park and identify the ones you want to spend time in prayer at. Then return on your own the following two days to visit or revisit those temples.

 

Angkor Park Official Code of Conduct

Besides Angkor Park’s archeological and historical value as a “living heritage”, this UNESCO World Heritage Zone is still home to over 130,000 people living in 112 villages throughout the region. Many of the park’s temples are still daily places of worship for Angkor residents and visiting Buddhist pilgrims.

The Angkor Code of Conduct released by APSARA Authority ensures that visitors to the park maintain appropriate decorum and modesty in dressing that will not offend the religious and cultural values of the place and its people.

 

DON’TS:

  • Don’t dress inappropriately, meaning don’t wear attire that shows too much leg, shoulder or back. When visiting the park, do not wear shorts, short skirts (skirt-lines above the knee) and tops that are revealing. This includes shoe-string straps, halter-neck tops, bikinis for women, and going shirtless for men.
  • Don’t touch the monuments or handle statues or carvings. These are centuries-old artefacts and can be easily damaged.
  • Don’t talk or laugh loudly because it is not in the local culture to do so. Cambodians speak with soft tones and it is considered disrespectful to have loud conversations or raised voices.
  • Don’t violate Angkor Park rules at all times. For visitor safety as well as to show respect to the site, do not enter restricted areas, climb the outside of temples or over stones.
  • Don’t smoke or litter. Smoking is banned throughout Angkor Park and strict smoking and littering penalties are imposed to ensure the park’s environment is clean and safe for all visitors.
  • Don’t buy items being sold by children or give them money. Impoverished families often send their children to the park to sell a variety of goods from souvenir trinkets to devotional items. The Cambodian authorities wish to discourage this practice so that the children will remain in school.
  • Don’t act disrespectfully to monks. Everywhere in Cambodia and especially so in Angkor, monks are often present. Monks observe very strict rules of etiquette and visitors are reminded to be respectful when they are present — do not get close to or touch them and especially, do not take photographs either of or with them without first asking their permission.

 

DOs:

  • Wear modest clothing that is not revealing — trousers or skirts should not go higher than the knee and tops should not be sleeveless. For comfort and protection from the sun, opt for light-weight clothes that are loose and comfortable — cotton or linen is ideal. Put on comfortable shoes for walking and stay away from heels. You might also want to bring these items with you – a hat, sunglasses, sunblock, mosquito repellent, a towel and/or wet wipes.
  • Be mindful not to touch, hold or knock on walls, stones, sculptures and carvings.
  • Keep your voice down and speak with soft tones.
  • Observe Angkor Park rules at all times. Angkor is one of the world’s most important historical complexes and, while it is important to keep it open for the public to learn from, it is equally as important that visitors take heed of the rules so these beautiful structures can be preserved for posterity.
  • Carry your disposables with you until you find a rubbish bin.
  • Support impoverished families and children by contributing to the various groups and organisations working to improve the lives of these people.
  • Revere the Sangha. Bowing to monks is considered very respectful. And it is recommended to seek permission before approaching or speaking with them.

The Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct issued by APSARA Authority. Click to enlarge.

 

VIDEO: Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Cambodia-V9a-Visitor-Code.mp4

 

VIDEO: Sampeah Etiquette in Khmer

Greetings are important in Cambodia. The style of greeting called “Sampeah” in Khmer language is performed by placing both palms together in the manner of praying, accompanied by a slight bow of the head. It is similar to the Thai ‘wai’.

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Cambodia-V10a-Sampeah.mp4

 

When to Visit

The peak season to visit Angkor Park is from November till February when the weather is cool and windy, almost Mediterranean-like. This time of the year is known as the Cambodian ‘winter’ but bear in mind that you’ll be competing with hordes of other visitors to view the sights. Prices for goods and services like tuk tuks are also higher, driven by demand.

March and April, although dry, are the hottest months.

The low season coincides with the monsoon season, which runs from May until September. However, as rainfall is intermittent with heavy downpours lasting around two hours at most, many travel sites recommend this period as the best time to visit Angkor Park, as the jungles are lusher and landscapes more verdant. It is also far less crowded and pilgrims will have fewer tourists to contend with in the temples and around the shrines. Prices are also lower with hotels and travel companies offering discounts or value packages during the rainy season.

From October onwards, Angkor (and Siem Reap in general) starts to get crowded again.

If you don’t mind a bit of rain, the monsoon season allows visitors to explore Angkor Park without the peak season crowds

 

Useful Links

 

Beng Mealea

Located a significant distance away from the Angkor Archeological Park, Beng Mealea is one of the oldest temples, built in the classical Khmer style identical to Angkor Wat. It is in a state of advanced ruin and, like Ta Prohm, is covered in vegetation.

Cambodia 59 - Beng Mealea 1

Travel guide Lonely Planet lists Beng Mealea as a ‘top choice Buddhist temple’ and describes it as “the ultimate Indiana Jones experience”.

Meaning “Lotus Pond”, Beng Mealea is surrounded by mystery and the purpose of the temple is still unknown. Many sections of the temple have collapsed into massive heaps of sandstone rubble but, unlike the temples at Angkor Park, visitors are allowed to climb them. Official temple guides are present in most parts of the temple and they also act as safety guides, advising visitors where it is safe for climbing and where it’s not. In recent times, a raised walkway was built to allow less-adventurous tourists to navigate through the various sections of the temple.

Cambodia 60 - Beng Mealea 2

Until today, the history of Beng Mealea temple is still unknown

The temple’s ruined condition was further damaged by looters over several decades towards the end of the last century. The looters used dynamite to access high value antiquities — fine stone sculptures and relief carvings — from amongst the twisting tree roots and piles of stones. More recently, a well-preserved naga balustrade was found buried deep underground.

At present, Beng Mealea is an active archeological site and carvings showing legends of Vishnu, Shiva and the Buddha have been discovered. Although there are no active shrines, Beng Mealea remains a popular local pilgrimage site for both the monastic community and laity.

 

Getting to Beng Mealea

Beng Mealea is an adventure entirely on its own as is the 80 kilometre journey to get there from Siem Reap (1.5 to 2 hours by road). It is advised that visitors set aside at least half a day to visit this temple. Entry into Beng Mealea is not included in the Angkor Pass and an admission fee of USD $5 is payable at the ticket office by the main entrance.

Although it is possible to get to the temple by tuk tuk, be warned that the journey there is via bumpy (and dusty) backroads. The best way for pilgrims and tourists to get to Beng Mealea is to hire a car and a driver. A trip to Beng Mealea combines well with a visit to either Phnom Kulen or Banteay Srei.

RECOMMENDATION: Hire a car and a driver for the day and visit Beng Mealea as well as Phnom Kulen. Departing by 6.30 am from Siem Reap for Beng Mealea will allow you more than sufficient time for a thorough visit, and you can arrive at the gates of Phnom Kulen in time to enter. The road up to Phnom Kulen operates on a contra-flow — one-way traffic up the mountain is only until noon, then the traffic flow switches to downhill only from 1.00 pm until the road closes at night.

 

Useful Links:

 

Phnom Kulen Mountain

No pilgrimage to Cambodia is complete without a visit to Phnom Kulen, which literally means “Mountain of Lychees”. Considered the most sacred mountain for the Khmer, it is an important place for the faithful to make devotions on weekends and during festivals.

Phnom Kulen is the most sacred mountain for the Khmer in Cambodia

The mountain also has symbolic and historical importance as this is where Jayavarman II declared independence from the Javanese Empire and proclaimed himself a “devaraja” — a god-king with the title “chakravartin”. As the birthplace of the Khmer Empire and Angkor, this first and once-mythical capital city known as “Mahendraparvata” meaning “The Mountain of Great Indra”, is believed to have been as big as Angkor.

Cambodia 62 - Phnom Kulen 2 (Mahendraparvata)

The ancient city, Mahendraparvata, includes temples hidden for centuries by jungle, many of which have not been looted. Click to enlarge.

The mountain is also a protected natural and cultural reserve, designated as Phnom Kulen National Park. The Angkor Pass does not include entrance into the park and foreign visitors entering the site have to pay an entrance fee of USD $20.

Today, Cambodians along with foreign pilgrims visit Phnom Kulen to make devotions at the temple named Preah Ang Thom at the peak of the mountain (home to Cambodia’s largest reclining Buddha), the shrines at Chup Preah and the “Bat Cave”, a meditation cave and hermitage for monks.

 

VIDEO: Discover Phnom Kulen National Park, Cambodia

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Cambodia-V11a-Phnom-Kulen-National-Park.mp4

 

Chup Preah

Best known for its waterfalls, Chup Preah is also a pilgrimage site. Wat Preah Chup houses a tall Buddha statue along with several smaller ones and reliefs that date back to the 16th century. These statues are housed in shrines close to the famous 15-metre-tall Cham Pa tree. With a trunk that is seven metres wide at the base, this tree is regarded by the Khmer as the guardian of this sacred valley. Local land spirits propitiated by the Khmer, known as “Teak Na”, also have shrines here.

Cambodia 63 - Phnom Kulen 3 (Wat Preah Chup)

Local Cambodians trekking up the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen often stop at Wat Preah Chup to make prayers and request blessings for safe passage

Cambodia 64 - Phnom Kulen 4 (Chup Preah Waterfall)

The famous Chup Preah waterfalls at Phnom Kulen

 

Preah Ang Thom

A 500-year-old monastery at the peak of the mountain, Preah Ang Thom is the main pilgrimage site at Phnom Kulen. It is home to a massive 17-metre-long reclining Buddha carved out of a giant sandstone boulder in the side of the mountain, the largest such statue in Cambodia.

The gold-painted reclining Buddha is one of the country’s most venerated monuments, and members of the Cambodian royal family and dignitaries have made pilgrimages here to offer devotions and receive blessings from resident monks.

Cambodia 61 - Phnom Kulen 1 (Sleeping Buddha)

The massive 17-metre-long reclining Buddha in Preah Ang Thom

Cambodia 65 - Phnom Kulen 5 (Preah Ang Thom 1)

The Buddhas at Preah Ang Thom, the main pilgrimage site atop Phnom Kulen

At the beginning of the long stairway leading up to the temple are sacred shrines with reliquaries such as a footprint of the Buddha, a holy lingga (a symbolic phallic representation of the Hindu deity Shiva) and a Dharmachakra wheel. The top of the temple offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and nearby caves also function as holy hermitages.

REMINDER: When visiting Preah Ang Thom, you must remove your shoes and hat (or any head covering). The same dress codes and rules of conduct for Angkor Park also apply to those visiting Phnom Kulen.

Centuries-old intricate carvings adorn a cave on Phnom Kulen

Cambodia 68 - Phnom Kulen 8 (Preah Ang Thom 4)

Phnom Kulen attracts thousands of visitors each year, both pilgrims and tourists

 

Bat Cave Hermitage

The ‘Bat Cave’ of Phnom Kulen is a remote and secluded cave which is popular amongst tourists for being home to thousands of bats! This cave is also a holy Buddhist site with many shrines and a meditation cave as well as a hermitage.

The Bat Cave on Phnom Kulen is a secluded cave which is home to thousands of bats. It is also a meditation hermitage for monks and lay Buddhists.

Strings of colourful prayer flags welcome visitors at the well-camouflaged, moss-covered entrance. The small cave opening leads into narrow passageways that open into several larger chambers.

Apart from monks, the cave also attracts devotees who come from all over Cambodia as well as from neighbouring countries to spend time here in ascetic meditation, and to learn and practise Dharma with the monks in the cave.

 

Other Places of Interest in Phnom Kulen

Other sites of interest in Phnom Kulen include Kbal Spean, the “River of a Thousand Linggas” where hundreds of linggas and yonis are carved into the sandstone riverbed and rocks on the sides. Visitors come here for the water, which is believed to have potent blessings to aid with fertility.

Cambodia 70 - Phnom Kulen 10 (Kbal Spean)

Another popular site in Phnom Kulen is Kbal Spean, the River of a Thousand Linggas

Srah Damrei or the “Elephant Pond”, with its life-sized stone animal carvings well over a thousand years old, is in a hard-to-find but very scenic location in the jungle. The highlight is a massive four-metre-long elephant standing at three metres tall. The site offers spectacular views across the plains below.

Life-sized stone carvings of elephants and other animals are some of the sights scattered all over Phnom Kulen Mountain. These are pieces of the jigsaw puzzle that is the ancient city of Mahendraparvata.

Prasat Rong Chen, identified as one of the first temple-mountains, is believed to be the temple at the centre of the lost city of Mahendraparvata, and the site of Jayavarman II’s historical proclamation. It is a tiered pyramid not dissimilar to ancient Mayan pyramids in a clearing hidden deeply in the jungle.

Believed to be the temple at the centre of the lost city of Mahendraparvata, Prasat Rong Chen has been described as “the centre of the Khmer universe”.

 

Getting to Phnom Kulen

Getting to this sacred mountain of the Khmers takes at least two hours (usually more) by road from Siem Reap on steep and unpaved roads. Phnom Kulen is too steep for tuk tuks so the only options are with a guided tour, a hired car with driver, or on a motodup.

For the young-at-heart and adventure lovers, a motodup provides thrills and fast travels to the sights on Phnom Kulen.

The going rate is double that of Angkor Park. A moto will cost about USD $20 and car hire comes with a surcharge, starting from USD $50 onwards, depending on the type of vehicle and the number of other places you want to visit.

TIP: Remote places such as the Bat Caves, Srah Damrei and Prasat Rong Chen can be quite difficult to reach, particularly during the wet season. Hence, you may have to hire a specialist guide. You can ask your hotel if they can organise one for you or check if your hired car driver can.

 

Useful Links

 

Tips for Pilgrims Visiting the Temples of Siem Reap and Angkor Park

Unlike conventional holidays, the aim of going on pilgrimage is for the betterment of our spiritual practice. Spiritual power places are charged with sacred energy from the presence of enlightened beings or attained masters who have resided there, or accumulated over time from virtuous and beneficial activities performed there.

Thus, when we visit these power places, show reverence, make offerings and aspirational prayers, we create the direct causes as well as generate merits for us to attain the same state of compassion, awareness and qualities of the enlightened beings.

To help you make the most out of your pilgrimage to the temples of Siem Reap and Angkor Park, here are some tips:

1. Plan your trip well
Research the places you want to visit so you can plan what practices you want to do at each site. Be sure to allocate sufficient time so you are not rushed.

2. Set your motivation
Make the aspiration for your journey to be a reminder and a homage to the noble enlightened qualities of the Buddha; with the result from the pilgrimage being purification of negative karma and accumulation of merit to advance your spiritual practice for the benefit of all sentient beings.

3. Prepare for your practices
There are many practices you can engage in while on pilgrimage. Some of the most popular are circumambulations, making offerings, reciting prayers, mantras and sutras, and even prostrations. Engaging in such virtuous activities while immersed in the blessed energies of holy pilgrimage sites will plant powerful seeds in your mindstream and open up your imprints to further your spiritual path.

Here are some recommended practices that can be done at the temples of Siem Reap and Angkor Park:

  • Make offerings of food, flowers and incense to holy Buddha images
  • Offer robes and dana to the Sangha
  • Recite mantras. The mantras of Shakyamuni, Migtsema, Chenrezig, Manjushri and Dorje Shugden are recommended because many of the Angkorian temples were dedicated to Avalokiteshvara and Prajnaparamita. Your yidam and your guru’s mantra are also excellent to recite.
  • Circumambulate Buddha statues and the stupa at Preah Khan
  • Recite the King of Prayers at the conclusion of your pilgrimage.
  • Engage in the preliminaries such as prostrations and mandala offerings

 

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10 Responses to Amazing Angkor: A Guide to the Buddhist Temples of Siem Reap

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  1. Samfoonheei on May 24, 2020 at 4:56 pm

    Buddhist Temples of Siem Reap , Cambodia is amazing filled with incredible architecture, Khmer Culture. The beautiful temples in Siem Reap is a must-see place when visiting. Buddhist Temples in Siem Reap each year attracted millions of visitors, especially those in the expansive Angkor Archeological Park. Well listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992, there are about 50 Buddhist and Hindu temples dating back to the 12th century within its grounds. Simply amazing to see but I have not been there yet. Would wish to see for myself those beautiful ancient architectural temples.
    Looking at those beautiful pictures paints a thousands words. So many Buddhist temples to visit .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing.

  2. Alexa Rank on Oct 17, 2019 at 3:46 pm

    The Youtube subscribers will boost your enterprise exposure and advertise
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  3. Pastor Adeline Woon on Jul 28, 2018 at 6:18 am

    Nice short video of a new LED signage reminding us of who we can go to for blessings in case of need: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBwrkaKUoH0

  4. Joy Kam on Jul 26, 2018 at 3:20 am

    Listening to the chanting of sacred words, melodies, mantras, sutras and prayers has a very powerful healing effect on our outer and inner environments. It clears the chakras, spiritual toxins, the paths where our ‘chi’ travels within our bodies for health as well as for clearing the mind. It is soothing and relaxing but at the same time invigorates us with positive energy. The sacred sounds invite positive beings to inhabit our environment, expels negative beings and brings the sound of growth to the land, animals, water and plants. Sacred chants bless all living beings on our land as well as inanimate objects. Do download and play while in traffic to relax, when you are about to sleep, during meditation, during stress or just anytime. Great to play for animals and children. Share with friends the blessing of a full Dorje Shugden puja performed at Kechara Forest Retreat by our puja department for the benefit of others. Tsem Rinpoche

    Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbzgskLKxT8&t=5821s

  5. wan wai meng on Jun 26, 2018 at 8:19 pm

    A breathtaking view of the buddhist culture and heritage that once graced the land of the Khmers. The amount of spiritual monuments and structures is a strong indication of what was really important to the ancient Cambodians, their spiritual development and practice.

    Thank you to Rinpoche and the blog team for giving some guidance on how to make the trip to Cambodia an especially spiritual and special one.

    • wan wai meng on Jun 26, 2018 at 8:28 pm

      Excited about the recent discovery of a mountain pyramid Koh Ker in Northern Cambodia. Wonder what we can find there if we do visit that location.

  6. Anne Ong on Jun 25, 2018 at 8:46 pm

    Beautiful sacred and and holy placs of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Love the interesting pictures and videos too. Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog team for sharing about Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.???

  7. cc on May 18, 2018 at 2:59 pm

    Thanks for sharing.

    Cambodia is a great place to visit.

    Full of historical and amazing architecture and love the place alot but unfortunately alot of Buddha’s head were missing.

    Is a great place for backpack and retreat.
    Alot of walking and climbing and is super sunny.

  8. Samfoonheei on May 15, 2018 at 3:23 pm

    Siem Reap is the major tourist attraction in Cambodia, as it is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor. Truly amazing………Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and one of the seven Wonder of the world. It was built in the first half of the 12th century and most known iconic temples which took about 30 years to build. It seems to be an impressiveness greater than that of the Pyramids, an artistic distinctiveness as fine as that of the Taj Mahal in the recent survey. Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and well preserved for its amazing sculptures making it as one of the finest monuments in the world. I have not been there before ,will make a trip to see for myself the beauty of this Seven Wonder of the world.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this interesting post.

  9. Datuk May on May 15, 2018 at 3:03 pm

    Cambodia is a country that had suffered atrocities and violence to her own people during the reign of the Khmer Rouge in the late 1970’s.

    However, Cambodia and her citizens had survived and has inherited the iconic Buddhist temple complex called Angkor duly anointed by Unesco as a world heritage. Many have visited and all are totally mesmerised by the grandeur of the Buddhist Temple complex.

    What really stands out for me is how such a holy place can adapt to being a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu to current Buddhist temple dedicated to Shakymuni Buddha and the Dharma.

    Besides being an iconic Buddhist centre, the history of Angkor is testament to the “goodness” of pure religions that no wars nor blood need to be shed in migrating from an Hindu centre to that of Buddhism. That is the true essence of perfect wisdom and acceptance of the best for human beings.

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  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:18 PM
    n their theoretical model, rudeness has this impact on our ability to think because it engenders negative sadness, anger. Researchers have found that common negative behaviours can spread easily and have significant consequences. The best way to avoid rude people is to meet their acts of rudeness with kindness. Exposure to neurotoxins in society is not new. Children today are raised in an environment that is much different from those days. Nowadays they are exposed to behaviours, profane language, hostilities and stress from which we adults, raised a generation ago. Studies have shown that children exposed to serious psychological trauma during childhood are at risk of suffering increased psychiatric disorders. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rudeness-is-a-neurotoxin.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:15 PM
    Revisit this blog again . Reading comments in this blog Rich people have substantial assets and income, providing a sense of security and freedom from financial worries. Owning high-end cars, designer clothing and everything they want with their money. Rich people often have more time for leisure, hobbies, and travel, allowing them to pursue interests and experiences. They may live in large, luxurious homes and have or apartments, often in desirable locations and having personalized services. The fundamental difference in mindset between the rich and the poor is, the rich have understood a very simple principle money makes money. Rich people see money as an opportunity, while poor people see it as something to be earned. Poor people work hard for their money. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much. The primary difference between rich people and poor people is how they handle their wealth. My thought been rich in this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich.
    Thank you for sharing Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rich-people.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:13 PM
    Found this old post …disturbing. Having a name especially a Bar linked to Buddha to be disrespectful towards Buddhism. After much controversy the owner had it removed. The Buddha Bar located in Sabah by a young owner which opened without much thought had many people complaining. Later was forced to have its controversial name changed to ‘Peacock Garden’ and had apologised for the controversial name. As a devout Buddhist, the name ‘Buddha Bar’ which serves alcohol, is disrespectful to the revered Buddha.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/buddha-bar.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:12 PM
    Siberia, considered the heartland of shamanism inhabited by many different ethnic groups, and many of its peoples observe shamanistic. Many of the indigenous communities reclaiming their traditional spiritual and healing practices . Interesting. Siberian shamanism is often called Tengerism, involves various rituals, including drumming, chanting, trance states, and offerings to nature spirits and ancestors. This religious practice has deep roots in Siberia and Central Asia in recent years with roots in the Turkic and Mongolic cultures. Many who have been live in a remote part of Russia, have preserved their shamanic traditions due to their isolation. Many customs of Tengrism are still been practiced where they emphasizes a deep respect for nature and its various spirits, including those of the earth, water, and mountains. They do believe in the continued existence of souls and the importance of honouring their ancestors.
    Thank you Rinpoche sharing this ancient religion.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/interesting-siberia.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:10 PM
    Everyone of us has an unforgettable different experience, a different destination and itineraries. The journey to Shar Gaden Monastery back in 2019, making offerings to the sangha , by the Kecharians hold special moments and memories. They were on behalf of His Eminence the 25th Tsem Rinpoche and Kechara in making an offering to all 650 monks of the monastery. On this fruitful trip the Kecharians had the honour to catch a glimpse of the normally-covered holy statue of Dorje Shugden . Awesome this holy statue of Dorje Shugden was handmade by HH Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and HH Kyabje Zong Rinpoche.The team was also granted an audience with H E Domo Geshe Chocktrul Rinpoche. Having the opportunity to make offerings to the monks was indeed meritorious. Rejoice to them. Looking at those beautiful pictures paints a thousands words. Thank you Rinpoche and team for this sharing. Merely looking at it is a blessing especially the Holy Statue of Dorje Shugden.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/journey-to-shar-gaden-monastery-2019-making-offerings-to-the-sangha.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, Mar 21. 2025 05:41 PM
    Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly. We can’t let our failures define us. Defeat is not the worst of failures. Not to have tried is the true failure. Success is never permanent, and failure is never final. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness .Sometimes just reminding ourselves of the temporality of failure enables us to forge ahead and stay focus looking forward . Failure isn’t something many of us can handle gracefully. And even though we know it’s a common human condition, figuring out how to stay motivated in the face of failure .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this profound teachings.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/dont-let-obstacles-win.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, Mar 21. 2025 05:38 PM
    Finally HH Dalai Lama said we can practice Dorje Shugden. After all these years of deep frustration felt by the Tibetan people. They who lack religious freedom been denied and been exploited in all sectors of society. More than 60 years the Tibetan leadership has cause the sufferings of those in exile who had propitiate Dorje Shugden. Dalai Lama did reiterated although he recommended not worshipping Dorje Shugden as it is a personal choice and freedom. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche .

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/dalai-lama-says-we-can-practise-dorje-shugden-finally-chinese.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, Mar 21. 2025 05:37 PM
    Working in a private hospital before ,having witnessed many personal tragedies faced by the living and dying patients. Many of these poor people faced their death with fear, with misery and pain before departing this world. With the images of all these in my mind, on occasion feeling sad and grieve at times when those we have cared .But nonetheless we should recognise certain truths. All of us are going to leave this world at one time and leaving those we love. In the teaching of the Buddha, all of us will pass away eventually as a part in the natural process of birth, old-age and death and that we should always keep in mind the impermanence of life. Along the journey of life, we are reminded of our own inevitable ends in waiting and everything is a blip of transience and impermanent. Be responsible, good and positive for ourselves and towards others. This leads to calmness, happiness and an outlook which contributes to a calm and controlled mind at the time of death. We have to remind ourselves the importance of rebirth and taking time to prepare for their own demise before its too late.To cultivate the good karma, our good actions are an excellent way prepare for our death. Having lead a responsible and compassionate life and have no regrets when death approaches enables us to surrender without a struggle. The life that we all cherish and wish to hold on. We are doomed to the endless cycles of life and death, we should learn and practices Dharma teachings .We are given a chance in life and choice to determine our future, to determine where we will go for rebirth. Spend our time on earth wisely before its too late.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-importance-of-rebirth.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, Mar 21. 2025 05:34 PM
    The Flatwoods monster in West Virginia folklore, is a creature reported to have been sighted in the town of Flatwoods in Braxton County, West Virginia Flatwoods monsters are aliens described as hovering creatures with glowing purple eye. Since tales about this creature, it has become one of the most famous legends in modern memory. Although the Monster has not been seen since its impact on the rural community has been huge. Many of the eye witnesses came up stories concluded that the shape, movement, and sounds due to the nature of the sighting. Description by eye witness varied, some said is unidentified flying object (UFO) . There’s no hard evidence to support the true nature . Interesting article.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/flatwoods-monster-close-encounter-of-the-third-kind.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Mar 16. 2025 01:40 PM
    The Eerie Enigma of the Mothman are refer to the legendary, humanoid, winged creature as said by the locals as where is was been sighted. Since then it had sparking a blend of fear and fascination among the locals in the Point Pleasant, West Virginia area. This creature became an eerie symbol of fear, tragedy, and fascination for decades to come since the stories are so enduring and pervasive . The first reported encounter in 1966 in West Virginia and to the most recent one in 2024 in Kane, Illinois. In the quiet town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, the mysterious creature had igniting one of the most puzzling legends in American folklore. Witnesses described this creature standing over seven feet tall, with a wingspan that could rival a small aircraft, glowing red eyes, and a human-like figure. This interesting, could it be real no one knows, there’s something out there for sure.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-eerie-enigma-of-the-mothman.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Mar 16. 2025 01:38 PM
    His Holiness the Dalai Lama is considered the incarnation of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and therefore he is an enlightened being. H H Dalai Lama has strongly discouraged the practice of Dorje Shugden worship within Tibetan Buddhism. Dorje Shugden is a prominent deity in the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Many highly attained Lamas have been relying on this Powerful Protector for centuries and even Dalai lama previously do propitiate Dorje Shugden . It cannot be wrong and its wrong to view it as a form of “spirit worship”. All his previous 9 reincarnations practiced with devotion, all of the Dalai Lamas teachers practiced Dorje Shugdan as well . The Tibetan community is torn over this issue and this has been the cause of much suffering and unnecessary prejudice. Dalai Lama is without doubt an enlightened being that surely cannot be tricked by a spirit. Dalai Lama did composed a praise to Dorje Shugden while at Dungkar Monastery . Interesting article , may more people read this and to understand better regarding this controversy. In 2020, the Dalai Lama made a Uturn by saying we can practice Dorje Shugden . Thats’ wonderful and relief for many practitioners.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-fourteenth-dalai-lama-dorje-shugden.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Mar 16. 2025 01:37 PM
    Butön Rinchen Drup, 11th Abbot of Shalu Monastery, was a 14th-century Sakya master and Tibetan Buddhist leader. Butön Rinchen Drup a Tibetan great scholar and translator, known for systematizing the Tibetan Buddhist canon containing the Indian scriptures based on the spoken words of the Buddha. He also compiled the Tangyur collection that contains the Indian and Tibetan commentaries of these teachings. He wrote a famous text, the History of Buddhism in India and Tibet, which many Tibetan scholars utilize in their study till today. He remains to this day as one of the most important Tibetan historians and Buddhist writers in the history of Buddhism and Tibet. He was not merely a capable administrator but he is remembered to this very day as a prodigious scholar and writer and is Tibet’s most celebrated historian. After his death he strongly influenced the development of esoteric studies and psychic training in Tibet for centuries. Interesting biography of a great scholar.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/tibets-great-scholar-buton-rinchen-drub.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Sunday, Mar 16. 2025 01:36 PM
    nspiring a Tibetan Parliament representing the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, spoke bravely for the need to stop discriminating against Dorje Shugden practitioners. Tenpa Yarphel, a Tibetan MP speaking confidently for the sake of Tibetan unity. Tibetans in exile have also been particularly divided over the issue of the two Karmapas and the very damaging Dorje Shugden conflict. For someone who dare to speak for the sake of peace with the intention of moving forward to a better future. Tenpa Yarphel spoke up against the continuing discrimination of people based on their beliefs. For over more than 20 years those Tibetans especially those Dorje Shugden practitioners suffered from the lack of employment opportunities to discrimination. A wise decision of Tenpa Yarphel speaking up the truth of the Tibetan sufferings. They are not allowed in Tibetan hospitals, or apply jobs in the Tibetan civil service or even entering shop or hotels and so on. Tenpa Yarphel’s statement, paints a thousand words of reality. A big hand applaud to this brave man .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/tibetan-patriot-tenpa-yarphel-tells-tibetan-government-to-make-peace-with-dorje-shugden-people.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Wednesday, Mar 5. 2025 05:19 PM
    Losar is the Tibetan New Year, a festival that marks the beginning of the year on the Tibetan calendar. It is celebrated among the Tibetan community all over the world recently. Losar marks the beginning of the Tibetan calendar year a time for family gatherings, religious ceremonies, and feasting because of its long history and rich cultural traditions. The celebrations will last for 15 days whereby the first three days being the most important day for them and widely celebrated festival on the Tibetan calendar. During theTibetan New Year, Panglung Oracles are known to enter a trance state, of the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. This practice is considered a significant part of the Losar celebrations within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, providing guidance and blessings to those seeking their wisdom. People often consult the Panglung oracles to receive predictions, advice, and blessings for the coming year. Dorje Shugden will also give teachings while in trance of an oracle.
    Reading this old blog again where back in 2022, the Great Protector Dorje Shugden gave an inportant message to everyone of us. We should take it seriously practising good virtues, such as prostrating ,making offerings and practise the holy Dharma. Everyone should always be kind-hearted and doing our best to cultivate loving-kindness, compassion and bodhicitta.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this precious advices.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/dorje-shugdens-2022-losar-advice.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Wednesday, Mar 5. 2025 05:17 PM
    Pemayangtse Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in Sikkim, India that is part of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim. It is home to Dorje Shugden, a spirit in Tibetan tradition. The monastery is one of the oldest and most famous in Sikkim. Pemayangtse Monastery in Sikkim, founded by Lhatsun Namkha Jigme of the Nyingma tradition. One of the earliest modern academic references to Dorje Shugden. Stunning sculptures, paintings and ancient scrolls can be found in the Monastery. Interesting story behind this monastery,as described by Lieutenant Colonel Laurence Austine Waddell a British explorer, collector and author. Through the years of travelling in India, Sikkim and areas on the borders of Nepal and Tibet, after doing research on Tibetan Buddhist religious practices he made a stunning discovery. He discovered that Dorje Shugden existence in the Nyingma monastery as written in his book, which confirmed that Dorje Shugden been worshipped in the Nyingma as well . Not only worshipped in the Gelug lineage but held prominence in the Nyingma tradition too. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/dorje-shugden-in-nyingma-pemayangtse-monastery-sikkim.html

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The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
6 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
6 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
6 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
6 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
6 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
6 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
6 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
6 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
6 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
6 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
6 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
6 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
6 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
6 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
6 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
6 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
6 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
6 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
6 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
6 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
6 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
6 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
6 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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Videos On The Go

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    6 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
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Just post your name and your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.

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CHAT PICTURES

Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
22 hours ago
Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
22 hours ago
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
22 hours ago
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
22 hours ago
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
6 days ago
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
2 weeks ago
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
2 weeks ago
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
1st - 2nd March Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
1st - 2nd March Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat by Jacinta.
6 March 2025 Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening, at Kechara Kuantan center. Sam foon heei Kechara Kuantan group
3 weeks ago
6 March 2025 Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening, at Kechara Kuantan center. Sam foon heei Kechara Kuantan group
4 March 2025 cleaning of Gyenze Chapel yesterday evening Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
3 weeks ago
4 March 2025 cleaning of Gyenze Chapel yesterday evening Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
test
3 weeks ago
test
4 weeks ago
If you need DS help to clear some obstacles or perhaps just wanna support our Kechara Penang Group, do order our puja packages. By Jacinta
4 weeks ago
If you need DS help to clear some obstacles or perhaps just wanna support our Kechara Penang Group, do order our puja packages. By Jacinta
22nd Feb 2025, Kechara Penang Study Group has completed DS puja. It is a Buddhist ritual that invokes the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden to bring healing, harmony, and protection. By Jacinta
4 weeks ago
22nd Feb 2025, Kechara Penang Study Group has completed DS puja. It is a Buddhist ritual that invokes the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden to bring healing, harmony, and protection. By Jacinta
15th Feb 2025 Dorje Shugden puja & recitation of Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
15th Feb 2025 Dorje Shugden puja & recitation of Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
This evening Kechara Kuantan sending groceries to two underprivileged families.Help others without any reason and give without the expectation of receiving anything in return.. Sam foon heei Kechara Kuantan group
1 month ago
This evening Kechara Kuantan sending groceries to two underprivileged families.Help others without any reason and give without the expectation of receiving anything in return.. Sam foon heei Kechara Kuantan group
20th February Kechara Kuantan Had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG... Kechara Kuantan.. Sam foon heei
1 month ago
20th February Kechara Kuantan Had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG... Kechara Kuantan.. Sam foon heei
Throwback 9th February 2025 Group photos at Kechara Kuantan,with Pastor Seng Piow
1 month ago
Throwback 9th February 2025 Group photos at Kechara Kuantan,with Pastor Seng Piow
Releasing fishes back to the water by Kechara Kuantan group yesterday. Saving thousands of lives.
1 month ago
Releasing fishes back to the water by Kechara Kuantan group yesterday. Saving thousands of lives.
16 February This morning we saved thousands of lives from pet shop. Released and giving them a chance back to nature.
1 month ago
16 February This morning we saved thousands of lives from pet shop. Released and giving them a chance back to nature.
1 month ago
9th February 2025
1 month ago
9th February 2025
8th Feb 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang Chapel. Every Saturday @3pm. Do join us if you're at Penang. We're located at 49, Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
8th Feb 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang Chapel. Every Saturday @3pm. Do join us if you're at Penang. We're located at 49, Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Completed our weekly DS Puja led by Pastor Seng Piow ( 1st Feb 2025). Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Completed our weekly DS Puja led by Pastor Seng Piow ( 1st Feb 2025). Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
8th February 2025 doing Lama Chopa Guru Puja at Kuantan center with Pastor Seng Piow and Dharma brothers and sisters. .... Sam Foon Heei .. (Kuantan)
1 month ago
8th February 2025 doing Lama Chopa Guru Puja at Kuantan center with Pastor Seng Piow and Dharma brothers and sisters. .... Sam Foon Heei .. (Kuantan)
Xin Nian Kuai Le! Gong Xi Fa Cai! (29th Jan 2025) May the year of the snake brings us spiritual growth through having good health and increased wisdom. May Rinpoche return swiftly to guide all beings into Dharma path. Thanks to everyone for your participation. Without the support from each and everyone, there's no Kechara Penang Study Group. By Jacinta.
2 months ago
Xin Nian Kuai Le! Gong Xi Fa Cai! (29th Jan 2025) May the year of the snake brings us spiritual growth through having good health and increased wisdom. May Rinpoche return swiftly to guide all beings into Dharma path. Thanks to everyone for your participation. Without the support from each and everyone, there's no Kechara Penang Study Group. By Jacinta.
Gorgeous offerings of flowers, fruits snacks and drinks. This can only be achieved through the generosity and efforts all members and sponsors, especially to our dedicated Penang member Choong Soon Heng who organised this. May all beings have inner and outer peace. Uploaded by Jacinta 29th Jan 2025.
2 months ago
Gorgeous offerings of flowers, fruits snacks and drinks. This can only be achieved through the generosity and efforts all members and sponsors, especially to our dedicated Penang member Choong Soon Heng who organised this. May all beings have inner and outer peace. Uploaded by Jacinta 29th Jan 2025.
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche has mentioned: The lunar New Year is an auspicious occasion when we renew ties and rekindle joy with our loved ones. Hence, happy to see many families gathered together to usher the Lunar New Year at Kechara Penang and also appreciation for the guests that came from afar for this joyous occasion. By Jacinta
2 months ago
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche has mentioned: The lunar New Year is an auspicious occasion when we renew ties and rekindle joy with our loved ones. Hence, happy to see many families gathered together to usher the Lunar New Year at Kechara Penang and also appreciation for the guests that came from afar for this joyous occasion. By Jacinta
People believe fireworks bring good luck and happiness. In welcoming lunar new year 2025, a burst of celebration with fireworks were set off at Kechara Penang Chapel too (sponsored by Mr. Ooi & family) . Kechara Penang members gathered around to enjoy this moment. Uploaded by Jacinta. 29th Jan 2025
2 months ago
People believe fireworks bring good luck and happiness. In welcoming lunar new year 2025, a burst of celebration with fireworks were set off at Kechara Penang Chapel too (sponsored by Mr. Ooi & family) . Kechara Penang members gathered around to enjoy this moment. Uploaded by Jacinta. 29th Jan 2025
Before puja, Pastor shared about consciousness beyond death, bardo and the stages of death. Hue and Betty (her brother) shared about the out of body experiences. These type of shared experiences offerred us opportunity to explore things from different perspectives. Thank you so much. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Before puja, Pastor shared about consciousness beyond death, bardo and the stages of death. Hue and Betty (her brother) shared about the out of body experiences. These type of shared experiences offerred us opportunity to explore things from different perspectives. Thank you so much. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
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Dorje Shugden
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