Ta Prohm, also known as the “Eye of Wisdom,” is one of the most iconic monuments within the Angkor complex in Cambodia. Built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, the temple was once a Buddhist monastery and educational center dedicated to honoring the king’s mother. However, Ta Prohm’s uniqueness lies not only in its historical value but also in the way nature has taken over, transforming it into a living masterpiece.
The Mystery and Uniqueness of Ta Prohm
The temple was abandoned after the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century, allowing centuries of nature to overtake it. Silk-cotton trees and strangler figs have grown, rooting themselves into every stone. Their massive roots cover the walls and roofs, creating a fantastical scene as though the temple belongs to another world. This mesmerizing sight has made Ta Prohm one of Cambodia’s most visited landmarks, attracting millions of tourists annually.
Ta Prohm in Popular Culture
Ta Prohm is also known as the “Tomb Raider Temple” after being featured in the 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie. The striking image of giant tree roots embracing the ancient temple walls left an indelible mark on viewers, turning Ta Prohm into a symbol of the magical interplay between humanity and nature.
A Tale of Nature’s Dominance
The most striking feature of Ta Prohm is the enormous tree roots, which create an enchanting and mysterious atmosphere. Interestingly, these towering trees do not grow from the ground upward as usual but instead start from the top down. Birds brought seeds to the temple’s rooftops, where they germinated and grew into massive trees that rooted themselves into the ancient stone structures.
The relationship between the trees and the architecture at Ta Prohm is a curious interdependence. The trees protect the temple from the erosion of time, while the stone structures provide a foundation for the trees to thrive. If one were to collapse, the other would not survive either.
Exploring Ta Prohm
To visit Ta Prohm, travelers must depart from Siem Reap and pass through the Angkor complex. Although the journey can be challenging, the wonder of the temple is well worth the effort. Admission to the Angkor complex currently ranges from $37 for a single day to $72 for a seven-day pass, allowing visitors to fully explore the beauty of the temples in the area.
The best time to visit Ta Prohm is early in the morning, when the crowds are minimal, and the soft golden sunlight filters through the trees, creating a magical ambiance.
A Timeless Monument
Despite the passage of centuries, Ta Prohm retains its captivating beauty and remains a symbol of resilience. The winding roots resembling giant serpents, moss-covered walls, and an air of ancient mystery have made this place a one-of-a-kind wonder of both nature and architecture.
Ta Prohm is more than a historical monument; it is a vivid testament to the power and creativity of nature. For those who love adventure, exploration, and marveling at mysterious beauty, Ta Prohm is an unmissable destination on any journey to Cambodia.
Let’s take a look at the photos of giant tree roots at Ta Prohm temple:
