Ta Phrom

I arrived at Ta Phrom temple close to midday, and found it almost deserted. The canopy of trees provided welcome relief from the relentless sun and heat. As part of the Bayon complex, this temple was founded as a Buddhist monastery and university in the late 12th century. Giant tree roots have since invaded the temple creating a highly romantic atmosphere for visitors.

This impressive backdrop served as the set for Tomb Raider, the movie starring Angelina Jolie, in 2000. My guide, Thuy, proudly disclosed that he had seen her twice and she "was very beautiful". Thanks to the movie, Ta Phrom is known as the "Tomb Raider Temple" and guides are able to provide a blow-by-blow account of Lara Croft's encounter with the monster....or something like that (I haven't seen the movie, fortunately).