PHNOM PENH: Visitors to Siem Reap province will soon enjoy better views and photo opportunities at the Beng Mealea Temple, after the APSARA National Authority (ANA) cleared the overgrown path to a scenic point known as “Preah Ang Phti”.
The ANA announced that it has trimmed a number of trees to open up the landscape from the western pier of the Beng Mealea baray (reservoir) leading to Preah Ang Phti. The site is located in the centre of the baray, which measures 750m in length and 10m in width.
The authority explained that improving access to the site is intended to promote national cultural heritage and enhance the diversity of tourism options in Siem Reap province.
Beng Mealea is a significant historical site that draws visitors with its sprawling ruins intertwined with massive trees and green moss covering its sandstone blocks.
Located approximately 60km from Siem Reap town, the temple was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, at around the same time as Angkor Wat. Its architectural style and wall carvings — including depictions of the “Churning of the Ocean of Milk” — closely mirror those of the more famous Unesco World Heritage site. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
