The old legendary fortress of Vyšehrad can be an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of Prague on a bright sunny day. Vyšehrad in Czech translates into Upper Castle in English. Perched high on a massive rock called Vyšehrad, the fortress offers magnificent views of the Vltava River, probably the best in Prague, from the top of the castle. This 10th-century fortress was the seat of Czech kings. By the 17th century, it started serving as a military fortress. Now, this mammoth fortress is considered a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic and offers many interesting historical monuments inside a public park. How to reach Vyšehrad Fortress in Prague The castle is about 6 kilometres south of Prague city centre. The easiest way to get to the castle is by Metro Line C. Get off at the Vyšehrad Station and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the castle. If you have to take a tram, don't mind hiking up. Get off at the tram station Vyton, right across the road below the castle. You will have to take the stairs to reach the castle. If you get off at the tram stop Albertov, then you will have to take a short, steep climb through a residential colony to reach the Brick Gate of the castle. This is what we had to do due to a lack of more research on the day of our visit. Getting around Vyšehrad Fortress in Prague Entry to the fortress and its sprawling gardens and ramparts is free. You must buy tickets for the individual monuments, the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul and the Gorlice Casemates. Mind you, if you wish to take the guided tour of the fortress, make bookings a week in advance in the language of your choice. The official website is https://www.prague.eu/en There are many things to do around this fortress. It's a good idea to do some basic research about the fortress before the visit. As you enter the gate to the fortress, climb the steps on the right to reach the famous Vyšehrad Cemetery. The cemetery has 600 graves of famous Czech nationals, poets, sculptors and artists. There is a common tomb of some well-known Czech nationals called the Slavin Tomb. The tomb is adorned with a beautiful sarcophagus with inscriptions on it. One can never imagine a cemetery to be so stunning. We spent a great deal of time looking at the marvellous structures. From the cemetery, walk towards the Fortress Park. You will see families lazing around or having a picnic in this place. The area is very peaceful and is adorned with six amazing stone statues, each of them a marvel of its own. These statues are historically important because I believe they were moved here to save them from the Nazis. From the park, you can walk to the Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul. This Neo-Gothic structure has a stunning outer facade. The basilica is famous for its paintings in the Art Nouveau style, the most prominent being the panel painting of the Virgin Mary of Rain. Tips for Visiting Vyšehrad Fortress in Prague Take the metro line if possible. That way, you can avoid the tedious hike up to the castle. Plan your trip on a bright day to get stunning views from the top. Keep some extra time on hand to see the basilica and the casements. The area is not very touristy, so you can easily buy tickets there itself, depending on the time you have. For guided tours, though, you need to make advance bookings. You will have to buy a ticket if you wish to enter the basilica. Tickets are available at the counter next to it. From the basilica, we walked to the Rotunda of St Martin. This is an 11th-century small chapel built on a circular platform and is today the oldest preserved Romanesque-style monument in all of Prague. Vyšehrad Fortress also houses the famous Casemates, a complex system of underground passages in the ramparts of the fortress where troops could move without being noticed. There is a large underground room called the Gorlice. The highlight of this room is that it has six of the original statues of Charles Bridge preserved here. The Casemates can be seen only as part of a guided tour of the Casemates and the Gorlice Hall. If you have time, then go for it. You can also make online bookings in advance. We gave this tour a miss since we had reached Prague from Austria after seeing many magnificent castles like the Hohensalzburg in Salzburg, so we'd had our fill of castles. The Vyšehrad Fortress offers splendid views of the entire city of Prague from the top of its ramparts. We got to witness some amazing views of the river and the city... Stunning vistas of the Vltava River from the top of Vyšehrad Castle And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here

A visit to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, famously known as the Killing Fields, is an unsettling experience, to say the least. Unsettling, because it brings to the fore the vulnerability and fragility of the political systems we live in and take so much for granted. The fact that one man, a political despot, Pol Pot, could steer a civil revolution to the point where almost three million innocent Cambodians were killed mercilessly by their own people within a span of four years, from 1975 to 1979, is baffling. The external link that I've pasted above will give you an insight into the ideology that went into this movement, although no ideology can justify the brutality that was meted out to the Cambodian people, including young children and infants. Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre....These pictures below speak for themselves... After spending about an hour at the Genocide Centre, we headed to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Also known as Security Prison 21 under the infamous Khmer Rouge regime, this was a secondary school which got converted into an interrogation and detention centre. The regime followed a policy of guilt-by-association, so entire families of suspects were held hostage here, including young children. At the time of the downfall of the Khmer Rouge regime, four children from this facility made it out alive. On your visit, you can meet three of those four survivors, interact with them and read their heart-rending memoirs in the books they've written about their ordeals at the detention centre. We learnt from our guide that these survivors come to the centre every day to share their haunting memories and let the world know what happened in Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge regime. Visiting Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh Opt for a conducted tour Although you can visit the centre on your own, to truly comprehend the nature and extent of this mindless massacre, a local guide is required. Most travel platforms offer half-day tours to both of these sites, costing between USD 20.00 and USD 25.00 per person for a 4-hour round trip. In case you do not opt for a tour, then an audio guide is available for information about the exhibits. Mind your Dress code and Etiquette The mood around the Genocide Centre and the Museum is very sombre. Visitors are expected to behave and dress appropriately, with shoulders and knees covered. If you are wearing something that doesn't adhere to the dress code, you can rent scarves and sarongs from the ticket counter for a nominal fee. Some of the sites are ghastly and unsettling, as I've mentioned earlier. If you're overtly sensitive, then please use your discretion before visiting. The museum has issued an age recommendation for visitors, as per the advisory, exhibits are inappropriate for visitors aged less than 14 years. Photography at the sites is allowed, but visitors are expected to do so with sensitivity and maintain decorum. Some pics from the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum The atmosphere, both at the Genocide Centre and the Museum, is very grim. The moans of the innocent victims of this genocide have died down, but the pain of human suffering still hangs in the air, along with the human spirit that refuses to die down, even in the face of such extreme violence.

The Royal Palace of Cambodia in Phnom Penh is a perfect example of classic Khmer architecture. The palace was built by King Norodom in 1866 and then rebuilt between 1912 and 1932. Located on the confluence of the Rivers Tonle Sap and Mekong, the palace, with its tall golden spires, gilded roof tops that shimmer in the bright Cambodian sun, and delightfully ornate interiors, creates a mesmerising visual treat. It is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Despite the opulence and grandeur of the palace, there is a calm serenity in the air that is very refreshing. King Norodom Sihamoni is believed to be a quiet king who strictly adheres to Buddhist principles. It's this austerity that gets reflected in the overall ambience of the palace. The Royal Palace of Cambodia: Things to Remember before Visiting the Palace The palace is open to the public on all days from 8:00 am to 11:00 am and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Since it is the official residence of the King of Cambodia, the palace is closed to the public for official ceremonies. Please check their official website before planning your visit. Being the official residence of the king, tourists are allowed to visit only the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda. King's private living quarters are out of bounds for the public. The entry ticket to the palace is 10.00 USD for all foreign nationals. There's a lot of history that precedes the palace, so hiring a local guide is a good idea. Charges for the guide are 10.00 USD for a conducted tour of the Throne Hall, the Armoury or the Museum, Pavilion of Napoleon III, and the Silver Pagoda with its famous Emerald Buddha, which lies on the same premises across the gated complex. As I've mentioned in my earlier Cambodia blogs, please dress modestly for your palace visit, covering your shoulders and knees. This signage at the entrance to the palace says it all... This is the venerated Throne Hall where official ceremonies like coronations and other royal occasions are celebrated. I saw some locals bowing in front of the throne where the king presides, even though the king was not in the palace at that time. Photography of the Throne Hall is strictly prohibited; tourists trying to click pictures, even from the outside, are looked at with a lot of disdain, so all I could click was this picture and a small video. To sum up, I'd say the Royal Palace should be top of your must-see attractions in Phnom Penh, you will not only get to see a gloriously ornate edifice but will also get a glimpse into the Cambodian culture and Khmer architecture.

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, offers an eclectic mix of Khmer culture, French colonial architecture and a deep dive into the gruesome past of Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime. This blog will give you a list of the Top Ten attractions in Phnom Penh, the Cambodian Capital. Phnom Penh, the Cambodian Capital: Important Travel Tips for First-Time Travellers The easiest way to travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is by road. If you hire a cab, you'll have to pay USD 95.00 for a 6-hour ride. Public transport, like a bus, will cost only USD 8.00 for a one-way trip. Phnom Penh is crowded, and at times, it can be chaotic. When planning to visit various sites, allow extra time to avoid traffic. Owing to massive traffic, Phnom Penh is also quite polluted. Wearing a face mask can be a lifesaver. Many sights, like the Genocide Museum and Centre in Phnom Penh, follow a very strict dress code for visitors. This is done as a mark of respect to the victims of genocide. The same strict rules apply to the Royal Palace, too. I've written my top 10 takeaways from my Cambodia trip in a blog post, pasting the link for your reference https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/top-10-takeaways-from-my-cambodia-trip Top Ten Attractions in Phnom Penh 01 Royal Palace of Cambodia We were awestruck by the Royal Palace; it oozes grandeur and excellent craftsmanship. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-visit-to-the-royal-palace-of-cambodia 02 Silver Pagoda On the south side of the Royal Palace is the Silver Pagoda, considered to be a masterpiece built by King Norodom in 1892 and rebuilt in 1962. In front of the Pagoda is a beautiful miniature replica of the famous Angkor Wat. (see picture below) It has earned the name Silver Pagoda owing to its stunning silver-tiled floor made of over 5 tonnes of shining silver, although you can see only a part of it since most of it is covered by a carpet. The most striking feature of the pagoda is the Emerald Buddha, a beautiful crystal sculpture, perched on a high gilded pedestal in the center of this grand pagoda. The opulent interiors include many stunning solid gold idols of Buddha studded with diamonds and precious stones, old relics and traditional masks. My Tip for You The Silver Pagoda is a must-see attraction in Cambodia, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer civilisation. Please note that the entrance to the pagoda is from the side; there are two beautiful white-coloured Stupas on both sides of the Silver Pagoda that will instantly catch your attention. The pagoda is a beautiful, large edifice, as shown in the picture above. You will be expected to take off your shoes before entering to maintain the serene decorum of the place. Photography is strictly prohibited inside. As you can see, even the video I shot outside has only a fleeting shot of the entrance of the pagoda. 03 Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre The Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre, one of the many 'Killing Fields', is a place where the Khmer Rouge regime slaughtered over a million innocent Cambodians under their infamous leader, Pol Pot. This blog will give you an insight into this dark era of Cambodian history https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/choeung-ek-genocidal-centre-and-tuol-sleng-genocide-museum-in-phnom-penh 04 Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is built at the site of a former secondary school, which was converted into Security Prison 21 under the Khmer Rouge regime. Seeing the museum is an experience that will stay with you for a long time https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/choeung-ek-genocidal-centre-and-tuol-sleng-genocide-museum-in-phnom-penh 05 Mekong River Cruise Phnom Penh lies on the confluence of the Rivers Mekong and Tonle Sap. A 2-hour cruise on the river will take you along the beautiful city skyline. There are options available for dinner cruises, sunset cruises, with dinner and drinks, and without. That is to say, tourists are spoiled for choice! Since there is a plethora of cruise options, the prices also vary significantly. An evening cruise can cost anywhere from USD 20 to USD 80, with additional costs ranging up to USD 200, depending on the add-ons. My Tip for You We opted for a 2-hour evening cruise. It was a lot of fun, and the staff were extremely polite. They had organised a small live music show with traditional Cambodian melodies and dance. The food was also delicious and served with a lot of warmth. My verdict is that if you have spare time, go for it to spend a lively evening along the riverfront. 06 National Museum of Cambodia If your visit to Angkor Wat has sparked your curiosity about Cambodian heritage, consider visiting the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh. The museum has the largest collection of historical and archaeological artefacts in Cambodia that showcase the artistic brilliance of the Khmer rulers. The imposing outer façade of this beautiful structure, featuring an earthy red terracotta roof and red sandstone pillars, can be spotted from a distance. Lord Vishnu in a reclining pose Located in Chey Chumneas, very close to the Royal Palace, the museum houses an impressive collection of Khmer sculptures from the Angkor and pre-Angkor eras. My Tip for you Entry fee to the museum is USD 10.00, which can be paid only in cash. Keep aside at least an hour and a half to see the entire museum. It is wheelchair friendly since most of its collection is on the same floor, divided into sections. There is a beautiful green compound in the centre of the museum with a small cafeteria for refreshments, which is a good place to relax. There is no air conditioning anywhere, and it can get very hot in the afternoon. However, this is a good time to explore the museum, as it is not crowded at all. Also, the museum is relatively small. There were no audio guides available, which was a downside, although there were plaques with information about the collections. My word is, don't come to this museum expecting a swanky hi-tech venue; it's a simple place with great collectables that, in a way, reflect the simplicity of the people of Cambodia. If you wish to explore more about the myriad collections of artefacts in the museum, please refer to the official website https://www.cambodiamuseum.info/ 07 Sisowath Riverside Park The Sisowath Riverside Park is a good way to spend a lazy evening strolling along the riverfront. You'll see roadside vendors selling coconut water and flowers. 08 Independence Monument This beautiful lotus-shaped stupa stands in the heart of Phnom Penh at the intersection of Norodom and Sihanouk Boulevard. It was built in 1958 to mark the independence of Cambodia from France in 1953. 09 Statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk Also called the Statue of the King Father Norodom Sihanouk, it is located in a Memorial Park, very close to the Independence Monument. The statue is relatively new, built only in 2013. 010 Wat Phnom Daun Penh Wat Phnom is also known as the Mountain Pagoda, and it is the most important Buddhist temple in Phnom Penh. The temple was built in 1372 on a small hill, and a broad staircase leads up to a small temple on the lower floor. On top of the hill is a big statue of Buddha. My Tip for You A visit to the temple will give you very interesting insights into the Cambodian culture and their religious traditions, since this is an active place of worship. We saw a couple making offerings of meat chunks and eggs to 3 lion statues at the entrance of the temple. These lions, I later learnt, are considered to be the guardians of the temple who watch over it and ward off evil spirits. The offerings people keep in front of the lions are primarily for the temple. To sum it up, Phnom Penh is a city that serves Cambodian culture and history on a platter; all one has to do is lap it up!! Before coming to Phnom Penh, we'd spent 3 rocking days in Siem Reap, seeing the magnificent Angkor Wat. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/unlock-the-magic-of-siem-reap-cambodia-top-10-not-to-miss-attractions

Spending an evening at Phare, the Cambodian circus, is one of the most fun things you can do in Siem Reap. Think circus, you think of acrobats and trapeze artists swinging from one end of the rope to another, and trained lions and tigers, doing their masters' bidding and so on. But Phare is different; no conventional circus stunts, yet its simple and endearing performances are fun to watch. Added to it is the knowledge that all this is being done for a good cause. About Phare and the Good Cause As I've mentioned earlier, this is not a conventional circus, but what you get is a heady mix of humour, acrobatics, storytelling, comedy and energetic live music. Most of the performers are quite young, and their raw energy during this one-hour-long performance is infectious. And now the good cause....Cambodia has a long history of civil war and the trauma it caused under the Khmer Rouge regime, leaving the country and its people in complete disarray. In a bid to help out other young people, nine teenage refugees who had received art therapy in refugee camps founded the Phare Ponleu Selpak Association in 1994. This non-profit arts and circus school supports the community through art and social support programs and offers free education to children who are in dire need of it. In March 2021, Phare Circus won the Guinness World Record for the longest circus performance lasting 24 hours, 10 minutes and 30 seconds ...phew! This was a fundraising effort during the COVID pandemic to raise awareness about the NGO. Phare Circus, Siem Reap: Essential Visitor Information There is only one daily show of one hour at 8:00 pm. It's best to buy tickets beforehand online from the official website of the circus https://pharecircus.org/ or third-party vendors like GetYourGuide.com to ensure that you can catch the show on the day of your choice. I saw many buses full of tourists arriving at the venue. Seating is done section-wise. There are 3 Sections: A, B and C, with tickets starting from USD 18.00. Section A is the premium one. In my opinion, you can buy tickets for any section, whichever is available, and you will get a clear view from every angle because the venue is small and compact. The only advantage of sitting right in the front could be that the performers engage with the audience, at times, which can be fun. One could plan to reach the venue a bit early; there is a cafeteria that serves drinks and snacks (paid, of course!). To keep the people who are waiting for the show occupied, a casual song and dance performance takes place every evening on a small stage outside. There's also a nice souvenir shop at the entrance where you can buy some fun merchandise. Overall, Phare is a great experience, a pleasant evening that celebrates Cambodian culture and the warmth and resilience of its people.

Located about 60 km from Siem Reap, Kulen National Park is a protected area spanning 37,000 hectares in Cambodia, popular for its natural beauty and cultural significance. A visit to this natural park is unlike any other national park you would have seen anywhere else. Things to Know Before You Visit Kulen National Park, Siem Reap Spare at least 4 to 5 hours for your visit to the park. The approach road to the national park from Siem Reap goes through scenic hilly terrain and countryside. You will see many tourists stopping en route to take pictures of the scenery around. So, don't rush it. Entry to the park and its attractions for Cambodian nationals is free. However, foreign nationals have to buy a ticket for USD 20.00. The park has two glorious waterfalls, a small one that flows into the big one over a hill. There is a wee bit rickety stairway that leads to the big waterfall, but the trek is very short and doable. The view of the waterfall you get at the end of this trek would be well worth your effort. The national park has three main attractions, which I have discussed in detail below. Just remember to keep the waterfall section towards the end of your day. After walking around the park in the sweltering heat, a dip in the cool pool of these waterfalls will feel heavenly. You will see most tourists opting to take the plunge. There is a changing facility close to the waterfall, nothing fancy, but extremely useful, run by locals. For a nominal amount, you can store your clothes and valuables and even hire t-shirts and swimwear. Things to do in Kulen National Park, Siem Reap 1000 Lingas at the Kbal Spean River Also known as the River of 1000 Lingas, the Kbal Spean River has 1000 intricately carved stone lingas. Lingas refer to the phallic symbol representing the Hindu God Shiva. According to local belief, these lingas symbolise divine energy, and as the water of the river flows over them, it becomes sanctified. This water is used to irrigate the paddy fields around the park. You could start your day at the park from here. There is a parking facility very close to the river; you will have to walk a few steps to reach the river site. Preah Ang Thom This is a sacred Buddhist shrine frequented by the local people and tourists alike. The shrine can be reached through a broad staircase, where a huge idol of Buddha in a reclining pose will greet you. Phnom Kulen Waterfall There are two waterfalls, as I've mentioned earlier. Both are equally stunning, with gushing cool water that collects in inviting pools. We had not planned on getting into the water, but after having spent half a day under the scorching sun, this was too good a prospect to miss. This here is Kulen National Park for you, where you can spend a day amidst lush green surroundings and a waterfall as the icing on the cake!

This mesmerising Apsara Dance is Cambodian dance storytelling in its most aesthetic form, and witnessing it at the Royal Theatre Restaurant in Siem Reap was one of the highlights of our trip to Cambodia. The performers, draped elegantly in rich traditional ivory-coloured ensembles accessorised with heavy gold jewellery, embody the attributes of the celestial heavenly beauties, Apsaras, that they portray. There is a quiet energy in the dance that is derived from the sheer grace of the slow, fluid hand gestures, called Mudras, of the performers as they make sensual, deft movements, swaying delicately to the beat of lilting music in the background. Watching the Apsara Dance at the Royal Theatre Restaurant in Siem Reap, Cambodia Apsara Dance is accompanied by a lavish dinner at the Royal Theatre Restaurant in Siem Reap. You can, of course, choose to see only the show minus the dining option. We had read some great reviews about the Royal Theatre Restaurant and the dinner they serve, so we opted for it. The evening starts with energetic folk dances of various regions of Cambodia. The performances are colourful, and they celebrate Cambodian culture. Dinner is served simultaneously, and the lavish spread, the warmth of the staff on duty, enhances the entire experience of watching the show. There are various cuisines, each more delicious than the other, with a separate counter for vegetarians too. Towards the end of the show is the mesmerising Apsara Dance. By the time this performance starts, dinner is almost done. And if you're midway through your meal, believe me, you'll be too stunned to eat, and you wouldn't want to blink your eyes lest you miss something. Yeah, that's right. I saw many people standing with full plates in their hands, transfixed and unable to take their eyes off the slow, sensual dance movements of the dancers. I, too, made a video of the performance, but it does not do justice to the magic these women create on stage. There is a group photo with the dancers at the end of the show, I wasn't going to miss it, for sure! That's Apsara Dance for you. You can watch the performance at 4 or 5 places in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, too. So, don't miss it on your Cambodia trip, you'll remember it for a long time to come.

There's a reason why Banteay Srei is called the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art; the intricacy of its stone carvings will astound you. In this blog, you will learn what makes Banteay Srei special and why you should visit this beautiful temple apart from the famous Angkor Wat. We learnt from our local guide that this temple is also known as the 'Citadel of the Women', the reason attributed to this nickname is that the delicate ornamentation on each of its stone walls could only be the work of dainty female hands. Also, the temple is small, rendering it an air of femininity. This beautiful 10th-century CE temple is dedicated to the Hindu Gods, Shiva and Parvati. The entire temple is made of intricately carved stones with a pink hue, rendering the temple a delicate pinkish colour that makes it look heavenly in the evening light. Each stone is carved with jaw-dropping precision!! Banteay Srei Temple: Tickets, Timings and Essential Visitor Information Banteay Srei lies in the Angkor area, 25 km from the main group of temples. You will need a cab or a tuk-tuk to reach it. Entry to the temple is included in the Angkor Day Pass. If you wish to see this temple, then you may extend your day's itinerary by 2 hours. Buying a separate ticket for 37 USD for another day is not a great idea, considering that you need only two extra hours. The road leading to the temple is nice and paved, and it will take you through interesting neighbourhoods of Siem Reap with shops and houses lining both sides of the road. I find these road journeys very intriguing because, as a tourist, one gets to see the everyday lives of the local people up close. So, you should sit back and enjoy the ride. The temple is surrounded by beautiful green patches and thick trees, where you can relax and take in the surroundings if you wish. There is also a small local market before the entrance to the temple, where you will find interesting souvenirs and eateries. En route to Banteay Srei from Angkor Wat is another beautiful temple called Pre Rup Temple. This temple is a bit underrated, although I found it very appealing. I have written more about this temple in my blog on Siem Reap Banteay Srei is much smaller compared to the other temples of the Angkor area, but you should keep aside one hour to see it and fully appreciate its master craftsmanship. The temple is entirely in the open with no shade anywhere, so carry water, sunshades, an umbrella or whatever you think is necessary. A very important thing to remember is that Banteay Srei lies a little away from the main group of temples, so most cab drivers and local guides will charge extra to cover it in your itinerary. You should decide on that extra amount beforehand to avoid any misunderstanding later. To sum up, I'd say that spending extra time and money on visiting the beautiful Banteay Srei Temple is worth it. While Angkor Wat commands attention owing to its architecture and massive size, Banteay Srei wins hands down with the intricacy of its architecture.

3 streams of sacred water flow into the temple Kiyomizu-dera, thus rendering it the moniker that translates to 'Pure water temple'. The water comes from Otowa Waterfall, a 1000-year old spring-fed waterfall from the base of the mountain, right beneath the temple's main hall! What makes this temple special is the sheer reverence that visitors flocking to the temple exhibit....students, young couples, expectant mothers, tourists, all queue up to drink this pure water to invoke the blessings of the presiding deity, the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Goddess Kannon. Long ladles with small cups are provided for visitors to drink from each stream, believed to bring longevity, academic success and love. As per Japanese belief and folklore, drinking from all three streams is considered greedy. So, how do you know which stream stands for what? Here's a trick...as per popular belief, the left stream is to bring academic success, the centre stream is for people looking to start new relationships, and the third is for longevity and health. So, take your pick! I wasn't going to leave without drinking this sacred water.. And that's not all. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is also known for its stunning architecture, dating back almost 1200 years. The special feature of this temple is the large veranda, popularly known as the Kiyomizu Stage, that juts out from the main hall. The Kiyomizu Stage, built in 1633, is an architectural marvel in its own right. This unique stage is supported by 18 large pillars made of Zelkova tree, held together by an interlocking technique, without a single nail holding them together!! There's a saying in Japanese, 'to jump off the stage of Kiyomizu', meaning to take a huge risk. The phrase has its origins in the Japanese belief that if a person survives the 13-meter jump from the stage, then all his or her wishes would be granted! I would've loved to test the veracity of this claim, but sadly, this jump is now officially banned! Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Tickets, Timings and Important Visitor Information Start early. This is a constant at all Japanese shrines: As the day progresses, huge crowds throng the temple complex. The Kiyomizu Stage is so crowded with people that clicking a picture with heads popping up everywhere is impossible. Keep aside at least 2 hours to see the temple grounds and discover its hidden gems. Ring the gong and offer prayers at the main hall to seek divine blessings. The walk to the temple from the Gojozaka bus stop is 10 minute is moderately uphill. If you're coming from the Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, then you will have to walk for about 25 minutes. The uphill incline is lined with traditional shops selling typical Japanese souvenirs and tempting merchandise. You will see ice cream parlours and lots of eateries, too. But plan to make a stopover on your way back before crowds hit the temple. The uphill ramp is wheelchair-friendly, although once you reach the temple, there are lots of stairs to navigate. The main popular areas of the temple are connected with ramps, and wheelchair-bound visitors are eligible for a discount. Please check the details at the counter at the time of admission. Entry to the temple is free, but if you wish to see the Kiyomizu Stage and the 3 streams of pure water, then you will need a 500 yen ticket, which can be purchased directly at the counter. Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved, plus a whole lot of staircases around the temple complex. At a lot of shrines in the temple, visitors are expected to take off their shoes.

Visiting shrines like the Fushimi Inari Taisha is what makes a trip to Japan so special! Nowhere in the world will you have such a sublime spiritual experience presented as a tourist attraction with all the conveniences it brings along. Over ten thousand bright vermilion-painted torii gates straddle both sides of the narrow mountain path leading up to Mount Inari. The gates create an orange tunnel, with the sun's rays filtering through the cracks in some places, lending this path an otherworldly charm! The entire mountainous area of Fushimi Inari is dotted with many shrines and torii gates, and you will see hordes of tourists jostling their way up and down this narrow path. About Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Fushimi Inari is the head of all Inari shrines in Japan. The presiding deity of the shrine is Inari Okami, the deity of prosperity, rice, agriculture and fertility and the harbinger of prosperous harvests and success. Throughout the grounds of Fushimi Inari, you will see stone fox statues, Kitsune, considered messengers of Okami. These gates are painted in bright vermilion, believed to bring good fortune and dispel evil. They are gifts or donations to the shrine from businesses or individuals, with the donor's name inscribed on each gate. Passing through the gates signifies transition and movement from the mundane to the sacred, and these gates are conduits that pass the prayers to the deity. As you keep walking up the path, the gates create dazzling illusions along the way...they become narrow at some points, then spread out to let in the sunlight and then narrow down again to form an orange tunnel till you reach the top of the mountain. Torii gate at the entrance to the shrine Don't miss the stone fox statues on both sides of the shrine Walking through the torii gates Fushimi Inari Taisha: Essential Visitor Information Fushimi Inari is very well connected by train. We took the local train from JR Kyoto Station on the Nara Line Platform and got off at Inari Station. Finding our way to the Nara Line wasn't difficult; there were hordes of tourists walking that way. You can spot the shrine as soon as you step out of the Inari Station. The best time to visit the shrine is early morning or late evening to beat the crowds. I would strongly recommend going early morning. We reached there at about 9 am, and it was already buzzing with tourists, a lot of them on their way back from the mountain top. I am quite sure the experience of seeing this shrine when the crowds are thin would be absolutely mesmerising and very peaceful. Crowds get thicker as the day progresses Entrance to the shrine is free. Once you reach, you should straight hit the path leading to Mount Inari and not spend time at the other shrines that fall en route. You can see those shrines on your way back. Keep aside at least 2 to 3 hours for this entire outing. It's a 2 km one-way walk. The slope is not too steep, but it certainly involves a lot of walking with thousands of steps. There are a lot of dirt paths along the way, too, with smaller shrines and very small torii gates in a picture-perfect ambience. We were slightly short on time, but ideally, one should laze around in this serene setting to soak in its calmness. Smaller shrines and torii gates along the path The shrines at the base around the entrance are very crowded with people at all times. Keep walking to reach the Yotsutsuji Intersection Viewpoint. From there, you will have to walk another 30 minutes to the top. The higher you go, the thinner the crowds get, which adds to the allure of this serene shrine. There's lots of walking involved, but the entire area is well-equipped with traditional cafes and food stalls. Toilets, like everywhere else in Japan, are clean and free. So, spend a leisurely morning in this haven of beauty and tranquillity and come back refreshed in body and soul. Our second attraction for the day was the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Coming up next!

If you've seen the Hollywood movie Tomb Raider, you're likely familiar with Ta Prohm Temple, because this rustic temple served as the filming location for the 2001 Angelina Jolie film. However, this is not the only reason why this temple should be on your must-see list. The hauntingly beautiful ruins of Ta Prohm Temple have many a tale entwined in the thick roots and branches of its ancient trees that seem adamant on swallowing the old stone structures of the temple. But the resilient structures that have withstood this onslaught by nature with panache are what make this temple stand out among its many counterparts. This is the first view you get as you step inside the temple complex... Ta Prohm was originally built as a Buddhist monastery in the early 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, dedicated to his mother. Stunning bas-reliefs, stone carvings depicting ancient legends and mythological figures, adorn the hallways of this temple. For me, the most intriguing part of the temple was the hallways that open into a symmetrical courtyard inside the temple, and then this courtyard will lead into another narrow corridor that, in turn, will lead to another courtyard. This amazing labyrinth of corridors cloaked in the heavy roots of overgrown silk-cotton and ficus trees creates a striking visual that has to be seen to be believed! Is it the tree that supports the temple's structure, or is it the other way around? Important Things to Know Before Visiting Ta Prohm, the Tree Temple Ta Prohm Temple, despite its mesmerising beauty, is a structure in need of extensive renovation. Interestingly, the conservation and restoration work is being done in a partnership project between the Archaeological Survey of India and the APSARA National Authority of Cambodia in cooperation with UNESCO. Ta Prohm is about 8 km from Angkor Wat. There is a free parking slot across the road from the temple. Entry to the temple is included in your Angkor Day Pass. The same rules for appropriate modest dress as in all the other temples of Angkor Archaeological Park also apply here. You must keep aside at least 1 to 2 hours to see this beautiful temple, and remember that a lot of walking is involved in the temple, from the parking to reach the temple and then within the temple over rugged stone paths, overgrown tree roots, rickety stone steps and rocks that have fallen off the stone walls of the temple. Check out this stunning temple by clicking on my YouTube link https://youtu.be/SE-IqJoggPc

Located in the centre of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, popularly known as the temple with the giant stone faces, is one of the most intriguing temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The temple looked like a huge pile of ruins to me when I looked at it from the entrance, but as I walked up the stone steps to reach the mammoth plinth on which it is built, the temple seemed to come alive! 54 stone towers, adorned with 216 giant smiling stone faces, jut high into the sky from all sides of the temple, and as I look up at them, they hold me in a trance. These kind, benevolent faces seem to follow us wherever we go. Little wonder, then, these faces are nicknamed the 'Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia'. See these glorious stone faces come alive by clicking on the link below https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ebrcNKDjkGg A lot of theories are associated with these giant visages; a common belief is that these faces represent Avalokiteshvara, an earthly manifestation of the Lord Buddha, believed to embody compassion for the world. Another explanation for these gargantuan faces is that they are look-alikes of King Jayavarman VII himself, who, as the protector of his people, smiles benevolently upon his empire. I found both these explanations quite plausible, the earlier because the Bayon Temple was originally built as a Buddhist temple and the latter, because the Khmer Empire had 54 provinces at the time, and each of these massive towers symbolically stood as watchtowers with the face of their king engraved on them. Walk up the steps to reach the mammoth plinth on which the temple structure stands The Bayon Temple is divided into 3 levels. Level one is the outer facade, stunning, intricate depictions of Cambodians' everyday lives will greet you at the entrance to the temple. Bas-reliefs of celestial dancers, Apsaras and accomplished female yoga gurus, Yoginis, guard the gates leading into the temple. Figure of a Yogini guarding the entrance to the temple A small wooden staircase will take you to the second level. The orante bas-reliefs depict mythological scenes from Hinduism, scenes from the life of Lord Krishna and a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The narrow passages lead you through a maze of intertwining corridors and alleyways that lend a feeling of mystique to this temple. On the third and highest level, also called Upper Terrace, you can see the central tower and the faces up close. Things to Know Before Visiting Bayon Temple Bayon Temple lies in the centre of Angkor Thom. Entry to the temple is included in the Angkor Day Pass. You should keep aside at least an hour to see it. The temple faces east, so the best time to visit is at sunrise when the sun's rays fall directly on the stone faces. The best entrance to the temple is also from the East Gate. You don't need to walk much to reach the temple since you can drive up quite close to the temple in the parking lot. However, once inside, you will have to navigate through many staircases and vestibules to see the inner galleries adorned with stunning bas-reliefs. If you wish to see the giant faces closely, then you must climb up to the third and highest level, also called Upper Terrace, of the temple. This calls for a special mention here because most people come to this temple completely exhausted after having spent the entire first half of the day at Angkor Wat. Bayon Temple is as enchanting as its illustrious neighbour, the famous Angkor Wat. Plan to spend a leisurely hour or so at the temple, and the smiling human faces carved out of stone will come alive under your gaze.