One of my biggest pet peeves’ about the temples at Angkor Archlogical Park is the amount of platforms or “stages” they are building directly in front of beautiful old spung trees. As a photographer, I would much rather see the tree and temple in its natural beauty. Ta Prom in particular is most affected by the new platforms. The Hollywood hit Tomb Raider was filmed at this temple, for the reason of the beauty of the trees growing out from the temple itself.
With the huge increase in Korean and especially Chinese tourists, I can understand putting in walkways and hand railings, but to be building these “stages” directly in front of all the trees, really killed the opportunity for a picture perfect shot.
Most “non-photographer” tourists have a different perspective when it comes to photos. They, for some reason have to be in every single photo. This is where the “stages” come in. Large amounts of tour groups will queue up to get the photo of them in front of the famous tree.
With millions of tourists visiting each year, the impact on the temples is diminishing. Conservation is a must, but the way Apsara Authority is placing all the stages is, in my opinion, a complete eyesore in everyway possible.
Thankfully Siem Reap Photo Tours can take you to the hidden temples, with the fewest crowds. With over 5 years experience running photo tours we know all the best spots, at the best time of the day, for best lighting conditions.