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Saturday, 22 January 2011

North Khleng and South khleng














Was built by the king Jayavarman 5 and Suriyavarman 1 dedicated to Siva at the end of 10th century beginning 11th north khleng and the south khleng have been built as reception halls for receiving foreign dignitaries.

South Khleang is slightly more recent than North Khleang. It was built during the reign of Suryavarman I, but was not fully completed. It was likely added to mirror the already existing North Khleang. However, it is not fully identical, being slightly narrower than the North Khleang, and displaying a poorer level of workmanship and finish.

The style of construction of North and South Khleang would later come to be known as the Khleang style, and could also be seen applied to Ta Keo and Phimeanakas.

I explored the two Khleangs one dry afternoon in February. It was the beginning of the dry season, and the ruins were carpeted with falling leaves, giving the place an impression of autumn. The park was meticulously well kept, with the grass cut and the leaves swept. I came away impressed.

The North and South Khleangs are located on the east side of the Royal Square of Angkor Thom, behind the towers of Prasat Suor Prat. The best way to explore them is on foot. Get your tuk tuk driver to take you to the food stalls near the Bayon temple, and wait for you there, so that you can explore all the main sights within Angkor Thom at your own pace. If you need transport, I can recommend the tuk tuk driver who drove me. His name is Mr Han (see contact below), and you can call to see if he is available to take you.



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