Welcome to the deepest and darkest secrets of Cambodia’s real Tomb Raider temple…
Now, tomb raiding is rarely an occasion that fits into the average Joe’s weekend plans. Some even see it simply as theft from those who have passed away.
Not today. Not when Angelina Jolie does it, and this is your opportunity to join her…
Tomb Raider Temple: A Walk With Angelina Jolie
First and foremost, you will be instantaneously forgiven for having not viewed this film before. Not many have.
A brief rundown…
Angelina (a.k.a Lara Croft) still steals the world’s attention, strutting around ancient temples in shorts almost short enough to be hung on the G-string rack at Anne Summers.
Why, you ask…
All in the name of saving the world from a Doomsday Cult of course. This evil little society is set on combining a very farfetched device along with the imminent planetary alignment to gain unlimited power…
Not on Angelina’s watch! Or very possibly when Angelina’s watching. We’re no movie spoilers over here!
No surprises…
This plot line is certainly not everyone’s cup of noodle soup.
However, most vibrant and hard-hitting scenes of the movie are set in an incredible network of ancient temples that are just a stone’s throw away from our Siem Reap Hostel.
Grab a couple kernels of popcorn, here’s a tiny glimpse of some Tomb Raider temple action…
Not the most enthralling movie scene you’ll ever see to, that’s for sure. However the intricacy, beauty, and rich history of the set and the ancient city that surrounds it is undeniable.
Since being released in 2001, the Tomb Raider movie and its scenes within the temple continue to open up traveler’s eyes to the beauty of Cambodia.
The movie’s release consolidated Cambodia as a traveling and cultural hotspot, leading to millions of visitors flocking to Siem Reap each year to snap a photo under the ‘famous tree’.
Don’t miss out…
Disclaimer: There will be no 20-foot, 6-armed, weird temple statues that will be attempting to kill you during your visit. Unless you have been smoked some serious stuff.
So what’s the story behind this man-made wonder…?
Tomb Raider Temple: Memories Of Ta Prohm
The Tomb Raider Temple is Ta Prohm. Ta Prohm is the Tomb Raider temple.
Ta Prohm was originally built by King Jayavarman VII as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university. It is arguably the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire.
Some believe that there were some very raucous ancient shindigs thrown at this grand temple, with over 12,500 people recorded to have lived here. This community included 18 high priests (and high they certainly were) and 615 dancers to make sure they maintained their highness.
But alas…
The Khmer empire was tragically overthrown in the 15th century, and the structure was abandoned soon after.
Going down in the history books…
Tomb Raider temple remains wrapped in an aura of protection, thanks to being inscribed into the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1992.
The power of Hollywood…
The temple was known Ta Prohm by all those who ever graced the site, since the 12th century.
However, since the movie was introduced in cinemas all over the world, everything and everyone, from guide books to local tuk tuk drivers, now refer to this spectacle as “Tomb Raider temple”.
So, where is this architectural stunner…
Tomb Raider Temple: How & When To Visit
Image courtesy of unesco
Hopefully, all the boxes for ‘Why’ you will be visiting Tomb Raider temple are ticked by now.
It’s time to hook you up with how to get there, ticket requirements, and when the best time to visit is…
The temple is 3km northeast from the main Angkor Wat complex, and is only a 5km trip from Siem Reap. In a tuk tuk, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with some ancient greats in about 15 minutes. The journey will cost around $15.
Ta Prohm is included in the wider temple pass which grants you access to the entirety of Angkor Archeological Park. Temple pass prices tend to fluctuate, but it will be somewhere in the ballpark of $40 US.
Depending on the amount of time you want to spend at the Angkor Park, there are a number of different passes available, ranging from one day to a week. One day is plenty of time to explore if you’re tight for time.
If you’re on a one day pass, It would be wise to try and visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the little labyrinth of smaller sites that surround Tomb Raider temple.
So, when is the best time to visit?
The early birds are still catching those worms…
The majority of travelers and their selfie sticks will all be huddling around Angkor Wat for sunrise. Therefore, Ta Prohm is best visited very early in the morning if you’re wanting a more intimate experience.
The early hours provide a great opportunity for any of you travel photographers to capture some killers snaps. Visiting at dawn also enables you to really immerse yourself in the surrounding sounds of the jungle.
Tomb Raider fans rejoice…
The famous Tomb Raider tree is located in the central sanctuary of Ta Prohm and is truly a sight to behold, as the eerie roots continue to wrap themselves around the intricate temple structure and artwork.
There’s no denying it…
It will be one hell of an adventure, and Angelina will be oh so proud.
If you want some more in-depth guidance into the Angkor Archeological Park and all the hidden wonders within it, please check out our Comprehensive Angkor Wat Temple Guide.
We’re always sure to point you in the right direction!
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