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Thailand: Apsara, Prasat Sikhoraphum, Surin Province, Northeast Thailand

Thailand: Apsara, Prasat Sikhoraphum, Surin Province, Northeast Thailand

Prasat Sikhoraphum is a Khmer Hindu temple built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II (r. 1113 - 1150).

Prasat Sikhoraphum dates from the early 12th century and has been beautifully restored. It consists of five brick prangs on a square laterite platform surrounded by lily-filled ponds. The lintel and pillars of the central prang are beautifully carved with heavenly dancing girls, or apsara, and other scenes from Hindu mythology.

An Apsara (Sanskrit: apsarāḥ; Khmer: tep apsar; Pali: accharā; Vietnamese: A Bố Sa La Tư, Malay / Indonesian: bidadari; Javanese: widodari; Thai: apson), is a female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. English translations of the word 'apsara' include 'nymph', 'celestial nymph', and 'celestial maiden'.

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