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Preah Khan (Temple of the Sacred Sword) was built in the late 12th century (1191) by Jayavarman VII and is located just north of Angkor Thom. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. It was the centre of a substantial organisation, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It served as a Buddhist university at one time. The temple's primary deity is the boddhisatva Avalokiteshvara in the form of Jayavarman's father.
Preah Khan (Temple of the Sacred Sword) was built in the late 12th century (1191) by Jayavarman VII and is located just north of Angkor Thom. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. It was the centre of a substantial organisation, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It served as a Buddhist university at one time. The temple's primary deity is the boddhisatva Avalokiteshvara in the form of Jayavarman's father.
Wat Pho Maen Khunaram is a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in 1959. It mixes Thai, Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles.
Wat Pho Maen Khunaram is a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in 1959. It mixes Thai, Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles.
Wat Pho Maen Khunaram is a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in 1959. It mixes Thai, Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles.
Wat Pho Maen Khunaram is a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in 1959. It mixes Thai, Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles.
Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Located four kilometres north of Bhaktapur at the end of a high ridge (1,677 metres), the temple of Changu Narayan is one of the oldest in the Kathmandu Valley, and the most sacred to worshippers of Vishnu.<br/><br/> The original construction of Changu Narayan, or Vishnu of the Moving Hill, is attributed to Licchavi king Hari Datta Varma around 325 CE. The earliest inscription found dates back to the year 464 in the reign of King Manadeva I, but there are indications that the temple must have existed long before.
The Hiranyavarna Mahavihara, or Golden Temple, is one of the Kathmandu Valley’s major showcases of art and architecture. Supposedly founded in the 12th century by King Bhaskara Deva Varma, the temple, as it presents itself today, mostly dates back to the 18th century.<br/><br/> The entire facade of the main shrine is covered with gilded copper, as are the very detailed torana and all the roofs. In the middle of the courtyard sits an additional little temple building, its roof likewise gilded, and its front fitted with a golden door and decorated with a number of golden statues. The two statues at the extreme left show King Bhaskara Deva Varma and his wife kneeling respectfully and gazing towards the main shrine, which is devoted to the Akshobhya Buddha.
The Kasthamandap, reputedly built from the wood of a single Sal tree, is a kind of half-open, airy pavilion, covered with a three-tiered roof. The simplicity of the building belies its importance.<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap is thought to have been built in the 14th century, but its origins may go back even further. The present building is presumed to date back to the reign of King Lakshminarasinha (1617-41).<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap contains a small shrine dedicated to saint Gorakhnath, and, in line with Gorakhnath’s bizarre exploits, spiritual aspirants are said in the past to have gathered there to perform the Tantric rite of chakra-puja, or 'circle-worship' (from the Sanskrit chakra, 'circle' and puja, 'worship, prayer').
At Indra Chowk, or the 'Courtyard of Indra', a two-storey temple dedicated to one of the 64 forms of the Bhairav, Akash Bhairav (Bhairav of the Air), looks out over the intersection of several lanes. Housing a silver statue of Akash Bhairav, the temple is partly covered with sheets of brass, and two brass lions stand guard at the door. During the festival of Indra Jatra, a large mask of Akash Bhairav is displayed on a shrine assembled in front of the temple. Akash Bhairav is considered a manifestation of Indra, the rain god.
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly <i>darbar</i>, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
At Indra Chowk, or the 'Courtyard of Indra', a two-storey temple dedicated to one of the 64 forms of the Bhairav, Akash Bhairav (Bhairav of the Air), looks out over the intersection of several lanes. Housing a silver statue of Akash Bhairav, the temple is partly covered with sheets of brass, and two brass lions stand guard at the door. During the festival of Indra Jatra, a large mask of Akash Bhairav is displayed on a shrine assembled in front of the temple. Akash Bhairav is considered a manifestation of Indra, the rain god.
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly darbar, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
The Kasthamandap, reputedly built from the wood of a single Sal tree, is a kind of half-open, airy pavilion, covered with a three-tiered roof. The simplicity of the building belies its importance.<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap is thought to have been built in the 14th century, but its origins may go back even further. The present building is presumed to date back to the reign of King Lakshminarasinha (1617-41).<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap contains a small shrine dedicated to saint Gorakhnath, and, in line with Gorakhnath’s bizarre exploits, spiritual aspirants are said in the past to have gathered there to perform the Tantric rite of chakra-puja, or 'circle-worship' (from the Sanskrit chakra, 'circle' and puja, 'worship, prayer').
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly darbar, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly darbar, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
The Kasthamandap, reputedly built from the wood of a single Sal tree, is a kind of half-open, airy pavilion, covered with a three-tiered roof. The simplicity of the building belies its importance.<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap is thought to have been built in the 14th century, but its origins may go back even further. The present building is presumed to date back to the reign of King Lakshminarasinha (1617-41).<br/><br/> The Kasthamandap contains a small shrine dedicated to saint Gorakhnath, and, in line with Gorakhnath’s bizarre exploits, spiritual aspirants are said in the past to have gathered there to perform the Tantric rite of chakra-puja, or 'circle-worship' (from the Sanskrit chakra, 'circle' and puja, 'worship, prayer').
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly darbar, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
Located four kilometres north of Bhaktapur at the end of a high ridge (1,677 metres), the temple of Changu Narayan is one of the oldest in the Kathmandu Valley, and the most sacred to worshippers of Vishnu.<br/><br/> The original construction of Changu Narayan, or Vishnu of the Moving Hill, is attributed to Licchavi king Hari Datta Varma around 325 CE. The earliest inscription found dates back to the year 464 in the reign of King Manadeva I, but there are indications that the temple must have existed long before.
The Royal Palace was built by King Parakramabahu the Great (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Encompassing a former royal palace, a wealth of temples and many other monuments, Durbar Square is Kathmandu’s historic and spiritual centre. The square, after years of neglect, was renovated in 1972-75 in the Hanuman Dhoka Project, initiated after the ascension to the throne of King Birendra.<br/><br/> 'Durbar', or correctly darbar, means royal palace or royal court, but the locals prefer to call the square Hanuman Dhoka, 'Hanuman’s Gate', after the narrow palace gate which is guarded by a crimson-red figure of the monkey god Hanuman. The figure was set up in 1862 to protect the gate from ill luck and enemies of all sorts—or, as the Nepalese chronicles put it, from 'evil spirits, witches, and epidemics, such as smallpox'.<br/><br/> Hanuman is worshipped mainly on account of his bravery and strength, and has often been adopted by Hindu soldiers as their patron deity. In times gone by, fortresses were guarded by images of Hanuman hewn into their walls, and the kings of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur displayed Hanuman figures on their banners.
Located four kilometres north of Bhaktapur at the end of a high ridge (1,677 metres), the temple of Changu Narayan is one of the oldest in the Kathmandu Valley, and the most sacred to worshippers of Vishnu.<br/><br/> The original construction of Changu Narayan, or Vishnu of the Moving Hill, is attributed to Licchavi king Hari Datta Varma around 325 CE. The earliest inscription found dates back to the year 464 in the reign of King Manadeva I, but there are indications that the temple must have existed long before.
Located four kilometres north of Bhaktapur at the end of a high ridge (1,677 metres), the temple of Changu Narayan is one of the oldest in the Kathmandu Valley, and the most sacred to worshippers of Vishnu.<br/><br/> The original construction of Changu Narayan, or Vishnu of the Moving Hill, is attributed to Licchavi king Hari Datta Varma around 325 CE. The earliest inscription found dates back to the year 464 in the reign of King Manadeva I, but there are indications that the temple must have existed long before.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
Wat Saen Fang was originally constructed in the 14th century, but none of the structures visible today date from before the 19th century.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai is often called Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’, and is the country’s second city and a popular tourist destination due primarily to its mountainous scenery, colourful ethnic hilltribes and their handicrafts.<br/><br/> Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the capital of his Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai was later overrun by Burmese invaders in 1767. The city was then left abandoned between 1776 and 1791. Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with local prince Chao Kavila, after the Siamese King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance.
The Khuang Singh Monument or Lion Terrace Monument was built by Chao (Prince) Kawila in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning "new city") in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
The Khuang Singh Monument or Lion Terrace Monument was built by Chao (Prince) Kawila in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning "new city") in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
The Khuang Singh Monument or Lion Terrace Monument was built by Chao (Prince) Kawila in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning "new city") in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
The Khuang Singh Monument or Lion Terrace Monument was built by Chao (Prince) Kawila in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning "new city") in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
The Terrace of the Elephants was used by King Jayavarman VII to review his victorious army.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom, meaning ‘The Great City’, is located one mile north of Angkor Wat. It was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, and covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people.<br/><br/> At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north. Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however, as Yasodharapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest. The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609.
The kingdom of Laos existed from the 14th to the 18th centuries, then split into three separate kingdoms. In 1893, it became a French protectorate, with the three kingdoms, Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Champasak, uniting to form what is now known as Laos.<br/><br/> The country briefly gained independence in 1945 after Japanese occupation, but returned to French rule until it was granted autonomy in 1949. Laos became independent in 1954, with a constitutional monarchy under King Sisavang Vong. Shortly after independence, a long civil war ended the monarchy, when the Communist Pathet Lao movement came to power in 1975.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Wat Chiang Yeun is a 16th century Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. It caters to the local Shan (Tai Yai) community who have settled in the area.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai, sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok, among the highest mountains in the country. The city is on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. The ruler was known as the Chao. The city was surrounded by a moat and a defensive wall, since nearby Burma was a constant threat.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with Chao Kavila, after the Thai King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance to its current status as the unofficial capital of northern Thailand, second in importance only to Bangkok.
Wat Chiang Yeun is a 16th century Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. It caters to the local Shan (Tai Yai) community who have settled in the area.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai, sometimes written as 'Chiengmai' or 'Chiangmai', is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok, among the highest mountains in the country. The city is on the Ping river, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya river.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning 'new city') in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. The ruler was known as the Chao. The city was surrounded by a moat and a defensive wall, since nearby Burma was a constant threat.<br/><br/> Chiang Mai formally became part of Siam in 1774 by an agreement with Chao Kavila, after the Thai King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading and economic importance to its current status as the unofficial capital of northern Thailand, second in importance only to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
The Audience Hall was built by King Parakramabahu the Great (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
The Audience Hall was built by King Parakramabahu the Great (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Phnom Penh lies on the western side of the Mekong River at the point where it is joined by the Sap River and divides into the Bassac River, making a meet place of four great waterways known in Cambodian as Chatomuk or 'Four Faces'. It has been central to Cambodian life since soon after the abandonment of Angkor in the mid-14th century and has been the capital since 1866.<br/><br/> An elegant Franco-Cambodian city of broad boulevards and Buddhist temples, it was considered one of the jewels of Southeast Asia until Cambodia became involved in the Second Indochina War in 1965. Ten years later victorious Khmer Rouge forces captured the city. These extreme left-wing communists, led by the secretive Pol Pot, ordered the immediate evacuation of Phnom Penh causing up to two million deaths during the period 1975-79. During this time the city was abandoned and fell into ruin. Since the defeat of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 it has been gradually recovering, but still bears scars of a terrible past.
Phnom Penh lies on the western side of the Mekong River at the point where it is joined by the Sap River and divides into the Bassac River, making a meet place of four great waterways known in Cambodian as Chatomuk or 'Four Faces'. It has been central to Cambodian life since soon after the abandonment of Angkor in the mid-14th century and has been the capital since 1866.<br/><br/> An elegant Franco-Cambodian city of broad boulevards and Buddhist temples, it was considered one of the jewels of Southeast Asia until Cambodia became involved in the Second Indochina War in 1965. Ten years later victorious Khmer Rouge forces captured the city. These extreme left-wing communists, led by the secretive Pol Pot, ordered the immediate evacuation of Phnom Penh causing up to two million deaths during the period 1975-79. During this time the city was abandoned and fell into ruin. Since the defeat of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 it has been gradually recovering, but still bears scars of a terrible past.
A few hundred metres beyond the South Gate of Angkor Thom the hill of Phnom Bakheng rises 67 metres (218 ft) above the surrounding plains. This is an ideal spot to view the distant spires of Angkor Wat at sunset. On the east side of the hill a steep and treacherous stairway provides a swift but difficult means of ascent. Alternatively, and much more easily, a winding elephant path leads to the summit via the south side of the hill.<br/><br/> Phnom Bakheng (Khmer: ប្រាសាទភ្នំបាខែង) at Angkor, Cambodia, is a Hindu temple in the form of a temple mountain. Dedicated to Shiva, it was built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman (889-910).
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in central Thailand was once part of the Sukhothai Kingdom that flourished in the 13th and 14th century CE. The Sukhothai Kingdom was the first of the Thai kingdoms.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in central Thailand was once part of the Sukhothai Kingdom that flourished in the 13th and 14th century CE. The Sukhothai Kingdom was the first of the Thai kingdoms.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in central Thailand was once part of the Sukhothai Kingdom that flourished in the 13th and 14th century CE. The Sukhothai Kingdom was the first of the Thai kingdoms.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in central Thailand was once part of the Sukhothai Kingdom that flourished in the 13th and 14th century CE. The Sukhothai Kingdom was the first of the Thai kingdoms.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in central Thailand was once part of the Sukhothai Kingdom that flourished in the 13th and 14th century CE. The Sukhothai Kingdom was the first of the Thai kingdoms.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.
The Flag of Sri Lanka, also called the Lion Flag, consists of a gold lion, holding a sword in its right fore paw, in front of a crimson background.<br/><br/> Sri Lanka had always been an important port and trading post in the ancient world, and was increasingly frequented by merchant ships from the Middle East, Persia, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The islands were known to the first European explorers of South Asia and settled by many groups of Arab and Malay merchants.<br/><br/> A Portuguese colonial mission arrived on the island in 1505 headed by Lourenço de Almeida, the son of Francisco de Almeida. At that point the island consisted of three kingdoms, namely Kandy in the central hills, Kotte at the Western coast, and Yarlpanam (Anglicised Jaffna) in the north. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century. The British East India Company took over the coastal regions controlled by the Dutch in 1796, and in 1802 these provinces were declared a crown colony under direct rule of the British government, therefore the island was not part of the British Raj. The annexation of the Kingdom of Kandy in 1815 by the Kandyan convention, unified the island under British rule.<br/><br/> European colonists established a series of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, indigo cultivation followed by tea and rubber plantations and graphite mining. The British also brought a large number of indentured workers from Tamil Nadu to work in the plantation economy. The city of Colombo was developed as the administrative centre and commercial heart with its harbor, and the British established modern schools, colleges, roads and churches that introduced Western-style education and culture to the Ceylonese.<br/><br/> On 4 February 1948 the country gained its independence as the Dominion of Ceylon. It changed its name to Sri Lanka in 1972.
The Singha or Lion Flag of Ceylon between 1948 and 1951.<br/><br/> Sri Lanka had always been an important port and trading post in the ancient world, and was increasingly frequented by merchant ships from the Middle East, Persia, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The islands were known to the first European explorers of South Asia and settled by many groups of Arab and Malay merchants.<br/><br/> A Portuguese colonial mission arrived on the island in 1505 headed by Lourenço de Almeida, the son of Francisco de Almeida. At that point the island consisted of three kingdoms, namely Kandy in the central hills, Kotte at the Western coast, and Yarlpanam (Anglicised Jaffna) in the north. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century. The British East India Company took over the coastal regions controlled by the Dutch in 1796, and in 1802 these provinces were declared a crown colony under direct rule of the British government, therefore the island was not part of the British Raj. The annexation of the Kingdom of Kandy in 1815 by the Kandyan convention, unified the island under British rule.<br/><br/> European colonists established a series of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, indigo cultivation followed by tea and rubber plantations and graphite mining. The British also brought a large number of indentured workers from Tamil Nadu to work in the plantation economy. The city of Colombo was developed as the administrative centre and commercial heart with its harbor, and the British established modern schools, colleges, roads and churches that introduced Western-style education and culture to the Ceylonese.<br/><br/> On 4 February 1948 the country gained its independence as the Dominion of Ceylon. It changed its name to Sri Lanka in 1972.
The Flag of Sri Lanka, also called the Lion Flag, consists of a gold lion, holding a sword in its right fore paw, in front of a crimson background with four golden bo leaves in each corner. Around the background is a yellow border, and to its left are two vertical stripes of equal size in saffron and green, with the saffron stripe closest to the lion. The lion represents bravery, and the four bo leaves represent meththa, karuna, muditha and upeksha. The orange stripe represents the Sri Lankan Tamils, the green stripe represents Sri Lankan Moors, the crimson background represents European Burghers and is also a reference to the rich colonial background of the country and the yellow border represents other ethnic groups such as Sri Lankan Malays etc.<br/><br/> Sri Lanka had always been an important port and trading post in the ancient world, and was increasingly frequented by merchant ships from the Middle East, Persia, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The islands were known to the first European explorers of South Asia and settled by many groups of Arab and Malay merchants.<br/><br/> A Portuguese colonial mission arrived on the island in 1505 headed by Lourenço de Almeida, the son of Francisco de Almeida. At that point the island consisted of three kingdoms, namely Kandy in the central hills, Kotte at the Western coast, and Yarlpanam (Anglicised Jaffna) in the north. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century. The British East India Company took over the coastal regions controlled by the Dutch in 1796, and in 1802 these provinces were declared a crown colony under direct rule of the British government, therefore the island was not part of the British Raj. The annexation of the Kingdom of Kandy in 1815 by the Kandyan convention, unified the island under British rule.<br/><br/> European colonists established a series of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, indigo cultivation followed by tea and rubber plantations and graphite mining. The British also brought a large number of indentured workers from Tamil Nadu to work in the plantation economy. The city of Colombo was developed as the administrative centre and commercial heart with its harbor, and the British established modern schools, colleges, roads and churches that introduced Western-style education and culture to the Ceylonese.<br/><br/> On 4 February 1948 the country gained its independence as the Dominion of Ceylon. It changed its name to Sri Lanka in 1972.
Sri Lanka had always been an important port and trading post in the ancient world, and was increasingly frequented by merchant ships from the Middle East, Persia, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The islands were known to the first European explorers of South Asia and settled by many groups of Arab and Malay merchants.<br/><br/> A Portuguese colonial mission arrived on the island in 1505 headed by Lourenço de Almeida, the son of Francisco de Almeida. At that point the island consisted of three kingdoms, namely Kandy in the central hills, Kotte at the Western coast, and Yarlpanam (Anglicised Jaffna) in the north. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century. The British East India Company took over the coastal regions controlled by the Dutch in 1796, and in 1802 these provinces were declared a crown colony under direct rule of the British government, therefore the island was not part of the British Raj. The annexation of the Kingdom of Kandy in 1815 by the Kandyan convention, unified the island under British rule.<br/><br/> European colonists established a series of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, indigo cultivation followed by tea and rubber plantations and graphite mining. The British also brought a large number of indentured workers from Tamil Nadu to work in the plantation economy. The city of Colombo was developed as the administrative centre and commercial heart with its harbor, and the British established modern schools, colleges, roads and churches that introduced Western-style education and culture to the Ceylonese.<br/><br/> On 4 February 1948 the country gained its independence as the Dominion of Ceylon. It changed its name to Sri Lanka in 1972.
Rajasimha II, also known as Rajasingha II (pre coronation, Prince Mahastana), was a Sinhalese King, reigned 1629 – 6 December 1687; third king of the kingdom of Kandy in Sri Lanka.<br/><br/>Rajasingha requested Dutch aid to help expel the Portuguese from the island, which they successfully did in 1656. By this time however it had become clear to the Kandyans that the Dutch not only intended to expel the Portuguese but to replace them as the major colonial power on the island, and from 1645 onwards Rajasingha was engaged in sporadic warfare with his erstwhile allies.
'An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon together With somewhat Concerning Severall Remarkable passages of my life that hath hapned [sic] since my Deliverance out of Captivity' is a book written by the English trader and sailor Robert Knox in 1681. It describes his experiences some years earlier on the South Asian island now best known as Sri Lanka and provides one of the most important contemporary accounts of 17th century Ceylonese life. Knox spent 19 years on Ceylon after being taken prisoner by King Rajasimha II.<br/><br/> Rajasimha II, also known as Rajasingha II (pre coronation, Prince Mahastana), was a Sinhalese King, reigned 1629 – 6 December 1687; third king of the kingdom of Kandy in Sri Lanka.<br/><br/> Rajasingha requested Dutch aid to help expel the Portuguese from the island, which they successfully did in 1656. By this time however it had become clear to the Kandyans that the Dutch not only intended to expel the Portuguese but to replace them as the major colonial power on the island, and from 1645 onwards Rajasingha was engaged in sporadic warfare with his erstwhile allies.
The coat of arms features a gold lion passant, holding a sword in its right fore paw (the same lion from the flag of Sri Lanka) in the centre on a maroon background surrounded by golden petals of a Blue Lotus the national flower of the country. This is placed on top of a traditional grain vase that sprouts sheaves of rice grains that circle the border reflecting prosperity. The crest is the Dharmacakra, symbolizing the country's foremost place for Buddhism and just rule. Traditional Sinhalese heraldic symbols for the sun and the moon form the supporters.<br/><br/> Sri Lanka had always been an important port and trading post in the ancient world, and was increasingly frequented by merchant ships from the Middle East, Persia, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. The islands were known to the first European explorers of South Asia and settled by many groups of Arab and Malay merchants.<br/><br/> A Portuguese colonial mission arrived on the island in 1505 headed by Lourenço de Almeida, the son of Francisco de Almeida. At that point the island consisted of three kingdoms, namely Kandy in the central hills, Kotte at the Western coast, and Yarlpanam (Anglicised Jaffna) in the north. The Dutch arrived in the 17th century. The British East India Company took over the coastal regions controlled by the Dutch in 1796, and in 1802 these provinces were declared a crown colony under direct rule of the British government, therefore the island was not part of the British Raj. The annexation of the Kingdom of Kandy in 1815 by the Kandyan convention, unified the island under British rule.<br/><br/> European colonists established a series of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, indigo cultivation followed by tea and rubber plantations and graphite mining. The British also brought a large number of indentured workers from Tamil Nadu to work in the plantation economy. The city of Colombo was developed as the administrative centre and commercial heart with its harbor, and the British established modern schools, colleges, roads and churches that introduced Western-style education and culture to the Ceylonese.<br/><br/> On 4 February 1948 the country gained its independence as the Dominion of Ceylon. It changed its name to Sri Lanka in 1972.
Neak Pean ('The entwined serpents') is an artificial island with a Buddhist temple on a circular island in Preah Khan Baray built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. A baray is an artificial body of water.<br/><br/> The central pool represents the Himalayan Lake Anavatapta, located at the summit of the universe, which was believed to give birth to the four great rivers of the world. These four rivers are represented at Neak Pean by four gargoyle-like heads which, when opened, would permit water to flow from the main pool to the four smaller pools.
Rajasimha II, also known as Rajasingha II was a Sinhalese king, reigned 1629 – 1687; he was the third monarch of the Kingdom of Kandy in Sri Lanka.<br/><br/> Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. The city lies in the middle of the island, formerly known as Ceylon, in the midst of hills in the Kandyan plateau, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, mainly tea. Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka, and is both an administrative and religious city. It is the capital of the Central Province (which encompasses the districts of Kandy, Matale and Nuwara Eliya) and also of Kandy District. Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) one of the most venerable Buddhist sites in the world. UNESCO declared the temple a World Heritage Site in 1988.
Prasat Hin Phanom Rung (Phanom Rung Stone Castle) is a Khmer temple complex set on the rim of an extinct volcano at 1,320 feet above sea level, in Buriram province in the Isaan region of Thailand. It was built in sandstone and laterite in the 10th to 13th centuries. It was a Hindu shrine dedicated to Shiva, and symbolises Mount Kailash, his heavenly dwelling.
The Jim Thompson House is a museum in Bangkok. It is a complex of various old Thai structures that the American businessman Jim Thompson collected from all parts of Thailand in the 1950s and 60s.<br/><br/> James (Jim) Harrison Wilson Thompson (born March 21, 1906 in Greenville, Delaware - unknown) was an American businessman who helped revitalize the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. A former U.S. military intelligence officer, Thompson mysteriously disappeared from Malaysia's Cameron Highlands while going for a walk on Easter Sunday, March 26, 1967.
The Jim Thompson House is a museum in Bangkok. It is a complex of various old Thai structures that the American businessman Jim Thompson collected from all parts of Thailand in the 1950s and 60s.<br/><br/> James (Jim) Harrison Wilson Thompson (born March 21, 1906 in Greenville, Delaware - unknown) was an American businessman who helped revitalize the Thai silk industry in the 1950s and 1960s. A former U.S. military intelligence officer, Thompson mysteriously disappeared from Malaysia's Cameron Highlands while going for a walk on Easter Sunday, March 26, 1967.
The Royal Palace (Preah Barum Reacha Veang Nei Preah Reacheanachak Kampuchea) and Silver Pagoda, in Phnom Penh, is a complex of buildings which serves as the royal residence of the king of Cambodia. Its full name in the Khmer language is Preah Barom Reachea Veang Chaktomuk. The Kings of Cambodia have occupied it since it was built in the 1860's, with a period of absence when the country came into turmoil during and after the reign of the Khmer Rouge.<br/><br/> The palace was constructed after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong (Udong) to Phnom Penh in the mid-19th century. It was gradually built atop an old citadel called Banteay Kev. It faces towards the East and is situated at the Western bank of the four divisions at the Mekong River called Chaktomuk (an allusion to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation).
The Royal Palace (Preah Barum Reacha Veang Nei Preah Reacheanachak Kampuchea) and Silver Pagoda, in Phnom Penh, is a complex of buildings which serves as the royal residence of the king of Cambodia. Its full name in the Khmer language is Preah Barom Reachea Veang Chaktomuk. The Kings of Cambodia have occupied it since it was built in the 1860's, with a period of absence when the country came into turmoil during and after the reign of the Khmer Rouge.<br/><br/> The palace was constructed after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong (Udong) to Phnom Penh in the mid-19th century. It was gradually built atop an old citadel called Banteay Kev. It faces towards the East and is situated at the Western bank of the four divisions at the Mekong River called Chaktomuk (an allusion to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation).
Preah Khan (Temple of the Sacred Sword) was built in the late 12th century (1191) by Jayavarman VII and is located just north of Angkor Thom. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. It was the centre of a substantial organisation, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It served as a Buddhist university at one time. The temple's primary deity is the boddhisatva Avalokiteshvara in the form of Jayavarman's father.
Preah Khan (Temple of the Sacred Sword) was built in the late 12th century (1191) by Jayavarman VII and is located just north of Angkor Thom. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. It was the centre of a substantial organisation, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It served as a Buddhist university at one time. The temple's primary deity is the boddhisatva Avalokiteshvara in the form of Jayavarman's father.
Preah Khan (Temple of the Sacred Sword) was built in the late 12th century (1191) by Jayavarman VII and is located just north of Angkor Thom. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. It was the centre of a substantial organisation, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. It served as a Buddhist university at one time. The temple's primary deity is the boddhisatva Avalokiteshvara in the form of Jayavarman's father.
Phimeanakas, within Angkor Thom, was built at the end of the 10th century by King Rajendravarman and then rebuilt by Suryavarman II.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom, meaning ‘The Great City’, is located one mile north of Angkor Wat. It was built in the late 12th century CE by King Jayavarman VII, and covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however, as Yasodharapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest.<br/><br/> The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609.
The Khuang Singh Monument or Lion Terrace Monument was built by Chao (Prince) Kawila in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.<br/><br/> King Mengrai founded the city of Chiang Mai (meaning "new city") in 1296, and it succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
Wat Plai Klong, also known as Wat Buppharam, was built in 1652 (late Ayutthaya period) during the reign of King Prasat Thong (r. 1629 - 1656). It is the oldest temple in Trat.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace.<br/><br/> The Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Construction of the Palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the capital across the river from Thonburi to Bangkok.