Cambodia's 'Huaqing Pool,' Now a Ruin But Stunningly Beautiful
The Angkor temples are numerous, each with its own unique characteristics. The small and compact Pandrea Temple, though not as crowded as other temples, still holds its own, not only for its unique architectural significance, but also for its history of vicissitudes.
Legend has it that King Jayavarman VII and his queen would rest and exchange affections here after bathing in the adjacent Royal Baths, so Pandrea Temple is also known as Cambodia's 'Huaqing Pool'. Its function is different from that of other temples. Although the Pandrea Temple is now dilapidated, it is still quite magnificent, which shows the prosperity and grandeur of the Angkor Dynasty at that time.
Visiting Pandrea Temple is an experience that makes people feel wonderful. Because it was originally an Indian temple, it was later expanded and rebuilt and became a Buddhist temple. Therefore, the internal structure of the Pandrea Temple is very complex, with the porch-to-porch design giving a feeling of a maze.
The Pandrea Temple looks very dilapidated because of the continuous construction and expansion, which is not conducive to resisting the erosion of wind and rain, and the sandstone material used at that time was not good. Compared to other temples, it appears more worn by time.
The temple is 700 meters long and 500 meters wide, with four layers. The magnificent building of the past has collapsed, and the interior is scattered. Some places are left with only stone pillars. Although it has not regained its former glory, the remaining sculptures and patterns can still evoke imagination, allowing people to return to the prosperous dynasty in their thoughts. Perhaps it is even more dazzling than Huaqing Pool.
If you have visited Wat Svay Choy or Wat Taprom, you will feel a sense of familiarity here because the construction time of the three temples is similar. Many of the architectural styles are similar, but the scale is smaller. However, the Pandrea Temple is slightly different, so it is relatively difficult to restore and renovate. We are very much looking forward to the completion of the repair of the Pandrea Temple.
The biggest advantage of the Pandrea Temple is that it is less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a quiet time. It is a good time to appreciate this temple in the morning or evening. Gentle sunlight shines through the branches of towering trees and the gaps in the buildings, scattering on the ground. The ancient buildings are covered in moss and the traces of time. The exterior walls have a variety of colors but are harmonious. The dilapidation has not affected its beauty. In the jungle, it looks even more isolated and independent.
