Temple Conservation

The country 

Cambodia is a country of incredible beauty and interesting history best known for its monumental temples and captivating nature. It was once known as the Khmer empire and later was a French protectorate for almost 100 years until 1953 when it gained its independence. The following years of political unrest, war and corruption have not broken the spirit of the Cambodian people who remain open, welcoming and positive.

The project 

This specifically designed project takes place in Banteay Chhmar which is a commune in the Thma Puok District of the Banteay Meanchey province in the northwestern part of Cambodia. The project aims to preserve Cambodia's history by taking care of the massive temple of Banteay Chhmar which is one of the least understood archeological complexes of the Angkor period. This massive temple and its shrines and reservoir attract many tourists and your efforts will contribute to preserve the temples so they can attract more tourists.

You will be working with a local team to assist in the conservation and preservation of the Banteay Chhmar temple and the surrounding nine smaller temples which are hidden in the forest and covered in small bushes and trees due to the lack of conservation from the local people and authorities.

With this authentic taste of Cambodian rural culture, you will gain a truly unforgettable and life-changing experience, through your accommodation, the food and the daily interaction with the locals.

Your week will start with an introduction to the Banteay Chhmar and the project. Afterwards you will explore the village and the neighboring temples. After lunch you can explore around the Banteay Chhmar and also visit a local scarf weaving center.

For the rest of the week your tasks will include:

• working on the temple’s main conservation and preservation sites
• clearing the temples by cutting down the overgrown bushes, trees and grass in the area around them
  
• cleaning up the temples
• collecting trash
• clearing stones
• planting trees in the temple compound
• making environment
• educating students at a local school about the importance of protecting the temples.

Those looking to get off the beaten track should read our Top 5 Things to do in Cambodia. Sandwiched between the more touristy Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia is a traveler’s hidden treasure. Explore ancient Buddhist temples and bustling outdoor markets, or simply relax with an all inclusive yoga retreat. Cambodia is waiting for you.

Visit Temples

Some people only go to Cambodia to see the amazing temples scattered around the country. Step into these holy places and experience where the ancient monks once lived. Or explore modern ones where they still live today! The most famous one is Angkor Wat, which is close to Siem Reap. Angkor Wat ruins are approximately 900 years old, and are part of an entire park that you could get lost in for hours. Two more beautiful temples that we recommend in Siem Reap are Angkor Thom and Ba Yon Temple. There you will see colossal carvings of Bodhisattva’s, elephants and intricate demons and gods. Just make sure that you don’t walk into the wrong room with shoes on!

Visit The Killing Fields

You might not want to bring the kids here, but if you want to dive into Cambodia’s past you must see the Killing Fields. This memorial in Phnom Penh commemorates a very dark part of Cambodia’s history. These unfortunate mass graves were a product of the Cambodian Genocide in the 70’s. This happened during the reign of Khmer Rouge, who murdered close to two million people. The grave is a sight that you will never forget. This is a terribly tragic, yet intriguing, window to the Cambodian culture that tourists should pay homage to.

Go to a Cambodian Market

Asian outdoor markets are often quite the eye-opener to Western visitors. Fresh vegetables, living fish and souvenirs all in one bustling place. Shop like a local but still get souvenirs, and finish the experience with some homemade noodles. We recommend The Central Market and the Night Market in Phnom Penh. Any of the markets near Angkor Wat in Siem Reap are great. You can even sometimes find tours to take you to all of them if you can’t decide on only one!

Phnom Penh Royal Palace

This entire compound is a feast for the eyes. The stunning architecture replicates the Buddhist temples you'll see all around Asia. With glimmering golden towers contrasting white walls and expansive courtyards and walkways, you are sure to be in awe. Here you will get a full understanding of the grandeur of the royal Cambodian Ancestors

Do a Yoga Retreat

When your feet are tired from temple-hopping, finish your stay in with a relaxing yoga retreat. Cambodia has hundreds of affordable, secluded and spiritually gratifying yoga experiences. Wake up to the sound of gongs, chant your heart out and truly relax and experience real yoga. You can stay anywhere from a few days to a few months, and all yogi levels can find the right retreat for their needs.