Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng, also known as Bakheng Hill or the strong hill, was located just one mile northwest of Angkor Wat.

The temple was built in AD889, 200 years before Angkor Wat. It was the capital of King Yashovarman and had the best view of the sunset in Angkor Wat's area.

Phnom Bakheng was built on a steep 230-foot hill symbolizing Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods.

Phnom Bakheng had 7 levels - the base, the five terraces, and the platform of quincunx at the top with five sandstone sanctuaries, referring to the "Seven Heavens" of the Hindu deities.

Going up, one had to climb the steep stairs with an average step height of 12 inches and with a very shallow tread.

The 9th century stairway had no railing and was not built for everyone with safety in mind. Many ended up waiting below.

Once on top, visitors would find Phnom Bakheng a peaceful and quiet place to enjoy the sunset and to be a part of the history. The green netting covered the quincunx under restoration.

The center of the quincunx before the restoration (Photo courtesy of Jim Davidson, Flickr).

Phnom Bakheng as seen from the satellite showing the "Seven Heavens" and the quincunx (Photo courtesy of Google Maps).

20 more seconds of sunlight.

Going down on the narrow steps proved to be more difficult, especially after the sunset when the mountain temple was in total darkness. This photo was taken with a flashlight.

"Day is done, gone the sun ..."