This is the third volume in my series on Buddhist monuments and temples in South Asia, and the last one dealing with orthodox or Theravada Buddhism. The advent of Theravada Buddhism in Cambodia and Laos came during the 11th century, while Mahayana Buddhism came much earlier to Cambodia. Laos, however, with its constant contact with Thailand (Siam), inherited Theravada or the pure form of Buddhism. The specific origins of the peoples of these countries are uncertain due to the lack of historical documentation. Due to the constant wars and invasions between these and neighbouring countries such as Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand (Siam), many temples, monasteries and stupas suffered destruction, and statues and other religious artefacts were pillaged. Therefore there are far fewer historical temples and monuments than might have been expected. In fact Sri Lanka is the only Theravada country in which there are substantial ancient Buddhist monuments and temples remaining in good order and still in use. Furthermore, the history of these is well documented, the oldest ones dating back to the Buddha. It is impossible to comprehensively deal with such an expansive subject encompassing the two countries in this small volume. Therefore I have confined myself to areas and places which have grown in popularity, are of major importance and those which are easily accessible. During the course of writing the books in this series I have visited all the sites dealt within them and taken most of the photographs. It is sincerely hoped that this small volume will be useful to those who are interested in seeing the monuments described, and also kindle their interest in the study of this subject.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Cambodia and Laos is your in-depth guide to the very best of these two countries. Whether you want to explore the temples of Angkor Wat, take a boat trip through the famous Tham Kong Lo caves, or sunbathe on stunning white beaches in southern Cambodia, Cambodia and Laos offer exhilarating options for visitors. Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Cambodia and Laos + Detailed itineraries and "don't-miss" destination highlights at a glance. + Illustrated cutaway 3-D drawings of important sights, including the temple complexes of Angkor and Luang Prabang. + Guided walking tours, local drink and dining specialties to try, things to do, and places to eat, drink, and shop by area. + Area maps marked with sights and restaurants. + Detailed city map of Phnom Penh. + Insights into history and culture to help you understand the stories behind the sights. + Hotel and restaurant listings highlight DK Choice special recommendations. With hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps that illuminate every page, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Cambodia and Laos truly shows you this region as no one else can.

This is a mainly pictorial work, featuring recent color photographs taken by the author of the many different styles and features of Buddhist images, stupas, or pagodas found in two of the most prominent Buddhist countries in Asia. Accompanying the photographs is the text describing the magnificent architectural heritage of Buddhism and also explaining the origin and development of the images and stupas. The photographs attempt to exhibit the physical expression of one of the worlds major religions, which now has many adherents in the West as well as in the East. These Buddhist sites now attract many thousands of visitors, both pilgrims and tourists, all year round. This book showcases the most prominent sites for both the visitor and the armchair traveler. This is the second in the authors series of books on Buddhist architecture and iconography. He is, at present, working on a third volume, Buddhist Monuments and Temples of Cambodia and Laos.

Cambodia and Laos opened their doors to tourists in the late 80s and, while at first a destination frequented by backpackers and thrill seekers, its appeal has grown ever since. Blessed with stunning scenery and Angkor, one of the best cultural sights in the world, both countries now attract cultural sight-seekers and adventurous hikers, with their unbeatable combination of stunning temples and unspoiled countryside ideal for hiking, water sports, bird watching, and mountain biking. Part of the award-winning DK Eyewitness Travel series, this sumptuously illustrated guide leads readers to it all, from the majestic sight of the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Angkor in Cambodia to the tranquil temples and boutique hotels of Luang Prabang in Laos. Whether enjoying a delicious meal and cold beer overlooking the Mekong or kayaking on the Nam Song River surrounded by limestone karsts, the Eyewitness Guide: Cambodia & Laos is indispensable. Don't miss a thing on your vacation with the DK Eyewitness Travel guidebook to Cambodia and Laos.

This book discussed the origins of the art of Lao and Thai Buddha images cast in the Lanna periods, usually called "Chiang Saen Lao Art." The Lao Buddha images were found not only in Laos but also in Thailand, especially in the upper northeastern region that was once part of the Kingdom of Laos. This is the most comprehensive book available on the subject, illustrated with important pieces from museum and private collections.

Mannikka takes the reader on a detailed tour of Angkor Wat, moving from the western entrance bridge, across the long causeway to the central galleries, and up to the central tower itself, showing what the design of the temple tells us about Khmer beliefs regarding their king, their deities, and the world around them. Detailed temple plans illustrating measurement patterns and numerous photographs of all parts of the temple accompany the text. Angkor Wat: Time, Space, and Kingship shows clearly the role that astronomy, history, cosmology, and politics can play in determining a structure's format and dimensions. The new methods of architectural analysis pioneered here will serve as a model for architectural historians in Asia and elsewhere.