subject: Wat Botum A Pagoda Imbibed With History And Grandeur [print this page] The exotic, glimmering jewel of Asia that is Phnom Penh is a city thats forever changing with the times. A crossroad of past and present Asia, its a city that does nothing in halves. Extreme wealth rubs shoulders with the extremely poor and yet this disparity does nothing to take away from the characteristic charm that exudes from this place. A captivating city that is bursting with sights and sounds of the unusual and exotic, Phnom Penh is a modern capital that has earned its place in the world map as a big tourist destination.
The unique quality of Phnom Penh is only further enhanced by the numerous pagodas that have been constructed throughout the city. The Wat Botum is one such pagoda that has garnered special interest due to the amount of politicians who have their last resting place there. Created and designed by King Ponyea Yat, this 15th century building is in an ideal placing in the South end of the Palace. Because the original site housed an exquisite Lotus pond, this pagoda is also known by the name of Temple of the Lotus Blossoms. The year 1865 saw the pagoda garner its present name and later it was subjected to further renovations - the most recent of which was carried out in 1937.
The gates of this pagoda are guarded by images of yellow and green Naga statues; icons of nagas which legend has it, can obtain human form. These are not the only structures seen though, as the complex itself houses exquisitely molded Stupas among numerous other sculptures and statues. In the days of old Wat Botum was exceedingly popular with the members of the royal family. It could be due to this reason that some of the stupas are interred with the ashes of a certain section of the royal family.
When considering a vacation in a hotel in Phnom Penh it is much recommended to choose a five star hotel. One such hotel that can be recommended is the Raffles Hotel Le Royal. This hotel has garnered a reputation for itself as being a five star hotel Cambodia that is a cut above the rest. With excellent service and luxurious accommodation, its the perfect place to spend a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
