Cycling around Siem Reap yesterday was a good way to heighten the senses. After viewing the iconic 'sunset at Angkor Wat temple', it was a 10km jaunt back in the dark on the bike, accompanied by motorcycles, tuk-tuks, dust, potholes, trucks, cars and other cyclists. Did I mention there are no road rules in Cambodia?

Sunrise, on the other hand, was far more serene. Despite the thousands of tourists in town to visit the massive temples of Angkor, it was a privilege to view sunrise from the top of the less-visited Prerup temple with only six other people. Climbing up the massive stone steps in the dark, watching sunrise over the surrounding jungle and listening to the prayers of the monks nearby all made it an inforgettable experience.

After three days of exploring ancient architectural and religious sites, I am retreating now to the comfort of my rock-hard bed to recuperate from the inevitable Asian tummy bug.

Photos to come tomorrow (Cambodian internet speed permitting).