The second temple of the second day exploring temples, East Mebon is a smaller island temple north east of Angkor Thom. Though it is an island temple, the moat has since been filled, giving it a mildly different history to other island temples. Once again, the temple is dedicated to Shiva, and host many unique carvings upon its walls.
This is a smaller temple, so my visit here was a short one. Still, it was interesting to get a glimpse of yet another of the smaller temples in the area. Being less popular I was able to explore it alone without many other tourists around.
Wooden stairs protect the stone stairs of the temple again, and it is clear that just as much work is put into conservation efforts here as with other temples. Wooden frames prop up walls that have fallen down so visitors can get an idea of what the temple used to look like.
The red colour of the temple stones reminded me of Pre Rup, though unlike that temple this is not a pyramid. It was an island temple in the past, but the vast expanse of water that once surrounded it no longer exists. What can now be reached by tuk tuk used to only be reached by boat.
The temple hosts some intricated stone carvings as with all temples of the period. Lions guard each entrance, standing tall and watching out over what used to be water. Bas-reliefs above the doors depict the gods including Ganesha and, of course, Shiva.
Though my visit to this temple was short it was, in hindsight, a good contrast for the temple I would visit next. That would also be an island temple, except this time the water still remains.
