Wat Ounalom

Set back slightly from the river at the junction of Sothearos Boulevard and Sisowath Quay, Wat Ounalom ("Eyebrow Temple") is the centre of modern-day Khmer Buddhist teaching, led by Supreme Patriarch Taep Vong, respectfully referred to by the novices as "The King Of Monks". The main temple building, built in 1952, is a modern reincarnation of the original, built in the fifteenth century. The building to the right is the main residence for the monks, and the five-hundred-year-old stupa behind the temple encases one of the Buddha's eyebrows, after which the temple is named. Just in front stands an UNTAC monument to those killed during the Pol Pot regime. It's pleasant to stroll around the complex - many of the monks are learning English, and are happy to tell you what they know about the temple and its history. The best time to visit is at 6pm, when the monks congregate in the main sanctuary to chant their prayers.

Publishes at : 07-07-29 10:48

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