Lolei, Siem Reap

Lolei is the northernmost Temple of the Group Roluos of three Hindu temples from the end of the 9th century in Angkor, whose other members are the Bakong and Preah Ko. Worth visiting it when already has been known Bakong. Lolei was the last of the three temples that were built as part of the city of Hariharalaya that once flourished at Roluos, in the year 893 the khmer King Yasovarman built it and dedicated to the hindu God Shiva. It is believed that the name "Lolei" is a modern corruption of the ancient name "Hariharalaya", which means "the city of Harihara". Lolei was located on an island slightly north of downtown in the Baray or Indratataka, whose construction had been completed almost entirely under Yasovarman father and predecessor Indravarman I. Scholars believe that the placement of the temple on an island in the middle of a body of water served to identify it symbolically with Mount Meru, home of the gods, which in hindu mythology is surrounded by the world's oceans. It is a temple with a history interesting influenced as I said of Hinduism, but behind the monument lies a wonderful experience to know and invest more minutes than in the temple: the SCHOOL LOLEI. It is a school for children without homes in rural areas of the province of Siem Reap. There you can freely available and share with them the classes that are taught free of charge in English, Chinese or Japanese. Plus the computations boys learn computers, reading, history and account also with a beautiful library. Lolei school is part of the UNIVERSAL FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD HOPE. It is very gratifying to know this temple with this wonderful school and make a small donation. The work carried out by teachers and monks for the welfare of children is truly wonderful! Please do not miss this small temple that accompanies this great educational project, it is a very rewarding experience on your journey through Siem Reap.

From an archaeological point of view, it certainly does not deserve a visit, currently as caged from scaffolding restoration. Remains still interesting as an example of how it is born a modern monastic Centre at an ancient temple. This combination of old and new has a detail that makes the quick tour interesting anyway, if you are in the area and if you have time. In this case, entry included in the Angkor Pass.