Apsaras and Devatas in the Temples of Angkor

Apsaras are the ethereal, elegant and youthful beings dancing in celestial palaces while Devatas are beautiful standing young goddesses in elegant outfits. Images of Devatas and Apsaras are delicately carved in the  sandstone of many  Angkorian temples. If some of them did not stand the test of time and others were defaced (some of them can be seen in Preah Khan) many are still today beautifully preserved in Angkor Wat where about 1800 have been counted.

Apsaras and Devatas are fantastic photography subjects as they always look different in the direct sunlight of midday or the warmer light of sunrise and sunset. They can be seen in groups or alone so photographers can play with the depth of field to isolate one.

Pictures taken with wide or ultra wide angle also can give interesting perspectives as they come together in the frame even if far apart. In the first two photos below you can count 17 and 8 devatas respectively.

Close up shots reveal the intricate details and the true beauty of the carvings: devatas holding hands, touching their hairs,  smiling showing their teeth or holding a bird.

There are still so many interesting details of apsaras and devatas waiting to be uncovered. If you want to see more , check out www.angkorphotographytours.com and book a photo discovery tour with us.