We were able to drive to Oudong Mountain during the P’chum Ben holiday last month.It is about 25 miles North of Phnom Penh. It is the former Capital City of Cambodia  from 1618-1866. Since we went during the holiday it was extremely crowded and quite hot, but  that made it more interesting.

At the top of this mountain ,or really a hill ,is a few Stupas, which hold sacred objects of worship for Buddhists. It is here that money, Joss sticks(incense), and prayers are offered to the spirits. There are fortune tellers and astrology charts at the top here, to consult.

9-2009 009

A view of Oudong in the distance.

9-2009 011

There is much water around due to the rainy season.

9-2009 063

9-2009 012 9-2009 014

9-2009 015

9-2009 016

Walking up the 400 steps to the top. Beggers, money changers(so you can give small change to idols and beggers), and sellers are there to greet you. This is to gain merit.

9-2009 022

The view from the top was great. But believe me, it is hot.

9-2009 020

View of religious buildings from up top.

9-2009 017

Oh, to see green again. Living in Phnom Penh is a concrete ,dirt jungle. It’s been almost three months since we have seen beautiful landscape. It does the soul good.

9-2009 024

A worship and offering area. Not quite sure what is going on. Lots of joss sticks, flowers, and candles. Cambodia has a mix bag of beliefs. Animism, Theravada Buddhism,  fortune telling, Chinese beliefs and a little mix of Hinduism.

9-2009 027

9-2009 039

These guys are getting their fortune read from the fortune teller who would pick pages from  a book to determine  their future.

9-2009 041

9-2009 038

Some would leave money for the astrological signs.

9-2009 028

Very nice carvings.

9-2009 033

9-2009 035

9-2009 036

9-2009 037

9-2009 044

9-2009 046

Jordie looks happy.

9-2009 050

9-2009 056

Even more people on the way down. I think because it is after lunch.

9-2009 066

Rice field with Oudong Mountain in background

9-2009 071