Study of Khmer civilization in Cambodia

The study of Khmer civilization in Burma is not that easy. The archaeologists and historians took lot of pain to study all these. After the excavation of Angkor, some of the writings were found. These were carved in different stones which became the enduring materials over a period of time. All these evidences are really important to know the constituency of the Khmer society. It can be seen that they were mainly concerned with King’s praise, religious rituals, and literature of Indian epics of ‘Mahabharata’ and ‘Ramayana’. The ordinary life of the local people can be seen from various instances.

But if you want to know about the lifestyle of ancient Khmers, go to the Chinese annals. During Chinese Yuan Dynasty i.e. in the middle of 13th century, a Chinese ambassador namely Zhou Daguan visited Angkor. He stayed there with the local villagers. During that time he explored this empire for a year before his return. In his Chinese chronicle he wrote about this wonderful empire. He described vibrantly about the living of people with excellent interpretation of the Khmer society of that era.

The Angkor Wat area was the center of the Khmer Civilization. This was situated on the plain of contemporary Siemreap province. This was located at the north of the Great Lake of Tonle Sap. During the Khmer history, the kingship was often accomplished by violent means and also with bloodshed throne. Successive capitals were built by different kings in the region. The names of the capitals were Yasodharapura, Harihalara, Angkor Thom, and Jayendanagari and also a few unknown names.

Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat and several other Khmer temples are certainly the ruins of the past Khmer Civilization. Before visiting Cambodia you can read various books or websites to get a clearer picture of the Khmer Civilization of the country.