Angkor, Cambodia - Built by a mighty 9th-century Khmer king, the soaring temple of Phnom Bakheng stands atop the highest peak of ancient Angkor. With a sweeping view that takes in Angkor Wat — the world’s largest religious structure — the monks stationed here were probably among the first to glimpse the approaching Siamese troops that snuffed out this city’s centuries-long domination of much of Southeast Asia.

So perhaps it is not surprising that more than 500 years later, Phnom Bakheng has become the ideal perch from which to watch another assault on Angkor — by marauding armies of tourists. (more…)

Batu Caves is among Malaysia’s most popular attractions. In 2005 alone, some 2,250,000 visitors arrived from India to Malaysia’s capital and majority of the figure headed to Batu Caves.

It receives most attention during the Thaipusam festival, which celebrates two events: the birthday of Lord Murugan, the son of the god Siva and his wife Parvati, and Lord Murugans defeat of the demon Soorapadman with the aid of a powerful lance given to him by his mother. (more…)