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| SCREENGRAB FROM TERA_ALONZOWURTH/TIKTOK, MARKLHARRISON/TIKTOK, CHIARACONTINO_/TIKTOK |
Inspired by the popular mobile game Temple Run, visitors are taking to social media to share their own real-life Temple Run experiences at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm.
The new trend is boosting exposure of the kingdom’s tourism industry, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage and offering a thrilling way to explore its historic sites.
Temple Run, which was developed by Imangi Studios, is an endless runner game where players control an explorer who must evade demonic monkeys after stealing an idol from a temple.
With over one billion downloads since its release in 2011, the game has become a cultural phenomenon, inspired by adventure films like Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider.
In Cambodia, the real-life equivalent of Temple Run can be vividly imagined at ancient temples surrounded by dense jungles.
Though there is no official “Temple Run” event at these sites, the leisure spirit of navigating through ancient ruins can be felt by visitors.
“One such captivating display was shared by an expat at Angkor Wat, blending the excitement of a Temple Run-inspired adventure with a deep respect for Cambodia’s cultural heritage,” according to a video posted by Unemployedginge on TikTok.
This unique journey through the world’s largest religious monument showcased the breathtaking beauty of the historic temples and emphasised the importance of preserving such treasures.
As the runner navigated the intricate pathways, leaping over obstacles with grace and care, he demonstrated how visitors can engage with these ancient sites respectfully.
The Phnom Penh Post was unable to contact Apsara National Authority, which protects and manages the Angkor site, to determine whether the Temple Run-style entertainment activities violated the authority’s policies or contributed to attracting tourists.
A recent TikTok post by user @emiliabfantoni featured a real-life temple run challenge that earned over 1.1 million views. The post received numerous comments from viewers, expressing their excitement and admiration for Cambodia’s ancient temples.
“Thank you so much for coming to Cambodia. We always welcome visitors,” wrote user @Thon bunleap.
Another user @NogenDitte123 said: “I just realised that Angor Rot from Trollhunters is inspired by Angkor Wat.”
User @joelescobar6315 added: “I literally went there about 3 days ago. Such a beautiful and amazing place. Got to see monkeys and interact with them. It’s a must-go place for tourists.”
One user, @sothearoth528, advised others not to jump on a rock near a tree as they could damage it.
In addition to the social media buzz, Ms Angelina Dougherty, who was crowned Pacific Miss Asian American 2023, also participated in the trend, attracting over 34,000 views on her TikTok account.
The 18-year-old, who represented Cambodian-Americans at the pageant, is very active in promoting her cultural heritage and performing traditional Apsara dances. “I started my own cultural dance organisation, Apsara Angels Dance Inc, at the age of 16,” she told the pageant organisers.
“Growing up, I have always been taught to appreciate my Cambodian culture. My main goal is to always carry on traditional customs and to never forget that my heritage is a huge part of who I am.”
Her participation in the Temple Run trend has further highlighted the beauty and cultural significance of Cambodia’s temples. THE PHNOM PENH POST / ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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