SIEM REAP: Many national and international tourists flocked to the Angkor Wat temple this year to witness the special equinox sunrise event that took place on Monday, 21 March. During the March equinox (also known as the spring or vernal equinox), the sun can be seen rising directly above the central peak of the Angkor Wat, given that sky conditions are clear.

This year, skies were a bit cloudy, but tourists could still witness the red light of the sun rising in the center of the temple, making all in attendance very happy.

The crowded scene at Angkor Wat on Monday morning also exemplifies the success of the Royal Government's control of Covid-19, as well as the attraction of Siem Reap as a safe tourist destination during the pandemic.

Previously, Archaeologist and Director of the Department of Preservation of Temples in Angkor Park and Preventive Archeology of the APSARA Authority, Im Sokrithy, had confirmed that the first equinox to take place in 2022 would occur on 21 March, and the sunrise at the top of Angkor Wat would occur approximately around 6:30 AM.

An equinox occurs when the geometric center of the sun crosses the equator line of the Earth, an event which occurs twice a year. Tourists can witness this special sunrise event at Angkor Wat again in 2022 on 22 September. The March equinox also marks the first day of spring in the Northern hemisphere.

The occurrence of the sun rising directly over the central peak of the Angkor Wat during an equinox is not a coincidence, but rather a feature of the brilliant architectural design, mathematical calculations and astronomical considerations of Khmer ancestors who intentionally planned for, positioned and built the temples to highlight this natural phenomenon.