Tourists watched in amazement as lines of supercars gathered at the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia.
Siem Reap, Cambodia:
The ancient temples of Cambodia's famous Angkor Wat were today the scene of a parade of Rolls-Royces, Ferraris and Lamborghinis, although drivers were not allowed to rev their supercharged engines.
The event was intended to promote the eco-friendly UNESCO World Heritage site, where the ruins of the Khmer Empire's greatest monuments are surrounded by lush forests and giant trees. Angkor Wat is the world's largest temple complex.
Tourism is vital to the Southeast Asian country. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the country welcomed around 6.6 million visitors annually, but in 2021 the number dropped below 200,000.
People take pictures of supercars taking part in the Gumball 3000 Rally in Cambodia. (AFP Photo)
Last year, the number of visitors rose to nearly 5.5 million, generating revenues of more than $3 billion. However, the number of visitors remained below pre-pandemic levels.
Asked about the seemingly strange nature of the event, Cambodian Tourism Minister Sok Soken told AFP that strict rules had been imposed, banning the use of motorbikes “out of disrespect for our heritage here”.
A woman strikes a 'namaste' pose next to supercars taking part in the Gumball 3000 Rally in Angkot Wat, Cambodia.
He spoke just feet away from a Bugatti Chiron, some models of which reportedly have a list price of more than $3 million.
“Exhibiting cars is an art of technology, an inclusion of technology and a modern way of traveling,” he said, adding that Cambodia is “ready to provide hospitality to all types of travelers”.
Tourists visit the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia's Siem Reap province (AFP Photo)
An attempt by organiser Gumball 3000, a British lifestyle brand, to set a record for the number of supercars and hypercars at a World Heritage site failed.
However, the vehicles were busy with locals and tourists taking photos and selfies.
“This is the first time I see such modern cars in Angkor Wat,” said 19-year-old university student Kuy Tola. “It’s amazing.”
