Female spirits play a big role in Southeast Asian mythology. The Apsara is perhaps the most familiar and recognizable female celestial being. Common in not only in many Cambodian reliefs and statues but also throughout the region, these beautiful young women are proficient in the art of dancing and are quite comparable to the valkyries of Norse mythology. And because of their association with water, Apsaras may also be compared with muses and nymphs from ancient Greek mythology. It is quite common to see these beautiful lady spirits etched  in temples, statues and bas reliefs throughout Southeast Asia.

The Apsara is Hinduism’s and Buddhism’s beautiful and supernatural celestial spirits. One of their skills includes the ability to change their shape and appearance at will. In just about every image you see of an Apsara, they are dancing. Why? Well, first of all, they are wives of the Gandharvas who are noted for their musical skills. They dance to the music made by their husbands, usually in the palaces of the gods, and entertain deities and fallen heroes. They are also known to be sent down to Earth in order to seduce ascetics who by their severe practices may become more powerful than the gods.

And it is only fitting that us humans have replicated their beauty, grace and skills with theater and performances throughout the years. The most famous of these is the Apsara Dance, originating from ancient Cambodia. You may not have known it, but the art form was almost lost during the genocide in Cambodia. Fortunately, it survived and with the help of UNESCO, it is now reintegrated back into Cambodian culture and heritage.

It takes years of practice to master the graceful movements and gestures of the Apsara dancers. Their stylized movements tell the story, nothing else. They do not sing or open their mouths. Much like gymnasts and ballet dancers, young girls must stretch at a young age so their limbs become flexible. As a result of the practice and training, dancers are able to easily flex their fingers and their toes backwards when dancing.

What better way to learn about the Khmer ancient art than in the former Khmer capital of Angkor? And who would’ve thought that a cultural hotspot such as this is also a destination for a resort holiday? Yes, it’s true! Find out more here. And we haven’t forgotten to include an evening dinner with an Apsara Dance performance. See the skill, grace and beauty for yourself.

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