Real-life ‘Temple Run’ trend a tourism boost for Cambodia’s historic sites

PHNOM PENH – A unique blend of ancient culture and modern technology has captured the imagination of tourists visiting Cambodia.

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.