ISSUES AND APPROACHES TO THE WORLD HERITAGE SITE OF ANGKOR IN CAMBODIA

Angkor was the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 9th to15th century,where is located amid the tropical forest in the north of the Great Lake(Tonle Sap) in Siem Reap Province,Cambodia,which is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.Angkor contains the spectacular monuments,including the famous Angkor Wat,Angkor Thom,Bakheng,Banteay Srei,Ta Prohm,Preah Khan,Ta Keo,etc.In 1992,Angkor was inscribed on the World Heritage List by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.This paper,based on the author's investigation to the World Heritage Site of Angkor,points out existing problems,presents a strategy to protect the site.Although natural factors are a threat to Angkor site,a theft of cultural relics is a huge problem.Angkor is now facing main problems,including lack of an appropriate management system,tourism pressure and urban development.This paper presents approaches to heritage site,including a management system,laws,international cooperation,appropriate tourism development,etc.so as to promote sustainable development of the World Heritage Site in Angkor.