Just outside of Pursat town there is an interesting shrine dedicated to a Cambodian general and his wife.
There are fountains and gardens surrounding the shrine to these spirits, who are honored in sculptures of the couple standing above an open pit, where donations are occasionally offered.
Khleang Moung was a Cambodian general who took his own life prior to a battle with invading Siamese forces; his powerful spirit helped the Cambodian forces defeat the invaders, resulting in this shrine at the location of the open pit where he and his wife ended their lives (While most of us would have drawn a different conclusion about how this event played out, its an interesting shrine, based on an interesting tale).
When to Go
Best visited during the dry season months (November-May) when road conditions are best.
Getting There
The shrine to Neak Ta Khleang Moung is several kilometers west of Pursat, along National Road 5. Look for the turnoff to a red-dirt road that features a statue of a bird at the intersection of NR5.
Connected with the Phnom Penh (115 miles/187km) via National Highway 5, which continues on to with Batdambang (65 miles / 104km), Pursat is best reached by bus or private car from Battambang or Kampong Chhnang/Phnom Penh, while traveling between the two destinations.
Need to Know
- What is It?: A spirit shrine dedicated to a Cambodian general.
- Nearest Town: Phnom Penh is located 115 miles/187km southeast on National Highway 5, while Batdambang is 65 miles / 104km northwest of Pursat. Visitors may fly into Phnom Penh, which serves domestic and international airlines, and those traveling from Thailand to Phnom Penh frequently stop in Batdambang after crossing the Thai border.
- Opening hours: Typically daylight hours
- Entrance fees: No more than 1-2$