Phnom Bayong is a remote hill with a 7th century temple at the top that provides remarkable views over both the Cambodian and Vietnamese countrysides.
The temple is located at the summit of a challenging climb of one-thousand foot (313m) hill.
The Chenla-era temple at the summit of Phnom Bayong hails from the 7th century following the supposed conquest of Funan, the kingdom that was centered at Phnom Da. While many of the artifacts found here have been relocated to a museum in Paris, the temple still features interesting carvings and still attracts pilgrims, including Buddhist nuns.
Also near Phnom Bayong and worth a look (if you are already in the area) is Phnom Tchea Tapech, an ancient temple with a large Buddha image atop it. Kirivong Waterfall is also in the region and is a nice walk and good for a swim.
Getting There
Buses run regularly from the provincial capital of Takeo to the border at Phnom Den, and the hill is a stop-off after about 20 miles (1 hour). It is then a 3-hour climb. Takeo can be accessed by bus from Phnom Penh in 3 hours.
Need to Know
- What is it?: A 1,000 foot tall hill with an ancient temple and spectacular views.
- Where: located about five miles from the Phnom Den–Tinh Bien border crossing (between Cambodia and Vietnam).
- When to go: the mountain takes about three hours to climb and is therefore best done in the morning when it’s cool, though it is also nice during a sunset.
- Opening hours: 24 hours, daily.
- Entrance fees: free.