One of three hilltop temples built by Yasovarman, Phnom Kraom is located beside the Tonle Sap and is an outstanding vantage point to watch a sunrise or a sunset.
The temple itself has been eroded by the elements and is not impressive, but the view certainly is.
While officially part of the Angkor Archaeological Park because of the Angkor-era temple at the top, Phnom Kraom is a hill overlooking Chong Kneas Village and the Tonle Sap Lake, 6 miles (10km) south of Siem Reap town. The climb to Phnom Krom begins with a steep staircase, followed by a winding road to the temple at the top, which will leave you sweating even late in the day; however, the views of the lake and surrounding countryside from the mountain are excellent and its one of the best places in the area to catch the sunset.
The temple was constructed toward the end of the 9th century when King Yasovarman I relocated the capital from Hariharalaya (Roluos) to the city built around the temple atop Phnom Bakheng (Yasovarman’s third hill-top temple atop Phnom Bok is located just NW of Siem Reap).
There are three towers atop Phnom Kraom that stand in a uniform row and were built in dedication to Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. The tallest parts of the towers have since collapsed and the effects of the sun, wind, and rain have greatly eroded the carvings on the sandstone, but the wall that surrounds them still stands and the temple grounds are well maintained by an active Buddhist monastery located beside the ruins.
While a bit out of the way, the hike isn’t particularly challenging, and the 360 degree view of the lake, the West Baray, and surrounding countryside makes this site worth a visit for sunrise or sunset, and can be easily combined with a boat trip around Chong Kneas village.
When to Go
Any time of year. Though the view is more impressive during the wet season months (June-October) when the surrounding countryside is flooded with water.
Getting There
Follow the road leading south along the Tonle Sap River until you reach the base of the mountain and the beginning of the lake. While it is possible to visit by bicycle, a tuk-tuk or taxi is arguably the best way to visit.
Need to Know
- What is It? A 9th century hill-top temple that stands in ruin but commands wonderful views of Tonle Sap Lake and surrounding villages and countryside.
- Nearest Town: Located 6 miles (10km) south of Siem Reap Town.
- Don’t Miss: Surise or sunset.
- Trivia:
- The hilltop temple can be seen from the air as visitors fly into Siem Reap Airport.
- Phnom Kraom is pronounced similar to “Crown” with an ‘m.’
- Opening hours: 6am-8pm (roughly)
- Entrance fees: Valid Angkor Archaeological Park Pass is required. Tickets can NOT be purchased at the site.