Prasat Preah Vihear offers the most spectacular views of all Cambodia’s ancient temples if not all of Asia.
Perched along a high cliff at the Thai-Cambodian border, the temple commands sweeping views of the Cambodian countryside. Prasat Preah Vihear was used as a spiritual haven for centuries of Khmer kings and contains a fascinating diversity of styles and decorative elements. Such is its importance that UNESCO made it a World Heritage site in 2008.
While the original temple on this site may have pre-dated Angkor, successive kings made additions to the temple, particularly 11th century ruler Suryavarman I, who is thought responsible for the naga balustrades along several causeways, among other features. The first pair of nagas are towering seven-headed sandstone serpents, one of which is carved from a single, massive block; these are located at the entrance to the temple on the Cambodian side of the border. Looking down from this vantage you will see lion statues flanking the stairs that lead onwards into Thailand.
Access to the temple is to the south, via successive series of stairways, causeways, gopuras, and courtyards. In addition to the nagas there are a number of intact lintel carvings in situ throughout the temple complex, though proud Cambodian’s on hand to guide you may be more interested in pointing out damage done by Thai mortar rounds fired during the 21st century flare-up over a border dispute.
The ‘central’ sanctuary of Prasat Preah Vihear is surrounded by enclosure walls and feels almost confining, particularly once you pass through the low-ceilinged west gallery and out to a small clearing; suddenly all of Cambodia lies before you as you stand on the edge of the precipitous Dangkrek Mountains, a stunning view, particularly at sunset.
The temple can be reached from both Cambodia and Thailand (the latter by leaving your passport at the park headquarters on the Thai side of the border), though the border conflict has caused the temple to be closed on either or both sides of the border depending on current conditions. As lives have been lost in military exchanges at the temple, its essential that you monitor news of the dispute before venturing out there.
Getting There
From the Cambodian side, the temple can be reached via Tbeng Meanchey as well as from Siem Reap. From Thailand, head to the town of Si Sa Ket, where shuttles will take you up the escarpment. The nearest airport is at Siem Reap, but it only handles a few regional flights. International travelers can fly into Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, several hours to the south.
Need to Know
- What is it? An ancient Khmer temple complex with a spectacular view.
- When to go? During the cool dry season from November to February.
- Nearest town: Tbeng Meanchey (Cambodia) and Si Sa Ket (Thailand) - From Thailand, the town of Si Sa Ket is the closest destination, while on the Cambodian side it is best reached via Tbeng Meanchey, which is over 100 miles from Siem Reap, the nearest international airport.
- Don’t miss: spending hours wandering the lengthy stretch of the temple complex which contains numerous buildings in excellent condition, watching the sun set over the Thai plains.
- Trivia: The border conflict with Thailand is not over the temple itself, but 4.6 sq km of land beside the temple.
- Opening hours: Standard daylight hours
- Entrance fees: $5