Although now little more than a dusty riverside village, Tala Boriwat (also spelled Thala Boravit) was an important trading town during the Chenla period (7th century CE).
The town is located on the river route that connects the ancient city of Champasak and the holy temple of Wat Phu (in modern day Laos) with the southern part of the Chenla Empire (centered at Sambor Prei Kuk.
One of the main attractions in Tala Boriwat is the ruins of Prasat Preah Ko (Temple of the Sacred Bull). The temple name is actually a misnomer, as the temple (now mostly ruins) retains a nearly intact statue of Nandin, the bull that was the mount of the god Shiva. The real temple name is Prasat Preah Srey, but neither the signs nor local opinion seem to agree upon this.
Tala Boriwat is a good place to visit for those who have a little time on their hands as its a short boat ride from Stung Treng. Wandering through the dusty streets, it is difficult to picture Tala Boriwat in its former glory, although visitors will find a number of interesting shop houses as they pass through the town to the Chenla-era temple Prasat Preah Ko and the more modern Wat Tala Boriwat.
The Mekong Discovery Trail features Tala Boriwat and its attractions as part of a short day trip itinerary that includes some historical information about the town and its temples. Soon the village will lie along a route that connects to the ecotourism destination of Preah Rumkel and visitors will be able to bike between the two communities.
Getting There
Thala Boravit is located on the west bank of the Mekong River, and the best way to reach the town is by taking a boat across the river from Stung Treng. Visitors can either pay 2000 Real each direction upon the public boat, or charter a long-tail boat, which costs around US$10 return trip.
After disembarking from the boat, visitors will find themselves at the start of the village. The road ahead leads to Prasat Preah Ko; the road to the right leads to Wat Tala Boriwat.
Need to Know
- What is It?: A small riverside community with ancient temple ruins, which makes a nice 1-2 hour day-trip from Stung Treng.
- When to Go: Anytime. Though November - March is the driest time of the year.
- Nearest Town: Tala Boriwat is just across the river from Stung Treng, which is a 10 hour bus ride from Phnom Penh.
- Don’t Miss: The ruins of the Chenla-era brick temple, Prasat Preah Ko (Prasat Preah Srey)
- Trivia: Prasat Preah Ko is the sight of a new-years ceremony (April 13-15) in which locals demonstrate their legendary status as great warriors with exciting ‘war games’.
- Opening hours: n/a (daylight hours)
- Entrance fees: none