Located in Cambodia’s Kampong Cham Province, Wat Hanchey is a pre-Angkorian temple that dates to the 7th-8th century kingdom of Chenla, according to inscriptions recovered there (some of the oldest discovered in Cambodia).
The inscriptions mention King Bhavarvarman, a powerful Chenla king, though certain portions of the temple, including a mandapa, are thought to date farther back to the Funan era (1st-7th centuries).
The temple is positioned in the hilly region north of Kampong Cham along the west bank of the Mekong River; while not the most popular temple to visit, the ride through along the river or riverside is spectacularly beautiful and the site is pleasant, featuring many old structures and very few (if any) other tourists.
The 8th century stone structures are surprisingly well preserved, including one mostly intact brick prasat, and feature some ornate decoration, including carvings of snakes and mythical creatures.
Getting There
Wat Hanchey is approximately 20km north of Kampong Cham city, along the Mekong River. You may try to hire a boat from the riverside in Kampong Cham or ask your guesthouse or a tour agent to arrange a boat for you; you can also travel by car or motodop taxi north on Route 223, approximately 30 km. Travel to Kampong Cham is easy from either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh via bus or taxi.
Need to Know
- What is it? A pre-Angkorian temple situated along the Mekong River.
- When to go? All year round is fine although the wet season sees transport problems due to muddy roads.
- Nearest town: Kompong Cham is around 20km away.
- Don’t miss: The inscriptions that mention King Bhavarvarman, which are some of the oldest ever discovered in Cambodia.
- Trivia: the mountain which Wat Hanchey is located on is officially called Chey Kiri Mountain.
- Open: Standard Daylight Hours