Buzz
Apart from the famous Angkor Wat in Siem Reap province, Cambodia boasts several other ancient and majestic temple sites.
1. Ancient Capital of Sambor Prei Kuk
Built in the 7th century, once the capital of the ancient Chenla Kingdom, Sambor Prei Kuk predates even the Angkor complex. It consists of 140 tall cylindrical temple towers, including one known as the Lion Temple, where significant religious activities took place.
The architectural artistry of the temples at Sambor Prei Kuk bears the unique style of ancient Khmer civilization, with only minimal influence from Indian architecture. While not as grand as Angkor, the serene ambiance and powerful ruggedness emanating from the remaining temple towers, weathered by the twists of history, are enough to captivate visitors.
Route: The ancient capital of Sambor Prei Kuk is located in the northern part of Kampong Thom province in the Lake Region, situated along the route from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Kampong Thom central market is 30 km away from the archaeological site. From here, you can take a motorbike taxi to Sambor Prei Kuk in about 2 hours, costing $5 – $10 per person.
2. Phnom Chisor Temple
Perched atop a hill not far from the capital Phnom Penh, Phnom Chisor is an ancient site dating back to the reign of King Suryavarman I, during the height of the Angkorian Empire. Phnom Chisor is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. To reach the temple, there is a daunting stone staircase of 503 steps, which may deter many visitors, but the beauty of the ruins and the surrounding scenery when observed from the temple is well worth the effort.
Route from Siem Reap: Hire a taxi to visit the temple complex for half a day, costing around $20. Alternatively, you can rent a motorbike for $5 per day, take National Road 2 south towards Takeo, turn left before reaching kilometer 52, and drive about 4 km further to reach the hill. The entrance fee is $2.
3. Koh Ker Temple
This was the former capital of the Angkorian Empire built during the reign of King Jayavarman IV. Koh Ker is considered the capital of the dynasty and is commonly referred to by locals as the Pyramid Temple of the Angkorian civilization. Koh Ker Temple is divided into several clusters of large and small towers scattered across a vast area, but the most impressive is the Kohmpang tower (Prasat Thom) standing at 65 meters tall, resembling the colossal Meru mountain of India.
Route: Koh Ker Temple is located 130 km north of Siem Reap. A day trip by taxi costs approximately $50 – $100, with an entrance fee of $10.
Note: There are limited food options near Prasat Thom Temple. It's best to bring your own snacks if you plan to spend a long time exploring.
4. Preah Vihear Temple
Perched atop the Dângrêk Mountains on the Cambodia-Thailand border, Preah Vihear Temple boasts intricate carvings on red sandstone, reminiscent of Cambodia's distinctive architectural style seen in Banteay Srei Temple within the Angkor complex.
Route: Preah Vihear Temple is 200 km north of Siem Reap. The journey is quite long, so it's advisable to stay overnight in Anlong Veng town. The entrance fee from the Cambodian side is $5. Please note that the entrance from the Thai border is currently closed.
Source: Mytour Travel Guide – As featured on CNNGo
TravelGo.comJune 28, 2013
