Neak Poan – The Mystical Island Temple, Siem Reap

Buddhist Temple near Siem Reap

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Kiensvay

Built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII (1181-1218 AD), Neak Pean is a unique and mysterious temple complex located on a man-made island in the center of the Jayatataka Baray reservoir. The temple sits atop a double circular lotus base, surrounded by a large central basin with four smaller shrines positioned at each cardinal direction. Each shrine connects the central basin to smaller outer basins, and each cardinal shrine features spouts designed to allow water to flow from the central basin-symbolically purified-to the outer ones through the heads of a lion, horse, elephant, and human. The central shrine itself is decorated with carvings of Avalokiteshvara, and beneath the nagas encircling the structure is a statue of the horse Balaha, a previous incarnation of Avalokiteshvara. This distinctive design reflects a vision of healing, inspired by Lake Anavatapta, a legendary lake in Buddhist cosmology thought to be the source of all water. Accessed today by a walkway across the baray, Neak Pean remains a scenic and tranquil site with a nature trail around its outer edge, offering peaceful views over the baray and showcasing its ancient laterite retaining walls.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (2,234)

Neak Poan Temple sits on an artificial island in a large baray near Siem Reap and offers a serene, lakeside setting reached by a long walkway over still, lotus-filled water; visitors describe a calm, almost dreamlike atmosphere best enjoyed in soft morning or late afternoon light, with a peaceful path around the island, abundant greenery and bird sounds, and a compact central temple once used as a healing sanctuary that feels spiritual, photogenic and refreshingly different from the grander nearby temples.

Chanseyha Prak

2 months ago

"Neak Poan Temple is one of those serene spots in Angkor Complex that truly stands out when visited during the soft morning or late afternoon sun. Thegentle light makes the whole area feel calm and magical. The long bridge leading to the temple crosses a peaceful, lotus-filled lake, offering a stu ing view and a sense of tranquility along the way. It’s a beautiful and refreshing stop that gives you a different feeling from the grand temples — simple, quiet, and deeply peaceful...."

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Muen Media

2 months ago

"Neak Pean Temple, a serene and symbolic monument located in the center of the Jayatataka Baray. The name Neak Pean means “The Entwined Serpents”,representing balance and harmony. Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this temple served as a healing sanctuary, where water from four directions symbolized the elements of life. Our cycling journey through the forest and along the ancient reservoir offers not only historical beauty but also peaceful natural surroundings. Please take your time to enjoy the view and capture some memorable photos...."

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3 months ago

"Walking around the island was such a peaceful experience. The bridge leading over had these beautiful lotus flowers lining the sides, their pink andwhite petals standing out against the green water. It felt like something out of a dream, with the flowers swaying gently in the breeze. The entire atmosphere was so calming. The temple in the center was even more impressive than I expected, standing so still and quiet among all the greenery. There’s a path around the island that you can walk, so I decided to take my time and explore. As I wandered, it felt like the outside world disappeared, replaced by the soft sounds of nature and the occasional rustle of leaves. The place felt sacred, like it was untouched by time. It wasn’t just the temple that caught my attention, but the whole environment. The air felt fresher, the trees taller, and the colors brighter. It was one of those rare places where you feel totally at peace, where you can just breathe and take it all in. Definitely a moment to slow down and soak up everything around you. I could’ve stayed there much longer...."

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The Neak Poan – The Mystical Island Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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