Sambor Prei Kuk

Temple in Siem Reap

CC BY-SA 4.0 / PsamatheM

Sambor Prei Kuk is a remarkable archaeological site dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. Spanning nearly 13 square kilometers (5 square miles), this ancient city and temple complex boasts an astounding 141 recorded temple sites and a sophisticated habitation area with intricate waterworks. Known in its prime as Ishanapura, Sambor Prei Kuk served as the capital of the Chenla Kingdom, succeeding the earlier Funan civilization of the 1st to early 6th century. Recognized for its cultural and historical significance, Sambor Prei Kuk was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.

The site is celebrated for its exquisitely preserved temples and unique pre-Angkorian art, offering a glimpse into Southeast Asia’s ancient past. Visitors can explore three main temple clusters: Prasat Sambor, Prasat Tao, and Prasat Yeay Poan, along with smaller, intriguing temples in the area. Noteworthy satellite zones, such as Robang Romeas and Srei Krup Leak (2 km to the northwest) and Prasat Tamon (1.5 km to the west), add to the site’s allure. To the east of the temples lies an ancient urban area spanning approximately 4 square kilometers, bordered by moats and featuring remnants of water basins and shrines, emphasizing the scale of this historic settlement

Visiting Sambor Prei Kuk: Travel and Accommodation
Exploring Sambor Prei Kuk: Highlights and Tips

Visiting Sambor Prei Kuk: Travel and Accommodation

Sambor Prei Kuk is conveniently located 30 km north of Kampong Thom city, 170 km southeast of Siem Reap, and 200 km north of Phnom Penh. The roads leading to the site are well-maintained, with dirt tracks within the temple complex carefully preserved to retain its natural charm. The nearest urban center, Kampong Thom, provides excellent accommodations like Kampong Thom Palace Hotel and Ban Houn Guesthouse, along with various dining options. Travelers can also opt for homestays in Sambor Village, located just 3 km from the site, which offers an authentic local experience and access to nearby Wat Sambor.

Getting to Sambor Prei Kuk is straightforward via the RN6 highway connecting Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Buses and private shuttles regularly pass through Kampong Thom, making it a convenient base for visitors. Alternatively, private cars or scooters can provide direct access to the temples and surrounding sites.

Exploring Sambor Prei Kuk: Highlights and Tips

Tickets to Sambor Prei Kuk can be purchased at the entrance for $10, with operating hours from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Hiring a local guide, such as the knowledgeable Sok Oeng, is highly recommended to gain deeper insights into the site’s history and architecture. Exploring the sprawling temple complex requires a mode of transport like a bicycle, motorbike, or car, as the trails between the major temple groups span 6–7 kilometers. The well-kept dirt roads ensure easy navigation, and visitors will find clean restrooms near the main cluster.

While the temples themselves are the primary draw, the nearby pagodas—Wat Mohar, Wat Cheay Sampov, and Wat Sambor—are worth visiting. Wat Sambor, in particular, features a traditional vihara, ornate sema stones, and remnants of ancient Buddhist relics. Refreshments such as drinks and local snacks can be purchased at small stalls near the entry and parking area, adding a touch of local hospitality to the experience.

The Sambor Prei Kuk appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!

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