Tonle Bati and Ta Prohm Temple

Temple in Phnom Penh

Ta Prohm Tonle Bati, Takeo Province, Cambodia

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Stefan Fussan

Located about 30 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, Tonle Bati is home to a tranquil lake and an ancient Angkorian temple known as Ta Prohm. This temple, not to be confused with the more famous jungle temple of the same name in Siem Reap, dates back to the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Built in the Bayon style of the Mahayana Buddhist period, it also served as a sanctuary for Hindu deities. The site’s religious significance extends to the pre-Angkorian era, when it was part of the Funan civilization, evidenced by its Hindu roots as early as the sixth century.

The temple’s structure features brick and laterite construction, with an inner enclosure measuring 42 by 36 meters. Decorated with bas-reliefs depicting Hindu myths, many of these carvings are scattered on the ground near the temple. Inside, the temple houses five rooms, each containing a Lingam, symbolizing Shiva worship. The main sanctuary features a 13th-century Buddha statue facing east, with a sandstone carving of a reclining Buddha above the sanctum’s entrance. Just 200 meters north lies the sparse ruins of Yeay Peau temple, named after either the king’s mother or a protective female spirit. Nearby, the Theravada Buddhist Wat Tonle Bati, built in 1576, adds another layer of spiritual and historical significance to the site.

Tonle Bati Lake and Leisure Activities

The nearby Tonle Bati lake is a popular weekend retreat for locals and Phnom Penh residents. Its southern shore features a scenic picnic area with bamboo huts on stilts extending over the water. These huts can be rented for a relaxing picnic, or meals can be delivered directly to them. Frog dishes are a local specialty, and the area also offers restaurants, shops, and drink stands. While weekdays remain peaceful, the lake becomes lively on weekends and public holidays.

Nearby Attractions

Tonle Bati is an excellent starting point for exploring nearby historical sites. Visitors can stop at the silk-weaving village to witness traditional craftsmanship. A day trip can also include visits to Prasat Neang Khmao, the 10th-century “Temple of the Black Virgin,” and Phnom Chisor, an impressive Angkorian temple perched atop a hill. These locations provide additional insights into Cambodia’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, making a trip to Tonle Bati both enriching and relaxing.

The Tonle Bati and Ta Prohm Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Phnom Penh!

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