Banan Temple: Battambang's Ancient Sanctuary

4.6 (88)

Explore the ancient wonders of Wat Banan, a mountaintop temple offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Cambodia's rich Khmer heritage.

Home
Cambodia
Battambang
Banan Temple

Banan Temple, or Prasat Banan, is an 11th-century Angkorian-style temple located approximately 22 km south of Battambang, Cambodia. Perched atop a hill, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the region's rich history. The temple's five towers are reminiscent of Angkor Wat, making it a worthwhile visit for those exploring the area.

A brief summary to Banan Temple

X42Q+9WF, បាណន់, KH
Click to display

Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

Wear modest clothing to show respect when visiting the temple.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the stairs.
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and the stunning panoramic views.
Be aware of monkeys; secure your belongings.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Banon Bamboo Train

Experience the Thrill of the Banon Bamboo Train

ក្រមុំជ្រឹងវត្តបាយដំរាំ

Kromom Chhrueng at Wat Bay Damram: A Haven for Storks

The Killing Cave

The Killing Cave: A Somber Journey Through History

Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Battambang city center, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Wat Banan. Negotiate the fare beforehand; a typical round trip costs between $15 and $20 USD. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the base of the hill, where you'll begin your climb up the steps to the temple.
Motorbike

Rent a motorbike in Battambang for $5-$10 USD per day. Follow National Road 57 south for about 22 km. Look for signs indicating the turnoff to Wat Banan. Parking is available near the base of the hill. Be prepared for a 30-45 minute ride.

Discover more about Banan Temple

Wat Banan, also known as Prasat Banan, is a captivating temple complex dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Built during the reigns of King Udayadityavarman II and King Jayavarman VII, this site offers a fascinating look into the Khmer Empire's architectural prowess and religious beliefs. The temple's five sandstone towers, arranged in a quincunx pattern, immediately draw comparisons to the iconic Angkor Wat. While smaller in scale, Banan Temple boasts intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere. Prepare for a climb of approximately 300 to 520 steps up a laterite staircase to reach the temple. The climb is well worth the effort, as you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Sangker River, rice paddies, sugar palm trees, and distant mountains. Inside the temple, explore the well-preserved structures and admire the sandstone sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu epics and Buddhist mythology. A deep well, known as Tomlak Dong Cave, is believed by locals to be a sacred place where wishes can come true. Wat Banan remains an active place of worship, offering visitors a chance to witness local Cambodians practicing their faith. The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.