Ek Phnom temple, Battambang Travel Guide

4.8 (15)

Explore the ancient ruins of Ek Phnom Temple near Battambang, a window into Cambodia's Angkor past and spiritual present.

Ek Phnom Temple, an 11th-century Angkorian-era temple located a few miles north of Battambang, offers a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. Though partially collapsed, the temple features well-preserved carvings and a serene atmosphere. The site also includes a modern Buddhist pagoda and a large Buddha statue, representing the religious evolution of Cambodia.

A brief summary to Ek Phnom temple

557P+GR, Krong Battambang, KH

Monday 7 am-6 pm
Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
Thursday 7 am-6 pm
Friday 7 am-6 pm
Saturday 7 am-6 pm
Sunday 7 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ek Phnom temple.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Phnom Sampov and Wat Banan for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing steps.

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Explore Ek Phnom temple on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ek Phnom temple, mapped for you.

Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Battambang city center, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Ek Phnom Temple. The journey is approximately 11 kilometers and takes about 20 minutes. Negotiate the price beforehand; a round trip should cost around $8-$12 USD. Ensure the driver waits for you while you explore the temple.
Motorbike

Rent a motorbike in Battambang and drive to Ek Phnom Temple. Follow the river road (Road 1) north for about 11 kilometers. The road is well-sealed and offers scenic views of the countryside. Motorbike rentals typically cost around $5-$8 USD per day. Parking at the temple is free.

Discover more about Ek Phnom temple

Ek Phnom Temple, situated approximately 11 kilometers north of Battambang, is a captivating vestige of the Khmer Empire. Built in the 11th century during the reign of King Suryavarman I, the temple originally served as a Hindu place of worship, dedicated to the god Shiva. The temple's name, Ek Phnom, translates to "only hill" in Khmer.The temple complex showcases classic Khmer architectural design, featuring sandstone carvings, intricate lintels, and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. While smaller than the famed Angkor Wat, Ek Phnom provides a more intimate look into the architectural styles and religious artistry of the period. The sculpted scenes on the central door and tower depict the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, a central event in Hindu mythology.Today, Ek Phnom is composed of the ancient Hindu temple ruins, a modern Buddhist pagoda, and a towering Buddha statue. The juxtaposition of these structures illustrates the transition and co-existence of religious beliefs in Cambodia. The temple has suffered damage from time, war, and looting, but restoration efforts allow visitors to appreciate its historical significance. The site is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, especially during Khmer New Year when festivities take place.