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Phnom Chhngok Cave: A Journey into Cambodia's Ancient Past

Explore a 7th-century Hindu temple nestled within a mystical cave near Kampot, Cambodia, adorned with stunning limestone formations and ancient carvings.

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Phnom Chhngok Cave, near Kampot, Cambodia, is a unique cave temple housing a 7th-century Hindu shrine dedicated to Shiva. Explore the impressive stalactites and stalagmites and marvel at the ancient brick temple inside, offering a glimpse into the pre-Angkorian Funan era.

A brief summary to Phnom Chhngok Cave

  • J7VC+336, Tuek Chhou, KH
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear good shoes, as the cave floor can be slippery.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to navigate the cave's narrow passages and learn about its history.
  • Bring Cambodian Riel, as many places do not accept credit cards.
  • Dress modestly to respect local customs when visiting the temple.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk/Motorcycle Taxi

    From Kampot town, hire a tuk-tuk or motorcycle taxi for the final 9km (approximately 30-minute) journey to Phnom Chhngok Cave. Agree on a round-trip fare beforehand, typically around $15-$20, as you'll need transport back to town. The route follows a mostly unpaved road through rural landscapes. The driver will drop you off near Wat Ang Sdok, from where it's a short walk to the base of Phnom Chhngok. From there, climb the approximately 200 steps to the cave entrance. Entry fee to the cave is $1 per person.

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Discover more about Phnom Chhngok Cave

Phnom Chhngok Cave, also known as Phnom Chhnork Cave Temple, is a captivating historical and natural site located approximately 8 kilometers northeast of Kampot, Cambodia. This unique cave temple offers a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Angkorian Funan era, dating back to the 7th century. Unlike the grand stone temples of Angkor, Phnom Chhngok is a more intimate and mysterious experience, inviting visitors to explore its depths and discover its secrets. The cave itself is a natural limestone formation, adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. Some of these formations even resemble recognizable shapes, such as elephants (referred to locally as Phnom Sorsia), adding to the cave's mystical atmosphere. The cave's interior is a labyrinthine network of chambers, with the ancient brick temple nestled within its largest cavern. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, a prominent Hindu god, and features intricate carvings and a natural stalactite lingam, a representation of Shiva's sacred symbol. For centuries, Cambodians have come to this cave to pray for luck, happiness, and good health. The drops of water from the ceiling are considered holy water that brings good health and prosperity. Visitors have to walk on a meandering dirt path, parallel to a chain of paddy fields, to the ticket counter at the base of the mountain and then go up roughly 200 stone steps to reach the cave which contains the temple.

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