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Ta Prohm: The Tomb Raider Temple

Discover Ta Prohm, the 'Tomb Raider Temple' in Siem Reap, where nature intertwines with ancient Khmer architecture for a mystical experience.

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Ta Prohm, originally known as Rajavihara, was built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII. This temple, a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university dedicated to the king's mother, is famous for the massive trees and roots engulfing its stone structures, creating a captivating blend of nature and architecture.

A brief summary to Ta Prohm Temple

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds have uneven terrain and extensive tree roots.
  • Carry water and snacks, as the temple complex is extensive.
  • Purchase an Angkor Pass to access Ta Prohm and other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
  • Explore the less-visited areas of Ta Prohm, such as Banteay Kdei and Ta Nei, for a more peaceful experience.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    The most popular and affordable way to reach Ta Prohm from Siem Reap is by tuk-tuk. You can easily hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Ta Prohm and other temples. A typical round-trip from Siem Reap to Ta Prohm costs around $15-$20 USD. Negotiate the price beforehand.

  • Taxi

    You can hire a taxi for a more comfortable ride to Ta Prohm. A round trip by taxi typically costs $30-$40 USD. Taxis can be arranged through your hotel or guesthouse.

  • Bicycle

    For a more adventurous and eco-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap. The ride to Ta Prohm takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Bicycle rentals typically cost $2-$7 USD per day. Be prepared for a longer journey and bring water.

Unlock the Best of Ta Prohm Temple

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Discover more about Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm, meaning 'Ancestor Brahma,' presents a mesmerizing fusion of nature and Khmer architecture. Constructed in the late 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, it was initially named Rajavihara, or 'Royal Monastery,' and served as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university dedicated to the king's mother. The temple was designed to represent Prajnaparamita, the personification of wisdom. Located approximately one kilometer east of Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm once housed over 12,500 people, including monks, priests, dancers, and officials. The temple's stele records that nearly 80,000 people from surrounding villages provided services and supplies to the temple community. The site's buildings are constructed from sandstone and feature intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Buddhist mythology and daily life in the Angkorian era. What sets Ta Prohm apart is the dramatic embrace of the jungle. Enormous trees, including Tetrameles nudiflora and Ficus species, have grown through and around the temple structures, their roots intertwining with the stone walls. This unique integration of nature and architecture has made Ta Prohm a popular destination, often referred to as the 'Tomb Raider Temple' after being featured in the 2001 film. Conservation efforts balance structural stability with preserving the temple's distinctive atmosphere, ensuring that Ta Prohm remains a living monument where visitors can witness the enduring interplay between humanity and nature.

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