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Ak Yum Temple: A Glimpse into Early Khmer Architecture

Explore Ak Yum Temple near Siem Reap: a serene glimpse into early Khmer architecture and history, predating Angkor, and free to visit.

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Ak Yum Temple, located near Siem Reap, is a historically significant site offering a glimpse into early Khmer architecture. Built before the Angkorian period, it provides a serene escape and a unique perspective on the region's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Ak Yum Temple

  • CQFG+QPG, Krong Siem Reap, KH

Local tips

  • Visit in the late morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby West Baray for a relaxing afternoon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temple ruins.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as the area can get hot and humid.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Ak Yum is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare, typically between $5-$10 USD, with the driver, ensuring they wait for you while you explore the temple. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, heading west out of Siem Reap and following signs towards the West Baray. Ak Yum is located on the south side of the West Baray.

  • Bicycle

    For a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap (around $1-$2 USD per day). Cycle west towards the West Baray, following the main road. The ride takes about 45-60 minutes. Be mindful of the heat and bring plenty of water. Ak Yum is located on the south side of the West Baray.

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Discover more about Ak Yum Temple

Ak Yum Temple, or Prasat Ak Yum, is an ancient temple located near the West Baray in the Angkor region of Cambodia. It is considered one of the earliest examples of Khmer temple architecture, dating back to the 7th or 8th century. The temple is believed to have been built during the reign of King Jayavarman I or possibly King Jayavarman II, and was dedicated to the Hindu deity Gambhiresvara, the “God of the Depths”. Originally, Ak Yum was a small, single-chamber brick sanctuary. In the 9th century, it was expanded into a larger, stepped pyramid structure with a base of approximately 100 meters square. This expansion marked a crucial step in the development of Khmer temple architecture, establishing the temple mountain concept that would become a hallmark of state temples in the Angkor period. The temple likely featured five towers, a common motif in Khmer architecture symbolizing Mount Meru. In the 11th century, the construction of the West Baray reservoir led to the partial submersion of Ak Yum by the reservoir's southern dike, causing its gradual deterioration. The temple remained hidden until it was excavated in the 1930s by French archaeologist George Trouvé. Today, Ak Yum is a lesser-visited site, offering a peaceful atmosphere for exploration. Though much of the original structure is in ruins, recent archaeological excavations have revealed the true scope and grandeur of Ak Yum. The site also features a unique underground cellar, the only known example of a man-made cave in the entire Angkor Archaeological Area. Unlike many other temples in the Angkor region, Ak Yum does not require an Angkor Pass to visit.

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