Eastern Mebon: A 10th-Century Island Temple

4.6 (1958)

Explore the Eastern Mebon, a 10th-century mountain temple dedicated to Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and a glimpse into Angkor's rich history.

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Oddar Meanchey
Eastern Mebon Temple

The Eastern Mebon is a 10th-century temple in Angkor, Cambodia, constructed during the reign of King Rajendravarman II. Originally built on an artificial island in the center of the now-dry East Baray reservoir, it is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and honors the king's parents. The temple's design reflects Khmer architects' concern with orientation and cardinal directions, featuring impressive sculptures and a pyramid structure with three tiers leading up to five towers.

A brief summary to Eastern Mebon Temple

CWWC+J2H, Krong Siem Reap, KH

Monday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the temple's steps and exploring the complex.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade on the temple grounds.
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and well-preserved lintels.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to the Eastern Mebon Temple. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around $15-$25, including waiting time. The journey takes you to the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance, where you'll need to purchase an Angkor Pass. A one-day pass costs $37. After entering the park, the tuk-tuk will take you directly to the Eastern Mebon Temple.
Car

If driving from Siem Reap, head east on National Road 6. Continue for approximately 14 km until you reach the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance, where you'll need to purchase an Angkor Pass. A one-day pass costs $37. After entering the park, follow the signs towards the Eastern Mebon Temple, which is about 12 km from the entrance. Parking is available near the temple, followed by a short walk to the site.

Discover more about Eastern Mebon Temple

The Eastern Mebon, a captivating 10th-century temple, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Khmer Empire. Constructed in 952 by King Rajendravarman II, it was initially situated on an artificial island in the vast East Baray reservoir, which is now dry. The temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and served as a tribute to the king's parents.The temple's design mirrors Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods in Hinduism, featuring a pyramid structure with three tiers and five towers arranged like dice pips. These towers once housed a sacred linga and were dedicated to Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu, and Brahma. The temple complex measures approximately 100 by 100 meters and includes entry staircases at each cardinal point, guarded by stone lions.One of the most striking features of the Eastern Mebon is the two-meter-high, free-standing stone elephants adorning the corners of the first and second tiers. These intricately carved elephants, along with the detailed lintel carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the Khmer artisans. The temple's orientation adheres to a strict alignment with other Angkorian temples, forming a north-south axis with Pre Rup and an east-west axis with Phimeanakas.While the East Baray reservoir has long since dried up, four landing stages at the base of the temple serve as a reminder that it was once accessible only by boat. Visitors can explore the temple's three levels, admire the intricate carvings, and imagine the vast expanse of water that once surrounded this island sanctuary. Today, the Eastern Mebon is a popular stop on the Angkor Grand Circuit tour, offering a glimpse into the rich history and religious beliefs of the Khmer Empire.