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Prasat Samnang Tasok: A Hidden Gem of Banteay Chhmar

Explore Prasat Samnang Tasok, a serene and well-preserved satellite temple near Banteay Chhmar, offering a unique glimpse into Cambodia's ancient past.

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Prasat Samnang Tasok, also known as 'Lucky Old Hill Temple', is one of the best-preserved satellite temples of the Banteay Chhmar complex. Enshrouded in vegetation, this temple offers a serene and adventurous exploration experience, reminiscent of an Indiana Jones film set.

A brief summary to Prasat Samnang Tasok

  • 33CP+4XF, Banteay Chhmar, KH

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the temple grounds can be overgrown and uneven.
  • Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for easier access and better exploration conditions.
  • Hire a local guide from the Community Based Tourism (CBT) group in Banteay Chhmar for a more in-depth understanding of the temple's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Banteay Chhmar main temple, Prasat Samnang Tasok is approximately 1 km to the west. The path can be overgrown, especially during the rainy season, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Follow the well-worn path leading west from the main temple; local villagers can provide directions. There are no entrance fees or mandatory access fees beyond the Banteay Chhmar temple pass ($5 USD), which covers all satellite temples.

  • Moto/Tuk-tuk

    Arrange a moto or tuk-tuk from Banteay Chhmar village to reach Prasat Samnang Tasok. Negotiate the price beforehand; a typical round trip should cost around $5-$10 USD. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes. The driver will likely wait for you at the temple. There are no additional parking fees.

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Discover more about Prasat Samnang Tasok

Prasat Samnang Tasok, located roughly 1 km west of the main Banteay Chhmar temple, is a captivating satellite temple that embodies the allure of a lost city in the jungle. This temple, relatively untouched by extensive study or documentation, presents visitors with a unique opportunity to experience a sense of discovery and tranquility. Approached from the east via an earthen causeway, the temple features a cruciform sandstone shrine and the remains of a laterite library. The central tower is adorned with four massive, smiling faces, a signature of the Bayon style, which have remained largely intact. These faces, peering out from the dense foliage, evoke a sense of wonder and mystery. The temple's layout includes a gopura (entrance pavilion) on the eastern side, though it has mostly collapsed. The shrine itself has a cruciform design, open to the east, with remnants of a forebody extending the entrance. Niches above the interior doorways display a row of six seated Buddha-Bhaisajya Gurus, though one has been lost to time. Inside, remnants of reddish polychrome and rare stucco can still be observed on the walls. Prasat Samnang Tasok provides a tranquil escape from the more crowded tourist destinations, offering a chance to explore ancient ruins in a peaceful, jungle-like setting. The temple's state of preservation, combined with its natural surroundings, creates an evocative atmosphere for those who venture to discover its secrets.

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