Background

Prasat Top (East): Angkor's Serene Secret

Discover Prasat Top (East), Angkor Thom's hidden gem: a serene Hindu temple offering a tranquil escape into Khmer spiritual heritage.

3.8

Prasat Top (East), also known as Mangalartha or Monument 487, is a small, secluded Hindu temple within Angkor Thom, dating back to 1295 AD. Overlooked by mainstream tours, this 'secret temple' offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the Khmer Empire's spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Prasat Top (East)

  • CWH9+5WM, Krong Siem Reap, KH

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable footwear, as exploring the temple grounds requires walking over uneven surfaces.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in Angkor Thom, such as the Bayon Temple, Terrace of the Leper King and the Terrace of the Elephants.
  • Visit in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Prasat Top (East) is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare with a driver in Siem Reap, typically ranging from $15-$20 USD for a half-day tour of Angkor Thom, including Prasat Top (East). The journey from Siem Reap to Angkor Thom's Victory Gate takes approximately 20-30 minutes. From the Victory Gate, it's a short walk of about 300 meters south along a small path to the temple. An Angkor Pass is required to access Angkor Thom and Prasat Top (East); a one-day pass costs $37 USD per person.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or ride-share service from Siem Reap. Expect to pay around $25-$35 USD for a half-day trip to Angkor Thom, including Prasat Top (East). The journey is similar to the tuk-tuk route, taking you to the Victory Gate, followed by a short walk to the temple. Ensure the driver is aware of Prasat Top (East)'s location. An Angkor Pass ($37 USD per person for a one-day pass) is necessary for entry into the Angkor Thom area.

  • Walking

    From Angkor Thom's Victory Gate, walk approximately 300 meters south along a small path to the temple. The path is signposted with two small wooden posts. Be prepared for a potentially muddy path during the rainy season. An Angkor Pass ($37 USD per person for a one-day pass) is required to enter the Angkor Thom area.

Unlock the Best of Prasat Top (East)

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Prasat Top (East)

Prasat Top (East), nestled within the ancient city of Angkor Thom, offers a serene and historically significant escape. Also referred to as Mangalartha or Monument 487, this small Hindu temple dates back to 1295 AD, marking the final chapter of Hindu temple construction in the Khmer Empire as Buddhism began to rise in prominence. Dedicated to Jayamangalartha, a revered Brahman scholar, and his mother, Subhadra, the temple provides a unique glimpse into the religious practices of the late Angkor period. King Jayavarman VIII, despite the shift towards Buddhism, supported Hindu traditions, which is evident in the temple's construction. Located approximately 300 meters south of Angkor Thom's Victory Gate, Prasat Top (East) is often missed by mainstream tours, earning it the nickname of a 'secret temple'. The secluded location, surrounded by dense jungle, creates an atmosphere of tranquility and discovery. The temple's relative obscurity ensures a peaceful experience, far removed from the crowds that throng the more popular Angkorian monuments. While architecturally modest, consisting of a small, ruined shrine on a basement overgrown with vegetation, Prasat Top (East) possesses a distinct charm. The sandstone structure, though weathered by time, reveals intricate carvings that hint at its former grandeur. The encroaching jungle adds a layer of mystique, transforming the ruins into a captivating subject for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Inside, only the pedestal for Mangalartha's mother remains. Pediments scattered around the site depict scenes of Vishnu, Shiva, and Krishna, showcasing the Hindu deities revered at the time of its construction.

Popular Experiences near Prasat Top (East)

Popular Hotels near Prasat Top (East)

Select Currency