Temple of Preah Vihear: A Scenic Gem of Cambodia
Discover the breathtaking Temple of Preah Vihear, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia, blending stunning views with rich cultural history.
A brief summary to ច្រកទ្វា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- 9MWJ+R4G, ភូមិអង្ក្រង, ឃុំស្រអែម, ស្រុកជាំក្សាន្ត, ខេត្តព្រះវិហារ, ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រកម្ពុជា, Sao Thong Chai, KH
The Temple of Preah Vihear, perched majestically on a 525-meter cliff in the north of Cambodia, is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred temple complex is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is known for its remarkable construction, which spans over 800 meters along the ridge. Visitors are greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding plains, offering a spectacular backdrop that enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the site. The journey to the temple itself is an adventure, with winding roads leading up the mountain and numerous viewpoints along the way. As you explore the temple grounds, you will encounter intricate carvings, impressive staircases, and a series of sanctuaries that showcase the artistry of the Khmer civilization. The temple's layout is unique, as it follows the natural contours of the mountain, making it a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Make sure to take your time to appreciate the details, from the elaborate lintels to the serene statues scattered throughout the site. Visiting the Temple of Preah Vihear is not just a visual treat; it is also a journey into Cambodia's rich cultural history. The temple has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, and its significance is deeply rooted in the spirituality of the Khmer people. Whether you're an avid photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of tranquility, you will find that the Temple of Preah Vihear offers a unique experience that resonates long after you leave its sacred grounds.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the temple grounds require some walking and climbing.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities near the temple are limited.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your experience with historical insights.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, as this is a sacred site.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the town of Preah Vihear. Head north on National Road 64 for about 30 kilometers until you reach the junction at the town of Tbaeng Meanchey. From there, continue north along the same road, which will eventually turn into a smaller road leading to the temple area. Follow the signs towards 'ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ' (Preah Vihear Temple). You will need to pay for entrance fees at the checkpoint near the temple area, which is approximately $5 USD per person. The last stretch to the temple will be a winding road uphill, so drive carefully.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus or minivan from Phnom Penh to Preah Vihear Province. Once you arrive in Preah Vihear town, hire a local taxi or moto-taxi to take you to the temple area. The fare for a taxi is about $20-25 USD one way. Ensure to negotiate the price before getting in. Additionally, you will need to pay the entrance fee at the temple area, which is around $5 USD per person.
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Motorbike
If you prefer a more adventurous route, you can rent a motorbike in Preah Vihear town. Head north on National Road 64, following the same directions as for the car. The ride is scenic but be cautious of the road conditions. Once you reach the temple area, there is an entrance fee of about $5 USD per person. Make sure to wear a helmet and drive safely, especially on the winding roads.
Attractions Nearby to ច្រកទ្វា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 3
- Bas Relief
- Prasat Preah Vihear
- Pha Mor E Daeng
- តំបនទេសចរណ៍ជាតិកម្ពុជា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- National Forest of Kingdom of Cambodia (NFKC)
- ព្រៃឈេីជាតិកម្ពុជា National Forest of Cambodia
- តំបន់ប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រ យោធាជាំតែ
- ទំនប់ទឹកអូរស្វាយ
- Sophack's Organic Farm
- Chuor Phnum Dangrek
- SamRong Site
- Kulen Prum Tep Wildlife Sanctuary
- វិបុល
- Taingyou CBET
Landmarks nearby to ច្រកទ្វា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- ច្រកទ្វា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4
- Prasat Preah Vihear Hall
- Central Sanctuary
- Phnum Preah Vihear
- ជណ្ដើរបុរាណប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ - Preah Vihea Temple Staircases
- Preah Vihear station
- Bot Uddom Guesthouse
- Wat Pah Nanachat
- Wat Nong Pah Pong
- Khampun Museum
- UbonTown
- Talad Yai market (Big Market)
- Ubon Street Art - Happiness (ความสุข)
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Ubon