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Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4: A Gateway to Khmer History

Explore Gopura 4 at Prasat Preah Vihear, a mountaintop Khmer temple with stunning views and intricate carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Gopura 4 is one of the five intricately carved entrance pavilions that form Prasat Preah Vihear, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched atop the Dangrek Mountains. This well-preserved structure offers a glimpse into the Khmer empire's architectural prowess and the temple's profound spiritual significance.

A brief summary to Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4

  • 33110, KH

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for a more peaceful exploration.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities at the site are limited.
  • Hire a local guide at the base of the mountain to learn more about the temple's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Sra'em, the closest town, drive north on the road towards the Prasat Preah Vihear ticket office, roughly 30km away. The road is paved and in good condition. At the ticket office, purchase your entrance ticket for $10 USD. After obtaining your ticket, you'll need to arrange transport up the mountain to the temple itself, as personal vehicles are not permitted beyond this point.

  • Special Transport

    From the ticket office, the final ascent to Prasat Preah Vihear is via shared 4x4 pickup truck or motorbike. A round trip in a 4x4 costs $25 USD (seats up to 6 people), or $5 USD per person if the truck is full. A motorbike taxi costs $5 USD for a round trip. The ride is steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to reach the top.

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Discover more about Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4

Prasat Preah Vihear, with its prominent Gopura 4, stands as a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the Khmer civilization. Perched dramatically atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, the temple complex offers unparalleled views of the vast Cambodian plains stretching out below. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a monument to Khmer ingenuity but also a place of profound spiritual significance, having served as an important pilgrimage site for centuries. The temple's construction began in the early 9th century under King Yasovarman I and continued through the reigns of several monarchs, each adding their unique architectural styles and embellishments. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Prasat Preah Vihear was designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu cosmology. The temple's layout is unique among Khmer temples, featuring a north-south axis rather than the traditional east-west orientation. Gopura 4 is particularly noteworthy for its well-preserved structure and intricate carvings. As visitors ascend the steps leading to Gopura 4, they are immediately struck by the grandeur of the Khmer architecture and the exquisite detail of the sandstone reliefs. The pediment above the southern door features a remarkable depiction of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk, a significant scene in Hindu mythology. Walking through Gopura 4, visitors enter a world of ancient artistry and religious devotion. The temple complex is laid out along a processional route, with each gopura marking a change in elevation and offering new perspectives on the surrounding landscape. The galleries and courtyards are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics, mythical creatures, and celestial beings. Between Gopura IV and III is a causeway measuring 150m long bordered by 82 stone posts in the shape of lotus. The play of light and shadow on the sandstone surfaces creates a mesmerizing effect, enhancing the sense of mystery and wonder.

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