The Majestic Prasat Preah Vihear: A Journey Through Time
Explore the breathtaking Prasat Preah Vihear, a historical Hindu temple offering stunning views and rich cultural insights in Cambodia.
Prasat Preah Vihear stands as a testament to Cambodia's historical and spiritual significance, majestically perched on a 525-meter cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains. This ancient Hindu temple, dedicated to the god Shiva, showcases the intricacies of Khmer architecture and artistry, reflecting a bygone era when the Khmer Empire flourished. As you ascend the temple complex, you are greeted by a series of impressive sandstone structures, each adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions that tell tales of devotion and power. The temple's location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the journey not only one of spiritual significance but also of natural beauty. Visitors often gaze in awe at the vibrant greens of the Cambodian countryside, stretching far into the horizon. As you explore the temple's multiple tiers, you will feel a deep connection to the history that permeates its walls, with each step echoing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims who once sought solace and enlightenment here. The best time to visit Prasat Preah Vihear is during the dry season when the weather is most favorable for exploration. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear as the paths can be steep and uneven. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the temple's rich history and architectural marvels, enhancing your understanding of this sacred site. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply an admirer of stunning landscapes, Prasat Preah Vihear promises an unforgettable experience that will linger in your memories long after your visit.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the temple.
- Dress respectfully, as this is a sacred site; consider wearing long pants and sleeves.
- Hire a local guide for a more enriching experience and deeper understanding of the temple's history.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rains can make the paths slippery.
A brief summary to Prasat Preah Vihear
- ៦២, Krong Ban Lung, KH
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
-
Car
From the center of Preah Vihear, head northeast on Route 64 towards Tbaeng Meanchey. Continue on this road for approximately 30 kilometers. You will pass through several small villages. Look for signs pointing to Prasat Preah Vihear, which is located on a hilltop. Once you reach the entrance of the temple area, you will need to pay an entrance fee of around $5 per person. After entering, you can drive up the winding road to the temple itself.
-
Public Transportation
Start at the central bus station in Preah Vihear. Look for a minivan or shared taxi that is heading towards the Prasat Preah Vihear area. The cost for a minivan ride is typically around $3 to $5 per person, depending on your bargaining skills. The ride will take about 1 hour. Inform the driver that you want to go to Prasat Preah Vihear. Once you arrive at the foot of the hill, you will need to hire a moto taxi (around $2 to $3) to take you up to the temple itself. There is an entrance fee of approximately $5 for the temple.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can hire a taxi from your hotel or a local taxi service. The cost for a round trip from Preah Vihear town to Prasat Preah Vihear is usually between $25 to $40, depending on your negotiation. The taxi will take you all the way to the temple entrance. Remember to confirm that the fare includes waiting time, as you may want to spend several hours exploring the site. There is also an entrance fee of about $5 per person.
Attractions Nearby to Prasat Preah Vihear
- Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 3
- Twin Stupas
- Bas Relief
- Pha Mor E Daeng
- តំបនទេសចរណ៍ជាតិកម្ពុជា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- National Forest of Kingdom of Cambodia (NFKC)
- ព្រៃឈេីជាតិកម្ពុជា National Forest of Cambodia
- ទំនប់ទឹកអូរស្វាយ
- តំបន់ប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រ យោធាជាំតែ
- Sophack's Organic Farm
- Chuor Phnum Dangrek
- SamRong Site
- Kulen Prum Tep Wildlife Sanctuary
- វិបុល
- Taingyou CBET
Landmarks nearby to Prasat Preah Vihear
- Central Sanctuary
- Phnum Preah Vihear
- Prasat Preah Vihear Hall
- Prasat Preah Vihear Gopura 4
- ច្រកទ្វា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ
- 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)
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Ubon
- หาดวัดใต้