Prasat Preah Vihear, Prey Veng Travel Guide

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Explore Prasat Preah Vihear, a stunning mountaintop Khmer temple with breathtaking views and a rich history near the Thailand-Cambodia border.

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Prasat Preah Vihear

Perched atop the Dangrek Mountains, Prasat Preah Vihear is an ancient Khmer temple with a dramatic history and breathtaking views. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique glimpse into Khmer architecture and spirituality.

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prasat Preah Vihear.

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as Prasat Preah Vihear is a religious site.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and heat.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing stairs and walking on uneven surfaces.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

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Getting There

Car

From Siem Reap, the most common starting point, the journey to Prasat Preah Vihear takes approximately 3-4 hours by car. A private car can cost between $40-$60. The route passes through Anlong Veng, and the roads are generally well-maintained. Upon arrival at the foot of the mountain, you'll need to transfer to a local moto or 4WD truck to ascend the steep final section to the temple.
Moto/Truck

After purchasing your entrance ticket ($10 USD), you'll need to arrange transport up the mountain. Motorbike taxis are available for around $5 USD per person. Alternatively, you can hire a 4WD truck for around $25 USD, which can accommodate up to six passengers. The ride to the top takes about 15-20 minutes. Walking is also an option, taking approximately one hour via a staircase.

Discover more about Prasat Preah Vihear

Prasat Preah Vihear, also known as Preah Vihear Temple, is a captivating Khmer temple complex located atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, near the border of Thailand. The name Preah Vihear translates to 'sacred sanctuary' in Sanskrit, reflecting its spiritual significance.Construction of the temple began in the 9th century under King Yasovarman I and continued for several centuries, with contributions from seven Khmer monarchs, most notably Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu cosmology. Unlike most Khmer temples, Prasat Preah Vihear is oriented along a north-south axis, following the natural contours of the landscape.The temple complex consists of five gopuras (gates) adorned with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. A long causeway stretches over 275 meters, connecting the gopuras and leading to the central sanctuary. The temple's strategic location offers panoramic views of the Cambodian plains, making it a visually stunning and unforgettable destination.Prasat Preah Vihear has been a source of tension between Cambodia and Thailand for many years. The International Court of Justice ruled in 1962 that the temple belongs to Cambodia, and it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Despite its troubled history, Prasat Preah Vihear remains a peaceful and awe-inspiring destination, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.