Eastern Mebon, Siem Reap Travel Guide

4.6 (1941)

Explore the ancient Khmer artistry of Eastern Mebon, a 10th-century temple dedicated to Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and majestic stone elephants.

The Eastern Mebon, a 10th-century temple in Angkor, stands as a testament to the Khmer Empire's architectural prowess. Built by King Rajendravarman II, it was once an island temple in the vast East Baray reservoir. Today, though the waters have receded, the temple's intricate carvings and imposing structure continue to captivate visitors.

A brief summary to Eastern Mebon

CWWC+J2H, Krong Siem Reap, KH

Monday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eastern Mebon.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the temple in the soft light.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be climbing steep steps and walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring water and sunscreen, as the temple offers little shade.
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and the impressive stone elephants.
Remember that a park pass is required to enter the Angkor Archaeological Park.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Angkor National Museum

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Explore Eastern Mebon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Eastern Mebon, mapped for you.

Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Eastern Mebon. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around $15-$25, including waiting time. The journey takes you to the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance, where you'll need to purchase an Angkor Pass. A one-day pass costs approximately $37. Once inside the park, the tuk-tuk will take you directly to the Eastern Mebon, about 12 km from the entrance.
Car

If driving from Siem Reap, head east on National Road 6 for about 14 km to reach the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance. Purchase an Angkor Pass for $37 (one-day pass). After entering the park, follow the signs towards Eastern Mebon, approximately 12 km from the entrance. Parking is available near the temple, followed by a short walk to the site.

Discover more about Eastern Mebon

Constructed in 952 AD during the reign of King Rajendravarman II, the Eastern Mebon is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and honors the king's parents. Originally, it occupied a man-made island in the center of the expansive East Baray, a reservoir measuring 7.5 by 1.8 kilometers. This strategic location, accessible only by boat, highlights the advanced hydraulic engineering of the Khmer civilization. The reservoir, known as Yasodharatataka, has since dried up, leaving the temple accessible by land.The temple's architecture, built in the Pre Rup style, features a three-tiered pyramid adorned with five towers, symbolizing Mount Meru, the mythical home of the Hindu gods. The towers are constructed from a combination of sandstone, brick, laterite, and stucco. Intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the god Indra riding his three-headed elephant, Airavata, and Shiva on his sacred bull, Nandi.One of the most striking features of the Eastern Mebon is the presence of two-meter-high, free-standing stone elephants at the corners of the first and second tiers. These majestic sculptures, carved from single blocks of stone, serve as guardians and add to the temple's unique charm. The temple's design also reflects the Khmer architects' concern with orientation and cardinal directions, aligning on a north-south axis with Pre Rup and an east-west axis with Phimeanakas.Visiting the Eastern Mebon offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and the religious beliefs that shaped its culture. Exploring the temple's three levels reveals its detailed carvings, the iconic elephant statues, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.