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Phnom Da Temple: A Glimpse into Cambodia's Past

Explore Phnom Da Temple, an ancient Khmer site in Takeo Province, offering cultural insights and panoramic views of Cambodia's historical landscape.

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Phnom Da Temple, an ancient Hindu temple in Angkor Borei, Takeo Province, offers a window into the pre-Angkorian Khmer civilization. Built atop a small hill, the temple showcases intricate carvings and sculptures, reflecting Indian cultural influences and the artistry of the Funan era.

A brief summary to Phnom Da Temple

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing the steps to the temple.
  • Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
  • Visit during the dry season (December to May) for easier road access and to avoid flooding.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Takeo, take a local bus towards Angkor Borei; the journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once in Angkor Borei, Phnom Da Temple is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk from Angkor Borei to the temple for around $2-$5, but negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Car

    If driving from Takeo, head south on National Road 2 (NR2). Turn right onto Road 3 and follow signs towards Angkor Borei. The temple is located just outside the town. Note that the road to Angkor Borei can be difficult, especially during the rainy season.

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Discover more about Phnom Da Temple

Phnom Da Temple, located in the Takeo Province of Cambodia, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. This archaeological site, situated in the ancient area of Angkor Borei, dates back to the Funan era (1st to 6th centuries). The main temple, as it stands today, was likely constructed around the 11th century, possibly replacing an earlier structure. The temple is positioned atop a small hill, requiring visitors to ascend a staircase, in some accounts said to be around a thousand steps, to reach the summit. The climb is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, particularly the vast rice plains that become flooded during the rainy season. The temple itself is constructed from laterite, brick, and sandstone, with a square shape and a height of approximately 18 meters. Its architecture reflects Indian influences, prevalent in Southeast Asia during its construction. Inside the temple, you would have found a Linga (symbolizing the god Shiva) and a Yoni (symbolizing the feminine counterpart and fertility). According to ancient beliefs, water poured over these objects would transfer divine powers. Around the base of Phnom Da hill, five man-made caves can be found, which once housed sculptures related to Vishnu. These caves reportedly served as cremation sites during the Khmer Rouge regime. Approximately 300 meters southwest of Phnom Da stands Asrom Moha Eysei, a smaller sanctuary also known as Prasat Neang Peou.

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