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Phimeanakas: The Celestial Temple

Explore Phimeanakas, a 10th-century pyramid temple within Angkor Thom's Royal Palace, steeped in Khmer history and fascinating legends.

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Phimeanakas, or "Celestial Temple," is a 10th-century Hindu temple located within the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom. This three-tiered pyramid offers a glimpse into ancient Khmer architecture and mythology, with its impressive height and symbolic design.

A brief summary to Phimeanakas

  • CVW4+8F7, Angkor, KH

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steep stairs to the top of the temple.
  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for pleasant weather, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions within Angkor Thom, such as Bayon Temple and the Terrace of the Elephants.
  • Allocate at least one hour to fully explore the temple and its surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Phimeanakas is located within the walled city of Angkor Thom. From Bayon Temple, walk north towards the Terrace of Elephants. Continue west; Phimeanakas is situated near the center of the Royal Palace area, a short walk from the Terrace of Elephants.

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk to Angkor Thom. Enter through the South Gate and proceed towards Bayon Temple. From there, follow the road north towards the Terrace of Elephants. Ask your driver to drop you off as close as possible to the Royal Palace area, from where you can walk to Phimeanakas. A tuk-tuk from Siem Reap to Angkor Thom and back, including stops at several temples, typically costs $15-$22 per day. Entrance to Angkor Archaeological Park is required; a one-day pass costs $37.

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Discover more about Phimeanakas

Phimeanakas, meaning "Celestial Temple" or "Sky Palace", is a fascinating Hindu temple constructed in the Khleang style, dating back to the late 10th century. King Rajendravarman II initiated its construction, which was later completed by King Suryavarman I. The temple is situated within the ancient city of Angkor Thom, specifically inside the Royal Palace enclosure. Phimeanakas stands as a three-tiered pyramid, smaller than other prominent temples in Angkor but still reaching approximately 40 meters in height. The temple's design includes steep stairways on each side, guarded by lion statues, leading to the upper levels. Elephant statues adorn the corners of the tiers. Atop the pyramid, a platform once held a tower, possibly with a golden pinnacle, offering panoramic views. Legend has it that the temple housed a golden tower where a Naga, a nine-headed serpent spirit, resided. The Naga would transform into a princess each night, and the king was required to spend the night with her to ensure the kingdom's prosperity. This blend of mythology and architecture adds to the temple's allure. Today, Phimeanakas provides a serene escape, atmospherically nestled among the trees. Visitors can explore the temple's structure, admire the remaining galleries, and imagine the rituals and legends that once filled this sacred space.

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