Pre Rup: Mountain Temple of Angkor

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Explore Pre Rup, an ancient Hindu temple in Angkor, offering stunning architecture, rich history, and panoramic views.

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Pre Rup temple

Pre Rup, a 10th-century Hindu temple built by King Rajendravarman II, is a majestic three-tiered pyramid that offers a glimpse into Angkor's rich history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple mountain stands as a symbol of the Khmer dynasty's devotion to Hinduism.

A brief summary to Pre Rup temple

CWMC+X6F Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, 17000, 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

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be climbing steep steps and walking on uneven surfaces.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as Pre Rup is a religious site.
Bring water and sunscreen, as it can get hot and sunny.
Combine your visit with nearby temples like East Mebon and Banteay Srei.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Pre Rup is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare, typically between $15-$25, including stops at other temples. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes from the city center. Ensure the driver knows you need to purchase an Angkor Pass ($37 for a one-day pass) at the official ticket center en route to the temple.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Siem Reap and offer a comfortable ride to Pre Rup. Expect to pay around $25-$35 for a round trip. As with tuk-tuks, ensure the driver stops at the Angkor Pass ticket center. Parking is available near the temple entrance.
Bicycle

For a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap for around $2-$5 per day. The ride to Pre Rup is approximately 13 kilometers and takes about 1-2 hours. Follow the main road towards Angkor Wat and then continue east. Be prepared for a bumpy ride as the road can be uneven. Remember to purchase your Angkor Pass before heading to the temple.

Discover more about Pre Rup temple

Pre Rup, meaning 'turning the body' in Khmer, is a captivating temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Constructed in 961 or 962 AD by King Rajendravarman II, it served as the state temple and is dedicated to Hindu deities, primarily Lord Shiva. The temple's name is believed to be associated with ancient cremation rituals, where the body was turned in different directions during the ceremony.This temple mountain, built with a combination of laterite, brick, and sandstone, represents Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu mythology. The temple's design features two perimeter walls, creating two enclosures, and was likely once surrounded by a moat. The outer enclosure contains remnants of halls, while the inner enclosure boasts a pyramidal structure rising in three tiers.At the summit, five towers are arranged in a quincunx, adding to the temple's grandeur. Guardian lion statues surround the staircases, symbolizing protection and power. Pre Rup offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the mountains of Phnom Kulen to the east and the towers of Angkor Wat to the west. The temple's reddish tone, enhanced by the sunlight, makes it a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing.Rediscovered by French archaeologists in the 1930s, Pre Rup has been restored and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it may not be as crowded as Angkor Wat, Pre Rup's captivating architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in the Angkor region.