Background

Hanchey Temple: A Blend of History and Spirituality

Discover ancient history and stunning Mekong River views at Hanchey Temple, a serene hilltop pagoda in Cambodia's Kampong Cham province.

4.4

Perched atop a hill in Stueng Trang District, Hanchey Temple offers a serene escape with ancient roots. This temple complex, originally a Hindu site dating back to the 7th century, evolved into a Buddhist center, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Cambodia's religious and architectural transitions and panoramic views of the Mekong River.

A brief summary to Hanchey Temple

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy better lighting for photography.
  • Climb the steps to the temple for the health benefits and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the temple, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Engage with the local monks to learn more about the temple's history and Buddhist traditions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Stueng Trang town, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Hanchey Temple. Negotiate the fare beforehand, which should cost around $5 for the journey. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Agree on a return time with the driver, as transport options back to town may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station in Tbong Khmum, take a bus or shared taxi to Stueng Trang. This journey typically costs $1-2 and takes 30-40 minutes. Upon arrival in Stueng Trang, hire a tuk-tuk for around $5 to reach Hanchey Temple, a further 10-15 minute ride.

Unlock the Best of Hanchey Temple

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Hanchey Temple

Wat Hanchey, a historical and religiously significant temple complex, is located 20 kilometers north of Kampong Cham, in the Stueng Trang District. Perched on a hilltop, it provides stunning views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape. The temple's origins trace back to the Chenla Empire in the 7th century when it was first established as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Hirahara. This reflects the deep Hindu roots of the region before the transition to Buddhism. Over time, Wat Hanchey transitioned into a Buddhist temple, and it now serves as a residence for monks and a pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists. The temple complex showcases a blend of ancient and modern structures. One of the most notable is the red-brick stupa from the Chenla period, which remarkably survived the Khmer Rouge era and U.S. bombings. Visitors can explore more recent Buddhist pagodas, vibrant sculptures, and shrines that have been added over the centuries, illustrating Cambodia's religious evolution. The temple grounds feature several sculptures, pagodas, halls, and a recreation of an Angkorian-era temple. Reaching the temple requires climbing over 290 steps, which many find a rewarding experience, offering health benefits and scenic views of the natural beauty along the stairway. The panoramic views of the Mekong River and the surrounding countryside make the climb worthwhile. Visitors have the opportunity to receive a traditional water blessing from a resident monk at the central pagoda. The monks are approachable and can offer insights into the temple and Buddhism.

Popular Experiences near Hanchey Temple

Popular Hotels near Hanchey Temple

Select Currency