Prasat Preah Vihear Travel Guide
Mountaintop Temple Complex
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One of the most breathtaking sights in Cambodia, Prasat Preah Vihear lies in a stunning location atop a 550m cliff right on the Thai border, to the north of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. Difficult to reach from the Cambodian side and presenting intrepid visitors with a arduous journey by 4WD it rewards these visitors with impressive views over the Cambodian countryside to say nothing of the amazing temple remains which are strung for 800m up the mountain.
Investigations have returned that the first temple built on this site was begun in the early 9th century and was dedictaed to the Hindu god Shiva. Today the earliest surviving parts date from the Koh Ker period (named after the capital) in the early 10th century but most of the temple was constructed under Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II in the first halves of the 11th and 12th centuries respectively.
The temple has been the focus of a dispute over ownership between Thailand and Cambodia and was the stage for the final surrender of the Khmer Rouge in 1998. Note that the area is still littered with land mines and exploration of the area should only be undertaken with an experienced local guide.
The site is accessible from Thailand and visitors from there throng the remains; getting there from the Cambodian side is only possible in the dry season of November to May and even then can be a tortuous affair. It’s a good job that the effort is worthwhile!
Attractions in Prasat Preah Vihear
The remains are spread for some 800m up the side of the mountains and rival almost any others you choose to compare them with – some would say Angkor Wat included. Stairways gopuras, carved lintels and reliefs are all to be found here. With the views they make the effort to get here from the Cambodian side at least all the more worthwhile.
Activities in Prasat Preah Vihear
Allow half a day at the site to explore and enjoy the views.
Relaxing
You’ll need to find a quiet spot somewhere in the shade once here: do so and take in the magnificent views. Amazing.
Getting Around
A visit is really only practical for those with limited time with your own chartered vehicle.
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