Wat Ek Phnom, Battambang Overview

Wat Ek Phnom is an impressive Angkorian temple in the town of Battambang in northwestern Cambodia. The temple is a very famous picnic and pilgrimage destination for local Khmers at festival times. Mostly in ruins, visitors have to walk through large blocks of stone in the temple premises, which feels like traveling back in time, making it a popular attraction in Battambang. Visit this temple ruin for its well-carved pediments and lintels.

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Best time to visit

The best time to visit Wat Ek Phnom is in the early morning or late evening when the weather is pleasant.

Wat Ek Phnom History & Significance

Wat Ek Phnom was built during the Bayon period in the 11th century under the reign of King Suryavarman I. It was initially a Hindu temple, and later on, was turned into a Buddhist shrine after succeeding Buddhist kings undertook the construction of Buddhism related sculptures.

Wat Ek Phnom Architecture

Wat Ek Phnom is built of sandstone blocks. The sanatorium is surrounded by a laterite outer wall and a Baray, which consists of Prasats or small shrines. These shrines stand on a large square stone platform. Most of these sculptures in the temple premises are in ruins, with the only remaining structure being the main towers of the temple. There is a lintel depicting the churning of the Ocean of Milk above the eastern entrance. The upper flanks of the central tower contain some intricately carved bas-reliefs.

Next to the temple area is Sangkae pond beside which is a colourful modern pagoda. The pagoda contains a giant 28 meters high Buddha statue, which is surrounded by 18 Bodhi trees, also called as Peacock trees in Khmer.

What to wear

As with the other temples in Cambodia, it is expected that tourists dress appropriately. Women need to cover their shoulder at all times and wear knee-length attire. Sleeveless shirts and shorts aren't also allowed for both men and women.

Ticket details

The entry ticket costs 2 USD which gives access to three sites of Wat Ek Phnom, Phnom Sampeau and Phnom Banan. Tickets are sold in all these sites.

How To Reach Wat Ek Phnom

Wat Ek Phnom is located 13 km north of Battambang. The best way to access the temples is to hire a taxi from the town centre, which costs about 4 USD for a round trip. You can also travel by Tuk Tuk or rent a motorbike, which would cost around 2 USD and 3 USD respectively.