Sambor Prei Kuk

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Sambor Prei Kuk Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1 Day

Best Time: October to January Read More

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Also Refered As:

Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk

"Brilliant Architecture of Pre-Angkorian Ruins "

Sambor Prei Kuk Tourism

Sambor Prei Kuk is an archaeological site located in Kampong Thom province in Cambodia. It is known for the pre-Angkorian ruins, which are clusters of temple complexes located in the premises, surrounded by forests.

This UNESCO heritage listed site is the most ancient archaeological site of Southeast Asia. Sambor Prei Kuk is a popular day trip option for people traveling in Kampong Thom to explore the architectural brilliance before the Khmer period in Cambodia. 

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Places to Visit

The North Group- Sambor Prei Kuk has more than 150 structures, with about 50 of them being temples. Start with the oldest among them all, the north group of monuments. Notable structures in the north group include the temples with four towers and galleries including bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes. Prasat Chrey and Prasat Luong Chom Bok are other monuments worth visiting here, covered with forest growth.

The South Group- This group of monuments mainly functioned as sanctuaries under King Ishanavarman I, indicating that he was also the builder of these structures. Some sections in these complexes house the famous flying palaces. The intricately carved lintel reliefs found here are excellent examples of Chan architecture, consisting of birds decorated with garlands. There are smaller octagonal towers found in these sanctuaries.

The Central Group- The most recent of all the structures is the central group of monuments in Sambor Prei Kuk. Some of them are believed to be of the Angkor period as well. The most notable attractions worth checking out in this section is the Lion Temple, a prasat named so due to two elaborate carved lion sculptures along the stairway. Also, this section consists of bas reliefs and inscriptions depicting the scenes during the later part of the Chan period.

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. The rules are strictly followed, and you might be denied entry by the guards if you fail to obey them.

History

Sambor Prei Kuk belongs to the Pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom which ruled Cambodia between the late 6th to the 9th century. The north group of monuments indicate that they existed before this period. The site was later conquered by Chenla King Isanavarman I, who renamed the city as Isanapura after establishing it as his capital. It served as the central royal sanctuary and inhabited more than 20,000 people during his reign.

The King built many administrative buildings, temples and other complexes during this period in Sambor Prei Kuk. The inscriptions found on the site provide details of all his construction works and social life. It was declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1993 and is considered to be one of the oldest archaeological sites in SE Asia.

Architecture

The monuments of Sambor Prei Kuk are located on the eastern bank of the Tonle Sap lake, close to the Stueng Saen River. They are divided into three groups, and each of them has a square outer wall made of bricks. The buildings of Sambor Prei Kuk have a simple exterior, unlike the Angkor structures with multiple enclosures.

The material used is mainly brick, but sandstone has also been used. The structures are from various periods and hence exhibit different architectural patterns. They are entirely different from Angkor ruins, with the bigger halls and spacious galleries.

There are also more structures within the temples, including Prasats, Shiva Lingams, Yonis, ponds and reservoirs. Among the notable features are octagonal towers and many lion sculptures found very commonly.

A unique characteristic found in these monuments are the Flying Palaces or Flying Temples, which have intricate stone carvings depicting the lives of ordinary people and the King. They are mostly located in these octagonal towers.

Tips

  • Visit the temple, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather.
  • Carry your passport with you as you are required to show that to get your entry tickets.
  • Get an umbrella, good shoes, and enough water with you as the place needs a bit of walking around and climbing in the sun.
  • There are not many options for eating and drinking.
  • It is better to carry some snacks and water.
  • There are no ATMs here, and all transactions are carried out only in cash. Carry sufficient cash while travelling.
  • There are also no public toilets near the premises.

Best Time to Visit Sambor Prei Kuk

How to Reach Sambor Prei Kuk

How to Reach Overview

  • The closest city to reach Sambor Prei Kuk is Kompong Thom.
  • There are many minivans and buses available from all major cities like Kep, Kampot, Siem Reap, Kratie and Phnom Penh. It takes between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the city of departure and costs between 20 to 30 USD per person.
  • From Kampong Thom, you can reach Sambor Prei Kuk by renting taxis which would cost about 30 USD for a one-way trip that can be shared.
  • It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach. You can also get there by renting a motorbike or a Tuk-Tuk, which would cost between 10 to 20 USD per person and takes about an hour. 

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Sambor Prei Kuk

FAQs on Sambor Prei Kuk

Who should visit Sambor prei kuk?

Sambor Prei Kuk is an amazing place to explore if you love architecture and history. It’s not for senior travellers or those that can’t walk around a lot.

What is the best time to visit Sambor prei kuk?

The best time to visit Sambor Prei Kuk is between October to February, when the weather is not hot, and the humidity is manageable. It is an excellent time to be outdoors exploring the temple. Go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun and for pleasant sunrise and sunset views of the surrounding landscape.
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What is the best way to reach Sambor prei kuk?

  • The closest city to reach Sambor Prei Kuk is Kompong Thom.
  • There are many minivans and buses available from all major cities like Kep, Kampot, Siem Reap, Kratie and Phnom Penh. It takes between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the city of departure and costs between 20 to 30 USD per person.
  • From Kampong Thom, you can reach Sambor Prei Kuk by renting taxis which would cost about 30 USD for a one-way trip that can be shared.
  • It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach. You can also get there by renting a motorbike or a Tuk-Tuk, which would cost between 10 to 20 USD per person and takes about an hour. 

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What are the places near Sambor prei kuk?

The top places near to Sambor prei kuk are Phnom penh which is 69 km from Sambor prei kuk, Kep which is located 107 km from Sambor prei kuk, Siem reap which is located 302 km from Sambor prei kuk, Sihanoukville which is located 72 km from Sambor prei kuk, Kirirom national park which is located 80 km from Sambor prei kuk

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