Sambor Prei Kuk
About Sambor Prei Kuk
Sambor Prei Kuk is considered to be the most impressive collection of pre-Angkorian monuments in Cambodia. The ruins were built starting in the late 6th century, making them amongst the oldest in the country, and it once served as the capital city. The ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk are located approximately 30km from Kompong Thom, and cover an area of 5 sq. km scattered throughout the forest.
There are around 100 small temples in Sambor Prei Kuk. Many have been exposed to the elements and are completely ruined, leaving about 50 that still look like temples.
There are several temple groupings within Sambor Prei Kuk. 9th century Prasat Tao is the largest structure. It is called the Lion Temple due to two huge and elaborately carved stone lions that guard the temple doorway. The main group is known as Prasat Sambor. Dedicated to Shiva, most of this complex consists of overgrown ruins, but there still remain some towers with carvings in decent condition. Prasat Yeay Peau is the last major grouping, and is noted for its setting, as it appears to be swallowed up by the forest. The surrounding wall is intertwined with roots and vegetation.
Compared to Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk is far less splendid, but it does possess some interesting archaeology that can’t be found at Angkor Wat. In addition, relative serenity and solitude is a strong feature.
There are around 100 small temples in Sambor Prei Kuk. Many have been exposed to the elements and are completely ruined, leaving about 50 that still look like temples.
There are several temple groupings within Sambor Prei Kuk. 9th century Prasat Tao is the largest structure. It is called the Lion Temple due to two huge and elaborately carved stone lions that guard the temple doorway. The main group is known as Prasat Sambor. Dedicated to Shiva, most of this complex consists of overgrown ruins, but there still remain some towers with carvings in decent condition. Prasat Yeay Peau is the last major grouping, and is noted for its setting, as it appears to be swallowed up by the forest. The surrounding wall is intertwined with roots and vegetation.
Compared to Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk is far less splendid, but it does possess some interesting archaeology that can’t be found at Angkor Wat. In addition, relative serenity and solitude is a strong feature.
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First To Review:
Aug 9, 2009
Rent some motobikes and a local guide in Kampong Thum (cheap) to visit Sambor Prei Kuk. You will drive through the real cambodia (local people, little roads, great nature, nice temples in the forrest) and have a memory to never forget. Watch out for the pittholes in the road though... when your enjoying your drive!
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