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At Phnom Bakheng, visitors can hike up to the temple for stunning panoramic views of Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle, especially at sunset. It's a popular spot for photography, offering a beautiful landscape. Exploring the temple and its intricate carvings is also a must-do activity.
Phnom Bakheng is a small hill not far from Angkor Wat, about 70 meters high, and is the only high point nearby. To the west of the hill is the open West Baray , and to the southeast is Angkor Wat in the jungle.
From the top of Phnom Bakheng you can overlook Angkor Wat.
Phnom Bakheng was the result of King Yasodharaprabhu's relocation of his capital from the Roluos temple complex. The area surrounding the Roluos temple complex was already filled with buildings from previous kings, making it less suitable for the young monarch's urban planning. The area centered on Phnom Bakheng, with Yasodharapura as its seat, remained the capital of Cambodia until the 15th century.
Phnom Bakheng Temple itself isn't particularly impressive, but the rooftop terrace offers a breathtaking view of Angkor Wat. On clear days, many tourists flock to the mountain to admire the sunset over Angkor, reminiscing about a lost civilization.
Since this is one of the best places to watch the sunrise and sunset, it is crowded with tourists and vendors every evening, and is as lively as a park.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Entrance fee is included in the Angkor Wat pass
One-day tour: $ 37 / Three-day tour : $ 62 / Seven-day tour : $ 72
All day
Phnom Bakheng is an ancient temple mountain built during the reign of King Yasovarman I in the late 9th century. It was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is considered one of the oldest temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. The temple offers a great view of the surrounding area, including Angkor Wat.
Phnom Bakheng is located about 1.5 kilometers north of Angkor Wat, in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Visitors can reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or bicycle. There is no metro or bus service to the temple, so private transport or walking is required.
Phnom Bakheng is open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Sunset is especially popular for photography, though it can get crowded.
Phnom Bakheng is included in the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket, which costs $37 for a one-day pass, $62 for a three-day pass, or $72 for a seven-day pass. Tickets can be purchased at the Angkor Ticket Center in Siem Reap or online in advance.
It is recommended to purchase tickets at least a day in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can also buy tickets online for convenience.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Phnom Bakheng, including climbing to the top for the view, exploring the temple, and taking photos. Visitors may wish to spend more time during sunset for a leisurely experience.
The main highlight is the temple’s summit, which offers stunning views of Angkor Wat, especially at sunrise and sunset. The temple’s five levels and intricate carvings of Hindu deities and architectural details are also notable features.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, French, and German. Audio guides can be rented in various languages, though a local guide offers more in-depth knowledge of the temple’s history.
The best viewpoint is from the top of the temple, offering panoramic views of Angkor Wat and the surrounding forest. Sunset provides the most dramatic and popular photo opportunities, but early mornings also offer great lighting and fewer crowds.
Start by walking up the hill to the temple, taking time to explore the lower levels. Then, climb to the top for the best views. After visiting the temple, relax at one of the nearby viewpoints to enjoy the surrounding landscape before heading back down.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Phnom Bakheng, as the temple closes by 6:00 PM. However, the temple’s sunset views are a highlight, making the late afternoon visit highly recommended.
Phnom Bakheng can get crowded, especially at sunset. The least crowded times are early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during weekdays or non-peak seasons.
There are basic facilities near the base of Phnom Bakheng, including rest areas and toilets. However, there are no food stalls or shops directly at the site. Visitors should bring water and snacks if necessary.
Phnom Bakheng requires a moderate climb to reach the temple summit, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the site but may need assistance with the climb. It is recommended to assess physical readiness before visiting.
Cash is primarily needed for ticket purchases, and mobile payments may be accepted at nearby shops or hotels in Siem Reap. Credit cards are not typically accepted at the temple itself.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Phnom Bakheng. However, nearby Siem Reap offers a wide variety of dining options, including both local Cambodian and international cuisine.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are widely available in Siem Reap, particularly in restaurants catering to tourists. There are few options directly at the temple, so it's best to dine in Siem Reap.
There are numerous hotels in Siem Reap, ranging from budget accommodations to luxury resorts. Popular options close to the site include the Sokha Siem Reap Resort & Convention Center and Angkor Village Resort.
Nearby attractions include Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and the Bayon Temple. All of these sites are within a short drive of Phnom Bakheng and can be visited in a single day with a guided tour or private transportation.
There are no souvenir shops at Phnom Bakheng, but souvenir stalls can be found at nearby attractions like Angkor Wat. Typical souvenirs include handcrafted jewelry, postcards, carvings, and traditional Cambodian textiles.
The best transportation options are taxis, tuk-tuks, or private vehicles to continue the trip to nearby temples or back to Siem Reap town. Tuk-tuks are especially convenient for short trips between temples.
