Prasat Ta Leng, Khmer temple in Dangrek Mountains, Thailand
Prasat Ta Leng stands on a mountain pass in the Dangrek range, featuring red laterite construction with a south-facing main entrance and ornate gopura gateway.
Built during the early 12th century under Khmer King Udayadityavarman II, this Hindu temple originally served as a strategic point along the ancient Angkor-Phimai trade route.
The temple houses a sacred Shivling carved from natural bedrock within its mandapa chamber, representing Hindu devotion to Lord Shiva with Dvarapala guardian sculptures on exterior walls.
Visitors can access the site via a steep 40-45 degree ascent on foot or by vehicle, with military personnel monitoring entry due to its sensitive border location.
Unlike most Khmer temples that face east, Prasat Ta Leng unusually faces south and contains an ancient aqueduct system that channels sacred water from the shrine's bedrock.
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