Ta Som

Ta Som is a Buddhist temple complex in Angkor with three concentric stone walls made of laterite, separated by gateways containing chambers and windowed passages. These walls create nested layers of sacred space that visitors move through as they progress toward the temple's center.

In the late 12th century, a Khmer king built this temple as a memorial to his deceased father. The construction was part of a broader building campaign at Angkor during that period.

The temple walls display carved stone faces and detailed relief carvings showing Buddhist beliefs and scenes from Khmer daily life. These stone carvings tell stories of what mattered to the people who came here centuries ago.

Visiting the temple requires an Angkor Archaeological Park pass, and the site lies on the main route connecting other temples in the park. Early morning visits work best when fewer people are present at the site.

A large fig tree has grown into the eastern gateway structure, with its roots and trunk merging with the ancient stonework. This fusion of nature and old architecture stands out as one of the most recognizable features visitors encounter.

Location: Siem Reap

Part of: Angkor

GPS coordinates: 13.46455,103.91284

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:02