Preah Vihear Temple, Ancient Hindu temple in Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia
Preah Vihear Temple is a 9th-century Hindu sanctuary perched on a cliff over 500 meters (1,640 feet) high in the Dângrêk Mountains. The site contains multiple shrines linked by stone platforms and grand stairways that form a connected path through the complex.
King Yasovarman I started construction in the 9th century, and later Khmer rulers continued adding to the complex through the 12th century. This long building period shows how religious sites grew and gained importance across many generations of rulers.
The complex displays intricate sandstone carvings that tell stories from Hindu texts and reveal what mattered to the ancient Khmer people. Carved reliefs line the pathways and sanctuaries, showing the spiritual beliefs of those who built and used this place.
Reaching this site means climbing steep paths and many steps, so arriving early helps you avoid the strongest afternoon heat. Comfortable footwear and plenty of water are essential for a manageable visit.
This sanctuary faces north and south rather than the typical east direction of other Khmer temples, making it architecturally distinct. Five separate gateway structures line the approach, each marking a transition point on the route to the main shrine.
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