Heritage & monuments
Phnom Bakheng
Phnom Bakheng
This Hindu temple, dedicated to the god Shiva, is built atop a natural hill within the Angkor archaeological site. Constructed in the late 9th century during the reign of King Yasovarman, the structure is designed as a mountain-shaped temple. Travelers visit this site primarily for its elevated position, which provides a wide view of the surrounding Angkor landscape and the distant forests.
Getting There
The site is located outside the main city center of Siem Reap. Most visitors reach the temple via tuk-tuk or private vehicle from the city. The journey typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and the specific starting point within the city.
Duration of Visit
Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for a visit. This includes the time required to walk up the steep path to the summit and explore the temple structures at the top.
Timing and Crowds
The late afternoon is the most popular time to visit to observe the sunset. Because of this, the site becomes very crowded during these hours, and access to the summit may be limited by staff to manage the number of people on the temple. To avoid large crowds, consider visiting in the early morning.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its location, this site can be combined with other nearby ruins:
- Baksei Chamkrong (0.3km)
- Prasat Bei (0.3km)
- Ta Prohm Kel (0.9km)
- Yasodharapura (1.7km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors