Heritage & monuments
Ak Yum
Ak Yum
Ak Yum is an ancient temple located within the Angkor archaeological park. It is recognized as the oldest surviving temple mountain in Southeast Asia, dating back to the 8th century. Travelers visit this site to see early Khmer architectural styles and the structural layout of an early temple mountain.
Getting There
The site is located outside the main Angkor Wat temple complex. From Siem Reap city centre, the most common way to reach the temple is by tuk-tuk or private car. The journey typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and the specific starting point in the city.
Visit Duration
Because the site is smaller and less complex than the primary Angkor temples, most visitors spend between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours exploring the grounds.
When to Visit
The site is generally less crowded than the central Angkor temples. To avoid the midday heat, it is advisable to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. The dry season, from November to April, provides the most stable weather for visiting the ruins.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its location, this temple can be combined with other sites in the western area of the park. Nearby points of interest include:
- West Mebon: 2.8km
- West Baray: 2.8km
- War Museum Cambodia: 7.2km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors