Phnom Bakheng
Iconic 9th-century Hindu temple offering breathtaking sunset views over the Angkor region.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure best sunset spots
Phnom Bakheng
Best Time
Secure best sunset spots
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 9th-century Hindu temple offering breathtaking sunset views over the Angkor region.
"The panoramic view from the top was spectacular and I was very satisfied. "
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Aim to arrive by 5 PM to snag a good spot for the sunset, as it gets crowded quickly.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the 15-20 minute uphill walk to the summit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Phnom Bakheng Sunset
Summit of the hill
Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Angkor region from this ancient Hindu temple.
Pyramid Temple Ruins
Summit
Explore the impressive pyramid-style ruins of this 9th-century Hindu temple.
Panoramic Angkor Views
Summit
Enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including Angkor Wat in the distance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset
Temple Preservation & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Aim to arrive by 5 PM to snag a good spot for the sunset, as it gets crowded quickly.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the 15-20 minute uphill walk to the summit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the walk up can be tiring.
🗑️ Keep it Clean
Use the provided trash containers to help keep the area tidy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Sunset
Aim to arrive by 5 PM to snag a good spot for the sunset, as it gets crowded quickly.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the 15-20 minute uphill walk to the summit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the walk up can be tiring.
🗑️ Keep it Clean
Use the provided trash containers to help keep the area tidy.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, so have your camera ready!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Phnom Bakheng is a highly sought-after destination for its spectacular sunset views over the Angkor region, offering a memorable panoramic experience. While the temple itself is historically significant, visitors should be prepared for substantial crowds, especially during peak sunset hours, and the walk up the hill.
"I climbed this hill to watch the sunset over Angkor Wat. The trail starts just outside the South Gate, and it takes about 20 minutes to reach the top. At the summit stands the pyramid-shaped temple of Phnom Bakheng, and from the upper level you can see the horizon. Although sunset was around 6 p.m., many tourists began reserving good spots after 5 p.m., so it’s necessary to go up early to secure the best view.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to see the sunset, but the panoramic view from the top was spectacular and I was very satisfied."
HiDe86
"The place to be for sunset. Gets busy quickly around sunset time. Also a nice walk up the mountain with a few viewpoints on the way. You can also See Angkor Wat in the distance.
Unfortunately for us it was too cloudy for a good sunset."
Olly Standen
"So beautiful road on the way to this temple! Like a small forest with so clean air.
There are several viewpoints with benches there to sit, drink your still water and enjoy. Many trash containers there to avoid and trash on the ground. From one viewpoint you can see the Angkor wat.
Dedicated to Shiva, it was built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman (889–910).
Phnom Bakheng is one of 3 hilltop temples in the Angkor region that are attributed to Yasovarman's reign.
There is a big construction there for renovations to protect the central temple from further deterioration through stabilization, waterproofing, repair, and partial reconstruction."
Elena Titkova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Phnom Bakheng is located west of Angkor Thom. You can reach it by tuk-tuk or car from Siem Reap. The trail to the summit starts just outside the South Gate of Angkor Thom and takes about 15-20 minutes to walk up.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of the hill where the trail begins. Tuk-tuks and taxis can drop you off here.
Cycling is a popular option for exploring the Angkor temples, and you can cycle to Phnom Bakheng. Be prepared for the uphill climb to the summit.
Many visitors approach Phnom Bakheng after visiting other temples like Angkor Wat or Bayon. It's often included in a day's itinerary for the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Direct public transport to Phnom Bakheng is limited. The most common ways to get there are via organized tours, private taxis, or tuk-tuks from Siem Reap.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need an Angkor Pass to enter Phnom Bakheng as it is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Purchase your pass in advance.
Phnom Bakheng is generally open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, allowing visitors to experience both sunrise and sunset.
No, there is no additional fee for watching the sunset at Phnom Bakheng beyond the standard Angkor Pass. However, arriving early is crucial due to crowds.
Tickets (Angkor Pass) are not sold at Phnom Bakheng itself. You must purchase them from the official Angkor Pass ticket office before visiting the temple.
Angkor Pass prices vary depending on the duration of your visit (1, 3, or 7 days). Check the official Angkor Enterprise website for the most current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Phnom Bakheng is a 9th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, featuring a pyramid-style structure. It's renowned for its panoramic views, especially at sunset.
Yes, Phnom Bakheng is extremely popular for sunset and can get very crowded. Arriving by 5 PM is recommended to secure a good viewing spot.
The walk up the hill to Phnom Bakheng takes approximately 15-20 minutes at a moderate pace.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the base of the hill near the parking area, but not usually at the summit itself.
For the iconic sunset views, late afternoon is best. However, for fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience, consider visiting in the early morning.
📸 📸 Photography
The upper terraces of the temple offer the most expansive views for sunset photos. The surrounding landscape also provides beautiful photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of the temple ruins. Be respectful of any ongoing restoration work and any posted signage.
It can be challenging due to the crowds. Arriving early and finding a slightly elevated or less central spot might help. Golden hour before sunset is also beautiful.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A tripod can be useful for low-light sunset shots, but be mindful of space in crowded areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted within the Angkor Archaeological Park for preservation and safety reasons. Always check the latest regulations.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants at the summit of Phnom Bakheng. Some food stalls might be found near the base of the hill, offering snacks and drinks.
You can find local food stalls and small eateries near the entrance to the Phnom Bakheng trail, offering simple meals like chicken porridge.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. It's advisable to bring water, especially for the walk up. Remember to dispose of your trash properly.
It's a good idea to have a meal before heading to Phnom Bakheng, especially if you plan to stay for sunset. The food options at the site are limited.
You might find local snacks like fruits, pastries, and refreshing drinks at stalls near the base of the hill.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water, as options at the summit are limited. Visiting earlier in the day, before the sunset crowds, might be more enjoyable for younger children. The historical aspect of the temple, though perhaps less engaging than more elaborate structures, can be a good introduction to ancient civilizations.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider visiting Phnom Bakheng as part of a broader Angkor itinerary. Combine it with nearby temples accessible by bicycle or tuk-tuk to get the most out of your Angkor Pass. Avoid purchasing overpriced items from vendors at the base of the hill.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Phnom Bakheng Sunset
Despite the crowds, the visual reward is often deemed worth the effort. The silhouette of the ancient temple against the vibrant sky, with the distant silhouette of Angkor Wat potentially visible, creates a memorable scene. It's a prime example of how iconic landmarks can become victims of their own success, requiring strategic planning to fully appreciate.
Pro-tip: While sunset is the main draw, visiting during the early morning hours can offer a much more tranquil experience with fewer people and cooler temperatures, still providing excellent panoramic views.
Exploring the Temple's History and Architecture
As one of the earliest major temples built in the Angkor region, Phnom Bakheng offers a glimpse into the foundational period of the Khmer Empire. Its strategic hilltop location likely served both religious and defensive purposes. Today, visitors can explore the remaining stone structures, which are a testament to the sophisticated engineering and artistry of the era.
Significant restoration efforts have been undertaken at Phnom Bakheng to preserve its historical integrity and protect it from further deterioration. These ongoing projects aim to stabilize, waterproof, and repair the temple, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its architectural and historical significance.
Social
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