Phnom Krom
Hilltop sanctuary with ancient ruins offering breathtaking sunset views over Siem Reap and Tonle Sap Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Phnom Krom
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hilltop sanctuary with ancient ruins offering breathtaking sunset views over Siem Reap and Tonle Sap Lake.
"Offers a beautiful spot for ending your day after spending day exploring Siem Reap city. "
🚗 Motorcycle to the Top
If the walk is too strenuous, a motorcycle is a quicker way up.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb is hot and can be challenging. Bring plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sunset Views
Summit of Phnom Krom
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Siem Reap and Tonle Sap Lake. A truly magical end to the day.
9th-Century Hindu Shrine
Temple complex at the summit
Explore the ancient Prasat Phnom Krom, a testament to Khmer architecture, even if partially under reconstruction.
Scenic Stairway Climb
Ascent to the summit
A rewarding, albeit hot, walk up stairs lined with unique flora, offering glimpses of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Temple Pass & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Motorcycle to the Top
If the walk is too strenuous, a motorcycle is a quicker way up.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb is hot and can be challenging. Bring plenty of water.
🎟️ Temple Pass Check
Be aware of ticket control at the top; a temple pass is usually required.
🗑️ Pack Out Trash
Help keep the site clean by taking your trash with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Motorcycle to the Top
If the walk is too strenuous, a motorcycle is a quicker way up.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb is hot and can be challenging. Bring plenty of water.
🎟️ Temple Pass Check
Be aware of ticket control at the top; a temple pass is usually required.
🗑️ Pack Out Trash
Help keep the site clean by taking your trash with you.
📸 Capture the Panorama
The views of rice fields and Siem Reap are stunning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Phnom Krom is praised for its stunning sunset views and panoramic vistas of the Siem Reap countryside, offering a more tranquil experience than other popular sunset spots. Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the 9th-century temple and the refreshing breeze at the summit. However, some note issues with litter and the ongoing reconstruction of the temple.
"I walked all the way up the stairs and to the temple, it's a long, hot walk, albeit with a view. the stairway has cactus growing all along the way, which I always thought liked the drier desert type areas, but that is why I go to such places, to learn new and unusual things. On the negative side, which i don't really like to bring up, there is a whole lot of trash lining the sides of the road, probably related to the fact that there is a picnic area, and i read it's a popular area for sunset viewing. It seems to me if they took it this far, they could take it all the way down, or have bins to put it in, because it's a hell of a lot harder to get after the wind has spread it all over, but that's just me being picky. Anyway, I suppose you can tell where the best place for sunset viewing is by the amount of garbage is. Be aware that there is a ticket control area at the top of the stairs, which I had, luckily, but the guard was a friendly sort who I stopped and talked to and got some local info from. If you're in a hurry or not in good shape a motorcycle is probably the best way to get up here, but I never do things the easy way the first time. So, once at the top you have to go through the temple compound, and up another little hill to get to the very top, and the ancient temple under reconstruction. I will hold off on giving my opinion on the temple because as i said its undergoing reconstruction, and a lot was covered with tarps. But, nevertheless, the view was outstanding, and temperature and breeze was also. Oh, on the way back there was a goat kid in the rest house, which was different."
Greg Ochylski
"Here ı keep chasing mountains in Siem Reap area as there arent many but all so far breathtaking. P.kraom is 1st thing 1st 10C cooler as being high. Very mild and such refreshing air.
An old temple is at the peak siding a new era pagoda. Live shrines around. Lovely Khmer praying.
And obviously the views ıf the rice field. Great oanaroma #siemreap #phnomkraom #rice #ricefields"
Jojo Pera
"Phnom Krom is a great place to view the sunset with very few people compared to Phnom Bakheng. I enjoy the view of Siem Reap City from Phnom Krom and the fresh air. If you ever visit Siem Reap and would love to experience the sunset view with fewer tourists please come to Phnom Krom you enjoy it. One important that tourists need to have a temple pass to visit Phnom Krom BUT you can visit the mountain after 5:30pm if you do not have a temple pass."
Angkor Cab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Phnom Krom is located on the edge of Siem Reap city. You can reach it by tuk-tuk, motorcycle, or car. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes from the city center. For those seeking a more active approach, it's a popular spot for cyclists.
Yes, there is a significant stairway climb to reach the temple complex at the summit of Phnom Krom. While it offers scenic views, it can be a long and hot walk, especially during midday.
Yes, if you prefer not to walk the entire way, taking a motorcycle or hiring a motorbike taxi is a common and recommended option to ascend Phnom Krom.
Many visitors recommend experiencing Phnom Krom for its sunset views. Combining the climb with a visit to the ancient temple and enjoying the panoramic scenery makes for a memorable experience.
Public transport options directly to Phnom Krom are limited. Hiring a private tuk-tuk or motorcycle taxi from Siem Reap is the most convenient way to get there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, a temple pass is required for entry to Phnom Krom as it's considered part of the Angkor Wat complex. However, some visitors have noted that you can visit the mountain after 5:30 PM without a pass. It's advisable to check the latest regulations.
While there isn't a strict closing time for the mountain itself, the temple complex is best visited during daylight hours. Sunset viewing is a popular activity, and access might be restricted after dark.
There is a small entry fee, often around 1000 Riel (approximately $0.25 USD), for accessing the area around the temple. This is separate from the main Angkor Pass if required.
Ticket control is typically located at the top of the stairs, near the entrance to the temple compound. Be prepared to show your pass or pay the local entry fee.
Some travelers report being able to visit Phnom Krom after 5:30 PM without a temple pass. It's a good idea to confirm this upon arrival or check with local authorities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Phnom Krom features an ancient 9th-century Hindu shrine, Prasat Phnom Krom, which is undergoing reconstruction. The main draw is the expansive panoramic view of Siem Reap, the surrounding rice fields, and Tonle Sap Lake, especially during sunset.
Yes, Phnom Krom is highly recommended for sunset viewing. It offers beautiful vistas and is often less crowded than other popular sunset spots like Phnom Bakheng.
The ancient temple at Phnom Krom is currently undergoing reconstruction, with some parts covered by tarps. Despite this, the historical significance and the views from the site are still impressive.
Basic facilities like rest houses might be available. However, cleanliness can be an issue, with some visitors noting trash around the picnic areas. It's best to be prepared and bring your own essentials.
From Phnom Krom, you can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the lush green rice fields, Siem Reap city in the distance, and the vast Tonle Sap Lake. The elevated position provides a unique perspective.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities at Phnom Krom are the panoramic sunset views over the landscape, the ancient temple ruins (even under reconstruction), and the unique flora along the stairway.
Absolutely. The elevated position and unobstructed views make Phnom Krom an excellent spot for capturing stunning sunset photographs. The changing colors of the sky over the rice fields are particularly photogenic.
Late afternoon, leading up to and during sunset, is ideal for photography due to the golden hour light. However, the expansive views are also impressive during the day.
Try framing shots of the temple with the vast landscape in the background. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the panorama, and telephoto lenses for details of the distant scenery.
Bring a wide-angle lens for the panoramic views and consider a tripod for low-light sunset shots. Be mindful of the heat and sun's intensity during the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the top, the panoramic views of the countryside and the ancient temple ruins provide educational opportunities about history and geography. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the uneven terrain and the presence of cacti along the path. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the temple structures and any steep drops.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While a temple pass is generally required, the possibility of visiting after 5:30 PM without one can save money. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at potentially higher prices on-site. The experience offers great value for its low cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing the details of the 9th-century temple ruins, even with the ongoing reconstruction. The unique flora along the stairway also presents interesting photographic subjects. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive panoramas and a tripod for low-light conditions during sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Prasat Phnom Krom
While the temple itself is a key attraction, its current state of reconstruction means some areas might be covered or inaccessible. However, the historical significance and the effort to preserve it are evident. The presence of live shrines around the temple also indicates its continued spiritual importance for locals.
Exploring Prasat Phnom Krom provides a different perspective on Khmer history compared to the more intact temples. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of centuries and imagine the grandeur of its past. The surrounding area also features smaller shrines and remnants of older structures, adding to the archaeological interest.
Experiencing the Sunset
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene and refreshing, with a noticeable drop in temperature and a pleasant breeze at the higher elevation. This makes the late afternoon climb or ride up Phnom Krom a welcome respite from the heat of the day. The combination of the natural beauty, the ancient temple ruins, and the spectacular sunset creates a memorable and picturesque scene.
To make the most of your sunset experience, aim to arrive a bit before the sun starts to set to secure a good viewing spot. While the main attraction is the sunset, the journey up the hill and the exploration of the temple grounds add to the overall enjoyment. Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking moments.
Navigating the Climb and Site
Upon reaching the summit, you'll need to navigate through the temple compound and up a smaller hill to reach the highest point. Be aware that there's a ticket control area at the top of the stairs, and a temple pass is usually required. However, some reports suggest that visiting after 5:30 PM might allow entry without a pass.
Visitors have noted that while the site offers stunning views, there can be issues with litter, particularly around picnic areas. It's a good practice to carry out any trash you generate to help preserve the natural beauty of Phnom Krom. The presence of local wildlife, like a goat kid spotted by one visitor, can add a charming touch to the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit