Sambor Prei Kuk
Explore the pre-Angkorian wonders of Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO site with over 100 ancient temples dating back to the 6th century.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sambor Prei Kuk
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the pre-Angkorian wonders of Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO site with over 100 ancient temples dating back to the 6th century.
"A peaceful and unforgettable experience away from the crowds, this place is amazing!"
🎟️ Ticket Purchase
Foreign visitors need to purchase a ticket for $10 USD. Consider it an investment in history!
🚶♀️ Explore by Bike
Cycling through the ruins is a fantastic way to connect with nature and history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Prasat Sambor
Central Group
The most impressive temple complex, featuring intricate brickwork and a serene atmosphere. A must-see!
Prasat Tao (Temple of the Lions)
Southern Group
Discover the imposing lion sculptures guarding this ancient sanctuary, offering a glimpse into early Khmer art.
Prasat Srei (Temple of the Lady)
Northern Group
Explore this smaller, yet beautifully preserved temple, known for its delicate carvings and peaceful surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Sambor Prei Kuk
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sambor Prei Kuk temples
🎟️ Ticket Purchase
Foreign visitors need to purchase a ticket for $10 USD. Consider it an investment in history!
🚶♀️ Explore by Bike
Cycling through the ruins is a fantastic way to connect with nature and history.
travel advice - july visit for 7 days
Need some travel advice please
🐒 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for monkeys, bats, and various bird species during your visit.
🏡 Homestay Experience
For an authentic stay, consider a local homestay in the nearby village.
Middle stop between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Purchase
Foreign visitors need to purchase a ticket for $10 USD. Consider it an investment in history!
🚶♀️ Explore by Bike
Cycling through the ruins is a fantastic way to connect with nature and history.
🐒 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for monkeys, bats, and various bird species during your visit.
🏡 Homestay Experience
For an authentic stay, consider a local homestay in the nearby village.
⏱️ Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself 3-4 hours to fully explore the magnificent Sambor Prei Kuk site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Sambor Prei Kuk's ancient temples, describing it as a peaceful and unforgettable experience away from the crowds. Many appreciate the opportunity to cycle through the ruins and connect with nature and history. While the $10 entrance fee is noted, most find the historical significance and unique atmosphere well worth the cost. Some mention it's a bit out of the way, but highly recommend it for those with private transport.
"Sambour Preykuk has many ancient temples and good tour guides waiting to serve you. For foreigner you need to buy ticket which costs $10. If you want to enjoy visit community you can stay at nice homestay with warm welcome from house owners."
Prathna preap
"Sambor Prey Kuk is an ancient temple complex located in Kampong Thom Province, Cambodia. It is one of the most significant pre-Angkorian sites in the country. The site consists of over 100 temples made of brick and laterite. Peaceful area, it’s far less crowded than Angkor.
You guys can enjoy cycling through the ruins, connection with nature and history. You also can stay overnight at the village but there's only homestay available.
If you ever get the chance, you should definitely visit it’s a peaceful and unforgettable experience away from the crowds.."
Rongvicheata Chhet
"This place is amazing, so many temples even older than Angkor Wat. There are a few great spots but it’s up to you how you want to explore it. I would suggest allocate 3-4 hours for this magnificent place, a lot of people miss this great spot as it’s a little out of the way, but if you are travelling by private car / taxi, this is worth the Ten Dollars USD cost I must say. This gave me a totally different look, feel and experience comparing to the Angkor Wat"
Po Huang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Sambor Prei Kuk from Siem Reap is by hiring a private car or taxi, which takes about 2-3 hours. Public transport options are limited, and it's a bit remote, so a private vehicle is recommended for comfort and ease.
Yes, Sambor Prei Kuk can be visited as a day trip from Siem Reap. However, it's a significant drive, so starting early is advisable to maximize your time at the site.
Within Kampong Thom Province, especially around Sambor Prei Kuk, you might find it helpful to have your own transport like a motorbike if you're comfortable. Otherwise, local taxis or tuk-tuks can be arranged.
Sambor Prei Kuk is not easily accessible by public transport. It's recommended to arrange private transportation from Siem Reap or Kampong Thom city for a smoother experience.
The driving distance from Siem Reap to Sambor Prei Kuk is approximately 120-130 kilometers, taking around 2 to 3 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreign visitors to Sambor Prei Kuk is $10 USD. This fee contributes to the preservation of this significant UNESCO World Heritage site.
Currently, there are no specific discounts or passes mentioned for Sambor Prei Kuk beyond the standard entrance fee for foreign visitors.
Sambor Prei Kuk is generally open from early morning until late afternoon, typically from around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to confirm exact hours upon arrival.
Tickets for Sambor Prei Kuk are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. There is no widespread online booking system mentioned.
The $10 USD ticket price for Sambor Prei Kuk is per person for foreign visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's recommended to allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the magnificent Sambor Prei Kuk site and appreciate its historical significance.
Yes, local guides are available at Sambor Prei Kuk and can significantly enhance your understanding of the site's history and architecture.
The terrain at Sambor Prei Kuk is relatively flat, with paths winding through the temple ruins and surrounding jungle. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Absolutely! Cycling through the ruins is a popular and enjoyable way to explore Sambor Prei Kuk, offering a connection with nature and history.
Visitors can often spot monkeys, bats, and various bird species within the temple complex and its natural surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The central group, especially Prasat Sambor, offers stunning photographic opportunities with its intricate brickwork. The 'Temple of the Lions' (Prasat Tao) and the serene Prasat Srei are also highly photogenic.
Photography is generally allowed within the temple grounds at Sambor Prei Kuk. However, always be respectful of the ancient structures and any specific signage.
Late afternoons are ideal for photography at Sambor Prei Kuk, as the golden hour light casts a beautiful glow on the ancient brick temples. Early mornings also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
Information regarding drone usage at Sambor Prei Kuk is not readily available. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide temple shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the overall scale, and a prime lens can be good for low-light conditions within shaded areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical context might be complex for very young children, the sheer scale of the ancient temples and the sense of discovery can spark their imagination. Consider hiring a local guide who can simplify stories and make the history more accessible. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The peaceful atmosphere, away from large crowds, also makes it a more relaxed outing for families.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For accommodation, instead of hotels, look into local homestays in the nearby villages for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience. These homestays offer a chance to interact with locals and gain deeper cultural insights. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid marked-up prices within the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Sambor Prei Kuk
This ancient city was dedicated to Hindu deities, primarily Shiva, reflecting the dominant religious practices of the era. The layout of Sambor Prei Kuk, with its distinct temple groups (Prasat Sambor, Prasat Tao, Prasat Srei, and others), showcases a sophisticated urban planning approach. Exploring these ruins allows visitors to step back in time and connect with a crucial, yet often overlooked, period of Southeast Asian history. The site's relative isolation has helped preserve its ancient charm, offering a more intimate historical experience compared to more heavily touristed locations.
Exploring the Temple Groups
The Prasat Srei (Temple of the Lady) offers a more delicate beauty, with intricate carvings adorning its walls. Other groups, like Prasat Yeay Poan and Prasat Krol Romeas, contribute to the vastness of the site. Visitors can choose to explore these groups on foot or by bicycle, allowing for a leisurely pace and the opportunity to discover hidden corners. A local guide can greatly enhance the experience by providing historical context and pointing out significant architectural details that might otherwise be missed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit