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Phimeanakas, the Celestial Temple of Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Updated: Jul 22
Known as the "Celestial Temple," Phimeanakas is a mesmerizing pyramid-shaped building located in the center of Angkor Thom, Cambodia. This mysterious temple, steeped in tales and historical significance, provides a window into the splendor and mysticism of the Khmer Empire.
Through its imposing stature and detailed design, Phimeanakas serves as a tribute to the creativity and religious convictions of those who built it. It was believed to be a sacred space, where through the King as a conduit, the earthly and divine realms would combine. While today it is not one of the most popular of temples in the Angkor Thom complex, at the height of the Khmer Empire, it most certainly was.
In this post, we will tell you more about this fascinating temple, the history of Angkor and the Khmer Empire, ten interesting Phimeanakas Temple facts, all you need to know about how to get there, the best time to visit, and even Angkor Site ticket information.
Table of Contents
● What is Phimeanakas Temple and why should you visit?
● The history of Angkor: The rise of the Khmer Empire
● 10 interesting facts about Phimeanakas Temple
● Tips for visiting Phimeanakas Temple and the Angkor site
● Angkor Pass tickets for Bayon Temple
● Phimeanakas Temple opening times & best time to visit
● How to get to Phimeanakas Temple in Angkor
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What is Phimeanakas Temple and why should you visit?
Phimeanakas was constructed in the 10th century during the reign of King Rajendravarman II, though it was Suryavarman I who completed it in its current form. This three-tiered pyramid was once adorned with a golden pinnacle, a sight that must have been truly awe-inspiring. The temple served as a crucial religious and political center, believed to be the abode of the divine. Its location within the Royal Palace complex underscores its importance as a symbol of royal power and sanctity.
Beyond its historical significance, Phimeanakas offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the past. The temple's architectural brilliance, combined with its serene atmosphere, creates a truly magical and serene experience. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply an admirer of beauty, Phimeanakas is a must-visit destination in Angkor.
The King and the Divine: A Sacred Union
The legend surrounding Phimeanakas adds an air of mystique and religious significance to the temple. It is believed that the Khmer king, as the earthly representative of the divine, spent his nights in the temple's towering spire. This ritualistic practice was not merely a symbolic gesture but a profound spiritual experience.
By ascending to the temple's summit, the king was believed to commune with a divine being, often depicted as a goddess or apsara. This sacred union was seen as essential for the well-being of the kingdom. The king, acting as a conduit between the earthly and celestial realms, would receive divine wisdom, blessings, and guidance to rule justly and ensure the prosperity of his people.
This practice also reinforced the king's divine authority. As the intermediary between humans and gods, he held immense power and was revered as a living deity. The temple, therefore, became a sacred space where the earthly and divine realms intersected, and the king's role as the protector of his people was solidified.
Read on for more on the history of the Khmer Empire, some interesting facts about Phimeanakas Temple, entry information, and other must-see temples nearby.
What was the Khmer Empire?
The Khmer Empire, which ruled from 802 to 1431 AD, was a powerful Hindu-Buddhist kingdom centered in Southeast Asia, primarily in what is now Cambodia. They were named after the Khmer people, the dominant ethnic group of the empire.
The Khmer were brilliant hydraulic engineers, constructing a complex network of canals, reservoirs, and moats to manage the mighty Mekong River and its seasonal flooding. This innovation allowed them to cultivate vast rice fields, fueling a thriving agricultural society.
The Khmer were also master builders. Their most famous achievement is the magnificent Angkor Wat complex, a testament to their architectural prowess and religious devotion. Throughout their reign, they constructed numerous temples, palaces, and cities, many adorned with intricate carvings depicting their way of life, mythology, and military victories.
The Khmer Empire became a major cultural and political force in Southeast Asia, influencing neighboring kingdoms with their art, architecture, and religious beliefs. Their legacy lives on not only in the awe-inspiring temples but also in the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia and the region.
The history of Angkor: The rise of the Khmer Empire
Angkor's history stretches back to the 9th century, marking the rise of the powerful Khmer Empire. King Jayavarman II declared himself a "universal monarch" in 802, establishing Angkor as the capital and kickstarting a golden age.
The city flourished under successive kings, becoming a center of religion, art, and hydraulic engineering. Grand temples like Angkor Wat, initially dedicated to Hinduism, were built as testaments to the kings' power and devotion. Trade thrived, and the empire's territory expanded, reaching its peak in the 12th and 13th centuries.
However, environmental changes, political instability, and conflicts with neighboring kingdoms gradually weakened the empire. By the 15th century, Angkor was largely abandoned, succumbing to the jungle's embrace.
Though rediscovered in the 19th century, it wasn't until the 20th century that extensive restoration efforts began, revealing the magnificent legacy of the Khmer civilization to the world. Today, Angkor stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with its captivating temples, intricate carvings, and silent testament to a glorious past.
10 interesting facts about Phimeanakas Temple
We have cherry-picked the best facts we could find, but feel free to reach out if you have a gem we could add to the list!
1. A Celestial Abode: The name "Phimeanakas" translates to "Celestial Palace," reflecting the belief that it was a dwelling place for gods.
2. Golden Glory: The temple was once topped with a golden spire, a testament to the Khmer Empire's wealth and power.
3. Royal Residence: According to legend, the king spent his nights in the temple's tower with a divine being, symbolizing the sacred union of earthly and celestial realms.
4. Hidden Staircase: A secret staircase is rumored to lead to underground chambers, though its existence remains unconfirmed.
5. Architectural Marvel: Phimeanakas showcases the unique Khleang style of architecture, characterized by its pyramid shape and intricate carvings.
6. Guardian Lions: The temple is guarded by imposing lion statues, symbolic of power and protection.
7. A Royal Sanctuary: As part of the Royal Palace complex, Phimeanakas was a place of worship and private contemplation for the king.
8. Limited Access: Unlike many other Angkor temples, Phimeanakas has restricted access to protect its delicate structures. Visitors are not able to climb to the top or go inside.
9. A Photographic Challenge: The temple's height and surrounding trees can make photography difficult, but the reward is worth the effort.
10. A Peaceful Oasis: Despite its historical significance, Phimeanakas often offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its beauty.
Tips for visiting Phimeanakas Temple and the Angkor site
Phimeanakas Temple is located at the end of a trial that leads from the rear of Baphuon Temple. It is not as busy a site as many of its surrounding structures, and due to ongoing reconstruction efforts, you are unable to go inside it. Here are some visitor tips for visiting Phimeanakas Temple:
⪢ Dress appropriately: As Phimeanakas Temple is a religious site, visitors should dress modestly. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. There are vendors selling scarves and sarongs outside the gate if needed, but it's always best to be prepared.
⪢ Consider the time of day: Phimeanakas Temple is not one of the busier temples, so you do not really have to worry about crowds. That being said, be cautious about attending midday, as there is little cover from the sun here and it can get extremely hot.
⪢ Hire a guide: Hiring a knowledgeable guide can greatly enhance your experience at Phimeanakas Temple. They can provide you with interesting information about the history and significance of the gate, as well as point out details that you might miss on your own.
⪢ Bring water and sunscreen: The weather in Cambodia can be hot and humid, so it's important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
⪢ Be respectful: Phimeanakas Temple is a sacred place for many Cambodians. Be respectful of their culture and religion by being quiet and refraining from taking photos of people who maybe praying or paying homage.
Angkor Pass Tickets for Phimeanakas Temple
The entry fee for Phimeanakas Temple is included in the ticket for the Angkor Archaeological Park. All visitors to the Angkor site must present this pass, at various checkpoints throughout the site. There is no separate entrance fee to visit the temple.
The cost of the Angkor Archaeological Park Ticket varies depending on the length of your stay:
1-day pass: $37 USD / $49.93 CAD / £28.78 GBP
3-day pass: $62 USD / $83.87 CAD / £48.22 GBP
7-day pass: $72 USD / $97.40 CAD / £56.00 GBP
Children under 12 years old are admitted free.
Please note that prices and conversions shown are correct at time of writing (July 2024). See the ticket link below for up-to-date information. Feel free to get in touch if you spot a discrepancy so we can update!
You can buy your Angkor Archaeological Park ticket online or at the Official Ticket Center, which is around 4km away from the main site (map below).
Phimeanakas Temple opening times & best time to visit
Phimeanakas Temple is open everyday between 6am and 6pm, with last entry at around 5.30pm. The general rule of thumb is from sunrise to sunset, so these times can shift around a little throughout the course of the year.
The Angkor Archaeological park itself is open between 5am and 7pm.
⪢ Best time to visit Phimeanakas Temple
The best time to visit the Angkor site in general is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April.
⪢ Cool Season (November to February)
This is the peak tourist season in Cambodia. The weather is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's an excellent time to explore without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, do keep in mind that this is the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds.
⪢ Hot Season (March to April)
During these months, the weather starts getting hotter, and temperatures can soar, especially in April. While it's not as crowded as the cool season, the scorching heat might make outdoor exploration less comfortable for you.
We visited at the back-end of March, and it was extremely hot, averaging 40+ degrees Celsius (104F) daily. Exploring Angkor involves a lot of walking and climbing, with much of it not undercover. It is essential to consider your personal preferences and comfort levels when choosing the best time to come here. If you prefer fewer crowds and can handle hotter temperatures, the hot season might work well for you. The trade-off for milder weather is bigger crowds, so pick wisely!
We do recommend you avoid the rainy season, which typically spans from May to October. During this period, Cambodia experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make exploring challenging due to muddy and slippery conditions. Moreover, some areas may be inaccessible, and the landscape won't be as picturesque as during the dry season.
How to get to Phimeanakas Temple in Angkor
Walking isn’t really an option at the Angkor site as the temples are huge, the distance between each is vast, and the sun is searingly hot. We used a local Tuk-tuk driver, who we booked for a week through our Airbnb, to show us around. He was full of information and also doubles up as a guide, alongside always being on hand with a cold drink after a temple visit! Here are some of the main options:
⪢ By tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around Siem Reap and the surrounding area. They are relatively inexpensive and can take you to Angkor in about 20 minutes from the city center. As mentioned this is the option we chose, and we can recommend our very reliable and impressive driver if needed. Feel free to get in touch and we would be happy to share his details.
⪢ By bicycle: If you are feeling energetic, you can also cycle to Angkor. The ride is about 4 kilometers from the city centre and takes about 30 minutes. It is very hot however, so do remember to bring plenty of water and keep hydrated.
⪢ Consider taking a tour: There are many tour operators in Siem Reap that offer day trips to Angkor. This is a good option if you want to learn more about the temple and its history. We recommend using Klook, who offer a variety of different experiences with qualified tour guides and hotel pick up and drop off options.
● Visit the Angkor Thom complex where you will explore the fascinating beauty of Bayon Temple and the world-famous Ta Prohm Temple (Tomb-Raider Temple)
● Marvel at the enormous and beautiful Angkor Wat Temple, one of the largest religious monuments in the world
● The temples on this tour are among the biggest in the Angkor Complex
● Note that you will still be required to purchase the Angkor Archaeological Park Ticket.
In terms of Phimeanakas Temple, it is located just behind Baphuon Temple, which is accessible from the road. You can get to Phimeanakas by walking either through Baphuon or via the Terrace of the Elephants to its right side. There is no direct road access.
Address: CVW4+8F7, Angkor, Cambodia
Opening hours: 6am to 6pm, 7 days per week
Must-see sites near Phimeanakas Temple
Take a peek at some of the other incredible sites at the Angkor Thom Palace Complex that we highly recommend:
⪢ Tonle Om Gate
Uncover the mysteries of Tonle Om Gate, the grand southern entrance to Angkor Thom. Explore its history, symbolism, and architectural marvels!
⪢ Bayon Temple
One of the most important temples in the Angkor Thom palace complex, meet the 200 faces that will look down on you at Bayon. If you come into Angkor Thom through Tonle Om Southern Gate, which is one of the main entrances, you will meet Bayon Temple on the road to Baphuon.
⪢ Baphuon Temple
The Baphuon Temple is a significant historical and architectural monument located within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is a part of Angkor Thom, the great capital city of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries. This temple is just a short walk away from Phimeanakas.
⪢ Terrace of the Elephants
Lined with elephant carvings & statues, this monument was once used by kings for viewing events. The Terrace of the Elephants is just a short walk away from Phimeanakas.
Watch our Angkor Wat sunrise on YouTube
Angkor Wat is indeed a bucket list destination for many people being the largest spiritual grounds on earth! In this video we share with you some of our incredible sunrise footage from Angkor along with some tips on how to make your morning and day go a little smoother. We also show you where to pick up your temple day (or week) pass (you must be present as they take a photo and give you a tangible card).
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Explore Siem Reap with special offers from Klook
Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Angkor. Whether you're looking for a sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, a private tour of the temples, or a day trip to other temples in the region, Klook has something to offer.
In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Siem Reap. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience.
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