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Prasat Phnom Krom, one of the oldest temples in Cambodia
Updated: Jun 17
This temple sits atop the hill of Phnom Kraom and was built by the first Khmer King, Yasovarman I, at the end of the 9th century. The complex consists of three main structures, a two-storey library, and some smaller shrines.
Phnom Kraom is a 140m high hill in Cambodia's Battambang Province. It is located around 15 kilometers from the town of Battambang and is known for its Khmer ruins, but also its pretty epic sunset viewpoint which attracts tourists and locals daily.
Prasat Phnom Krom is perhaps a lesser known temple given that it is 12km away from Siem Reap centre and the main Angkor site. It was however very much part of Angkor, the capital of the once mighty Khmer Empire. It was an empire that spanned 6 centuries and at its peak ruled the largest city on earth.
Read on for our highlights, a bit of the history behind Prasat Phnom Krom, our tips for visiting and information on how to get there and the best time to visit.
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● 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)
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● The temples on this tour are among the biggest in the Angkor Complex
Our Prasat Phnom Krom Temple Highlights
This was the very first temple we visited in Cambodia, on recommendation of our Tuk-tuk driver who we booked daily for the week we were here. Given its location just outside of the main temple complex at Angkor it felt far more local, with few tourists milling around here. It was actually a fantastic taste of what was to come, and given its age as one of the oldest in all of Angkor, it felt fitting that we came here at the beginning of our adventure.
You can not miss the hill as you head up towards it, given most of the surrounding area is pretty much flat farmland. It is what makes the climb really worth it; the views from the top are fantastic. You can totally see why it was a great spot for the temple too, affording a wonderful vantage point alongside it being a great spot to see the sunset and the stars at night too.
The starting point is the first staircase, which was roughly 160 steps, heading through the main gateway to the temple and lined on either side with the Naga protector serpents so common at both Hindu and Buddhist temples.
We actually thought this would lead to the temple, but it only led to a road that curved round towards the right hand side, and continued to head upward. There was a clearing here, from which looked to be an area locals were setting up to watch the sunset, but no temple, or even a sign for one. Our driver had informed us that it would be a bit of a walk, and so despite the searing heat, we decided to follow the few people heading in the upwards direction.
The walk actually took around ten minutes, and was steep enough to make us pause a few times! The road is fairly well paved but with a distinct lack of signage, there were many moments where we questioned if we were going the right way. We did find this small structure along the way, which seemed to have remnants of some kind of blue mural inside, however there were no signs to help us determine what it actually was.
So we continued a little further, and then found ourselves at another clearing, but this time at the bottom of another staircase. There was actually someone resembling some sort of guard or worker who pointed eagerly towards the stairs, and we finally felt like we were getting somewhere! So we began our climb, again another 150 steps or so.
At the top of the stairs was a very large dusty courtyard, surrounded by a fairly modern pagoda complex. They seemed like temples, but they were all closed and we were unable to go inside. The ancient Khmer Prasats (temples) are behind this area, across the courtyard and just another short climb to the very top of the hill.
We love a good local legend story, and our driver Hun Bun Thab was great at revealing them! So it is said that the many rocks that line the hill, and the hill itself, were exposed as a result of the monkey warrior Hanuman flying across the ocean whilst transporting a large amount of medicinal herbs.
He was doing this to cure Rama's brother Lakshmana, who had been injured during the war between Rama and Ravana. Lakshmana killed Indrajita and Atikaya, who were the sons of Ravana, and it was Hanuman's intervention which saved him from certain death after he was wounded in the process.
The Ramayana epic is famous throughout Southeast Asia and is narrated in scenes from the Khmer version called Reamker, often being portrayed in dance and in carvings at major temples.
Aside from the legend of the mountain, the main attraction of course is the temple of Prasat Phnom Krom. As you come up the final part of the hill, the three main temple buildings are still impressive, despite considerable degradation. There seems to be an active attempt at restoration although it looked like this process was in its infancy and all of the temple structures were closed due to their precarious condition.
Nonetheless they looked amazing, the age and history providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. We were really impressed, and that was before we ventured over to the other side of the temples, to the brow of the hill, where we got to witness the panoramic views and that sunset.
The history of Prasat Phnom Krom Temple in Cambodia
Prasat Phnom Krom, also known as the 'downstream hill temple' is one of the oldest temples in Siem Reap. The temple was built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman I, who ruled Angkor from 889 A.D to 910 A.D. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, the principal deities of Hinduism. Yasovarman I was the first king of Angkor, and he used all three natural hills amongst the plains of Angkor for temple structures.
Prasat Phnom Krom is built looking toward the east, overlooking the incredible sunset that falls behind the Phnom Kraom hill. The temple is enclosed by a wall built of laterite blocks, with gates that bisect the walls at each of the four cardinal directions, as is common with many Khmer temples and structures. There would have been three other buildings here, all of which have now collapsed and are lost to history.
The temple's main body is its three towers, sat atop a large stepped platform. The southern tower is dedicated to Brahma, the central to Shiva, and the north to Vishnu. Its layout is identical to the nearby Phnom Bok, which archaeologists believe was built at a similar time period and is known as its 'sister' temple. The other temple in the aforementioned family of three is Phnom Bakheng, with Phnom Krom being the southernmost.
The temple is constructed from sandstone and whilst it is hard to make out many of the carvings due to erosion, you can see a frieze of lotus petals, and on Brahma's temple you are able to see Brahma's mount, the sacred goose.
As with most of Angkor's temples, the statues that would have been inside the shrines are sadly missing. Those that would have been at Prasat Phnom Krom now sit in the Musée Guimet in Paris, with only the pedestals remaining.
How to get to Phnom Krom Temple
⪢ By car or Motorbike / Scooter
The hill of Phnom Kraom is easily accessible by car or motorbike from Battambang (just look for the hill). The drive from central Siem Reap takes about 15-20 minutes and you are able to park at the second staircase we mentioned earlier, avoiding the first set of stairs and the walk up the side of the hill.
⪢ By tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around Siem Reap and the surrounding area. They are relatively inexpensive and get you to Phnom Krom in about 25 minutes from the center of Siem Reap. 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 tour
There are many tour operators in Siem Reap that offer day trips to Phnom Krom. This is a good option if you want to learn more about the temple and its history. Consider using Klook, who offer a variety of different experiences at great prices!
Tips for visiting Phnom Krom Temple and the Angkor site
⪢ Start early or go for the sunset
It really does depend on what you are looking for at Phnom Krom. If you are mainly just interested in the site itself, it is best to head there early in the morning, before 10am, when the weather is cooler and it is less crowded. If sunset is what you are after, then be prepared for the heat and more visitors.
⪢ Bring water
It can get hot in the Angkor region, so be sure to bring plenty of water with you and stay hydrated!
⪢ Bring bug spray
Mosquitos are prevalent here, especially during the hot season. If you are prone to bites, bringing repellent can make a big difference.
⪢ Wear comfortable shoes
The ruins at Phnom Kraom are located on a hill as mentioned, so you'll be doing some walking. Wear comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting dirty.
⪢ Be respectful
Prasat Phnom Krom is a sacred site, so be sure to be respectful of the temple and its surroundings. Try not to touch anything and avoid climbing on the temple structure.
⪢ Dress appropriately
When visiting Prasat Phnom Krom temple, both men and women should have their shoulders covered, and knees should be concealed by avoiding shorts or short skirts.
Revealing or tight clothing should be avoided. It's recommended to carry a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders or wrap around the waist if necessary. There are some available for rental at this temple, for a small fee of $2.
Hats and sunglasses are acceptable for sun protection but should be removed when entering the temple. Adhering to these dress code guidelines shows respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site and helps preserve its historical importance.
⪢ Be aware of your surroundings
Phnom Kraom is a remote area, so be aware of your surroundings. Don't go off alone, and be sure to keep your valuables safe.
⪢ Bring cash
If you do intend on picking up a local guide, buying souvenirs or donating money, do remember to bring enough cash. ATM's are very scarce in this area, and often do not work with international cards. Most local food stands, stores and restaurants only take cash too, so be prepared!
Entry Fee to Prasat Phnom Krom Temple
The entry fee for Phnom Krom Temple can be purchased individually on-site, unlike a majority of the temples in Angkor that are part of Angkor Archaeological Park.
Admission is $2 (USD) for foreigners and $1 (USD) for Cambodian citizens.
** Prices are correct at time of writing (April 2024). Note that they can be subject to change at any time.
Phnom Krom Temple opening times
Prasat Phnom Krom Temple is open from 7am to 5pm every day.
The last entry is at 4:30pm.
Best time to visit Prasat Phnom Krom Temple & Angkor
The best time to visit Prasat Phnom Krom weather-wise is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. Within this period, there are two main favorable seasons:
⪢ 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 Phnom Krom and other temples comfortably without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, do keep in mind that this is the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds at popular sites.
⪢ 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. If you can tolerate the heat, visiting during this time could still be enjoyable, as the skies remain clear, and you can capture stunning photographs in the golden sunlight.
We visited at the back-end of March, and it was extremely hot, averaging 40+ degrees Celsius (104F) daily. The temples involve 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 the temple complex 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.
Other must-see temples near Phnom Krom
⪢ Phnom Bakheng
Phnom Bakheng, the state temple of the first Khmer capital in the Angkor region, was constructed between the late ninth and the early tenth century by Yasovarman I. One of the three hilltop temples, this architectural marvel was the centerpiece of the original capital which was named Yasodharapura.
⪢ Phnom Bok
The sister temple to Phnom Krom, this temple is atop a 235 meter hill and is one of the hidden gems of Angkor, given its lack of tourist interest. With no parking facilities at the base of the hill, and no formal road to the top, the entire hill has to be scaled by foot, with even the local tour operators leaving this temple out for that reason. It has also seen the least amount of conservation efforts, and is quickly becoming overgrown again. That being said, this adds to its charm and beauty, and if you are good with hiking, it is well worth a try.
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