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Ta Prohm: The Tomb Raider Temple in Angkor, Cambodia
Updated: Jun 17
Ta Prohm is a historically significant temple located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is one of the most well-known and popular temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ta Prohm was built during the Khmer Empire, around the late 12th and early 13th centuries, under the reign of King Jayavarman VII.
The temple was originally known as Rajavihara, which means "Royal Monastery." It was dedicated to the king's mother and served as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery. Ta Prohm was constructed in the Bayon style, characterized by its distinctive stone faces and intricate carvings, similar to those found at the Bayon temple in Angkor Thom.
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Our Ta Prohm Temple highlights
What sets Ta Prohm apart from other temples in the Angkor complex is its unique, picturesque appearance. Unlike many other structures in the area, Ta Prohm has been left largely in its natural state. When it was rediscovered by European explorers in the 19th century, the decision was made to preserve the temple's "jungle" atmosphere, with trees and massive roots intertwined with the ancient stone walls and structures.
The temple's integration with the surrounding jungle has made it a favorite among visitors and it is certainly our favorite too. The sight of towering silk-cotton trees and fig trees growing out of the temple ruins, with their roots engulfing the stone structures, creates a fascinating and magical atmosphere. The combination of nature reclaiming the ancient site and the artistic beauty of the Khmer architecture makes Ta Prohm a captivating and photogenic destination.
In recent years, Ta Prohm gained further international recognition after it was featured in the popular Hollywood movie "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider," starring Angelina Jolie. It is said that she fell in love with this temple when she visited and it was one of the driving forces behind here developing a well documented lifetime bond with Cambodia and its people.
However, despite its fascinating allure, the ongoing interaction between the temple and the surrounding trees and vegetation also poses conservation challenges. The management and preservation efforts by Cambodian authorities and international organizations aim to strike a balance between maintaining the temple's unique appearance and ensuring its long-term survival. There may well come a time when a decision has to be made about the safety of the trees and vegetation vs the preservation of Ta Prohm.
If you plan to visit Ta Prohm, keep in mind that it is an essential part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, so you may want to get a multi-day pass to explore all the magnificent temples in the area (more on that later). It is practically impossible to get the best out of Angkor in a day, and we would definitely recommend 3 days at a minimum.
Also, remember to be respectful of the site's cultural and historical significance while enjoying the awe-inspiring experience of exploring Ta Prohm. Read on for more on the history of the site, some top tips to know, and the best time to visit this magical place.
The history of Ta Prohm Temple in Cambodia
The history of Ta Prohm is closely linked to the reign of King Jayavarman VII, one of the most prominent and powerful rulers of the Khmer Empire. He ascended to the throne in 1181 AD and ruled until around 1218 AD. During his reign, Jayavarman VII undertook an ambitious building program, constructing numerous temples and other structures across the empire, including the famous Bayon temple at Angkor Thom, and 102 hospitals.
Ta Prohm, originally known as Rajavihara, was built as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university. It was intended to be a place of religious learning and served as a residence for monks and scholars. The temple's establishment was part of King Jayavarman VII's efforts to promote Mahayana Buddhism and its principles throughout his kingdom.
The temple's name, Ta Prohm, is believed to have been derived from the king's mother's name, Prajnaparamita. The name change might have happened after the king's death to honor his mother, who played a significant role in his life and possibly contributed to the temple's construction.
Ta Prohm's architecture is an excellent example of the Bayon style, characterized by the use of massive stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs depicting various aspects of Khmer culture, history, and mythology. The temple is laid out in a rectangular plan, and its central tower and surrounding structures were made of sandstone blocks, which were carved with great skill and artistry by Khmer artisans.
In addition to its religious and educational functions, Ta Prohm served as a center of power and administration. The temple was endowed with extensive properties and wealth, including land, agricultural resources, and valuable gifts from nobles and devotees. It played a vital role in supporting the religious and social activities of the Khmer Empire.
However, after the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century, the once-great city of Angkor was abandoned and fell into decline. Over the centuries, the temples were left to the mercy of nature, and the jungle slowly engulfed many of them, including Ta Prohm. Trees, particularly the iconic silk-cotton and fig trees, took root in the temple's walls and courtyards, creating the captivating and mystical appearance that visitors see today.
In the 19th century, Ta Prohm, like other temples of Angkor, was rediscovered by European explorers and underwent initial attempts at preservation and restoration. However, it was the French-led École française d'Extrême-Orient (EFEO) that conducted extensive conservation efforts in the early 20th century, which sought to stabilize the temple without disturbing the encroaching vegetation.
Since then, the temple has been carefully preserved, and ongoing conservation work ensures its protection and accessibility for tourists and historians alike. Ta Prohm remains one of the most iconic and beloved temples in Cambodia, offering a unique glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient Khmer civilization and the relentless force of nature.
How to get to Ta Prohm Temple
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. We would definitely recommend this option!
⪢ By car
If you are driving from Siem Reap, Ta Prohm is about 7 kilometers northeast of the city. The drive takes about 15 minutes.
⪢ 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 Ta Prohm 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 Ta Prohm. The ride is about 4 kilometers and takes about 30 minutes. It is very hot however, so do remember to bring plenty of water and keep hydrated.
⪢ By tour
There are many tour operators in Siem Reap that offer day trips to Ta Prohm. 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.
● 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
Tips for visiting Ta Prohm Temple and the Angkor site
⪢ Start early
Ta Prohm is one of the most popular temples in Angkor, so it can get crowded later in the day. If you want to avoid the crowds, start your visit early in the morning.
⪢ 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
You will be doing a lot of walking at Ta Prohm, so wear comfortable shoes.
⪢ Be respectful
Ta Prohm is a sacred site, so be sure to be respectful of the temple and its surroundings.
⪢ Dress appropriately
When visiting Ta Prohm 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.
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 sellers
With over 2 million visitors a year, Angkor is a vital source of income for the locals. There are many stalls and vendors who are very persistent in offering souvenirs and wares. Also you will often have people come up to you within the temple sites, telling history or offering to take photographs. Almost always they will expect money in return, although they will not offer this first.
⪢ Security
The temple security staff are very kind, but also be aware that if they offer to take photos, they are also looking for some cash too!
⪢ 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 Ta Prohm Temple
The entry fee for Ta Prohm Temple is included in the ticket for the Angkor Archaeological Park. 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: US$37
3-day pass: US$62
7-day pass: US$72
Children under 12 years old are admitted free.
** Prices are correct at time of writing (April 2024). Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information.
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).
Ta Prohm Temple opening times
Ta Prohm Temple is open from 7:30am to 5:30pm every day. The last entry is at 5pm.
Best time to visit Ta Prohm Temple & Angkor
The best time to visit Ta Prohm in Cambodia 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 Ta Prohm 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 of Ta Prohm 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 Ta Prohm
⪢ Angkor Wat
This is the most famous temple in Angkor and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is a massive temple complex that was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II.
⪢ Bayon Temple
This temple is located in the heart of Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire. It is known for its 54 giant faces that are carved into the towers of the temple.
⪢ Banteay Srei
This temple is located about 12 kilometers northeast of Ta Prohm. It is known for its intricate carvings and its use of pink sandstone.
⪢ Preah Khan
This temple is located about 5 kilometers south of Ta Prohm. It is known for its large reclining Buddha statue and its many ponds and moats.
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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.
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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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