Temple Towers in the Rainforest

Off the beaten tracks to Sambor Prei Kuk

The temple area of Sambor Prei Kuk covers nearly 1000 acres with over 200 brick temples from the 6th and 7th centuries.

The temples are set admist a light tropical forest and are still largely overgrown by the vegetation. Sambor Prei Kuk was the ancient capital of Chenla, called Isanapura. The site is not yet "tourisitic", so enjoy this quiet place whose temples are older than Angkor Wat!

In the morning, driving about 150 km southeastwards, enjoy the journey through the rich farmlands and the scenery of rice fields, water buffaloes and authentic Khmer village life.

Near the city of Kampong Thom, see the well preserved old Angkorian bridge with nice Naga statues. This bridge was part of the old royal Angkorian road leading from the Khmer provinces to the capital of Angkor.

In Sambor Prei Kuk temple area, we focus our visits on Prasat Sambor (North Group),  Prasat Yeah Puon (South Group) and Prasat Thor (Central Group), the so called "lion temple".

See as well the astonishing Prasat Asram Isey and visit also small "off road temples" overgrown by jungle.The lintels are particularly beautiful with their rich decoration (Sambor Prei Kuk style).

We have picnic (with lunchboxes) on a picturesque place in the temple area.In the late afternoon, return to Siem Reap.