This cluster of Hindu temples (apparently there are about 30-odd remaining now from the original 70+) pre-date the Angkor temple complex by about 300 years. These temples are in various states of ruin. Here too , one can see temples that have been taken over by trees, temples sitting on between a clump of tree etc. Apparently the civil war/ Khmer rouge activities also took a toll on this temple site, along with the natural decay due to ageing. While Sambor prei kuk is nowhere as popular as Angkor Wat, it also means that there are very few tourists and you will have time to check out things at your own pace. This WHS site is located midway (approx!) between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and is a great stop to plan if you are doing a road trip between these cities. Or like in our case, you could plan a road trip so as to visit this site !!

Sambo Prei Kuk is a remarkable archaeological site in Cambodia that allows visitors to explore the magnificence of the ancient Chenla Kingdom. With over a hundred well-preserved temples, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the architectural brilliance of the Chenla civilization. The temples, divided into three main groups, each have their own unique charm and features. Beyond its historical significance, Sambo Prei Kuk offers a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by dense forests. The preservation efforts by the Cambodian government and international organizations ensure that this invaluable site remains authentic for future generations to appreciate. To fully experience the wonders of Sambo Prei Kuk, it is recommended to plan a day trip from Kampong Thom and take in the scenic landscapes along the way. This extraordinary destination is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike, offering a captivating experience and a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

Stopped on the drive from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap at Sambor Prei Kuk . Sok Deung who can be reached on What’s App at +85577769215 gave us an excellent tour that brought this ancient site to life. She also organized bikes for us at the last minute which allowed us to see much more than we would otherwise have been able to. We highly recommend a visit to Sambor Prei Kuk and highly recommend the services of Sok Deung while you are there.

On the way from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh we stopped at Sambor Prei Kuk, and all I can say is WOW !! What a beautiful place. I am a huge history and culture nerd and love "old stones", and so that was totally my place. It was around midday when we visited, and so it was extremely hot, but it was stil mystial and very special. The ruins of the temples are in a beautiful forest, and there are hardly any other visitors. When we were there, we saw two other tourists. Lets hope that it stays that way.

This Pre-Angkorian site is magical! Our guide took us through the temples with his expertise, explaining every detail and answering all of our questions. Plenty of monkeys and lizards at these temples! Perfect to do in conjunction with Angkor Wat for comparison. Especially interesting to me was the processes of preservation and reconstruction.