Phnom Bakheng, Siem Reap: History, highlights and visitor guide

History and context

The story behind Phnom Bakheng

Phnom Bakheng was completed between 889 and 910 under Yasovarman I, who founded the capital Yasodharapura. It was a Shiva temple and later became Buddhist.

Since 2004 the World Monuments Fund has worked with APSARA to conserve it. Pressure from sunset crowds has made visitor management a continuing concern.

Useful facts

Phnom Bakheng facts at a glance

Location

Between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

Experience type

Hilltop temple and sunset viewpoint

Built

Late 9th century, Yasovarman I

Dedication

Shiva, later Buddhist

Height

About 65 m above the plain

Visitor note

Steep climb; crowded at sunset

Why it matters

Why Phnom Bakheng is worth your time

Phnom Bakheng was built by King Yasovarman I at the end of the ninth century as a temple mountain, originally for Shiva, and later became Buddhist. The pyramid has seven levels, which represent the seven heavens, topped with five sanctuaries. About 108 small towers originally surrounded it, though most have collapsed.

It marks the centre of Yasovarman's capital and shows how the idea of a temple mountain developed before Angkor Wat. The large number of visitors makes it one of the most threatened monuments, and the World Monuments Fund has worked with APSARA since 2004 to conserve it.

Highlights

What not to miss

1. 01

   The hilltop view

   A sweep over forest and the towers of Angkor Wat.

2. 02

   The stepped pyramid

   Seven levels representing the heavens, with five sanctuaries at the top.

3. 03

   The climb

   A wide path through forest, steady but steep.

Plan your visit

How to experience it

Phnom Bakheng sits on a small hill about 65 metres above the plain, giving a wide view toward Angkor Wat and the forest. Most visitors come for sunset, but the top is small and crowded, and access is limited when numbers are high. If you want the view without the crush, go in the morning when the hill is quieter, though the light is less dramatic.

The walk up takes around 15 to 20 minutes on a wide path. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes. At the top, five sandstone sanctuaries stand on a stepped base, and the carvings are worn but legible if you take time. The lower terraces are where the layout of the seven-level pyramid is easiest to see.

If you cannot climb, enjoy the sunset from another place such as Pre Rup or the reflecting views near Angkor Wat. Temple access times can change, so confirm with your driver or guide.

Know before you go

Timing, access and comfort

Area

Between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, Angkor Archaeological Park

Time needed

1 to 2 hours including the climb

Best time

Late afternoon, but expect queues; morning is quieter

Walking level

Demanding

Senior comfort

The path up the hill is steep and uneven, with a final stone stair, and there is little shade. The summit is small and crowded at sunset. Older visitors or those with knee problems should consider skipping it.

Tickets and access

Entry to the Angkor Archaeological Park needs an Angkor Pass, sold through the official Angkor Enterprise channels. Pass types and prices change, so check current rates on the official site; the pass carries your photo and is checked at most temples. Children under 12 have been reported as free with a passport, so confirm before you go. Access can be restricted when it is crowded, and the temple has been under renovation, so check current rules.

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