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Prasat Phnom Krom: One of the Oldest Hilltop Temples in Cambodia
- Jenn & Leon
- Jul 27, 2023
- 11 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
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.
Continue reading for our top highlights, a brief history of Prasat Phnom Krom, our visiting tips, details on how to reach the site, and the optimal time to visit.
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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 journey begins at the initial staircase, consisting of approximately 160 steps.
It leads through the main entrance to the temple and is flanked on both sides by the Naga protector serpents, which are frequently found at 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 very 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, which sit 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 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 can 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
Prasat Phnom Krom is a stunning hilltop temple located just outside the town of Siem Reap, offering panoramic views over the Tonle Sap Lake and surrounding countryside.
By Car or Tuk-Tuk
By Bicycle
By Tour Bus or Group Tour
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Tips for Visiting Phnom Krom Temple and the Angkor site
● Start early or go for the sunset: It 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 10 am, 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!
● Use bug spray: Mosquitoes 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 respectfully & appropriately: When visiting Prasat Phnom Krom temple, both men and women should have their shoulders covered, and their 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.
● 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, so be prepared.
Ticket Prices & Opening Times for Prasat Phnom Krom Temple
The entry fee for Phnom Krom Temple can be purchased individually on-site, unlike the 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 the time of writing (June 2025).
All prices are in United States Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Hours
● Open daily, 7 am – 5 pm
● Last entry at 4:30 pm
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, characterized by relatively mild weather, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
It's a great time to explore Phnom Krom and other temples comfortably without being overwhelmed by the heat.
However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time for tourism, so you can expect larger crowds at popular sites.
⪢ Hot Season (March to April)
In these months, the weather begins to heat up, with temperatures often rising significantly, particularly in April.
Although it's less crowded than the cooler season, the intense heat might make outdoor activities less comfortable.
If you can handle the warmth, visiting during this period can still be pleasant, with clear skies offering the opportunity to take breathtaking sunset photos of Phnom Krom.
⪢ When Did We Visit?
We visited in late March when it was extremely hot, averaging over 40°C (104°F) daily.
The temples require a lot of walking and climbing, mostly outdoors. Consider your comfort levels when choosing the best time to visit.
If you prefer fewer crowds and can handle the heat, the hot season might suit you. For milder weather, expect bigger crowds.
Avoid the rainy season from May to October, as heavy rainfall and high humidity can make exploring the temples challenging due to muddy and slippery conditions.
Moreover, some areas may be inaccessible, and the landscape won't be as picturesque as it is during the dry season.
Other Must-See Temples Near Phnom Krom
Phnom Bakheng
Phnom Bok
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FAQ: Visiting Prasat Phnom Krom Temple – Siem Reap’s Sunset Sanctuary
What is Prasat Phnom Krom?
Prasat Phnom Krom is a 10th-century Angkorian temple perched on top of Phnom Krom Hill, offering sweeping views over the Tonlé Sap Lake and the Cambodian countryside.
Where is it located?
Is there an entry fee?
What makes it worth visiting?
How do you get there from Siem Reap?
How long does the climb take?
When is the best time to visit?
Are there facilities nearby?
Is it safe to go alone?
Is Phnom Krom suitable for kids or elderly visitors?
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This temple may not grab the headlines like its Angkor counterparts, but it is still worth a trip. It actually pre-dates many of the temples in Siem Reap, and in some quarters is actually believed to be the oldest there is. There is not a great deal to look at here. but the sunset was worth every ounce of the sweat it took to climb the mountain!