Phnom Krom

Set atop the small mountain near the ferry dock and overlooking the Tonle Sap sits Phnom Krom, a 9th to 10th century temple built by Yasovarman I. This is a fabulous alternative sunset choice.

As you can't see the temple from ground level, the vast majority of visitors who arrive at Siem Reap via ferry whistle into Siem Reap oblivious to the site.

Phnom Krom sits within a 50m square enclosure, upon which are three ruined sandstone towers on a north-south axis. Running from north to south the towers are dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma.

Partly due to age, partly due to the use of sandstone and partly due to the prevailing strong winds that blow off the Tonle Sap, the decorative works throughout this site are in very poor condition. Nevertheless, the site is not a complete loss, as the views — all 360 degrees of them, taking in from the Tonle Sap to the Western Baray — are absolutely magnificent.

Phrom Krom can be accessed by either a long, steamy and sweaty climb up the stairs, or by road in a car or by motorbike.