Phnom Bakheng is a hilltop temple-mountain between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom that was built in the late 9th century as the state temple of the first city of Angkor (Yasodharapura, founded by King Yasovarman I around 900 AD) — predating Angkor Wat by over 200 years. The temple rises in five levels with 108 smaller towers surrounding a central sanctuary, arranged to represent Mount Meru in Hindu cosmology.
The 67-metre hill provides the classic panoramic sunset view of Angkor Wat rising out of the jungle to the south, with the sun setting over the West Baray reservoir to the west. The sunset has become so popular that Cambodia's authorities now limit the number of visitors on the temple top to 300 at a time, with a queue forming from about 4:30 PM. Arrive early (before 4 PM) to secure a spot, or climb after sunset for a quieter experience.
Verified Facts
Phnom Bakheng was built in the late 9th century by Yasovarman I
The temple predates Angkor Wat by over 200 years
The hill is 67 metres high
Visitor numbers at the top are capped at 300
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Phnom Bakheng, Angkor
