Pre Rup is a 10th-century temple-mountain on the Large Circuit that is one of the best sunset alternatives to Phnom Bakheng — a stepped pyramid of brick, laterite, and sandstone topped by five towers in the quincunx arrangement that became standard in later Khmer architecture. The temple was completed in 961 AD by King Rajendravarman II as his state temple, and its relatively steep climb up four levels rewards with 360-degree views over surrounding rice paddies and the silhouettes of other temples in the distance.
The name 'Pre Rup' means 'Turning the Body' and refers to a Hindu funeral ritual — the temple's location (facing a rectangular moat that may have been used for cremations) has suggested to some archaeologists that this was a royal crematorium, though the theory is debated. The warm orange glow of the sandstone at sunset makes Pre Rup especially photogenic.
Verified Facts
Pre Rup was completed in 961 AD by Rajendravarman II
The temple uses the quincunx of five towers arrangement
'Pre Rup' means 'Turning the Body', referring to Hindu funeral rites
The temple was built of brick, laterite, and sandstone
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Angkor Archaeological Park
