Neak Pean

Neak Pean is a significant 12th-century Buddhist temple situated on an artificial island in the center of the Jayatataka Baray within the Angkor region. Built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, the site originally functioned as a spiritual healing center, with the central pond designed to symbolize the mythical Himalayan Lake Anavatapta. The architectural layout is unique, consisting of a large central square pond surrounded by four smaller basins representing the four elements: earth, water, fire, and air. Visitors access the sanctuary via a long wooden causeway that traverses the swampy landscape of the baray, offering an easy on the eye view particularly during the rainy season. The temple's name translates to "entwined snakes," a reference to the naga sculptures that encircle the circular base of the central shrine. Despite the wear of centuries, the site remains an outstanding example of Khmer hydraulic engineering and the profound connection between religious beliefs and natural healing practices.

Nearby cities

Siem Reap

Serving as the gateway to the majestic ruins of Angkor, this city is the country's main tourist hub with a vibrant cultural scene.

Kampong Phluk

An authentic fishing village on the Tonle Sap lake, famous for its towering seven-meter stilted houses and the surrounding flooded mangro…

History & landmarks

Banteay Kdei

A fascinating Buddhist monastic complex in Angkor, whose ruins are peacefully shaded by tall trees today.

Ta Keo

An unfinished, massive sandstone temple mountain that stands out due to its simplicity and lack of external carvings.

Thommanon

A small, well-preserved Hindu temple in Angkor, known for its detailed Devata carvings.

East Mebon

A monumental temple that once stood on an artificial island in the middle of the now-dry East Baray reservoir.

Pre Rup

Pre Rup is a brick and laterite temple mountain in the Angkor area.

Terrace of the Elephants

An impressive viewing terrace decorated with life-sized elephant reliefs, once used for royal ceremonies.

Baphuon

A massive three-tiered temple mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Phimeanakas

A Hindu temple in the shape of a step pyramid, located within the royal palace enclosure of Angkor Thom.

Nature

Tonle Sap Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, whose water level rises drastically during the monsoon, hosting unique biodiversity.

More places

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is a jungle temple in the Angkor area, known for tree roots growing over its walls.

Ta Som

A small Buddhist temple whose eastern entrance is famously engulfed by the massive roots of a sacred fig tree.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan is a large temple complex in Angkor that once served as a Buddhist monastery and learning center.

Angkor Wat

The largest religious monument complex in the world and the national symbol of Cambodia, originally built as a Hindu temple.

Bayon Temple

A Buddhist temple in Angkor Thom, famous for its massive stone faces looking in different directions.

Chreav Village Organic Farm

A community-based agricultural project that promotes sustainable farming methods and supplies Siem Reap's markets with fresh vegetables.

Banteay Srei

A Hindu temple made of red sandstone, renowned for its extremely fine and intricate carvings.

Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre

This interactive centre showcases a vast variety of native butterflies in a tropical netted enclosure.