Pre Rup

Pre Rup is an impressive temple mountain in Angkor, consecrated in 961 AD as the state temple of King Rajendravarman II. Dedicated to the god Shiva, the temple is distinguished by its massive laterite and brick structures, which take on a characteristic reddish hue, particularly at sunset. The complex consists of a three-tiered pyramid crowned by five central towers arranged in a quincunx pattern. The name "Pre Rup" translates to "turning the body," referring to traditional Cambodian funeral rites, which suggests that the temple may have served as a site for royal cremations or funerary ceremonies. Despite weathering over centuries, some fine stucco decorations and intricately carved lintels depicting deities on their mounts are still visible on the towers. Due to its height and the sweeping views over the surrounding rice paddies, Pre Rup is today one of the most popular spots in Angkor for watching the sunset. It represents a significant transition to the classical Angkorian architectural style, impressing visitors with its monumental presence and balanced proportions.

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

East Mebon

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

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.

Preah Ko

The first temple built in the ancient capital of Hariharalaya, known for its surviving stucco decorations.

Lolei

A small temple of the Roluos Group that originally stood on an island in the historical Indratataka reservoir.

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.

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 Som

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

Neak Pean

Neak Pean is a small temple on an artificial island in Angkor.

Ta Prohm

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

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.

Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre

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

Banteay Srei

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

Roluos Group (Bakong)

Some of the earliest permanent temples of the Khmer Empire, with Bakong featuring the first significant temple-mountain architecture.