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Thommanon
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Landmark
Thommanon is a small but exquisite Hindu temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park, Cambodia, located near the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom. Built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, it is dedicated to the god Vishnu. The temple is renowned for its fine and well-preserved reliefs, particularly the depictions of devatas (female deities), which exhibit a remarkable level of detail in their attire and jewelry. Stylistically, Thommanon closely resembles the neighboring Chau Say Tevoda, but it appears more complete due to extensive restoration work carried out in the 1960s by the École Française d'Extrême-Orient. The architecture features a single central tower (prasat) and an attached mandapa (antechamber). Because no wood was used in its construction, the stone structure has remained better preserved than other complexes. Its harmonious proportions and the high quality of the carvings make it a standout example of the classic Angkor Wat style.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Angkor Thom Laterite Edicule N · Ta Keo Watermill · Prasat Chau Say Tevoda
- Nearby: Kampong Phluk (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 16 | 46 | 75 | 140 | 168 | 197 | 195 | 231 | 138 | 37 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Thommanon temple is a well-preserved Hindu temple in Angkor, open to the public free of charge. Visitors can walk through the gateways and inner chambers, which are typically unbarred.
Typical hours
The temple is officially open as part of the Angkor Park, typically from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Best visited early morning or late afternoon for beautiful light and fewer crowds.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the temple, including without flash. The intricate Devata carvings on the walls are especially photogenic - use a telephoto lens for close-ups.
Time needed
A thorough walk around Thommanon temple takes about 20-30 minutes. Combined with the nearby Chau Say Tevoda (just 200 meters away), allow one hour.
Combine with
Thommanon is directly opposite the Chau Say Tevoda temple - an unmissable duo often visited together. Angkor Wat is just 2 km away and can easily be added to your route.
Getting there
The temple is located on the Grand Circuit Road in Angkor, reachable by bicycle, tuk-tuk, or car. From Siem Reap it's about 20 minutes to the park entrance; an Angkor Pass is required.
Insider tip
Visit Thommanon in the late afternoon when sunlight warmly illuminates the Devata carvings. Enter straight from the road - no long walkways, so it's a worthwhile stop even when time is short.
Geography
Facts
- Built at the same time as Angkor Wat in the early 12th century.
- The temple was constructed without the use of iron clamps.
- The devata figures display various floral motifs in their hair styles.
- There is no surrounding wall, which is unusual for Angkor temples.
- Restoration work employed the technique of anastylosis.
- Thommanon is part of the 'Small Circuit' tour for visitors in Angkor.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Thommanon (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the condition of Thommanon?
It is very well preserved as it was extensively restored in the 1960s.
Which deity is worshipped here?
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu.
What is special about the reliefs?
The devatas (female deities) are very detailed and in almost flawless condition.
Where is Thommanon located?
It is located directly opposite the Chau Say Tevoda temple, east of the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom.
How much time do you need for the visit?
As the temple is small, about 20 to 30 minutes are sufficient for a visit.
Thommanon: where is it located?
Thommanon is located in Cambodia.
Thommanon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Angkor Thom Laterite Edicule N, Ta Keo Watermill, Prasat Chau Say Tevoda.
Thommanon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Thommanon: why is it worth visiting?
Thommanon is a small but exquisite Hindu temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park, Cambodia, located near the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom.
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