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Phnom Chisor
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Mountain
Phnom Chisor is a prominent hill in Takeo Province, rising approximately 133 meters above the surrounding floodplains of southern Cambodia. The summit is crowned by a significant 11th-century Hindu temple complex built during the reign of King Suryavarman I. Constructed from laterite and sandstone, the main sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricately carved lintels and inscriptions characteristic of Khmer art. A monumental staircase of 503 steps leads up the eastern side of the hill, strategically aligned with the lower temples of Sen Thmol and Sen Ravang on the plain below. Geographically, the hill provides a commanding 360-degree view of the vast rice paddies and ancient canals of the Takeo plains, a region often cited as the cradle of Cambodian civilization. The temple complex reflects the religious architecture of the Angkorian era, despite its location far to the south of the imperial capital. Although damaged during 20th-century conflicts, Phnom Chisor remains an essential historical monument and a destination for pilgrims and archaeology enthusiasts.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Tnaot Te Terrace Bridge · Thmea Village Bridge · ប្រាង្គអណ្ដែត ហៅវត្តរំលេច
- Nearby: Takeo (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, 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 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 17 | 11 | 29 | 63 | 130 | 197 | 171 | 171 | 201 | 171 | 95 | 32 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain is conveniently reached by a relatively straightforward drive south from Phnom Penh along the national highway, turning off onto a paved road leading directly to the base.
Best season
While it can certainly be visited all year round, it is highly recommended to plan the climb for the early morning hours during the dry season to escape the oppressive midday heat.
Terrain & paths
Reaching the ancient summit requires climbing a monumentally long and quite steep staircase comprising hundreds of stone steps, which can occasionally be uneven or weathered.
What to bring
Visitors should prioritize wearing breathable clothing, reliable gripping shoes for the steps, ample sun protection, and conservative attire that respectfully covers the shoulders and knees.
Parking
There is usually a designated and relatively safe parking zone situated right at the bottom of the long stairway, often managed by locals for a very nominal fee.
Safety
Caution should be exercised regarding the local macaque monkey population, which can occasionally be aggressive if they spot visible food items or brightly colored loose belongings.
Time needed
Taking into account the strenuous ascent, exploring the historical temple complex, and the descent, most travelers allocate around two to three hours for the complete visit.
Geography
Facts
- The temple was founded in the early 11th century by Suryavarman I.
- The staircase to the summit consists of a total of 503 stone steps.
- The hill rises to an elevation of 133 meters above sea level.
- The sanctuary is oriented eastward to align with the rising sun.
- The site is on the UNESCO tentative list as part of the Takeo region.
- The complex was built using laterite, brick, and carved sandstone lintels.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Phnom Chisor (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many steps lead up to the Phnom Chisor temple?
There are about 400 steps. The climb is steep but provides spectacular views of the surrounding rice paddies.
When was the Phnom Chisor temple built?
The temple was built in the 11th century during the reign of King Suryavarman I, using sandstone and laterite.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee for foreign visitors is typically around 2 USD.
Are there food options available on-site?
There are simple local food stalls at the base of the hill offering water and basic Cambodian dishes.
How far is Phnom Chisor from Phnom Penh?
It is located about 60 km south of the capital and can be reached in 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi.
Phnom Chisor: where is it located?
Phnom Chisor is located in Cambodia.
Phnom Chisor: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tnaot Te Terrace Bridge, Thmea Village Bridge, ប្រាង្គអណ្ដែត ហៅវត្តរំលេច.
Phnom Chisor: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Phnom Chisor: why is it worth visiting?
Phnom Chisor is a prominent hill in Takeo Province, rising approximately 133 meters above the surrounding floodplains of southern Cambodia.
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