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Phnom Chisor
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Phnom Chisor is a historical temple complex situated on a 133-meter-high mountain in Takeo Province, south of Phnom Penh. It was built in the 11th century under King Suryavarman I as a Brahmanic sanctuary named Suryagiri. To reach the temple, visitors must climb a monumental staircase with over 400 steps that leads from the eastern plain directly to the mountain summit. The temple complex is constructed from sandstone and laterite and is renowned for its well-preserved reliefs on lintels and pediments, depicting Hindu deities such as Shiva and Vishnu. From the summit, an impressive panoramic view unfolds over the surrounding rice fields and two other smaller ruins (Sen Thmol and Sen Ravang) at the foot of the mountain. Despite heavy damage sustained during the Cambodian Civil War, Phnom Chisor remains a significant destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts, as it documents the extension of Angkorian power far into the south.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Neang Khmao Temple · Prasat Phnom Chisor · First Fruit Church
- Nearby: Takeo (9 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
Visiting
The ancient Brahman temple on Phnom Chisor hill is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the views over the rice paddies. Access requires climbing a long staircase.
Typical hours
Typical opening hours are from sunrise to sunset, as there is no fixed closing time. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours to enjoy the views. On holidays, access may end earlier.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, including the temple ruins and viewpoints. Tripods can be useful to capture the vast landscape. Drones require special permission from local authorities.
Time needed
Climbing the stairs takes about 10-15 minutes, exploring the ruins about 20-30 minutes. In total, allow about 1 hour for the visit, plus travel time.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Phnom Da temple and Tonle Bati, both located in Takeo province. A day trip from Phnom Penh can cover several of these sites.
Getting there
Phnom Chisor is about 65 km south of Phnom Penh in Takeo province. The best way to get there is by car or taxi; the drive takes about 1.5 hours. An entrance fee is collected on site.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water as the climb can be strenuous in the heat. A hat and sunscreen are also recommended as there is little shade at the summit.
Geography
Facts
- The mountain of Phnom Chisor reaches a height of 133 meters.
- The main staircase to the summit consists of more than 400 steps.
- The temple was constructed in the 11th century under Suryavarman I.
- The original name of the sanctuary was Suryagiri.
- The temple faces east, aligned with the ancient site of Angkor Borei.
- Two satellite temples, Sen Ravang and Sen Thmol, sit at the base of the hill.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Phnom Chisor (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there many steps to climb?
Yes, there are about 500 steps to reach the top of the hill.
What awaits at the top?
Ruins of an 11th-century Brahman temple and a great view.
How is the view?
There is a fantastic panoramic view over the rice fields of Takeo province.
Are refreshments available?
Yes, small stalls at the base and the top sell water and snacks.
How far is it from Phnom Penh?
About 50 km south; the drive takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Phnom Chisor: where is it located?
Phnom Chisor is located in Cambodia.
Phnom Chisor: what is there to see?
Highlights include Neang Khmao Temple, Prasat Phnom Chisor, First Fruit Church.
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 historical temple complex situated on a 133-meter-high mountain in Takeo Province, south of Phnom Penh.
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