Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Making up the triumvirate of temple mountains built by Yasovarman I in the late 9th or
early 10th century, this peaceful but remote location sees few visitors. The small
temple
is
in reasonable shape and includes two frangipani trees growing out of a pair of ruined
towers - they look like some sort of extravagant haircut when in full flower. However, it
is the views of Phnom Kulen to the north and the plains of Angkor to the south from this
212m hill that make it worth the trip. The remains of a 5m
linga
are also visible at the op-
posite end of the hill and it's believed there were similar
linga
at Phnom Bakheng and Ph-
nom Krom. Unfortunately, it is not a sensible place for sunrise or sunset, as it would re-
quire a long journey in the dark.
There is a long, winding trail snaking up the hill at Phnom Bok, which takes about 20
minutes to climb, plus a faster cement staircase that is fairly exposed. Avoid the heat of
the middle of the day and carry plenty of water, which can be purchased locally.
Phnom Bok is about 25km from Siem Reap and is clearly visible from the road to
Banteay Srei. It is accessible by continuing east on the road to Banteay Samré for another
6km. It is possible to loop back to Siem Reap via the temples of Roluos by heading south
instead of west on the return journey, and gain some rewarding glimpses of the coun-
tryside.
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Chau Srei Vibol
This petite hilltop temple used to see few visitors, as it was difficult to access, but new
roads have put it on the temple map at last. The central sanctuary is in a ruined state but is
nicely complemented by the construction of a modern wat nearby. Surrounding the base
of the hill are laterite walls, each with a small entrance hall in reasonable condition. To get
here, turn east off the Roluos to Anlong Veng highway at a point about 8km north of NH6,
or 5km south of Phnom Bok. There is a small sign (easy to miss) that marks the turn.
Locals are friendly and helpful should you find yourself lost.
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Banteay Srei
The art gallery of Angkor,
Banteay Srei
is considered by many to be the jewel in the crown
of Angkorian artisanship. A Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, it is cut from stone of a
