Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The principle temple group, Prasat Sambor (7th and 10th centuries) is dedicated to Gamb-
hireshvara, one of Shiva's many incarnations (the other groups are dedicated to Shiva
himself). Several of Prasat Sambor's towers retain brick carvings in fairly good condition,
and there is a series of large
yoni
(female fertility symbols) around the central tower.
Prasat Yeai Poeun
(Prasat Yeay Peau)
Prasat Yeai Poeun is arguably the most atmospheric ensemble, as it feels
lost in the forest. The eastern gateway is being both held up and torn asunder by an an-
cient tree, the bricks interwoven with the tree's extensive, probing roots. A truly massive
tree shades the western gate.
TEMPLE
Prasat Tao
(Lion Temple)
The largest of the Sambor Prei Kuk complexes, Prasat Tao boasts excellent
examples of Chenla carving in the form of two large, elaborately coiffed stone lions. It
also has a fine rectangular pond, Srah Neang Pov.
TEMPLE
Sleeping & Eating
You'll find plenty of
restaurants
(mains US$2-4)
that serve local fare around the new handi-
crafts market near the temple entrance.
HOMESTAY
$
Isanborei
( 017 936112;
www.samborpreikuk.com
; dm/d US$4/6)
This organisation works hard to encour-
age visitors to Sambor Prei Kuk to stay another day. Besides running a community-based
homestay program, Isanborei offers cooking courses, rents bicycles (US$2 per day) and
organises ox-cart rides. It also operates a stable of
remorks
to whisk you safely to/from
Kompong Thom (US$15 one way).
Getting There & Away
To get here from Kompong Thom, follow NH6 north for 5km before continuing straight
on NH64 towards Preah Vihear (the paved road to Siem Reap veers left). After 11km turn
right at the laterite sign and continue for 14km on a brand-new sealed road to the temple
entrance.
From Kompong Thom, a round-trip
moto
ride out here (under an hour) should cost
US$10, a
remork
about US$20.
