Phnom Bakheng Temple

A hike to the temple from the carpark was relatively easy. The way back after sunset was slightly tricky with the fading light but totally manageable. The temple itself is still under restoration. It is also relatively small comparing to the others in the area. It makes up the size with its altitude: sitting atop the hill it offers a great view of surrounding, even Angkor Wat on a clear weather. It's also a popular site for sunset, jam packed with visitors facing west in the evening.

The temple sits on a hill, where many visitors arrive here after 16:00 for sunset. The walking time between the parking spot and the temple takes about 15 - 20 minutes. It's a fairly large temple and the moment when the sun goes down and the sky color is gradually changing from bright to dim is captivating. Angkor Wat tower is visible from the upper deck of the temple. I was unlucky to arrive here too early at 15:10, when the sun was still shining brightly without mercy. I had a transport problem because I rented a bicycle, making me having to estimate the duration of pedaling back to the hotel before the sky is dark. I recommend visiting this temple between 16:30 and 17:00, just get ready for the crowd who may have occupied the main deck. The competition for taking sunset pictures could be fierce.

It is beautiful, if it's not too crowded and the sky is clear, which seems to be a rare occasion! The main challenge compared to other temples is that the space at the top is quite limited. But still I really enjoyed it and think it is worth the walk. BTW, the walk is quite easy apart from too many stairs at the end.

“Phnom Bakheng Temple is a significant Hindu temple located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, built at the end of the 9th century by King Yasovarman. It is a temple mountain dedicated to Shiva, symbolizing Mount Meru, the home of the Hindu gods. The temple features a five-tiered pyramid structure, representing the seven heavens, and is a popular tourist destination for its stunning sunset views over Angkor Wat. Due to its popularity, the temple is one of the most threatened monuments in Angkor, and efforts are being made to preserve it through conservation initiatives.” From Copilot Search. Beautiful amazing hill temple, with incredible views from the top and various spectacular view points.

It is definitely worth visiting at sunset, even though it can get very crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the experience more comfortably. Don’t make the mistake most tourists do by leaving as soon as the sun disappears, stay a bit longer. The sky continues to change colors afterward, and it’s absolutely beautiful to watch.

Day 7 visiting Angkor Wat 🌅 Phnom Bakheng • Located on a hill between Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. • A 9th-century temple-mountain, one of the earliest in the Angkor area. • From the top, you get panoramic views over the jungle, and on clear days you can see Angkor Wat in the distance as the sun sets behind it. • It is the most famous sunset spot in Angkor, so visitor numbers are limited in the late afternoon.

For me, this is the best sunset view in Angkor! I loved the walk up the hill with my family to reach the temple summit. It is one of the most popular sunset spots here for a reason…watching the colors change over the temples is a beautiful memory. I highly recommend this experience to everyone visiting Siem Reap!

Beautiful temple in angkor wat site. Please keep in mind from the entrance to the temple to the site is around 15 to 20 minutes walk on a hill site. Also if you want to see the sunset go with enough time in advance since there is a long queue to go to the top of the temple. After 5.30 p.m you do not need a ticket. The entrance is free