• Sambor Prei Kuk - Sambor Prei Kuk is an archaeological site in Cambodia, situated in Kampong Thom Province, 30 km north of Kampong Thom, the provincial capital, 176 km east of Angkor, 206 km north of Phnom Penh, and 176 km from Siem Reap City.

Sambor Prei Kuk served as the former capital known as Chenla during the 6th to 7th centuries, predating the Angkor period. This expansive complex is recognized as a world heritage site. Visitors will experience a unique perspective after visiting Angkor National Park, as Sambor Prei Kuk is the oldest site. Additionally, there are numerous temples to explore, some of which are not listed on TripAdvisor.

• Spean Praptos - Spean Praptos, also known as Kampong Kdei Bridge, is located on National Road 6 from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. It was once the longest corbeled stone-arch bridge in the world, featuring over twenty narrow arches spanning 285 ft (87m). Constructed in the 12th century during King Jayavarman VII’s reign, it is one of the few surviving bridges from the Khmer Empire era.

• Prasat Yeai Poeun - Prasat Yeay Poan consists of numerous brick and laterite temples, either rectangular or octagonal, each adorned with impressive carvings known as a “Flying Palace.” The temple group is enclosed by an inner brick wall and an outer laterite wall, with entrance gates to the East and West, and false gates to the South and North. Inscriptions confirm the temple group was built during King Ishanavarman I’s reign from 616-637 AD.

• Prasat Tao - Prasat Tao, constructed by Isanavarman I & Jayavarman in the 7th century, is located between Prasat Sambor and Prasat Yeay Poan. It is referred to as the Central (or C) group at Sambor Prei Kuk. The layout resembles Yeay Poan, with a laterite enclosing wall surrounding a large central shrine and auxiliary towers, along with additional brick towers within a second outer wall. Five structures remain around the central tower, with eight more in the outer section.

• Prasat Sambour District - PRASAT BOS REAM is a fascinating site in the forest, a short distance north of Prasat Sandan, consisting of seven east-facing brick mounds aligned diagonally from NNE to SSW. Although little remains today beyond earthen mounds covered in bushes, the site was once impressive. A man-made pond lies to the north, though no enclosing wall remains. It is unusual that out of the seven presumed shrines, only a few courses of bricks remain.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - Trapeang Ropeak Temple is a 7th-century pre-Angkorian octagonal brick shrine at Sambor Prei Kuk, notable for a large tree growing through its structure and its unique octagonal shape, likely representing the Vimana Trivishtapa, or the flying palace of the god Indra. The temple is located northwest of temple Z and is surrounded by an environment heavily reclaimed by nature.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - Bos Ream Temple, also known as Tower N24 or Prasat Rong Chambak, is an unexcavated rectangular brick temple at the Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological site. It is characterized by its unique tree-covered elevation and remnants of early Khmer architectural decorations. Notable for its preservation compared to other structures at the site, it features visible decorations around the eaves and false doors.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - Chrey Temple (Prasat Chrey) is a pre-Angkorian brick sanctuary at the Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological site, famous for being almost entirely engulfed by the roots of a massive strangler fig tree. Designated N18, it was once part of a larger complex but is now partially separated by a road. Its picturesque ruins are a popular photo spot, showcasing a beautiful yet destructive interplay between nature and ancient architecture.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - This small “cell” shrine is open to the east, around 3 m in height and width. It is made of sandstone, featuring ornate pilasters/pillars that also support the thin slabs of sandstone forming the walls and roof slab.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - Drum Chan Temple is a misinterpretation of a temple complex in Sambor Prei Kuk, a pre-Angkorian archaeological site in Cambodia from the 7th century. The name likely refers to the “Temple Zone,” which includes clusters like Prasat Sambor (the main temple), Prasat Yeah Puon, and Prasat Boram. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features unique octagonal temples, and its architectural and artistic style, known as the Sambor Prei Kuk style, was a precursor to the Angkorian period.

• Sambor Prei Kuk - Kbal Chrouk Temple, also known as Tower N20, is a ruined rectangular brick temple at Sambor Prei Kuk, notable for its ornate sandstone doorframe, a K. 439 inscription, and reliefs of “flying palaces.” Built during the reigns of kings Bhavavarman II and Jayavarman I, it originally housed a golden linga and features unique decorative elements like pilasters and base decorations. The temple, which opens to the east, is part of a larger archaeological site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Pick Up & Drop Off
• Mountain Bike & Helmet
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Cold Drinking Water
• Lunch
• English Speaking Tour Guide

• Entrance fees

Cycling at Sambor Prei Kuk offers a unique opportunity to explore the jungle-covered, pre-Angkorian temples and their tranquil natural surroundings at a leisurely pace, providing a peaceful alternative to busier sites like Angkor Wat. This experience includes cycling through rural villages, passing by local plantations, and enjoying the relatively quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal way to discover this UNESCO World Heritage site, once the capital of the Chenla Empire.

The distinctiveness of Sambor Prei Kuk temple lies in its pre-Angkorian architecture, especially the octagonal temples and “flying palace” carvings, which set a precedent for later Khmer styles. As the former capital of the Chenla Empire during the 6th to 7th centuries, the site’s ruins are enveloped by nature, creating a unique blend of ancient architecture and jungle, contrasting with the larger, more formal structures of Angkor.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.