Pre Rup Temple is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia.

Pre Rup Temple built as the state temple of Khmer king Rajendravarman.

Pre Rup Temple is a temple mountain of combined brick, laterite and sandstone construction.

Pre Rup Temple, name is a comparatively modern one meaning "turn the body".

Pre Rup Temple located just south of the East Baray.

Pre Rup Temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

When it comes to Cambodia travel, the first thing tourists often think of is visiting temples at Angkor Complex of Khmer people. Besides touristy structures like Angkor Wat or Bayon, there are also quiet and secluded places. And it is Pre Rup Temple that is one of the destinations in Cambodia bringing visitors this feeling. Let’s discover it now!

Pre Rup is a temple belonging to the relic of Angkor in Siem Reap Province. It is located 25km from the central city. Pre Rup Temple, name is a comparatively modern one meaning “turn the body”. The temple was built as the national shrine of King Rajendravarman in 961 and 962, being the temple to worship Shiva God in Hinduism. This is the architecture of temple-mountain which is combined between brick, laterite and sandstone. Pre Rup Temple has three towers in the centre like Angkor Wat – a famous tourist spot in the country of temples. But it is built of gray sandstone – a less durable material compared to red sandstone in other constructions. As a result, many details carved on the temple have been faded away due to harsh weather and a very long time.

When climbing to the twelve-meter-tower, tourists will have a panoramic view of the forest around. In the early morning or twilight, the scenery here is extremely impressive. However, the steps are very high and steep, which might be an interesting challenge for travelers in the discovery of Pre Rup Temple. But if you are afraid of heights, I will not recommend you to try it.

Pre Rup is also an ideal place for you to admire the view of the sunset. The image of Pre Rup Temple gradually filled with the sunset glow will be a spectacular scene in tourists’ eyes. Don’t be so surprised if you see many people try to take the most beautiful photos at that moment.

It takes us about half an hour to travel from the central area of Siem Reap to Pre Rup Temple by tuk-tuk. Therefore, this is a convenient stop when visitors are on the way to visit Ta Prohm or Banteay Kdei Temple in Cambodia.

The aim of the temple is to worship Shiva God. It is surrounded by 4 walls which create a square block. Furthermore, the cluster of 5 towers is built around with the same architectural style and design (a square dais below and the central tower above). The ashes of the Cambodian Royal are contained in these towers after their deaths. The temple also has a system of the library to record the history of formation as well as retain the documents of beliefs. There are 12 stone lions placed around the temple with vivid and fine carvings.

This mountain temple is known with the high-class architecture and art. The exquisitely carved doors are really valuable artistic heritages. Fortunately, these engraving details are well-preserved, so tourists can have a chance to admire it. According to the tradition, this is considered a temple of holding the funerals but in fact, it is belonged to King Jayavarman II. The historical importance of the temple is that it was the second one built after the capital was moved from Koh Ker to Angkor. Although most of the structure is in ruins now, we can’t deny that the whole temple is really gorgeous especially at the time of twilight.

With the deep historical values and the beautiful outside appearance, Pre Rup should be on your list of must-see landmarks in Cambodia. Spend a little time discovering this fascinating destination and you won’t feel disappointed with what it brings you.