Wat Ek Phnom Travel Guide

Located some 15kms to the northwest of Battambang city, Wat Ek Phnom is one of the province’s most visited temples. Dating back to the 11th century, this temple is largely in ruins, but visitors will still be able to get an idea of the temple’s former glory.

Wat Ek Phnom was built during the Bayon period, when Suryavarman I was on the throne. The ruins consist of a number of prasat on platforms, and although the temple itself may be gently crumbling, many of the carvings here are still in good condition.

The temple is very atmospheric as it is surrounded by several lotus ponds, streams, rivers and tall trees. In the center of the lotus ponds is a modern pagoda, which is also open to visitors.

Although Wat Ek Phrom pales in comparison to the temples of Angkor, the pretty setting and close proximity to Battambang make it a good place to visit for those with a little time on their hands, and many Khmer families travel here to enjoy a picnic beside the lotus ponds.

In order to enter the temple sanctuary, visitors need to climb through one of the windows or a section of crumbling wall, which adds to the sense of adventure. Visiting Wat Ek Phnom is like stepping back into the past as the nearby villages and landscape have changed little over the years. The best time to visit is at sunset, when shutterbugs are sure to capture excellent images.

In brief

What is it? An atmospheric temple dating back to the 11th century.


Opening hours: 06:00 to 18:30, daily.

Entrance fees: no entry charge.


Where: Battambang district in the picturesque west of Cambodia.

How to get there: take a taxi to the northwest of Battambang city (25 minutes), which is a 4 hour bus ride from the capital.