Ak Yum Archaeological Site

Ak Yum is a small ruined brick temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia, dating to the late 8th or early 9th century. It is an early example of pre-Angkorian/early Angkorian temple architecture.

The site consists of a single-chamber brick sanctuary with remains of a later gopura or porch and is usually visited as part of wider tours of the West Baray area. Its compact footprint and brick construction contrast with the larger later stone temples at Angkor.

Built in the early Angkor period, Ak Yum predates many of the great stone temple-mountains and reflects the earlier use of brick for sanctuaries. It later became enveloped by waterworks associated with the West Baray reservoir but remained an archaeological ruin.

Ak Yum stands on the eastern edge of the West Baray within the Angkor Archaeological Park, southwest of the main Angkor temple group and near Siem Reap town.

• Date and construction: A compact brick sanctuary dating to the late 8th or early 9th century, located at the eastern edge of the West Baray within the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Ak Yum is within the Angkor Archaeological Park near the West Baray reservoir, west of the main Angkor complex. From Siem Reap take a tuk‑tuk or hired car toward the West Baray; the site is a short drive from Angkor Wat and accessible as part of a circular temple route.

• Ak Yum is fragile; stick to marked paths and respect signage - many small Angkor temples are undergoing conservation.
• Combine a visit with West Baray and nearby lesser‑known temples to avoid the main Angkor crowds.
• Morning light is best for brick monuments, which warm to honey tones as the sun rises.