Phnom Krom Mountain

Phnom Krom is a low hill situated to the south of Siem Reap in Cambodia that supports a small ruined Angkor-era temple on its summit. The site provides panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and Tonle Sap Lake and is used by visitors as a vantage point.

The hill is topped by a compact temple complex built in the Khmer style; a short stairway leads to the summit and temple area, which can be reached in a brief climb. The site is compact and commonly visited as a short excursion from Siem Reap.

Phnom Krom lies a short distance south of Siem Reap and the Tonle Sap floodplain in Siem Reap Province.

• Views and timing: Short climb to the summit offers panoramic views over the Tonle Sap floodplain and of Siem Reap; popular for sunrise and sunset visits.

Phnom Krom is about 10 km south of Siem Reap town centre. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis make the 20-30 minute trip along Route 6; bicycles are also a popular option for the fit visitor.

• Climb early to avoid heat and to catch the light over Tonle Sap and the plain-late afternoons are also good for sunsets.
• Bring mosquito repellent and wear trousers after dusk; small temples and shrine areas attract insects.
• The temple is small; respect the limited space during local rituals and photography restrictions.

Phnom Krom is one of three hilltop temples built by King Yasovarman I, overlooking Chong Kneas village and the Tonle Sap Lake about 10 km south of Siem Reap. Though officially part of the Angkor Archaeological Park by virtue of its summit temple, its real draw is the view: the temple was constructed toward the end of the 9th century, when Yasovarman moved the capital from Hariharalaya (Roluos) to the city he built around Phnom Bakheng. His third hilltop temple crowns Phnom Bok, northeast of the town.

Three towers stand in a uniform row at the summit, dedicated to Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. Their upper sections have collapsed and centuries of sun, wind and rain have badly eroded the sandstone carvings, but the enclosing wall still stands and the grounds are well kept by an active Buddhist monastery beside the ruins.

The climb begins with a steep staircase followed by a winding road, and will leave you sweating even late in the day, but the 360-degree view over the lake, the West Baray and the surrounding countryside makes it well worth the effort for sunrise or sunset. A visit combines easily with a boat trip around Chong Kneas village.