Pre Rup Archaeological Site

Address: Pre Rup, Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia

Website: https://www.apsaraauthority.gov.kh/en

Hours: Daily 5:00am-6:00pm (Angkor Archaeological Park visiting hours)

Admission: Angkor Park fee applies: 1-day $37, 3-day $62, 7-day $72 (subject to change); Pre Rup included in temple access

Pre Rup is a 10th-century temple mountain at the Angkor archaeological park in northwest Cambodia, built as a state temple and dedicated to Shiva in 961 AD. It is constructed chiefly of laterite and brick on a stepped pyramid plan with stone-faced terraces and towers.

The monument’s stepped platforms and central pyramid form a compact complex of terraces, stairways and tower bases that rise in successive levels to a top platform, making it a notable viewpoint within the Angkor precinct. The site is frequently visited for the open views from its upper terraces and for the example it provides of Khmer temple-mountain architecture.

Pre Rup was commissioned by King Rajendravarman II and completed in the mid 10th century as a state temple and funerary monument. Over time it fell into ruin and was later studied and conserved by archaeologists; much of the original brick and carved stonework remains visible.

The temple sits east of the main Angkor Thom area, within the greater Angkor archaeological zone near the eastern baray and east of the central complex of Angkor. It is accessed by road from the town of Siem Reap and is one of several 10th- and 11th-century monuments in the surrounding landscape.

• Sunset views: Sunset is a popular time to visit for panoramic views from the upper platforms; the stone steps and terraces provide clear sightlines toward the surrounding trees and fields.
• Access note: Approach involves uneven stone stairways and terraces, so allow time and wear suitable footwear when climbing the temple levels.

Pre Rup is about 12-15 km east of Siem Reap town. Most visitors reach it by tuk-tuk (20-30 minutes depending on traffic) or by a hired vehicle as part of an Angkor Park circuit.

• Visit at sunset - Pre Rup's summit is a classic spot for orange light and clear silhouettes, but arrive at least an hour before sunset for best positioning.
• Combine Pre Rup with nearby East Mebon and the remote temples east of the main Angkor group for a quieter afternoon.
• Bring a headlamp if planning to climb in low light; the stone steps can be uneven.