Preah Palilay
Archaeological Site Bayon-period Angkor temple known for serene walkways.
Near Angkor’s central complex, Preah Palilay combines brick and laterite with small stupas and Buddhist additions. Angkor visitors stop for quieter temple scenes, carved reliefs and close study of Khmer religious layers.
Preah Palilay is a compact temple ruin within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap province, Cambodia, dating to the late 12th or early 13th century. It combines brick, laterite and sandstone construction and shows features associated with the Jayavarman VII building program.
The monument comprises a central sanctuary and adjoining small galleries, and it has been used as a Buddhist shrine in later periods. The site is noted for its comparatively tranquil setting within the park and for masonry that displays both Hindu and Buddhist iconographic elements.
Preah Palilay sits among the central cluster of Angkor monuments and is commonly visited on circuits that include nearby major sites such as Bayon and Angkor Thom.
Located inside the Angkor Archaeological Park, the temple is within the archaeological complex north of Siem Reap town.
- Visiting note: Smaller and quieter than major Angkor monuments, often visited together with nearby Bayon and the Royal Square for a compact circuit.
How to Get to Preah Palilay #
Preah Palilay sits in Angkor Thom, immediately north of the Bayon. From Siem Reap it is a 10-15 minute tuk‑tuk ride; inside the park it is a short walk from the Bayon and the Royal Terrace area. Entry is via a valid Angkor Park pass.
Tips for Visiting Preah Palilay #
- Explore early morning to see shafts of light through the trees and to avoid tour groups from Siem Reap.
- Look for the carved lintels and reused Khmer blocks leaning in unexpected places - they tell the story of repair and recycling.
- Combine a visit with the nearby Bayon and the Royal Gardens for a varied hour of architecture and shade.
Best Time to Visit Preah Palilay #
Visit Preah Palilay as part of an Angkor Thom circuit; mornings and late afternoons are best for softer light and fewer crowds.
Weather & Climate near Preah Palilay #
Preah Palilay's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in April) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 19°C to 35°C. Abundant rainfall (1323 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 1 mm.
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February
February is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 21°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is hot, feeling like 30°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 33°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (141 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (172 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (185 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (185 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (269 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (192 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall.
