Tep Pranam Temple

Address: Tep Pranam - Siem Reap area (part of the Angkor temple area), Cambodia

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

Hours: Daily 5:00am-5:30pm (Angkor Archaeological Park hours)

Admission: Angkor Archaeological Park pass required: 1-day US$37, 3-day US$62, 7-day US$72 (prices in USD)

Meaning ‘the worshipping god’, Tep Pranam is an enormous seated Buddha at one of the oldest temple sites at Angkor, standing amid quiet forest a short walk north of the Royal Palace enclosure inside Angkor Thom. Though the Buddha image is newer than the original structure, various parts of the temple are later additions, and an active monastery on the site testifies to its enduring religious significance. It is easily combined with nearby Preah Palilay as a detour away from the hawkers near the Leper Terrace.

Visitors reach the statue across a laterite causeway lined with serpent balustrades and guardian lions. The Buddha, seated on a lotus pedestal and assembled from several stones rather than cast in one piece, is shown in the Bhumisparsa Mudra, ‘calling the earth to witness’ his enlightenment. This is one of the most tranquil corners of the Angkor Archaeological Park; the morning light here is especially good, and while photographs are permitted, visitors should be respectful of the resident monks and the atmosphere of calm.