Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm entrance

Nestled deep within the Angkor Archaeological Park, Ta Prohm Temple is one of the most popular and awe-inspiring sites in Cambodia. Known for its striking combination of intricate carvings and jungle foliage, Ta Prohm Temple offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient Khmer civilization.                           

In this article, we'll explore the history and cultural significance of Ta Prohm Temple, as well as provide tips for how to tour and get to this unforgettable site.

Basic Facts about Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm trees

Ta Prohm Temple is located approximately one kilometer east of Angkor Thom and covers an area of roughly 39 hectares. The temple was built during the late 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, who dedicated it to his mother. Like many of the other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, Ta Prohm Temple was built in the Bayon architectural style, which is characterized by large stone faces and intricate carvings.

What sets Ta Prohm Temple apart from other temples in the area is the way it has been left to the mercy of the jungle. Instead of being meticulously restored to its original glory, Ta Prohm Temple has been allowed to merge with the surrounding trees and vines, creating a truly unique and otherworldly atmosphere.

History of Ta Prohm Temple

King Jayavarman VII

King Jayavarman VII commissioned Ta Prohm Temple in honor of his mother, who had passed away several years earlier. The temple was originally known as Rajavihara, or "monastery of the king," and served as a Buddhist temple during the Khmer Empire. However, in the 16th century, after the decline of the Khmer Empire, Ta Prohm Temple was abandoned and left to the jungle.

It wasn't until the early 20th century that Ta Prohm Temple was rediscovered by French archaeologists. Since then, various restoration efforts have been made to preserve the temple and prevent it from being overrun by the jungle completely. However, unlike other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, such as Angkor Wat and Bayon, Ta Prohm Temple has been intentionally left in a state of "ruin," as a way of preserving its unique and haunting beauty.

Cultural Significance of Ta Prohm Temple

A sight of Ta Prohm

While Ta Prohm Temple was originally a Buddhist temple, it is also significant to the Hindu religion. The temple's intricate carvings depict scenes from both Buddhist and Hindu mythology, which is a testament to the religious and cultural diversity of the Khmer Empire.

Today, Ta Prohm Temple is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to marvel at the temple's unique beauty and connect with Cambodia's rich history. The temple has also been featured in popular films such as Tomb Raider, further cementing its place in popular culture.

How to Tour Ta Prohm Temple

There are several options for touring Ta Prohm Temple. One popular option is to take a guided tour, which can be booked in advance through various tour companies in Siem Reap. These tours typically last around three hours and include a visit to other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, such as Angkor Wat and Bayon. We will be very honored to help you tailor your Cambodia tour, please feel free to contact us.

Alternatively, visitors can opt for a self-guided tour using an audio guide or map. While this option allows for more flexibility and independence, it's important to note that the temple can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. It's also important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the temple can be quite hot and humid.

Best Time to Visit

Sunny day in Ta Prohm

The best time to visit Cambodia Ta Prohm Temple is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, making it easier to navigate the temple grounds. However, this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for large crowds.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the rainy season, which runs from May to October. While the weather can be unpredictable and there may be some flooding, the temple grounds are typically less crowded during this time.

Duration of the Tour

The amount of time you'll need to tour Ta Prohm Temple depends on your level of interest and how much time you have. Most guided tours last around three hours, but it's possible to spend several hours exploring the temple on your own.

If you're short on time, it's still possible to see the highlights of Ta Prohm Temple in an hour or two. However, for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the temple's unique beauty and history, we recommend setting aside at least half a day.

How to Get to Ta Prohm Temple

Tuk tuk driver and travelers

Things to do in Siem Reap can vary from nature to architecture. Ta Prohm Temple is one of the choices to explore Cambodia’s culture via stunning architecture. It is located approximately seven kilometers from Siem Reap, the nearest city. There are several transportation options available for getting to the temple, including:

Tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get to Ta Prohm Temple from Siem Reap. Expect to pay around $15 for a round-trip ride.

Bicycle: For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, bicycles can be rented in Siem Reap for around $2-3 per day. The ride to Ta Prohm Temple takes around 30-45 minutes and is mostly flat.

Car: Private cars and taxis can also be hired in Siem Reap for those who prefer a more comfortable ride. Expect to pay around $20-30 for a round-trip ride.

Visiting Tips

Child vendors in Ta Prohm

Here are some practical and useful tips for you to help you immerse into your fantastic Cambodia tour:

Dress appropriately: As with all temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, visitors to Ta Prohm Temple are required to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing.

Bring plenty of water: The temple grounds can be quite hot and humid, so be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Respect the temple: While it may be tempting to climb on the temple ruins or touch the carvings, it's important to remember that Ta Prohm Temple is a sacred site. Visitors should treat the temple with respect and refrain from causing any damage to the ruins.

Beware of vendors: The temple grounds can be quite crowded, and vendors may approach you selling souvenirs or drinks. While it's fine to browse, be prepared to say no if you're not interested in purchasing anything.

In Summary

Ta Prohm Temple is a truly unique and awe-inspiring site that should not be missed on your Cambodia tour. With its haunting beauty and rich history, Ta Prohm Temple offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient Khmer civilization and the religious and cultural diversity that defined it.  We wish you a safe and enjoyable journey!