Angkor Trips - Itinerary

Explore Sambor Prei Kuk Temples

Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk, Archaeological Site of Ancient Ishanapura. The archaeological site of Sambor Prei Kuk, “the temple in the richness of the forest” in the Khmer language, has been identified as Ishanapura, the capital of the Chenla Empire that flourished in the late 6th and early 7th centuries AD. The property comprises more than a hundred temples, ten of which are octagonal, unique specimens of their genre in South-East Asia. Decorated sandstone elements in the site are characteristic of the pre-Angkor decorative idiom, known as the Sambor Prei Kuk Style. Some of these elements, including lintels, pediments and colonnades, are true masterpieces. The art and architecture developed here became models for other parts of the region and lay the ground for the unique Khmer style of the Angkor period.

GROUP TOUR
Tour cost are net per person in US Dollar in twin/double sharing room

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Tour Overview

Discover the ancient capital of Chenla at Sambor Prei Kuk, one of Cambodia’s most remarkable pre-Angkorian temple complexes. Located about 170 km east of Siem Reap, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 7th century, long before the rise of Angkor. Explore the tranquil forest surroundings filled with brick temples, intricate carvings, and peaceful village life — a true journey back in time.

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

06:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Siem Reap. After a short briefing, we’ll begin our journey toward Kampong Thom Province, where Sambor Prei Kuk is located. Enjoy scenic views of the Cambodian countryside, passing through local villages, rice fields, and palm trees.

09:30 AM – Arrival in Kampong Thom Province
Take a short refreshment break before entering the temple complex. Sambor Prei Kuk, meaning “The Temple in the Rich Forest,” was once known as Ishanapura, the capital city of the Chenla Kingdom.

09:45 AM – Explore the Temple Complex
Guided tour through the three main temple groups:

Group N (Northern Group – Prasat Sambor):
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this group features some of the oldest standing brick sanctuaries in Southeast Asia.
Group C (Central Group – Prasat Tor):
The heart of Ishanapura, with impressive octagonal temples and detailed carvings showing early Khmer art.
Group S (Southern Group – Prasat Yeay Poan):
Known for its peaceful setting surrounded by tall trees and nature trails.

You’ll have time to walk among the ancient ruins and admire the architecture and craftsmanship that predate Angkor Wat by more than 500 years.

12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious Cambodian-style lunch in a local restaurant near the site or a picnic under the trees inside the heritage area (optional). Try local specialties from Kampong Thom province.

01:30 PM – Visit a Local Village
After lunch, stop by a nearby traditional village to see how locals live today — experience weaving, rice farming, or palm sugar production, depending on the season.

02:30 PM – Depart for Siem Reap
Sit back and relax as we drive back through the countryside.

05:30 PM – Return to Hotel
Arrive back at your hotel in Siem Reap with unforgettable memories of Cambodia’s pre-Angkorian heritage.