The temple complex of Banteay Prey Nokor is especially known by the temple of Wat Nokor located in Khum of Kompong Siem, at a distance of 1200 meters from the town of Kompong Cham. The monument was built out of sandstone and laterite, and dates from the last years of the reign of Jayavarman ...
Small, untouristed temple near Neak Pean. Similar to Ta Som in architectural/artistic style and scale. Some of the apsara and Buddhist-themed lintel carvings are in pretty good condition. Oddly small doors and windows. Quiet, meditative spot.
This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on September 1, 1992 in the Cultural category.
The temple complex of Banteay Prey Nokor is especially known by the temple of Wat Nokor located in Khum of Kompong Siem, at a distance of 1200 meters from the town of Kompong Cham. The monument was built out of sandstone and laterite, and dates from the last years of the reign of Jayavarman VII. It is composed of a central tower surrounded by four laterite wall-enclosures. The central tower of the temple of Vat Nokor is decorated with motifs characteristic of Bayon with Buddhist scenes on the pediments. The temple complex is also believed to have been the headquarters of Jayavarman VII for a time, from where he extended his influence over nearby principalities.
The local people sometimes call the temple 'Wat Angkor' though a sign at the entrance of the temple now officially designates the name of the temple as Wat Nokor Bachey. The temple has a number of distinguishing characteristics other than the fact that it is the largest ancient temple complex in Kampong Cham Province. One of these characteristics alludes to the fact that it is built of black sandstone, which causes it to stand out from other temples of the period which are often built of brick or reddish sandstone. The temple has an inscription which is still open to visitors to see (and even touch) in the temple's central pavilion. The temple also boasts a 'Chartre' effect in which another more modern temple of a very different style has been built over and around the original Angkorian structure creating a blend of architectural styles. There are many legends surrounding the origin of the temple but the most popular one has Oedipal overtones. According to this legend, the temple was built by a king who accidentally killed his father and married his mother. As recounted in the Greek legend, this King was put out by his father after a seer told him that his son would kill him. The son, however, did not die and returned to his kingdom not knowing that his father was the King. After quareling on the road, the son killed the King and married his Queen who was his mother. Upon discovering his crime, this young man built Wat Nokor in penance for his crime.
Wat Nokor does not get the attention or maintenance necessary to maintain the grounds and gardens. The temple has great potential as a tourist attraction. Its deserted ambiance is one of its greatest attractions and distinguishes it from the touristed atmosphere found in Siem Reap and other popular tourist locations. Nevertheless, the litter strewn walkways around the temple are contrary to tourists' expectations.
Explore the extraordinary Angkor Wat temple complex on a private 2-day guided tour from Siem Reap, and learn more about the ancient Khmer civilization. You will enjoy Tomb Raider experiences at ...
Experience the beauty of Angkor Wat as you cruise high above during a thrilling helicopter ride over this famed UNESCO World Heritage listed site. You’ll get an aerial view during the 20-minute ...
This trip is one of the best trekking in Cambodia to discover the life of people along the Mekong river, visit the hill tribe people in the northeast, nature and National Park, visit to the community ...
With charming Siem Reap serving as your gateway to the temples of the ancient Khmer Empire, explore Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, as well as the jungle ruins of Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei. Spend your ...
Prek Toal is one of three biospheres on Tonlé Sap lake, and this stunning bird sanctuary makes it the most worthwhile and straightforward of the three to visit. It is an ornithologist’s fantasy, ...
6 Days best Cambodia classic holidays in Cambodia arranged by our specialist tour operator, which will take you to the best attractions in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh: Angkor Wat, Tonle Sap Lake, Wat ...
Guest Name: Mr. Ori yomi
Country: Nigeria
City: Lagos
N.of Person: 1 pax
Travel date: 2025-05-05
Booked: Best Phnom Penh City Tour (Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Independence Monument)
Tour Style: Day Trip Tours
Duration: Half-Day