Prè Rup temple

Prè Rup temple is a Khmer temple located in the Angkor region of Cambodia. It was built in the 9th century, during the Angkorian period, during the reign of Indravarman II, and is considered one of the oldest temples in the Angkor region.
The Prè Rup temple was considered a place of worship for the Hindu faithful of the region. It was dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and was considered a place for meditation and religious rituals. It was also used as a Buddhist place of worship.
The temple is known for its characteristic architecture from the pre-Angkorian period, with pyramidal towers and terraced roofs covered in red tiles. It is also known for its bas-reliefs and sculptures that depict Hindu deities and scenes from daily life.
Over the centuries, the temple was abandoned and suffered significant damage. It was rediscovered by French archaeologists in the 19th century and was restored in the 1960s. Today it is open to the public and attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to admire its magnificent bas-reliefs, sculptures and architecture.

Architecture

The architecture of the Prè Rup temple is characteristic of Khmer art from the pre-Angkorian period. It is built of sandstone and red brick. It is made up of three main towers which have a pyramid shape. These towers are connected by corridors and interior courtyards, forming a cross-shaped plan. The towers have terraced roofs which were originally covered with red tiles.
The exterior walls of the temple are decorated with bas-reliefs and sculptures depicting Hindu and Buddhist deities, as well as scenes from daily life and battle scenes. These sculptures are considered masterpieces of Khmer art. The bas-reliefs are particularly elaborate and detailed, showing scenes from Hindu and Buddhist religious life as well as scenes from daily life.
The Prè Rup temple is also known for its innovative use of natural lighting. The windows and light holes were designed to allow natural light to enter the interior rooms, creating an effect of changing light throughout the day.
In summary, the architecture of the Prè Rup temple is characteristic of Khmer art of the pre-Angkorian period, with pyramidal towers, corridors and interior courtyards, exterior walls decorated with bas-reliefs and Hindu and Buddhist sculptures. , as well as an innovative use of natural lighting

Visit

Visiting the Prè Rup temple is a unique experience for visitors who wish to discover the architecture and history of the ancient royal city of Angkor. It is located in the Angkor region, approximately 5 km southeast of Angkor Wat. It is possible to visit the temple in combination with other famous temples such as Banteay Srei and Ta Keo.
The tour begins with a stroll through the temple’s gardens and exterior courtyards, where you can admire the exterior walls decorated with bas-reliefs and sculptures. You will also be able to see the three main towers which lead to the central courtyard.
Then, you can enter the interior rooms of the temple to discover the different rooms and interior courtyards. You will also be able to see the statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities that were once worshiped in the temple.
It is important to note that the Prè Rup temple is in ruins and some parts are difficult to access. There are also steep stairs to access the main towers. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and a bottle of water to protect yourself from the heat. Guided tours are also available for a more enriching experience.

Opening hours

Most temples are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

• Angkor Wat : 5h – 17h30
• Baphuon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Banteay Srei : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bayon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bakheng : 5h – 19h
• Srah Srang : 5h – 17h30
• Pre Khan : 7h30 – 17h30
• Prè Rup : 5h – 19h
• Phnom Bakheng : 5h – 19h

Times given as an indication, but guides and tuk-tuks know them very well.

You will easily find restaurants and merchants that offer good meals with good Khmer recipes for your meals during your visit. On the site, you will also find where to stay during your stay in Cambodia.