Baksei Chamkrong
A serene 10th-century Khmer pyramid temple, often missed by tourists, offering a peaceful escape and unique architectural views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Baksei Chamkrong
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 10th-century Khmer pyramid temple, often missed by tourists, offering a peaceful escape and unique architectural views.
"A small but impressive temple, a hidden gem of Angkor that will take your breath away."
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience with fewer tourists.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the top is steep; good footwear is essential for a safe ascent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pyramid Structure
Base of the temple
A unique 10th-century four-tiered pyramid, offering a glimpse into early Khmer architecture.
Summit Views
Top of the pyramid
Climb to the top for treetop views and a moment of quiet reflection away from the main tourist paths.
Intricate Carvings
Sanctuary tower
Admire the detailed sandstone carvings, including a lintel depicting Indra on his elephant.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience with fewer tourists.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the top is steep; good footwear is essential for a safe ascent.
📸 Photogenic Gem
The temple is quite photogenic, especially in the right light. Don't miss capturing its unique structure.
⏱️ Quick Stop
Allow about 15-30 minutes to explore and climb. Perfect for a brief stop on your temple tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience with fewer tourists.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The climb to the top is steep; good footwear is essential for a safe ascent.
📸 Photogenic Gem
The temple is quite photogenic, especially in the right light. Don't miss capturing its unique structure.
⏱️ Quick Stop
Allow about 15-30 minutes to explore and climb. Perfect for a brief stop on your temple tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Baksei Chamkrong is a historically significant, often overlooked 10th-century pyramid temple. Visitors appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity for unique photos without crowds. While it's a brief stop, its architectural uniqueness and peacefulness make it a worthwhile addition to an Angkor itinerary.
"One of the smaller ruins that can be observed while trekking up the nearby Phnom Bakheng temple, it doesn't seem to receive many visitors of its own. The ruins consist of an unassuming prang tower, largely intact and not easily climbed. There didn't appear to be any guides checking tickets or to chat up about the site here, so you are left with just the signage as you approach. Quite photogenic in the right light, so it shouldn't be skipped. As there are few visitors it's a great place to rest and reflect on the nature surrounding the site. Not a popular place so it is easily overlooked."
Micheal Linke
"Standing quietly near the southern gate of Angkor Thom is Baksei Chamkrong, a small yet historically significant temple that often goes unnoticed compared to Angkor’s grand monuments. Despite its modest size, this temple holds an important place in the story of the Khmer Empire."
Heang Traveller
"Interesting to see if you have a lot of time (3 days Angkor ticket etc). But during 1 day visit I would advise to choose another locations.
Built during the first decades of the tenth century at the foot of Phnom Bakheng, Baksei Chamkrong is the only pyramid temple in this area that survives from that era.
Like many other Angkorean monuments in the park, Baksei Chamkrong was constructed atop a previous structure.
Today, this often-overlooked architectural jewel is more easily approached and admired, as a high brick wall that once encircled it has long since vanished.
In 948 CE, 40 years after the temple was built, King Rajendravarman had a Sanskrit text engraved on its doorjamb. Of the estimated 1,500 inscriptions in Southeast Asia known to survive, this one is unique in that it relates the succession of Khmer kings from pre-Angkorean times, grounding the dynasty on a mythic foundation. The lineage is said to descend from the union of the hermit Kamba, said to be "born from himself," and the celestial nymph Mera."
Elena Titkova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baksei Chamkrong is easily accessible from Siem Reap. A tuk-tuk ride takes about 15 minutes, while a motorbike is slightly faster at 14 minutes. Cycling is also an option, taking around 37 minutes.
Baksei Chamkrong is located near the southern gate of Angkor Thom, making it a convenient stop when exploring the wider Angkor complex, rather than being directly adjacent to Angkor Wat itself.
While it's a bit of a trek, walking or jogging from Siem Reap is possible, though it will take significantly longer (over an hour for jogging). It's more practical to visit as part of a tuk-tuk or bicycle tour.
Yes, Baksei Chamkrong is within the Angkor Archaeological Park and requires an Angkor Pass for entry, just like other major temples.
Many visitors opt for a tuk-tuk for convenience and flexibility, especially when combining it with other temples. Cycling is also a popular and eco-friendly choice for those who enjoy it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an Angkor Pass is required to enter the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes Baksei Chamkrong. Ensure you have your pass ready.
Official guides are not always readily available at Baksei Chamkrong itself, as it's a smaller site. It's recommended to hire a guide for the day to cover multiple temples, or rely on signage and your own research.
Baksei Chamkrong, like most temples in the Angkor complex, is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always best to confirm current hours with your tour operator or local authorities.
No, there is no separate entrance fee for Baksei Chamkrong. Your Angkor Pass covers entry to all temples within the park.
Tickets for the Angkor Archaeological Park (Angkor Pass) must be purchased at the official ticket office before entering the park. They are not sold at individual temples like Baksei Chamkrong.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. The temple is also less crowded during these times, allowing for unobstructed shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas. However, always be respectful and avoid using flash inside any enclosed sanctuary structures, if accessible.
The entire pyramid structure is a key subject. The view from the top offers a unique perspective, and details of the carvings on the sanctuary tower are also highly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted within the Angkor Archaeological Park for preservation and safety reasons. It's best to check the latest regulations before your visit.
Yes, due to its less popular status, it's often possible to get photos with very few or no other tourists, especially if you visit during off-peak hours.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Baksei Chamkrong was constructed in the 10th century, during the reign of King Harshavarman I and completed by King Rajendravarman II. 
The name translates to 'The Bird Who Shelters Under Its Wings,' derived from a legend about a king being protected by a giant bird.
It was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is known to have housed a golden statue of the deity.
It's notable as one of the earlier surviving pyramid temples from its era in the Angkor complex, featuring a four-tiered structure.
A Sanskrit text engraved on its doorjamb in 948 CE is unique for relating the succession of Khmer kings from pre-Angkorean times, grounding the dynasty on a mythic foundation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The lack of crowds can be a big plus for families, allowing kids to explore a bit more freely without disturbing others. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to keep everyone comfortable.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Phnom Bakheng and the southern gate of Angkor Thom to maximize your travel time and experience. Renting a bicycle is a cost-effective way to explore these sites at your own pace.
📸 Photographers
Tip: Explore different angles from the base and don't forget to capture the intricate carvings on the sanctuary tower. The view from the summit also offers a different perspective, looking out over the surrounding treetops.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bird Who Shelters Under Its Wings: A Legend
This narrative is more than just a story; it reflects the deep spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Khmer people. Temples in the Angkor complex often served not only as places of worship but also as symbolic representations of the cosmos and the divine right of kings. Baksei Chamkrong, with its unique name and history, stands as a testament to these rich traditions.
Architectural Significance and Construction
Crowning the pyramid is a sanctuary tower made of brick and sandstone, which features intricate carvings. Among these is a notable lintel depicting Indra, the king of the gods in Hinduism, riding his three-headed elephant, Airavata. The temple was built atop a previous structure, a common practice in Khmer temple construction, indicating layers of history and devotion.
Interestingly, a high brick wall once encircled Baksei Chamkrong, but it has long since vanished. This makes the temple more accessible and easier to admire today. Its relatively intact state, despite its age, allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and architectural style of the period.
A Quiet Contemplation Spot
Its location near the southern gate of Angkor Thom and the base of Phnom Bakheng makes it an ideal, brief stop on a temple-hopping itinerary. While some might consider it less grand than other Angkorian monuments, its historical importance and serene atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for those with a bit more time or a desire to explore beyond the main attractions.
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