Ta Prohm
Where nature and ancient Khmer architecture become one
1-2 Hours
Visit Duration
1 km
From Angkor Thom
Top 3
Most Photographed
Included
In Angkor Pass
Overview
Ta Prohm is arguably the most atmospheric temple in the Angkor complex. Unlike the meticulously restored temples like Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm was deliberately left largely as it was found—with giant silk-cotton trees and strangler figs growing through, around, and over the ancient stone structures.
This deliberate decision by the École française d'Extrême-Orient offers visitors a glimpse of how all the Angkor temples appeared when European explorers first rediscovered them in the 19th century. The result is an otherworldly atmosphere that has made Ta Prohm one of Cambodia's most beloved and photographed sites.
History
Ta Prohm was built in 1186 by King Jayavarman VII to honor his mother. Originally known as Rajavihara ("Royal Monastery"), it served as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university. At its peak, the temple complex was home to over 12,500 people, including 18 high priests and 615 dancers.
Historical Facts
- • Built: 1186 AD by Jayavarman VII
- • Religion: Originally Mahayana Buddhist
- • Residents: 12,640 people including 18 high priests
- • Support: 79,365 people from surrounding villages
- • Purpose: Dedicated to the king's mother
The Famous Trees
The trees that make Ta Prohm so distinctive are primarily two species: silk-cotton trees (Ceiba pentandra) with their pale gray roots, and strangler figs (Ficus gibbosa) with their tentacle-like roots that cascade over walls and through doorways.
Silk-Cotton Trees
These massive trees with pale, almost bone-like roots have grown to enormous heights, their root systems spreading across galleries and bursting through stone roofs. The most famous specimens are at the central sanctuary.
Strangler Figs
Starting life as seeds deposited by birds in cracks of the temple, these trees send roots cascading down walls like frozen waterfalls. They both destroy and support the structures simultaneously.
Conservation Note
The relationship between trees and temple is carefully monitored. Removing the trees would cause the stones to collapse; leaving them unchecked would destroy more stonework. Restoration teams maintain this delicate balance.
Key Highlights
Tomb Raider Tree (East Entrance)
The most famous photo spot where Angelina Jolie filmed scenes. Expect queues but the image is iconic—a giant tree cascading over a stone doorway.
Crocodile Tree
A massive strangler fig resembling a crocodile's head. Less crowded than the main attraction but equally impressive.
Hall of Dancers
Features well-preserved apsara (celestial dancer) carvings. Look for the false doorways and intricate decorative lintels.
Dinosaur Carving
A mysterious carving that some claim resembles a stegosaurus. Likely depicting a rhinoceros or mythical creature, but fun to spot nonetheless.
Visiting Tips
Recommendations
- Visit at opening (7:30 AM) or after 3:30 PM
- Enter from the east for the iconic tree shot first
- Explore the quieter outer galleries
- Bring mosquito repellent—it's shady and damp
Avoid
- Visiting between 10 AM and 2 PM (peak crowds)
- Climbing on the tree roots (damages both)
- Touching the carvings and stonework
Best Photo Spots
The iconic Tomb Raider shot—tree roots cascading over entrance
Massive silk-cotton tree emerging from the stone roof
Atmospheric shots through collapsed galleries
Morning light filtering through tree canopy and collapsed roofs
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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