How to Visit Preah Vihear Temple
Preah Vihear is arguably Cambodia's most dramatically sited temple — perched on a 525-meter cliff at the edge of the Dangrek Mountains with views stretching deep into Thailand. Getting there takes effort, but the reward is extraordinary.
How do I Visit Preah Vihear Temple?
From Siem Reap: hire a private car ($80–$100 return, 3.5 hours each way). At the base, take a moto up the mountain ($5 return). Entry: $10. Best combined with an overnight in Preah Vihear town or as a very long day trip from Siem Reap.
Plan your transport from Siem Reap
Private car with driver ($80–$100 return) is the most comfortable option. Minivan tours ($35–$50 per person) depart if enough travelers sign up. The road is paved and takes 3–3.5 hours each way.
Arrive at the base and buy tickets
At the foot of the mountain, buy your entry ticket ($10) at the information center. Hire a moto to take you up the steep, winding mountain road to the temple entrance.
💡 The moto ride up the mountain is an adventure itself — steep, winding, and exhilarating. Hold on tight.
Explore the temple complex
Preah Vihear is built along a 800m processional axis climbing the mountain. Five gopuras (entrance pavilions) lead to the main sanctuary at the cliff edge. The journey mirrors a spiritual ascent. Allow 1.5–2 hours.
Reach the cliff edge viewpoint
The main sanctuary sits at the cliff's edge with dizzying views over the Cambodian plain. On clear days you can see for 100km. This is the photo opportunity of a lifetime.
💡 The afternoon light (2–4 PM) is best for photographs. Morning can be hazy.
Consider an overnight stay
Rather than rushing back to Siem Reap (7+ hours total driving), stay overnight in Preah Vihear town. Basic guesthouses ($10–$20) let you visit the temple at sunrise and combine with Koh Ker.
💰 Costs
| Private car from Siem Reap (return) | $80–$100 |
| Temple entry | $10 |
| Moto to temple summit (return) | $5 |
| Overnight in Preah Vihear town | $10–$20 |
💡 Tips
- • Combine with Koh Ker pyramid temple for a 2-day trip from Siem Reap.
- • Bring water and snacks — limited food options at the temple.
- • The temple is on the Thai border but you cannot cross to Thailand from here.
- • Preah Vihear is NOT included in the Angkor Pass — separate $10 ticket required.
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