🛕 Neak Pean
នាគពាន់
Also known as: Coiled Serpents
Province
Siem Reap
Era
Late Angkorian
Difficulty
🟢 Easy
Crowds
😌 Low Crowds
Key Facts
Built: Late 12th century
Built by: King Jayavarman VII
Religion: Buddhist
Entry Fee: Angkor Pass
Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
UNESCO: ✅ World Heritage Site
A unique island temple set in an artificial lake, representing the mythical Lake Anavatapta — a healing sanctuary.
Neak Pean is one of the most unusual temples in the Angkor complex — a small Buddhist sanctuary built on a circular island in the center of the now mostly dry Jayatataka baray (reservoir). The temple represents the mythical Himalayan lake Anavatapta, believed to cure all illness. Four smaller pools surround the central pool, connected by gargoyle-like stone spouts depicting a human head, horse head, elephant head, and lion head. Pilgrims would visit to bathe in the healing waters, with the water flowing through different animal heads believed to cure different ailments. The central island features two intertwined naga serpents (giving the temple its name) and a remarkable sculpture of the flying horse Balaha rescuing shipwrecked merchants.
Highlights
- ✦ Unique island temple design
- ✦ Flying horse Balaha sculpture
- ✦ Four connected healing pools
- ✦ Wooden boardwalk approach through forest
- ✦ Reflections in the water
Best Time to Visit
Rainy season (June-Nov) when pools have water
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Best visited during or after rainy season when water levels are high
- 💡 The 500m wooden boardwalk through the forest is pleasant
- 💡 Quick stop — combine with Preah Khan and Ta Som
Nearby Temples
13.4672°N, 103.8900°E
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