🛕 Phnom Da
ភ្នំដា
Province
Takeo
Era
Pre-Angkorian
Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
Crowds
😌 Low Crowds
Key Facts
Built: 6th century
Built by: King Rudravarman
Religion: Hindu
Entry Fee: Free
Time Needed: 2–3 hours (including Angkor Borei)
One of Cambodia's oldest stone structures — a pre-Angkorian hilltop sanctuary in the ancient Funan heartland.
Phnom Da is one of the most ancient stone structures in Cambodia, dating to the 6th century when the Funan kingdom was transitioning to Chenla. Perched on a small hill surrounded by seasonal flood plains in Takeo Province, the temple represents the earliest phase of permanent stone construction in the region. The main sanctuary is a small, square laterite tower with sandstone decorative elements, reached by a steep stairway. Nearby, the cave temple of Asram Maha Rosei (Ashram of the Great Sage) is carved into the hillside and contains a remarkable carved lintel. The area around Angkor Borei, at the base of the hill, was a major center of Funan civilization, and the small local museum displays important pre-Angkorian artifacts. During the monsoon season, the surrounding plain floods, and the temple can only be reached by boat.
Highlights
- ✦ One of Cambodia's oldest stone structures
- ✦ Pre-Angkorian Funan-era sanctuary
- ✦ Hilltop panoramic views
- ✦ Cave temple of Asram Maha Rosei
- ✦ Angkor Borei museum and archaeological site
- ✦ Boat access during monsoon floods
Best Time to Visit
Late rainy season (Oct–Nov) for atmospheric boat access; dry season for easier walking
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Located near Angkor Borei in Takeo Province — about 2 hours south of Phnom Penh
- 💡 In rainy season, hire a boat from Angkor Borei to reach the hill
- 💡 Visit the small Angkor Borei museum for pre-Angkorian artifacts
- 💡 Combine with Phnom Chisor and Ta Prohm Tonle Bati for a full day
Nearby Temples
10.9500°N, 104.9500°E
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