🛕 Prasat Tao
ប្រាសាទតោ
Also known as: Lion Temple
Province
Kampong Thom
Era
Pre-Angkorian
Difficulty
🟢 Easy
Crowds
😌 Low Crowds
Key Facts
Built: 7th century
Religion: Hindu
Entry Fee: $3 (included with Sambor Prei Kuk)
Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
UNESCO: ✅ World Heritage Site
A Pre-Angkorian temple within the Sambor Prei Kuk complex featuring a rare carved lion guardian — one of the oldest stone sculptures in Cambodia.
Prasat Tao ("Lion Temple") takes its name from a remarkable carved stone lion guardian at its entrance — one of the oldest and finest stone animal sculptures found in Cambodia. Located within the southern group of the Sambor Prei Kuk complex, this 7th-century temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The single brick tower features well-preserved carved sandstone lintels and colonettes, and the famous lion sculpture displays a naturalistic style that predates the more stylized lions of the Angkorian period. Prasat Tao offers important evidence of the artistic achievements of the pre-Angkorian Chenla civilization.
Highlights
- ✦ Famous carved stone lion guardian
- ✦ One of Cambodia's oldest stone sculptures
- ✦ Well-preserved lintels and colonettes
- ✦ Part of Sambor Prei Kuk complex
- ✦ Pre-Angkorian artistic achievement
Best Time to Visit
Morning; combine with other Sambor Prei Kuk groups
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Part of Sambor Prei Kuk — included in the $3 entry fee
- 💡 Located in the southern group (Group S)
- 💡 The lion sculpture is the main highlight — don't miss it
- 💡 Hire a local guide at the entrance to find all the key temples
Nearby Temples
12.8650°N, 105.0250°E
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