Sambor Prei Kuk

The most famous attractions of Kampong Thom are the ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk, the former city of Isanapura, the capital of the pre-Angkorian Khmer Kingdom. The temples are surrounded by forest and some vegetation has draped around the ruins which creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The complex of Sambor Prei Kuk is listed on the tentative list of World Heritage sites.

The ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk are located in the North of Kampong Thom, the capital of Kampong Thom Province. Kampong Thom is approximately halfway between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh on Road No. 6 that runs north of the Tonle Sap Lake. Visitors can take a Soriya or Mekong Express bus that travels between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. They can get off at Kampong Thom town and drive to Sambor Prei Kuk via tuk tuk, motorbike or taxi.

Next to guided tours to the ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk, guests can explore the surrounding by bike or ox-cart. Moreover they can go trekking through the forest or visit agricultural and handicraft villages. If they like to learn more about the Cambodian culture it is possible to join the villagers in activities, like planting and harvesting rice or help the University of Waseda to maintain and restore the ruins. Other options are: participating in special village ceremonies, following traditional Khmer dancing performances, taking part in cooking classes which are arranged in Kampong Chheuteal High School or spending the night at a local home-stay and try delicious local food.

The Isanborei Community Tourism Project plans to develop Sambor Prei Kuk as a culturally interesting new destination in Cambodia that shows a different side of the country next to existing destinations such as Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.