About
Preah Vihear is a town in northern Cambodia, close to the border with Thailand. It is best known as the gateway to the clifftop temple complex that shares its name, one of the most striking sights in the country's north.
Why visit
The appeal of Preah Vihear lies in its setting. The temple complex sits on a high escarpment, and the approach rewards those who take their time. Visitors come for the views across the surrounding plains and for the chance to see a temple set so dramatically in the landscape. The town itself is small and makes a quiet base for the trip.
What to expect
- A small provincial town, with a slower pace than the larger centres of Cambodia
- The clifftop temple complex nearby, reached by road from the town
- Wide views over the lowlands, which are part of the experience of the site
- A location close to the Thai border, which shapes the character of the area
Because Preah Vihear is a town near a remote site rather than a city with a dense range of services, it suits travellers who plan ahead, arrange transport in advance and are content with a simple stay. Those who enjoy combining a historic site with a relaxed, rural setting will find it a rewarding stop on a journey through northern Cambodia.
