About
Kampong Thom is a province in central Cambodia, and it is best known as the home of Sambor Prei Kuk, an ancient temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site dating from the 7th century. For many visitors, the province is a place to slow down and spend time among some of the country's oldest surviving monuments.
What to see
Sambor Prei Kuk is the centrepiece of any visit. Its brick towers and shrines stand in a wooded setting, and the site rewards an unhurried walk. Because it is far older than the famous temples further north, it offers a quieter, less crowded experience for anyone interested in early Khmer architecture.
Planning a visit
- Sambor Prei Kuk is the main reason to travel to the province, so allow a good part of a day for it.
- The province sits in the centre of the country, so it suits travellers moving between the capital and the northern temple region.
- Bring water and sun protection, as the site is largely open to the weather.
Kampong Thom works well as a stop on a wider journey through Cambodia rather than a destination in its own right. Visitors with an interest in history and archaeology will find the ancient remains a rewarding focus, while those seeking a calmer pace will appreciate the rural landscape that surrounds the temples.
