The long axis
About 800 m towards the cliff.
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Preah Vihear Temple is an ancient Khmer temple on a 525 m cliff in the Dangrek Mountains of northern Cambodia, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2008. Reports from March 2026 say it is closed to tourism, with unstable walls and possible unexploded ordnance, so treat it as not open to visitors unless you can confirm otherwise. The temple was built in stages between the 9th and 12th centuries, with Khmer kings adding to it over that time, above all Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II. It served Hindu worship in that era. Its plan differs from most Khmer temples, as it runs along a long north-south axis rather than facing east. The complex stretches about 800 m, with five great gateway buildings linked by stairways and stone causeways that climb towards the cliff. Along the way are an old reservoir and finely carved lintels, and at the top the edge looks over the plains of northern Cambodia. All of this is known from earlier visits and photographs, and seeing it in person depends on an official reopening. It is about 145 km in a straight line from Siem Reap and about 140 km from Angkor Wat. If it reopens, ask about access and tickets before setting out, and wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for the place. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel within 20 km of the Thai border, so check official guidance before planning.
About 800 m towards the cliff.
Stone buildings rising in sequence.
A view over Cambodia's plains.
Dangrek Mountains, Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia
Do not count on it, as reports say it is closed, and check official guidance before making any plans.
You can visit Angkor Wat, Banteay Chhmar and Koh Ker, all in Cambodia.