PREI MONTI
10 KM from Siem ReapThis temple site is among the oldest temples in Cambodia and hidden away in the forest that surrounds the first capital city of the Khmer empire. The site is part of a larger area with three other temple sites: Lolei, Bakong and Preah Ko, better know as the Roluos Group Temples, named after the small village that is in the middle of the temples.
How to find the Prei Monti temple?
Prei Monti is a three towered temple, hidden away in the forest near The Roluos village. It’s not easy to find and even local tuktuk driver get lost sometimes.
The best way to start your trip to Prei Monti is at the Bakong temple. Around 400 meters at the west side of the Bakong temple you will find the road that leads you directly to Prei Monti. Prei Monti was build before the other temples in the Roluos Group and it was most like a royal palace. Royal palaces were not build of stone and that’s why there are no remains.
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TEMPLE RULES?
How to get to Prei Monti?
As mentioned, it’s not easy to find this little temple site and the special Roluos Group tour does not include this Prei Monti.
Your best option is to visit the site by tuktuk and start your trip at the Bakong temple. make sure your tuktuk driver has been to Prei Monti before or there isa chance that he won’t find his way to the temple site.
How much will it cost?
Prei Monti is part of the Roluos Group temples and although they are not located withing the Angkor Archaeological Park, you do need an Angkor Pass to visit the Roluos Group Temples.
You can buy an Angkor Pass for 1 day ($37), three days ($62) or 7 days ($72). You can buy the Angkor Pass in Siem Reap and need to bring a photo.
What you SHOULD do!
You definitely should visit this temple site. It’s one of the oldest in the country and a symbol of the rise of the Khmer Empire. Although the temple is not very big and there’s not much to see, it’s a very nice place. There is a slight breeze and the forest gives you a great opportunity to shoot some nice photos or videos.
What you should NOT do!
The basic rule (for all temples) is to cover your knees and shoulders. Tank tops for men and halter-neck tops for ladies are not allowed. Keep your hands and feet to yourself. The temples are not for climbing, touching or scratching. Smoking is not allowed and the ‘no entry’ signs should be taken seriously. Read all the temple rules here...