If there is one temple you simply must visit while you are in central Siem Reap, it is Wat Preah Prom Rath. While the main attraction in Siem Reap is still Angkor Wat, the majority (if not all) of the temples there are pretty much ruins. This pagoda is the opposite – set in beautiful grounds, with colourful murals and even a huge indoor sleeping Buddha statue.
About the temple
Wat Preah Prom Rath is one of the most beautiful pagodas in Siem Reap and Cambodia. It is located on the riverside near the Old Market and at a comfortable walking distance from the majority of the hotels in town. Besides many statues in the temple grounds, you will also find colourful wall paintings and beautifully decorated rooms. We stumbled upon quite a few monks here as well, since it is where they have classes (Buddhist and English).
There is no clear date on when the pagoda was built, but what made it famous was the large sleeping Buddha in the main temple, which was installed in 1500. They made quite a few extensions to the main building and you will now see an academic building, as well as a library here.
How to get to Wat Preah Prom Rath
Getting to Wat Preah Prom Rath is easy. It takes about 5-10 minutes to reach the temple by foot or bicycle from almost any central hotel. The temple is located in the heart of the city. We spent about half an hour here.
There is no entrance fee at Wat Preah Prom Rath, however, donations are welcomed.