The temple complex of Banteay Prey Nokor is especially known by the temple of Wat Nokor located in Khum of Kompong Siem, at a distance of 1200 meters from the town of Kompong Cham. The monument was built out of sandstone and laterite, and dates from the last years of the reign of Jayavarman ...
Small, untouristed temple near Neak Pean. Similar to Ta Som in architectural/artistic style and scale. Some of the apsara and Buddhist-themed lintel carvings are in pretty good condition. Oddly small doors and windows. Quiet, meditative spot.
This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List on September 1, 1992 in the Cultural category.
The temple complex of Banteay Prey Nokor is especially known by the temple of Wat Nokor located in Khum of Kompong Siem, at a distance of 1200 meters from the town of Kompong Cham. The monument was built out of sandstone and laterite, and dates from the last years of the reign of Jayavarman VII. It is composed of a central tower surrounded by four laterite wall-enclosures. The central tower of the temple of Vat Nokor is decorated with motifs characteristic of Bayon with Buddhist scenes on the pediments. The temple complex is also believed to have been the headquarters of Jayavarman VII for a time, from where he extended his influence over nearby principalities.
The local people sometimes call the temple 'Wat Angkor' though a sign at the entrance of the temple now officially designates the name of the temple as Wat Nokor Bachey. The temple has a number of distinguishing characteristics other than the fact that it is the largest ancient temple complex in Kampong Cham Province. One of these characteristics alludes to the fact that it is built of black sandstone, which causes it to stand out from other temples of the period which are often built of brick or reddish sandstone. The temple has an inscription which is still open to visitors to see (and even touch) in the temple's central pavilion. The temple also boasts a 'Chartre' effect in which another more modern temple of a very different style has been built over and around the original Angkorian structure creating a blend of architectural styles. There are many legends surrounding the origin of the temple but the most popular one has Oedipal overtones. According to this legend, the temple was built by a king who accidentally killed his father and married his mother. As recounted in the Greek legend, this King was put out by his father after a seer told him that his son would kill him. The son, however, did not die and returned to his kingdom not knowing that his father was the King. After quareling on the road, the son killed the King and married his Queen who was his mother. Upon discovering his crime, this young man built Wat Nokor in penance for his crime.
Wat Nokor does not get the attention or maintenance necessary to maintain the grounds and gardens. The temple has great potential as a tourist attraction. Its deserted ambiance is one of its greatest attractions and distinguishes it from the touristed atmosphere found in Siem Reap and other popular tourist locations. Nevertheless, the litter strewn walkways around the temple are contrary to tourists' expectations.
Head off-the-beaten-track and visit the floating village of Kompong Khleang on this 4-hour small-group tour from Siem Reap, including hotel pick-up. Get an insight into rural life as you visit the ...
Devote an entire day to exploring the incredible temples at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom under the leadership of a local, English-speaking guide. Discover the UNESCO-listed ruins at Angkor Wat and the ...
Live like a local for a morning on this 4-hour village life tour from Siem Reap. Get chance to mingle with the villagers in a typical Cambodian village, visit a local school and peek into a Buddhist ...
In the morning: After breakfast, at 8:00 am or your favourite time, our local guide come to pick up from your hotel and then transfer you to buy the Angkor Pass-3days ( 62$ for each) before we are ...
This full day Angkor Temple Hunting is designed for people who would like to see the temples in different way. The pick up and drop off from your hotel is included. Only 3km from Siem Reap city ...
Escape the tourist trail for a scenic sojourn in the Cambodian countryside on this easy 4.5-hour bike excursion from Siem Reap. Wind your way down dirt tracks and hidden trails on an 18-mile (30-km) ...
Guest Name: Mrs. Jane Samantha Twinney
Country: Canada
City: Newmarket
N.of Person: 2 pax
Travel date: 2026-01-07
Booked: Full-Day: Private City Tour with Boat Trip to 2 Islands
Tour Style: Beach Break Holiday
Duration: Full Day