Ta Prohm – The Ruined Temple in Cambodia

Why is Ta Prohm Temple a Must-Visit?

The stark beauty and jungle setting of the temple sets it apart from other temples. You get less the impression of a historical site than of a lost world waiting to be reclaimed.

Ta Prohm was also added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as thrust into the spotlight of international recognition, more recently by appearing in the 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie. It has since become, for many, the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’, attracting as much interest from moviegoers as history buffs. Whether you’ve come for photos, culture, or cinematic nostalgia.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Who Built Ta Prohm and Why

Ta Prohm was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII and dedicated to his mother. Originally named Rajavihara, it was a Buddhist monastery, housing thousands of monks and workers. The temple reflected the king’s deep devotion and the rise of Mahayana Buddhism in the Khmer Empire.

A Temple "Swallowed by the Jungle"

Unlike other restored temples, Ta Prohm was left in its natural state which was partially overgrown by giant trees. This mix of ruins and jungle creates an unforgettable, mysterious atmosphere, making it one of the most iconic sites in Angkor. It’s a rare place where you can feel how nature and history coexist.

Unique Architecture and Design

Bayon Style Layout

Ta Prohm is designed in the Bayon architectural style, popular during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. The temple features a central sanctuary surrounded by smaller towers and galleries, all connected by narrow corridors and courtyards. The layout creates a sense of mystery, as visitors wind through passageways and halls that seem to lead deeper into the jungle. This design reflects Buddhist cosmology and offers space for spiritual study and worship.

The Iconic Trees and Ruins

What really sets Ta Prohm apart is the way in which nature has combined with its man-made structures. Trees of gigantic size grow from the walls of the temple, their great roots intruding through doors, courts, and roofs. These are not trees around the temple; they are trees through the temple. The moss covered stones, the toppled towers of overthrown timbers, the great roots themselves are ghostly and lovely. This one of a kind combination is why it proved such an ideal location for the Tomb Raider movie.

How to Get to Ta Prohm Temple

By Plane

Reaching Siem Reap from Vietnam or Nearby Countries

Siem Reap is easily accessible from Vietnam, particularly from Ho Chi Minh City. Direct flights are available from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to Angkor International Airport (SAI) in Siem Reap, with airlines such as Vietnam Airlines and Cambodia Angkor Air. There are several flights available each day with a duration of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes .

Getting to Angkor and Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is located about 12 kilometers from Siem Reap city center, approximately a 20 to 30-minute drive. The most popular way to get there is by tuk-tuk, which offers a fun and authentic local experience. Alternatively, visitors can take taxis and private cars. 

By Cruise

For a more leisurely and picturesque trip, Top Mekong provides premium Mekong River cruises from Vietnam to Siem Reap. This is a travel experience unmatched by no other, discovering the secrets of the Mekong Delta in complete comfort and style en route to the heart of Cambodia. It is a perfect choice for travelers who revel in cultural immersion, relaxation and pampered service along the way.

Entrance Fees and Visiting Hours

Angkor Pass

To enter Ta Prohm and other major temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, all visitors are required to purchase an Angkor Pass. This ticket grants access to a wide range of historical sites, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and many others.

There are three types of passes:

• 1-day pass: $37 USD – valid for one day only.
• 3-day pass: $62 USD – valid for any three days within a 10-day period.
• 7-day pass: $72 USD – valid for any seven days within a one-month period.

Passes can be purchased in person at the Angkor Ticket Office, located about 4 km from Siem Reap town (open daily from 4:30 AM to 5:30 PM). You will need to present your passport and have a photo taken on site for your personalized pass. Children under 12 years old can enter for free (passport required as proof of age).

Important: The Angkor Pass is not sold at the temples themselves, so make sure to buy it before heading into the park.

Best Time to Visit Ta Prohm

The Angkor Archaeological Park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For a more tranquil and temperate visit, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

The ideal time to visit Ta Prohm is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable and skies are clear. Midday tends to be hot and crowded, so it’s best avoided if possible.

What to Expect and Explore at Ta Prohm Temple

Visiting Ta Prohm is like entering into a movie as certain scenes of the Tomb Raider were filmed at this spot. Unlike most of Angkor's temples, Ta Prohm has been left in a somewhat ruined state, allowing the jungle to become part of the structure in a way that has only added to its beauty. Here’s what you won’t want to miss on your visit:

The Iconic Tree Roots

It is notorious for the massive silk-cotton and strangler fig tree roots which grow from the galleries, in and out of the temples. Those roots twist into and around doorways and galleries, making for dramatic and photogenic scenes.

The Central Sanctuary

Here is the heart of the temple where most of the iconic “jungle-over-temple” photos are snapped. The collapsed stones, narrow passageways, and filtered light all combine to give it a somewhat mystical feel, and it is great to explore and to take photos in.

The Hall of Dancers

Named for its sculpted apsara (celestial dancer) images, this section seems to set off on tangents and boasts some of the finest stone carvings of the Khmer period. It’s a quieter section, perfect for a slow browse and a close-up photo.

Hidden Corners and Crumbling Corridors

You need to roam side galleries and falling-in corridors. In these quieter areas, light and shadow play off trees roots in exciting ways, providing stunning photo ops as well as a more personal sense of the temple’s ancient mystique.

Jungle Ambience

Throughout your visit, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of the jungle birds, rustling leaves, and the occasional breeze. Combined with the temple’s partially overgrown state, it creates a peaceful yet adventurous vibe that sets Ta Prohm apart from all other temples.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring enough drinking water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay protected from the sun.
• Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
• Start your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
• Refrain from climbing on or touching the temple structures.
• Watch your step carefully.
• Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the temple’s history.
• Apply insect repellent, especially during the rainy season.
• Keep your Angkor Pass accessible at all times, as checks may occur at various entry points.
• Be mindful of quiet zones where visitors are encouraged to maintain silence and reflect.

Conclusion

Ta Prohm is a living monument where the jungle and ancient Khmer architecture blend into one unforgettable experience. For the best experience, consider taking a cruise along the Mekong River. It’s a rare chance to experience the full flow of this legendary river as it winds through diverse landscapes and cultures, from the bustling Mekong Delta to the spiritual heart of Cambodia. Top Mekong’s curated river cruise offers a scenic, and unforgettable way to reach Siem Reap while discovering the soul of Southeast Asia along the way.

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